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The year-round Great Migration along with the Big 5 are on the bucket list of must-see African wildlife spectacles.

Considered the most thrilling spectacle in the animal kingdom, the annual mass migration of wildebeest and other herbivores, with their ever-attendant entourage of predators is a breathtaking experience.

In this year-round cycle across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, over 1.5 million wildebeest, 400,000 zebra, 300,000 Grant’s and Thomson’s gazelle and 12,000 eland throng the landscape, following the rain, in search of fresh pastures.

The timing of this phenomenon has changed in recent years due to uncertain rainfall patterns, with herds splitting and moving in different directions, before reassembling again.

Rotation of the wildebeest movement:

Jan – Mar: The herds are usually calving and feeding on short grass in southern serengeti, Northern Ngorongoro( Nduutu area). This part of the country has nutrient rich soils that are good for the wildebeest and their calves.

Apr – May: This time of the year the herds move in splinter groups through the central to the Gurumeti river. This is usually the best time

Jun – Jul: Depending on the amount of rain during this time. The herds are congregating in the western corridor before moving to the north.

Aug: By August, the herds have faced the challenge of crossing the Mara River and are spread throughout the Masai Mara’s northern region, with many remaining in the northern Serengeti. In years when the river is in full flow, the panic and confusion at the crossings — combined with waiting predators and surging currents — can cause massive loss of life. But, even in years of relatively gently flowing water, the crocs take their toll, not to mention the lions and other large predators that patrol the banks, ready to ambush any wildebeest that make it to the other side.

Sept –  Oct, the main chaos has ended and the migrating columns have gradually moved eastward. However, the wildebeest will face the heavy waters of the Mara River once more as they prepare to cross once again for their return journey southwards.

Nov: the rains begin propelling the wildebeests down south to the rejuvenating grasses in the serengeti.

Dec: The herds congregate on the short grass plains of the southern Serengeti and northernmost regions of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. An estimated 500 000 calves are born during a two- to three-week window in February. This mass calving draws a staggering number of predators eager to prey on the vulnerable newborns.

Our conclusion:

Jun-August is the best time to witness the great migration. During this time the number of animals migrating across parks is at its highest, with predator numbers high as well to take advantage of the opportunity to snatch up prey making its way across to the river.

Our Chief Exploring Officer Daudi Mutalya Balye had the good fortune of catching up with Dr Gladys Zikusoka-Kalema at the launch of her groundbreaking book – Walking With Gorillas. The book details the remarkable journey undertaken by Uganda’s first wildlife vet and the great work of the men and women of Uganda in the conservation of Uganda’s rich biodiversity. We spoke and posed pertinent questions to her for insights of one of Uganda’s leading thinkers and conservationists.

Daudi Mutalya (Buutu Safaris): Congratulations on the monumental book “Walking with the Gorillas”. It was impossible to put the book down when I started reading. I hope more people will read the book and that the book will inspire young and old for generations to come. Thank you for taking the lead in writing a good African story. Gorilla conservation in Uganda has been a tremendous success. How can we scale up this successful conservation model?

Dr Zikusooka Kalema: Yes. I think the success is down to the fact that when Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (BINP) was created, conservation had changed from keeping people out and wildlife in, to engaging communities in conservation. And so that is the main reason gorilla conservation has been a success story. Most of the people from the area were employed by the park. The park focused on employing people from the area around the park. 20% of the park entry fees goes to the communities and 10 dollars from every permit goes to the communities. All this really helped.

And, the entrepreneurs, the porters have all been supported. The porters are some of the wealthiest in the community. The whole industry has developed around gorillas. The schools and the clinics were supported. It supported the entire economy and turned it around. So people were more willing to protect gorillas because they knew there was a future.

Local involvement, increased revenue sharing and improved veterinary care. All gorillas which fall sick will have someone attending to them. And also improving community health because when people are healthy, they will not make the gorillas sick, and that’s what we focus on in Conservation Through Public Health. The revenue sharing can improve but it is better than in most places.

Daudi Mutalya BTS: The success of gorilla conservation has led to more gorillas. We can assume the continued success of gorilla conservation is going to further increase the number of gorillas so how do we then increase the space for gorilla habitat?

I think we can increase the space for the gorillas by expanding the park. We have no choice. Rwanda has already started doing it. Uganda has to do it. We have to expand the park by convincing people to sell their land. We can’t run away from it. And they have already started selling to tour operators.

Which I feel is not very good because the gorillas will be locked in by the lodges. Some areas like where there is that narrow neck is a key area. We need land for the gorillas themselves.

