Double Gorilla Trekking in Uganda. Gorilla trekking is one of the most powerful wildlife experiences on earth. Standing a few meters from a family of mountain gorillas—watching them feed, play, groom each other, or care for their young—is an emotional, life-changing moment. But imagine experiencing this twice in the same safari. That is the beauty of Double Gorilla Trekking in Uganda, a growing trend among travelers who want deeper encounters with these extraordinary primates.
Uganda, home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, offers more gorilla trekking opportunities than any other destination. A double trek allows you to visit two different gorilla families, explore two different sectors, and enjoy a richer, more complete primate experience.
What Is Double Gorilla Trekking?
Double gorilla trekking simply means trekking mountain gorillas twice, typically on two different days and often in two different sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Many travelers choose it for:
- More time with the gorillas
- A chance to compare different gorilla families
- Greater wildlife photography opportunities
- Increased chances of close, unforgettable encounters
- Stronger understanding of gorilla behavior
A single trek is magical. A double trek is transformative.
Where Double Gorilla Trekking Happens in Uganda
Uganda offers double trekking primarily in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the most famous gorilla destination in Africa. Bwindi is divided into four sectors, each offering a different trekking environment and gorilla groups.
Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Sectors
- Buhoma – the oldest, most popular sector
- Ruhija – known for beautiful views and large families
- Rushaga – home to many habituated gorilla groups
- Nkuringo – challenging treks but rewarding scenery
Many double trekking itineraries combine two different sectors, giving you varied landscapes, different gorilla families, and unique cultural interactions.
Why Choose Double Gorilla Trekking?
1. Two Unique Gorilla Families
Every gorilla family in Bwindi has different personalities:
- Some are playful
- Some are calm and gentle
- Some have multiple infants
- Some have dominant silverbacks
With a double trek, you can witness the differences between families.
2. Improved Photography Opportunities
Lighting, location, and gorilla behavior vary daily. A second trek increases the chance of capturing:
- Clear gorilla portraits
- Mothers with infants
- Silverbacks beating their chests
- Gorillas feeding or climbing
For photographers, a double trek is the ultimate package.
3. Experience Two Different Habitats
Bwindi’s terrain changes from misty mountains to thick jungle valleys. Trekking in two sectors gives you a broader feel of the forest’s diversity.
4. Better Value for Long-Distance Travel
Travelers coming from Europe, America, or Asia often prefer double trekking since:
- The flight is long
- Gorilla trekking is the highlight of the trip
- More time with gorillas makes the journey worthwhile
5. A Deeper Emotional Connection
Many travelers describe their first trek as overwhelming. The second trek allows them to relax, observe more, and absorb the moment fully.
How Much Does Double Gorilla Trekking Cost?
For 2025/2026, Uganda’s gorilla trekking permit costs:
- $800 per trek for foreign non-residents
- $700 per trek for foreign residents
- UGX 300,000 for East Africans
This means a double trek requires two permits. Although it adds to the cost, the experience of two gorilla encounters is completely worth it for most travelers.
Double Trekking vs Gorilla Habituation: What’s the Difference?
Some travelers confuse double trekking with the Gorilla Habituation Experience. These are two very different activities:
Double Gorilla Trekking
- Two separate treks
- 1 hour with each gorilla family
- Two different groups can be visited
- More relaxed and easier for beginners
Gorilla Habituation
- 1 trek
- Up to 4 hours with gorillas
- Semi-habituated family
- More intense and physically demanding
Many visitors combine one normal trek with one habituation trek to maximize their experience.
Best Itineraries for Double Gorilla Trekking
3-Day Double Gorilla Trek
Best for travelers with limited time:
- Day 1: Transfer to Bwindi
- Day 2: First gorilla trek
- Day 3: Second gorilla trek & return
4-Day Double Trek (Two Different Sectors)
Great for varied experiences:
- Trek in Buhoma
- Trek in Ruhija or Rushaga
- Enjoy cultural visits and scenic views
5–7 Day Extended Safari
Ideal if combining with:
- Queen Elizabeth National Park (tree-climbing lions)
- Lake Bunyonyi relaxation
- Kibale Forest chimpanzee tracking
A longer itinerary allows a smooth pace and deeper exploration of Uganda.
How Difficult Is Double Gorilla Trekking?
Gorilla trekking varies in difficulty depending on the gorilla family’s location, your fitness, and weather conditions.
Difficulty Levels
- Buhoma: easiest trails
- Ruhija: moderate
- Rushaga: moderate to challenging
- Nkuringo: steep and demanding
A double trek means you may face two different hiking challenges, so basic fitness is helpful. Rangers always choose the best route for the group, and porters are available to help carry bags.
What to Pack for Double Gorilla Trekking
Since you will trek twice, preparation matters.
Essential Items
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Light rain jacket
- Gardening gloves (for grabbing vegetation)
- Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks or energy bars
- Waterproof backpack
- Camera with extra batteries
This gear will make both treks easier and more comfortable.
Best Time for Double Gorilla Trekking
Uganda’s best trekking seasons are:
- June to September
- December to February
These months offer stable, dry conditions and easier hiking. However, gorilla trekking is possible all year round.
Where to Stay for Double Gorilla Trekking
Choose your lodge based on the sectors you will trek from.
Top Lodges
- Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
- Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
- Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge
- Buhoma Lodge
- Mahogany Springs
- Four Gorillas Lodge
Some travelers choose lodges near both sectors to minimize travel time between treks.
Why Uganda Is the Best Destination for Double Gorilla Trekking
Uganda stands out because:
- It has the highest number of gorilla families open to tourists
- Permits are more affordable than Rwanda
- The forest scenery is diverse and stunning
- Uganda’s people are warm and welcoming
- You can combine gorillas with wildlife safaris, lakes, mountains, and culture
Uganda gives you everything in one extraordinary journey.
Double Gorilla Trekking in Uganda is perfect for travelers who want more than a single glimpse of the mountain gorillas. With two treks, you get deeper connections, more sightings, more photos, and a richer understanding of these incredible primates. Whether you trek in Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija, or Nkuringo, each experience brings new memories that last a lifetime.
