Are you an American traveler dreaming of seeing endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat? Gorilla Trekking in Uganda for US Citizens: The Ultimate Guide. Look no further! Uganda is the best destination in Africa for gorilla trekking, and this guide is tailored specifically for US citizens. From gorilla permits and travel tips to visa requirements and safety—we’ve got every detail covered.
Why Choose Uganda for Gorilla Trekking?
Uganda is home to over half of the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas, found in the UNESCO-listed Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Here’s why US tourists choose Uganda over Rwanda or Congo:
- Affordable gorilla permits – $800 vs $1,500 in Rwanda
- More habituated gorilla families – over 20 gorilla groups to visit
- Spectacular scenery – lush jungles, crater lakes, and welcoming communities
- Safe and stable destination for Americans and other foreign visitors
How Much is a Gorilla Permit in Uganda for US Citizens?
As of 2025, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) charges:
- $800 USD for foreign non-residents (including US citizens)
- Permit includes: 1-hour encounter with gorillas, park entry, and rangers
✅ Book your permit 3 to 6 months in advance—especially for high seasons like June–September and December–February.
Need help booking your permit? Contact World Blossom Safaris for fast and reliable assistance.
How US Citizens Can Get a Tourist Visa for Uganda
Getting a Uganda tourist visa for Americans is easy and fully online.
Step-by-step guide:
- Visit: https://visas.immigration.go.ug
- Choose Tourist Visa (Single Entry) – $50 USD
- Upload passport copy, photo, and yellow fever card
- Get approval in 2–5 business days
Print your approval letter before flying. You’ll get a visa stamp on arrival at Entebbe International Airport.
How to Travel from the US to Uganda
Fly from major US cities (New York, Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles) to Entebbe International Airport (EBB) via:
- Brussels Airlines
- Qatar Airways
- KLM Royal Dutch
- Emirates
- Turkish Airlines
Average return flight: $1000–$1900 USD
From Entebbe, World Blossom Safaris arranges all transport to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga, by road or domestic flight.
Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Uganda is a year-round destination, but for US travelers, the best trekking seasons are:
- June to September (dry season)
- December to February (short dry spell)
Rainy season? Trekking is still possible!
- Fewer tourists
- Discounted accommodation
- Gorillas tend to stay closer to base
Packing List for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Here’s what every US citizen should pack:
✅ Must-Haves:
- Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
- Long-sleeved shirt and trousers
- Gardening gloves for grabbing vines
- Rain jacket – jungle weather can shift
- Bug spray & sunscreen
- Power bank for devices
- Reusable water bottle + snacks
- Copy of your passport & gorilla permit
Pro tip: Hire a porter ($15–$20) to carry your bag and support a local family. For those who cant walk well we always prepare a pilot at 300usd.
Where to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Located in southwest Uganda
- Over 20 gorilla families
- Multiple trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, Nkuringo
- Home to the Gorilla Habituation Experience (4-hour trek)
2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Smaller but beautiful
- One gorilla family: Nyakagezi
- Ideal for combining with golden monkey trekking
Sample 7-Day Uganda Gorilla Safari Itinerary for Americans
Day 1: Arrive in Entebbe
Day 2: Transfer to Bwindi by flight or scenic drive
Day 3: Gorilla trekking day!
Day 4: Visit Lake Bunyonyi for relaxation
Day 5: Cultural walk and canoeing
Day 6: Return to Entebbe via domestic flight
Day 7: Departure to the USA
This tour can include chimps in Kibale, wildlife in Queen Elizabeth, or Murchison Falls—fully customizable!
Is Uganda Safe for US Tourists?
✅ Yes! Uganda is one of the safest countries in Africa for tourism.
- English is the official language
- USD is accepted in most tourism facilities
- Ugandans are warm, friendly, and respectful
Avoid border areas with DRC or South Sudan, and always use licensed tour operators like World Blossom Safaris.
Why Book With a Local Ugandan Tour Operator?
At World Blossom Safaris, we specialize in organizing affordable, safe, and unforgettable gorilla trekking safaris for Americans.
- ✅ We handle all permits, visas, and transport
- ✅ Fluent English-speaking guides
- ✅ American-friendly service and communication
- ✅ 24/7 travel support
- ✅ Tailor-made tours for singles, couples, and groups
“Our gorilla trek with World Blossom Safaris was the highlight of our Africa trip! Everything was well-organized, and the guide was fantastic!” – Bonnel Julie., chicago
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
🔹 Can I combine gorilla trekking with other parks in Uganda?
Yes! You can visit chimpanzees in Kibale, wildlife in Queen Elizabeth, white-water rafting in Jinja, and more.
🔹 Do I need vaccines?
Yes – Yellow Fever is mandatory. Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, and Malaria pills are highly recommended.
🔹 How fit do I need to be?
Gorilla trekking can take 1–6 hours depending on the group location. Basic fitness is enough.
Ready to Trek With Gorillas in Uganda?
🎉 Don’t wait—permits sell out quickly! Let us plan a once-in-a-lifetime safari that’s safe, seamless, and unforgettable.
👉 Contact World Blossom Safaris today to start your journey:
📧 Email: info@worldblossomsafari.com
🌍 Website: www.worldblossomsafari.com
📱 WhatsApp: +256-701589007/0785890707
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is more than just an adventure—it’s a life-changing experience. For American tourists looking to reconnect with nature, wildlife, and culture, Uganda truly is the Pearl of Africa.
Book your gorilla safari now—before the gorillas move deeper into the mist. Gorilla Trekking in Uganda for US Citizens: The Ultimate Guide