I know some lodges do put aside land but others just put buildings.

Daudi Mutalya BTS: We have a rich traditional heritage and yet a huge part has been lost in times of modernity. You have a rich Buganda traditional background. How do we reclaim some of the lost traditional conservation practices that were at the core of conservation?
Through conservation education.

Documenting everything is key to preserving our traditional heritage. We are not very good at doing things as Africans. We are good at talking but not writing.

Engaging the cultural institutions, our ancestors for example the Buganda, Tooro kingdom or whichever kingdom. They all have clan leaders and people with this traditional knowledge. Our ancestors and clan leaders, all that is very important. We need to tap it before it disappears.

When we were celebrating 10 years of UWEC we got the Nabagereka (The Queen of Buganda) to help. In fact, I write about it in the book.

Buutu Safaris: How do we get conservation outside the park to a more traditional way where conservation remains at the centre of our society?

We need to engage the kingdoms and work closely with the clan leaders. I am so glad that Prince Wassajja was here. We need to revitalise that – working closely with the clan leaders.

Thank you so much once again. All the best with the book tour.

Hey traveler! If you are planning a gorilla trekking safari to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, I am about to save you from making the single biggest mistake I see tourists make.

As a safari consultant that has been in this business for over 10 years, I see it all the time: a traveler buys a gorilla permit for the Rushaga sector in the south, but accidentally books a beautiful luxury lodge in the Buhoma sector in the north. It’s because Bwindi is a massive, ancient rainforest with winding, mountainous dirt roads; driving between those two points takes nearly three or more hours. If your ranger briefing starts at 7:30 AM, a wrong lodge booking means waking up at 4:30 AM just to commute to the start line!

To keep your trip stress-free, you must book your lodge in the exact same sector as your gorilla permit.

Here is my honest, ground-level breakdown of where to stay in Bwindi, categorized by sector and budget.

1. Buhoma Sector (The North)

Best for: Short drives from Kihihi airstrip(Approximately 2 hours), easier trekking terrain, and classic luxury. Buhoma is the headquarters and the birthplace of gorilla tourism in Uganda. It has the gentlest slopes, the oldest habituated gorilla families, and the most developed infrastructure.

• Luxury: Gorilla Forest Camp
  • The Expert’s Take: This is one of the only luxury camps located inside the actual park boundaries. It is common for gorilla families to literally wander right through the camp lawns. The luxury tents are stunning, and they even feature deep bathtubs overlooking the rainforest canopy. The rates start from $1,950 per person per night.
• Mid-Range: Haven Lodge Buhoma Community
  • The Expert’s Take: This is my absolute favorite recommendation for value. It is community-owned, meaning your money directly supports local livelihoods. The views over the misty forest from the dining terrace are worth double the price they charge. The rate starts from $241 per person per night.
• Budget: Buhoma Community Rest Camp
  • The Expert’s Take: Clean, safe, and right next to the park offices. You can stay in a traditional safari tent or a simple banda. It’s perfect for backpackers and independent travelers who want to hear the sounds of the jungle at night without a luxury price tag.The rates start from $115 per person per night.

2. Rushaga Sector (The South)

Best for: Abundant gorilla families, the Gorilla Habituation Experience, and stunning valley views. Rushaga has the highest number of habituated gorilla groups. It is also the only place where you can do the Gorilla Habituation Experience (spending 4 hours with the gorillas instead of 1).

• Luxury: Kaara Gorilla Mountain Lodge
  • The Expert’s Take: Perched approximately 2,134 metres (7,000 feet) above sea level, the lodge offers spectacular panoramic views of the Bwindi rainforest and the majestic Virunga Mountain range. Built with locally sourced materials featuring ensuite bathrooms, private terraces, and uninterrupted forest views. Guests enjoy full-board dining, personalized service, wellness experiences, and cultural interactions with the surrounding Rushaga community. The rates start from $250 per person per night.
• Mid-Range: Gorilla Treetops & Four Gorillas Lodge
  • The Expert’s Take: These two lodges strike a perfect balance between modern comfort and nature. Surrounded by the dense forest, and the rooms feature large glass windows so you never lose sight of the wilderness. The hospitality here is consistently praised by my clients. The rates start from $125 per person per night.
• Budget: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge
  • The Expert’s Take: A fantastic, clean, and comfortable budget option located just a short 10-minute drive from the Rushaga tracking gate. The staff are incredibly welcoming, and the hot showers are spectacular after a long trek. The rates start from $100 per person per night.

