What is the gorilla habituation experience and how is it different from normal gorilla trekking?

The gorilla habituation experience allows visitors to spend up to four hours with a gorilla family as they are gradually trained to get used to human presence. Unlike normal gorilla trekking, which limits time with gorillas to one hour, this experience offers more time for learning, observation, and photography, guided by researchers and park rangers.

How fit do I need to be for the gorilla habituation experience?

A moderate level of fitness is recommended. The trek involves walking through dense forest, sometimes on steep and uneven terrain, and can take several hours depending on the gorillas’ location. However, the pace is manageable, and guides adjust the walk to suit the group’s ability.

When is the best time to do the gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi?

The experience is available all year round, but the drier months from June to September and December to February are generally more comfortable for trekking due to less rainfall. That said, Bwindi is a rainforest, so light rain can occur at any time of the year.

3 Days Gorilla Habituation Bwindi

This exclusive 3 Days Gorilla Habituation Experience road safari by Go Primate Safaris takes you deep into the southern sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for two unforgettable nights and a rare full-day encounter with mountain gorillas. Bwindi is one of Africa’s most remarkable rainforests, protecting almost half of the world’s remaining endangered mountain gorillas, making it one of the best places on Earth to meet these gentle giants in their natural home.

Unlike standard gorilla trekking, this special experience allows you to spend up to three hours with a gorilla family as researchers and rangers gradually prepare them for tourism. You will observe their behavior, learn about their daily life, and watch how they interact in the wild. Bwindi is also home to other primates, including chimpanzees, and a rich variety of birds and forest wildlife. If you are looking for a deeper, more personal, and truly rewarding gorilla encounter, this 3-day Gorilla Habituation Experience with Go Primate Safaris is the perfect choice.

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

This 3 Days Gorilla Habituation Experience takes you to the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one of Africa’s most famous rainforests. The trip is designed for travelers who want more time with mountain gorillas and a deeper understanding of their life in the wild. You will travel by road, enjoy beautiful countryside views, and spend two peaceful nights close to the forest.

The main activity is the gorilla habituation experience, where you spend up to four hours with a gorilla family alongside experienced rangers and researchers. You will watch the gorillas as they feed, play, and interact naturally. This experience is more personal than normal gorilla trekking and is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a meaningful wildlife encounter.

Safari Highlights

Two nights near the gorilla forest in southern Bwindi
Up to 3 hours with mountain gorillas during habituation
Learn about gorilla behavior from expert rangers
Chance to see other primates and forest wildlife
Beautiful scenery and fresh forest air
A rare and more intimate gorilla experience
Road transfer From Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Day 00 :

Arrival

You’ll be picked up by an agent from Go Primate Safaris from the airport (or hotel)
Accommodation before the tour departs can be arranged for extra cost

Day 01 :

Start your 3 Day Gorilla habituation experience road tour

Morning/Transfer: You will be picked by Go Primate Safaris Professional driver guide from the airport or Hotel in Entebbe/Kampala to start your 3 day gorilla habituation experience road tour to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Afternoon/Lunch: You will have stops at the Equator crossing for photography and a lunch break in Mbarara City the biggest City in Western Uganda.
Evening/Hotel: You will continue to the southern sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the only area where the gorilla habituation experience is currently conducted. The drive is very scenic, passing through the beautiful Kigezi highlands, known for their rolling hills, deep valleys, and green landscapes. Along the way, you will enjoy relaxing views that make the journey part of the adventure. You will arrive in the late afternoon, check in at your lodge, and enjoy a well-prepared dinner and overnight stay near the forest.
Drivetime: 8-10 hours
Meal plan: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodations
Budget: Rushaga Havens Lodge
Mid Range: 4 Gorillas Lodge/Gorilla Leisure Lodge/ Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
Luxury: Gorilla Heights Lodge/ Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge

Day 02 :

Gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Morning/Briefing: You will wake up early in the morning and head to the park headquarters to join other guests for a detailed briefing on the rules and guidelines of the gorilla habituation experience. After the briefing, you will begin your walk into the forest, led by experienced guides and researchers. As you trek through the thick rainforest, you may see different bird species, other primates, and forest wildlife, making the journey to the gorillas as exciting as the experience itself.
Trek and observation: Once the gorillas are located, you will spend up to three hours with them during the habituation process. You will watch and listen as researchers train the gorillas to become comfortable around people, giving you a deeper understanding of their behavior and daily life. If possible, you may also take part in simple activities such as helping identify group members and observing how samples are collected for conservation and research purposes.
Afternoon/Lunch: You will then have your packed Lunch while in the forest, and Later return from the forest and be awarded a certificate.
Evening: You will drive back to the Lodge for relaxation and overnight.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Packed Lunch and Dinner

Accommodations

Budget: Rushaga Havens Lodge

Mid Range: 4 Gorillas Lodge/Gorilla Leisure Lodge/ Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Luxury: Gorilla Heights Lodge/ Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge

Day 03 :

End of 3 day gorilla habituation experience

Morning: After breakfast and depending on your departure flights, you will drive back to Kampala or Entebbe international Airport,
Afternoon: You will again have a stop-over in Mbarara City for Lunch
Evening: You arrive in Entebbe/Kampala after 5pm and the driver will drop you off, marking the end of your 3 day gorilla habituation experience road tour.

Office Address

Phone Number

Email Address