Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage site situated in the southwest corner of Uganda. This is a region of volcanoes, jagged valleys, waterfalls and home to the endangered Mountain Gorillas.

Bwindi is home to about 400 mountain gorillas, just over half the world’s population of this critically endangered ape. There are also rare forest elephant, giant forest hog and eleven kinds of primates, including red tailed and blue monkey, black and white colobus, baboons and chimpanzee. You can also find over 200 species of butterflies.

The gorillas are completely wild but have become used to seeing a few humans after years of habituation.  This is an opportunity afforded only to a select few, as just eight visitors are allowed to view each group every day. There are currently nine habituated mountain gorilla groups open to tourism: Permits must be purchased in advance. Permits are sold for a specific person for a specific day, and currently cost US$600 each (subject to change.) Permit can be reserved by our recommended camps and deposit is required.  Please note only children aged 15 and above can track gorilla.

Facts: An adult male gorilla is called a Silver Back because at the age of 10-13 years, the new fur on his back will grow in silver instead of black. A Silver Back's hand can reach a span of three meters and they can weigh up to 180kg (400lbs.)

Gorilla tracking permits

1. Only a limited number of permits are available in each gorilla park. It is therefore essential to book well in advance. Permits (**2020 Permit Fee is USD700/adult) need to be paid for at the time of the initial safari booking so that they can be purchased immediately.

2. Gorilla tracking permits are non-refundable, except for medical reasons, in which case a medical certificate must be provided.

3. At the National Park headquarters, ranger guides explain the rules for tracking gorillas. These are designed for both you and the gorillas’ protection and must be followed.

4. One hour is allowed with the gorillas since they are spotted, at a distance of at least 7 metres.