Where Does Gorilla Trekking Take Place in Uganda? (2026 Guide)

A Detailed Answer To The Question “Where Does Gorilla Trekking Take Place in Uganda?”

If you are planning a trip to see the mountain gorillas in 2026, you must know that Uganda offers the most diverse range of trekking locations in the world. Unlike Rwanda, which has only one park, Uganda’s gorillas are spread across two unique ecosystems and five distinct “trekking sectors.”

At Active Uganda Safaris, we help you choose the right location based on your fitness, budget, and travel route.

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the most popular answer to the question, “Where does gorilla trekking take place in Uganda?” The park is divided into four sectors, each with its own park headquarters and permits.

Buhoma Sector (North)

• Character: The most established and accessible sector.
• Trekking Difficulty: Generally considered to have the “easiest” trails, though it is still a rainforest.
• Why Choose It: Ideal for first-timers and luxury travelers. It is also the closest sector to Queen Elizabeth National Park for tree-climbing lion safaris.

Rushaga Sector (South)

• Character: The sector with the highest number of habituated families (8+ groups).
• Trekking Difficulty: Varied; some groups are easy to find, while others require steep climbs.
• Special Feature: This is the only place in the world where you can do the Gorilla Habituation Experience (4 hours with the gorillas).

Nkuringo Sector (South)

• Character: Known for having the most breathtaking views of the Virunga Volcanoes.
• Trekking Difficulty: The trails are steep, making it perfect for adventurous and fit trekkers.
• Why Choose It: Offers a remote, “off-the-beaten-path” feel with world-class eco-lodges.

Ruhija Sector (East)

• Character: A quieter, high-altitude sector favored by birdwatchers.
• Trekking Difficulty:
• Why Choose It: It is easily accessible from Kabale or Lake Bunyonyi, making it a great addition to a relaxing lake safari.

2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Located on the border of Rwanda and DR Congo, Mgahinga is Uganda’s smallest but most scenic park.

• The Experience: Trekking here takes place on the slopes of three volcanoes: Mt. Muhavura, Mt. Gahinga, and Mt. Sabinyo.
• The Gorilla Family: It is home to the Nyakagezi family, a group known for its high number of silverbacks.
• Why Choose It: It is much less crowded than Bwindi and offers the chance to combine gorilla trekking with Golden Monkey tracking.