Question 1

Gorilla Tracking or Gorilla Trekking?

Accepted Answer

Tracking is the correct term, derived from 'tracking down' and following a trail. It is not multi-day hiking (trekking). You follow trained ranger trackers who locate the gorilla families each morning.

Question 2

How does Gorilla Tracking work?

Accepted Answer

Ranger Trackers start at 6:30am to find the gorillas. Rangers and Gorilla Guides lead visitors with a briefing. Security Rangers (2 per group) ensure safety. Optional porters carry backpacks and assist through terrain ($20 plus tip). Maximum 8 visitors per gorilla family per day – one hour visit per family (conservation restriction).

Question 3

How many people can visit a gorilla family at once?

Accepted Answer

Maximum 8 persons per gorilla group may do the tracking simultaneously. This guarantees a calm, authentic encounter without mass tourism.

Question 4

How close do you get to the gorillas?

Accepted Answer

The minimum distance is 10 meters if possible. In practice, gorillas sometimes come closer. You are asked to maintain distance and stay calm if gorillas approach – don't run or make eye contact.

Question 5

What do I expect on my Gorilla Day? (Briefing)

Accepted Answer

Arrive by 7:30am at the gate. Registration with passport and permit. Entertainment by Batwa tribe or local dancers. 8:00am head ranger briefing on forest history and safety protocols. Visitors are split into groups of max 8 for different gorilla families. Porter introduction follows (optional service).

Question 6

What do I expect on my Gorilla Day? (Hiking)

Accepted Answer

Tracking begins 8:15–8:30am. The guide maintains radio contact with trackers. Regular breaks are provided and pace is adjusted to group capability. Handicapped visitors can be accommodated with a stretcher option ($300 surcharge). The actual hiking time varies: it can be 30 minutes or 5–6 hours depending on where the gorillas are.

Question 7

What are the rules during the gorilla encounter?

Accepted Answer

Face mask required. No food or drink with animals. No flash photography. No pointing fingers. Keep quiet, move gently. Keep minimum distance of 10 meters if possible. Stay calm if gorillas charge – don't run or make eye contact. A certificate is provided after the encounter.

Question 8

What does a Gorilla Permit cost?

Accepted Answer

A Gorilla Tracking Permit costs $800 USD per person (2025). This amount goes directly to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and flows into gorilla protection and the local community.

Question 9

What is included in the permit price?

Accepted Answer

The permit price of $800 includes: the 1-hour encounter with the gorilla group, experienced rangers as guides, entry to the national park for that day, and the official Gorilla Tracking Certificate.

Question 10

Can permits be booked in advance?

Accepted Answer

Yes – and it is strongly recommended. Especially in high season (June–August, December–January), permits are often sold out months in advance. We book the permits for you as part of your travel package.

Question 11

How to prepare for Gorilla Tracking?

Accepted Answer

Required: passport, waterproof hiking boots with good grip. Recommended: gaiters, long pants/sleeves, garden gloves. Wear neutral colors (khaki, beige, brown, black, dark blue, green). Avoid shouting colors like red, pink or yellow that scare primates. Bring waterproof rain jacket, 1–2L water, packed lunch, sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent.

Question 12

Do I need to be physically fit?

Accepted Answer

Gorilla tracking can be physically demanding. The hike leads through dense undergrowth, steep slopes and rough terrain. Basic fitness is required. People with joint problems or heart conditions should consult their doctor. Handicapped visitors can be accommodated with a stretcher option ($300 surcharge).

Question 13

Can I hire a porter?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In most tracking areas, local community porters can be hired to carry your backpack. This is a great way to directly support the local population. The price is about $20 USD plus tip per person.

Question 14

What vaccinations do I need for Uganda?

Accepted Answer

Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory (lifetime effective). Recommended: hepatitis, tetanus, diphtheria, typhus. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for Uganda – consult your travel doctor.

Question 15

Is there malaria in Uganda?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Uganda is a malaria area. Prevention: mosquito nets, insect repellent, long sleeves/pants in evenings, insecticide-treated clothing. Prophylaxis decision should be made with your travel doctor. Test for malaria after returning home regardless of prophylaxis use. Incubation is 12+ days.

Question 16

What about currency and payments?

Accepted Answer

National currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). Exchange at offices or ATMs in Entebbe and major cities. US dollars accepted only if new notes (from 2009) without damage. Recommended ATM banks: Diamond Trust Bank, Stanbic, Bank of Africa.

Question 17

Is WiFi available?

Accepted Answer

All lodges have WiFi, typically in restaurant areas only. Uganda has mobile network coverage; some remote areas have poor coverage. SIM cards can be purchased at the airport or in major cities. Providers: Airtel (slightly cheaper) and MTN. Data costs $5–12 depending on the package.

Question 18

Is Uganda safe for tourists?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Uganda is generally safe for travel. Some Kampala areas are considered less safe. All travel programs take safety considerations into account. The national parks are well secured.

Question 19

In which national parks is Gorilla Tracking possible?

Accepted Answer

In Uganda there are two gorilla tracking areas: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park (with 4 tracking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, Nkuringo) and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi has the most habituated gorilla groups and the most permit slots.

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