Mountain gorillas fascinate us with their deep gaze and their behaviour, which is so similar to our own. Uganda is home to almost half the world's population of these endangered great apes. In the heart of the country's misty forests, an encounter with these peaceful giants transforms every visitor. Follow our advice to experience this extraordinary adventure at close quarters with gorilla families.

Where can you see gorillas in Uganda?

Uganda offers two major sanctuaries for observing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The national park the impenetrable Bwindi forestThis UNESCO World Heritage site stretches across a mountain range covered in lush tropical forest. This area is home to more than 400 mountain gorillasalmost half the world's population.

Further north, the Mgahinga Gorilla National Parknestling at the foot of the Virunga volcanoes, offers a spectacular landscape of bamboo groves and alpine meadows. The two parks meet at an altitude of 2,000 metres, creating a unique ecosystem that is home to almost 20 gorilla families accustomed to the presence of humans.

The Bwindi trails, accessible from four different entry points, allow visitors to get close to twelve groups of gorillas. At Mgahinga, a resident family welcomes visitors all year round. Monitored daily by the rangers, the gorillas maintain their natural behaviour while tolerating the discreet presence of observers.

When should you go gorilla watching?

The months of December to February and June to September mark the dry season in Uganda. The firm ground and clear skies make it easier to walk the forest paths. These optimal conditions naturally attract more visitors.

The rainy season, from March to May and October to November, transforms the forest. The paths become slippery and showers can surprise hikers. But this period also offers advantages: the vegetation bursts into life, prices are more attractive and the atmosphere is more intimate, with fewer groups present.

Gorillas remain active all year round, simply adapting their habits to the climatic conditions. When it rains, they take shelter under the canopy, while in the dry season they are more likely to venture into clearings.

How do you organise an encounter with gorillas?

The adventure begins by obtaining a permit from theUganda Wildlife Authorityat a price of 700 per person. Obtaining a licence is essential for see the gorillas in Uganda. Reservations should be made several months in advance, particularly during the high season. Only eight visitors are allowed to approach each gorilla family each day, guaranteeing a privileged experience.

The trek starts early in the morning at the visitors' centre. Trackers scout out the gorillas, while guides share safety instructions. The walk lasts between 2 and 6 hours, depending on the location of the primates. An average level of fitness is all that's needed to keep up with the group's adapted pace.

Once the gorillas have been spotted, visitors spend a magical hour observing them from a distance of 7 metres. The guides translate each behaviour, while the group remains silent so as not to disturb these precious moments. Photos without flash are allowed, to immortalise these unique moments.