Gorilla tracking is one of the most memorable wildlife encounters you can experience, but it also demands thoughtful preparation. The activity combines adventure, physical effort, and close interaction with endangered animals in remote, forested environments. Whether you’re heading to Uganda or Rwanda, getting ready properly will improve your chances of enjoying every moment on the trail and at the gorilla encounter itself.
Book Your Permit in Advance
Gorilla tracking is strictly regulated to protect the animals. Each day, only a limited number of people are allowed to visit a habituated gorilla family. Permits are required and must be booked well in advance—ideally several months before your planned travel dates. In Rwanda, permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board for Volcanoes National Park. In Uganda, they are managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority for Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks.
Permit costs vary by country. The fee includes the park entrance, the guide, and one hour with the gorillas. It does not include porter services, transport, or accommodation.
Train for the Trek
Tracking gorillas requires physical stamina. You may hike for one hour or as many as six depending on where the gorillas are located that day. The trails are often steep, muddy, and covered in thick vegetation. In Bwindi, the forest is dense and the terrain uneven. In Volcanoes National Park, you climb volcanic slopes with loose soil or bamboo undergrowth.
Build up your endurance through walking, light hiking, or stair climbing in the weeks leading up to your trip. Focus on leg strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. You don’t need to be an athlete, but you do need to be comfortable with long walks in rugged conditions.
Pack the Right Gear
What you wear and carry matters. Long-sleeved shirts and full-length trousers protect your arms and legs from stinging nettles and insect bites. Choose lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics. A pair of sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support and grip is essential. Rain can fall at any time, so pack a light waterproof jacket or poncho.
Gloves are optional but useful for grabbing onto branches or steadying yourself on slippery slopes. A wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen help in open areas, while insect repellent wards off mosquitoes and other forest insects.
Bring a small backpack for your water, snacks, and essentials. Your guide may ask you to leave the bag behind before approaching the gorillas, so it should be easy to remove. Most trekkers also carry a camera, but flash photography is not allowed.
Hire a Porter
Porters are available at the trailhead and can carry your bag, lend a hand during steep sections, or simply offer support. Many of them are former poachers who now work in conservation. Hiring one not only makes your trek easier but directly supports local livelihoods.
Understand the Rules
Gorillas are wild animals and susceptible to human diseases. Before the trek, you will be briefed by park rangers on safety protocols and etiquette. You must maintain a distance of at least seven meters from the gorillas, avoid sudden movements or loud noises, and never attempt to touch them.
If you are sick on the day of the trek, especially with a cold or flu, you may not be allowed to join. This is a strict but necessary measure to protect the animals. During the visit, you’ll wear a mask to further reduce risk.
The maximum time with the gorillas is one hour. This helps reduce stress on the animals and limits human impact.
Adjust to the Altitude
Both Bwindi and Volcanoes National Park are located at high elevations. If you’re not used to altitude, give yourself a day or two to adjust before the trek. Stay hydrated, eat well, and get plenty of rest. Some travelers feel short of breath during the climb, especially in Rwanda where altitudes exceed 2,500 meters. Moving at a steady pace helps.
Choose the Right Trailhead or Sector
In Uganda, Bwindi has multiple starting points—Buhoma, Rushaga, Nkuringo, and Ruhija—each with different accommodation options and gorilla families. Some sectors have steeper terrain, while others are more moderate. Your tour operator or guide can advise you on which starting point best suits your ability and interests.
In Rwanda, all treks begin from Kinigi Park Headquarters, but gorilla families are spread across various slopes. The park assigns gorilla groups based on your fitness level and preferences, which you can discuss during the morning briefing.
Prepare Mentally for the Experience
Gorilla tracking is unpredictable by nature. You may walk for hours before finding them, or you may encounter them within 30 minutes. The forest is wild and your boots will get muddy. But the reward is extraordinary. The moment you lock eyes with a silverback or watch a baby tumble through the vines, every step will feel worth it.
Stay patient, listen to your guide, and remain flexible. Nature doesn’t follow a script, and that’s what makes it real.