3. Ruhija Sector (The East)

Best for: Birdwatchers, cooler mountain air, and a quieter, less commercial vibe. Ruhija sits at a higher elevation, making it cooler and excellent for birding (look out for the rare African Green Broadbill). The hills are steep here, providing a true, rewarding challenge for hikers.

• Luxury: Kiho Gorilla Safari Lodge
  • The Expert’s Take: A newer luxury property that brings high-end comfort to Ruhija. It features a beautiful wellness spa—which is exactly what your legs will need after hiking up Ruhija’s steep ridges.The rates start from $750 per person a night.
• Mid-Range: Bakiga Lodge
  • The Expert’s Take: This is an eco-lodge with a massive heart. It was built by a non-profit registered water charity, so a portion of your stay funds clean water projects across the Ruhija area. The cabins are built on stilts on the edge of a beautiful valley overlooking the beautiful hills.The rates start from $160 per person per night.
• Budget: Broadbill Forest Camp
  • The Expert’s Take: This camp consists of safari tents placed under wooden roofs. It is quiet, deeply immersed in nature, and very budget-friendly. It is located right at the edge of the forest, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.The rates stay from $150 per person per night.

4. Nkuringo Sector (The Southwest)

Best for: Physical fitness enthusiasts and the most dramatic views in Uganda. Nkuringo offers the most physically demanding trek in the park, but it rewards you with breathtaking views of the entire Virunga chain and the rolling hills of southwestern Uganda.

• Luxury: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
  • The Expert’s Take: This multi-award-winning eco-lodge is a masterpiece. The private villas offer a 360-degree panoramic view of the ancient forest on one side and the volcanic peaks on the other simply magnificent. The rates start from $445 per person per night.
• Mid-Range / Budget: Gorilla Close Up Lodge
  • The Guide’s Take: A great rustic choice for travelers who want to stay close to the Nkuringo tracking gate without paying luxury prices. It provides an authentic, cozy atmosphere perfect for resting your feet.The rates start from $130 per person per night.

An Expert’s Golden Tip for Packing

No matter where you choose to stay, remember that Bwindi is a rainforest. Make sure your lodge has a laundry service or a drying room, because your hiking clothes will get muddy, wet, and sweaty during the trek. Most mid-range and luxury lodges will clean your hiking boots for you right after the trek—a small luxury that is worth it’s weight in gold.

For travelers seeking a life-changing encounter with endangered mountain gorillas, there are only two premier destinations that offer world-class trekking experiences: Uganda and Rwanda. These East African nations are the ultimate sanctuary for these gentle giants, providing a rare opportunity to observe them in their lush, natural habitats while supporting vital conservation efforts.

Uganda: The Ultimate Gorilla Sanctuary

Uganda is widely celebrated as the best destination for gorilla trekking, as it is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. The primary experience takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient, raw, and rugged rainforest. The park is divided into four distinct sectors—Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo—each offering unique access to different habituated families. Additionally, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers a stunning backdrop of the Virunga Volcanoes. Choosing Uganda is ideal for travelers seeking adventure, value, and a diverse range of trekking environments. With permits currently priced at $800 USD per person, Uganda remains the most accessible option for those wanting an authentic, immersive trek.

Rwanda: The Premium, Accessible Choice

Rwanda offers a more polished, high-end, and time-efficient gorilla trekking experience centered in Volcanoes National Park. Located a short, scenic drive from Kigali, this park is famous for its dramatic volcanic peaks and bamboo forests, which often make for a less strenuous and more accessible hike compared to the dense terrain of Bwindi. Because the trails are well-maintained and the gorillas are often easier to locate, Rwanda is the perfect choice for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a luxury safari experience. A gorilla permit in Rwanda costs $1,500 USD per person, reflecting the country’s positioning as a premium tourism destination that prioritizes convenience and exclusive, high-comfort lodge options.

Which Destination Should You Choose?

Deciding between the two comes down to your personal travel style. Uganda provides a raw, “impenetrable” forest adventure with greater flexibility and a more affordable price point, making it excellent for those who want to combine their trek with a broader wildlife safari. Furthermore, Uganda offers a unique “Gorilla Habituation Experience” exclusive to Rushaga sector in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park; unlike the standard one-hour trek, this immersive activity allows you to spend four hours alongside researchers and trackers as they habituate semi-wild gorilla families. This exclusive opportunity—limited to only four visitors per group—is priced at $1,500 USD (increasing to $1,800 USD effective January 1, 2027).  Rwanda, conversely, offers a sophisticated, smooth, and accessible experience that is second to none in terms of logistics and comfort. Regardless of your choice, both countries offer a profound, humbling, and unforgettable connection with nature.

