Uganda is one of the most sought-after destinations for gorilla trekking, offering two exceptional parks where visitors can encounter the majestic mountain gorillas: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Both parks offer incredible opportunities to see these endangered primates in their natural habitat, but they differ in terrain, accessibility, group availability, and overall experience. Choosing between the two often comes down to personal preference, travel style, and itinerary flexibility.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the more well-known of the two and home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. With over 20 habituated gorilla families spread across four trekking sectors—Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo—Bwindi offers the highest number of permits and greater availability. Its dense, ancient rainforest is rich in biodiversity, with over 350 bird species and countless other primates, making it a haven for nature lovers. However, trekking in Bwindi can be physically demanding due to its thick undergrowth, steep slopes, and often muddy trails. Each trekking sector has a unique topography and accommodation options, giving visitors a wider range of choices in terms of lodge quality and scenery.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, on the other hand, is smaller and less visited but equally magical. Located in the Virunga Volcanoes range and bordering Rwanda and the DRC, Mgahinga offers a more open, bamboo-dominated forest environment and stunning views of the volcanic peaks. The park is home to one habituated gorilla family, the Nyakagezi group, which was once known for its roaming behavior across borders but now remains relatively stable within the park. The experience here is often quieter and more intimate, with fewer tourists and less crowded treks. Because there is only one family, permits are more limited, so securing one in advance is essential. Mgahinga also offers the added bonus of golden monkey trekking, volcano hiking, and rich Batwa cultural encounters, making it a well-rounded destination.
In terms of accessibility, Bwindi has more entry points and developed infrastructure due to its size and popularity. It fits easily into most southern Uganda safari circuits that include Queen Elizabeth and Lake Bunyonyi. Mgahinga, while smaller, is close to Kisoro and also near the Rwanda border, making it ideal for cross-border travelers or those looking to combine gorilla trekking with a visit to Volcanoes National Park.
Ultimately, the choice between Bwindi and Mgahinga depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Bwindi offers variety, higher permit availability, and a denser rainforest experience, while Mgahinga provides serenity, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and a more off-the-beaten-path feel. Both parks deliver unforgettable gorilla encounters, and you truly can’t go wrong with either. For help choosing and booking the right experience for you.