Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest One hour with the mountain gorilla

3 days recommended From $1,800 Best: June–August, December–February
Plan This Safari
Highlights
  • Mountain gorilla trekking
  • silverback encounters
  • UNESCO World Heritage
  • 460+ gorillas
  • forest birds
  • Batwa cultural experience

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most important gorilla conservation area on earth. Approximately 460 mountain gorillas — over half the world’s entire population — live in Bwindi’s ancient highland forest straddling the border with the DRC. Gorilla trekking permits allow one hour with one of the 19 habituated gorilla families. The trek itself, through dense rainforest up steep equatorial hillsides, is demanding but achievable for reasonably fit travellers. The moment a silverback makes eye contact, everything else disappears. Plan permits 6 to 12 months ahead for peak season — this experience books out far in advance.

The Plan · Signature Journeys

Safaris through
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

All Itineraries
Where to Stay

Camps & lodges
in the region

All Lodges

Bwindi Lodge

The most comfortable base for gorilla trekking in Bwindi. Perched on a hillside above the impenetrable forest with…

From $680/night View

Primate Lodge Kibale

The original Kibale Forest lodge. Forest-edge bandas, chimpanzee sounds at night, and Bigodi Wetland birding from the garden.

From $380/night View
Good to Know

Planning Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

When is the best time to visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest?
The best time is June–August, December–February. We plan around the wildlife and conditions you care about, so we'll match your dates to what's happening on the ground.
How many days do I need for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest?
We recommend around 3 days here, and we can fold it into a longer Northern Circuit or beach-and-bush itinerary.
How much does a Bwindi Impenetrable Forest safari cost?
A guided safari to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest starts from about $1,800 per person, depending on season, lodge tier and group size. We send a transparent, all-in quote before you commit.
How do I get to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest?
Most travellers fly into Kilimanjaro (JRO) and start from Arusha. We arrange every transfer, vehicle and internal flight so you never have to work out the logistics yourself.
Is it suitable for first-timers and families?
Yes. Every trip is private and guided, so the pace, drive times and activities are built around you — including families with children and first-time safari-goers.
Begin Your Journey

Ready to explore
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest?

Tell us your dates and interests — Shaiya replies personally within 24 hours.

Plan This Safari