Ready to start planning your journey?

Whether you are looking for a deep dive into the rainforests of Bwindi or a luxury escape to the volcanoes of Rwanda, [Contact us today to book your gorilla permits and customize your dream safari itinerary.]

Gorilla Trekking is a thrilling and once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most magnificent creatures – the mountain gorillas. Found in the dense forests of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, these gentle giants are critically endangered, and only a limited number of permits are issued per day to ensure their conservation.

Choose the Right Destination: When it comes to gorilla trekking, there are three main destinations to choose from: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Each offers a unique experience, but all provide an opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Uganda, known as the “Pearl of Africa,” is home to the famous Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This lush rainforest is home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorilla population. Trekking in Uganda offers a chance to not only see gorillas but also discover other incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes. Rwanda, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is known for its beautiful Volcanoes National Park. Here, visitors can engage in an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. The park is easily accessible from the capital city of Kigali, making it a convenient choice for travellers with limited time. For the more adventurous traveller, the Democratic Republic of Congo provides an off-the-beaten-path gorilla trekking experience. Virunga National Park is home to the critically endangered mountain gorillas and offers a chance to explore one of Africa’s most biodiverse regions.

Choosing the Right Safari Operator: When planning a gorilla trekking safari, it is crucial to select a reliable and experienced safari operator. Look for operators with a good track record in organising wildlife safaris, particularly gorilla treks. They should have knowledgeable guides, good reviews from previous clients, and prioritise the safety and well-being of the gorillas and tourists alike. Uganda: The Pearl of Africa- Uganda is a popular destination for gorilla trekking, offering a unique opportunity to explore the lush Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This park is home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it the best place to encounter these majestic creatures. In addition to the gorillas, Bwindi is teeming with other wildlife, including over 120 mammal species and over 350 bird species. Rwanda: Land of a Thousand Hills Rwanda is another excellent destination for gorilla trekking, with Volcanoes National Park being the main attraction. This park is famous for its breathtaking landscape and its population of habituated mountain gorillas. Trekking through the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park is an awe-inspiring experience that offers a chance to witness the gorillas in their natural habitat. The Democratic Republic of Congo: An Adventure in the Wild for the more adventurous traveller, the Democratic Republic of Congo provides an off-the-beaten-path gorilla trekking experience. Virunga National Park is home to the critically endangered mountain gorillas and offers a chance to explore one of Africa’s most biodiverse regions. While trekking in Congo can be challenging, it rewards visitors with stunning scenery and a truly authentic experience in the wild.

Booking a Permit to partake in a gorilla trekking safari:

It is essential to book a permit in advance(at least 6 months before the tracking date). Due to conservation efforts, permits are limited and sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. It is advisable to book your permit several months in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. The permits are often quite expensive, but the funds generated from them go towards gorilla conservation efforts.

Guidelines for a Successful Trek:Gorilla trekking requires physical fitness and a sense of adventure. You will be walking through dense forests and uneven terrains, so it is vital to be prepared with appropriate hiking gear. Remember to bring sturdy hiking boots, long pants, waterproof clothing, and insect repellent. Additionally, respect the gorillas’ space and follow the guidelines provided by your tour guide to ensure their well-being and minimise the impact on their natural habitat. Conclusion Gorilla trekking is an extraordinary experience that offers a unique insight into the world of these gentle giants. Whether you choose Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of Congo as your destination, the opportunity to see mountain gorillas up close will leave a lasting impression. Remember to plan ahead, choose a reputable safari operator such as Buutu Safaris, and respect the gorillas and their environment. Start planning your gorilla trekking adventure today and embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa’s forests.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda finally resumed in an effort to reopen tourism. This was after the complete shutdown of tourism in Uganda for months owing to the Covid 19 pandemic. We were therefore lucky to have a group of 12 guests going gorilla tracking as one of the first groups to go tracking in a while. The residents of Rushaga village in Bwindi were visibly happy to see tourists return as their livelihoods rely mainly on tourism revenue.

Upon arrival at Rushaga gate of Bwindi, it was clear new covid 19 prevention procedures had been well thought through and were being strictly implemented. We had to step and dip our shoes into 2 different basins each with a blanket soaked with disinfectant. This was to ensure trackers didn’t carry germs from their shoes into Bwindi. In addition, all trackers were required to wear a mask and sanitize upon entry. 

This was reassuring because the gorilla population is still quite low so a virus like covid could easily wipe out this endangered species.

We were assigned to the Kahungye family. Kahungye means Hills in Rushaga area.This is where the first gorilla family was seen hence calling it Kahungye.

