Gorilla Trekking from Queen Elizabeth National Park: A Comprehensive Guide
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most famous and diverse national parks, offering an unforgettable blend of wildlife safaris, scenic landscapes, and a rich variety of habitats. But did you know that Queen Elizabeth also provides an incredible opportunity to embark on a gorilla trekking adventure? While the park itself is not home to mountain gorillas, it serves as an ideal base for those looking to trek to the nearby Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is home to some of the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas.
Why Trek for Gorillas from Queen Elizabeth National Park?
Queen Elizabeth National Park is not only known for its incredible variety of animals, such as lions, elephants, and hippos, but also for being in close proximity to some of Uganda’s gorilla trekking hotspots. The park sits just a few hours away from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, making it an excellent starting point for your gorilla trekking journey.
Proximity to Gorilla Trekking Locations
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the most popular gorilla trekking destinations in the world, is located around 3-4 hours drive from Queen Elizabeth National Park. It offers some of the best opportunities to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Although slightly farther (about 4-5 hours by car), Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is another incredible option for gorilla trekking and provides a less-crowded experience.
Getting to Bwindi or Mgahinga from Queen Elizabeth
While staying in Queen Elizabeth, the drive to either Bwindi or Mgahinga will be one of the most exciting parts of your adventure. You’ll pass through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Uganda, including rural villages, rolling hills, and lush rainforests.
Transport Options
- Private Vehicle: The most common and convenient way to travel from Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi is by private vehicle. This will allow flexibility and comfort, especially for those planning to trek in different sectors of Bwindi.
- Scheduled Transfers: Many tour operators provide scheduled transfers from Queen Elizabeth to the gorilla trekking points. This is a convenient option for those traveling on a budget or without their own vehicle.
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi or Mgahinga
Once you’ve made the journey from Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, you’ll have the chance to trek through the dense, misty forests to see the magnificent mountain gorillas up close.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Trekking Permits: In 2025, gorilla trekking permits for Bwindi cost $800 USD for foreign non-residents and about $500 USD for foreign residents.
- Gorilla Trekking Sectors: Bwindi is divided into four sectors: Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija, and Nkuringo. Depending on where you are staying, your trek will begin from the sector closest to your lodge.
- Group Sizes: The trekking groups are limited to 8 trekkers per gorilla family, ensuring a more personal and intimate experience.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Trekking Permits: Mgahinga permits cost $800 USD for foreign non-residents and $500 USD for foreign residents in 2025.
- Duration: Trekking here can be a bit more physically demanding because of the steeper terrain around the Virunga Volcanoes. The trek duration can range from 2 to 6 hours depending on where the gorilla family is located.
- Additional Activities: Besides gorilla trekking, Mgahinga offers the chance to visit the golden monkeys, another primate species native to the park.
Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking from Queen Elizabeth
The best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry seasons, as the trails in Bwindi and Mgahinga become easier to navigate. These seasons include:
- Dry Season 1 (June to September): This is the peak season, offering the best weather conditions for trekking.
- Dry Season 2 (December to February): This is also an excellent time to visit, as rainfall is minimal, and trekking is less physically demanding.
It’s important to note that rainy season trekking (April to May, and October to November) is still possible, but it requires more effort and can be less predictable.
Costs of Gorilla Trekking from Queen Elizabeth National Park
When planning your gorilla trekking trip, remember that the cost doesn’t just include the permit. Other factors, like transportation, accommodation, and park fees, also contribute to the total cost of your experience. Here’s a breakdown of the expected costs:
- Gorilla Trekking Permit
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: $800 USD for foreign non-residents, $500 USD for foreign residents.
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: $800 USD for foreign non-residents, $500 USD for foreign residents.
- Transport Costs
- Private Car Hire: The cost of hiring a private vehicle for the trip from Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi or Mgahinga is approximately $200 – $300 USD per day depending on the type of vehicle and whether it includes a driver-guide.
- Scheduled Transfers: Scheduled shuttle services range from $40 – $80 USD per person.
- Accommodation Costs
- Budget Options: Budget accommodations in Queen Elizabeth range from $50 to $100 USD per night. In Bwindi, affordable lodges cost between $60 – $150 USD per night.
- Mid-range Options: Mid-range accommodations in Queen Elizabeth range from $100 – $200 USD per night, with similar prices in Bwindi.
- Luxury Options: Luxury lodges in Bwindi can cost anywhere from $300 USD to $1,000 USD per night, including all meals and guided tours.
Tips for an Unforgettable Gorilla Trekking Experience
- Physical Preparation: Gorilla trekking requires some physical fitness. Be prepared to hike for several hours in steep and sometimes muddy terrain. Wear good hiking boots, and bring light waterproof clothing.
- Packing Essentials: Don’t forget essentials like insect repellent, a waterproof camera, binoculars, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Guides and Porters: Hire a porter for assistance if needed. They can carry your gear and help you along the trek, while also contributing to local employment.
- Respect the Gorillas: Maintain a safe distance (at least 7 meters) from the gorillas. Do not make loud noises, and follow all instructions from your guide to ensure the safety of both you and the gorillas.
- Book in Advance: Due to high demand, especially during peak season, book your trekking permits well in advance. Permits are limited, and booking early ensures a spot.
Plan Your Gorilla Trekking Trip from Queen Elizabeth National Park
Embarking on a gorilla trekking adventure from Queen Elizabeth National Park in 2025 is a unique experience that blends Uganda’s best wildlife safaris with the chance to encounter the magnificent mountain gorillas. With the proximity to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, this adventure allows you to experience Uganda’s incredible biodiversity and lush landscapes while following in the footsteps of these iconic creatures.
Book your gorilla trekking permits, arrange your transportation, and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