We headed out into the forest in a group of 8 guests , two ranger trackers and 6 porters. This time round we started on a marked trail so the beginning was relatively easy. February is a dry season so it made it even easier to hike with no risk of slipping in muddy ground. We went through a secondary part of the forest which has rejuvenated over the past 3 decades so the undergrowth was noticeably less dense but still impressive. Up and down, we made our way through the endless ridges that make up this imposing habitat. Within a few minutes breathing was a bit difficult with the masks on and guests commented he had understood why Bwindi was named impenetrable.

We finally arrived at the gorilla’s location. The location had been located by the lead trackers who always set out much earlier than we tourist trackers. Once again we had to sanitize our hands as excitement of being in the presence of gorillas grew. Our first glimpse was of the silverback but only his rear side of the neck and head. A hint of silver hair on the lower back neck was visible and occasionally he looked up at us. The rangers told us that they could tell from the sheer size of the visible upper body and from his quiet confident demeanor that he was the patriarch silverback. Mr Silverback’s big upper body was visible but the rest of the body was covered in dense foliage. In the excitement of the moment, we all tried to get a better view of Mr Silverback as the rangers endeavoured to show each person in the group. He occasionally turned back to glance at us but continued stuffing his mouth with leaves confident in the fact we were no threat to him despite us occupying strategically higher ground. The rest of the gorillas were in close proximity to the silverback as is the case with gorillas families. However, the dense foliage obscured the rest of the gorilla family. It’s only the sound of breaking vines and movement alerted us to the presence of various gorillas in proximity. But as if on cue, the Silverback started moving away downwards further into the thick foliage causing the rest of the gorillas to follow him. We took heed and followed the family into dense vegetation. We carefully made our way through thick undergrowth and overhead vines at times holding each other’s hands to avoid falling. The rangers had told us the family was composed of 17 members. Eventually, we could see the mothers, the newborn, juvenile gorillas of between 2 – 6 years and the silverback watching over every gorilla and trackers. As the gorillas fed, we sat down to observe all the while making sure we moved away to keep a distance. The family had a two week baby who kept close to the mothers bosom in a tight embrace only interrupted by breastfeeding. This was especially good to see because news had it that there had been a gorilla boom since the lockdown in 2020. And here we were seeing one of the baby gorillas. The entire family was especially mindful of our presence and did well to watch our movements. In fact, at one point when the juvenile gorillas moved too close to the trackers,the Silverback explosively mock charged for a distance of about 5 metres. This however, felt like a 100 metre charge. In an instant second the silverback exploded into a rapturous charge that left some trackers on the ground in sheer fear. And strangely as the guests dived and took cover, the ranger screamed do not run under any circumstances. Thankfully, it all lasted but a mere 5 seconds. It however felt like a lifetime. At the end of it, the silverback re-assumed his indifferent position of confidence and the group casually continued to watch the gorillas. The charge was one of the most frightening things I have ever seen in all my experiences tracking gorillas in Bwindi.We continued to watch the gorillas in complete awe. It was fun watching other guests enjoy the moment as they all tried to get the best photos. It was especially rewarding when the intensity of the moment eventually forced guests to put aside cameras, sit down on the leafy ground and just watch the gorillas in silent amazement. I also finally decided to seize the moment without having to worry about the guests’ experiences well knowing time was fast ticking away. The silent moment continued only punctuated by our whispers and gorillas breaking vines, gorilla chewing sounds of the silverback. We have been blessed to track groups over the years but, here I was like it was the first time. Gorilla watching indeed is a once in a lifetime experience even if you did it a million times over it remains a once in a lifetime experience. It seemed we all sought to bring balance, get things in perspective and it seemed we all summoned our faculties’ senses to fathom what was unfolding right before us. But the gorillas kept feeding and the juveniles went about it in a frenzied manner.  One juvenile hit jumped from one branch to the other and in no second was in the vines above a guest who got a lash to the head before he could move away. A pair of juveniles playfully and tumbled on the ground whereas another pair fought in the branches not that far from us. One juvenile gorilla held onto the branch with only one hand as she fought off her friend with the other. It was as though the gorillas were putting on a show for us. Needless to say, we were well impressed. The gorilla hour is the quickest hour in life and soon enough the ranger said Five more minutes before we go. And indeed in what felt like a minute the rangers advised time was up. It was time to head back to the lodge. We left the gorillas right before they started their siesta and climbed up the steep slopes from which we had descended. The entire group reconvened and in a mix of excitement and joy congratulated each other and our rangers. We started the hike back to the briefing office pOwered by the adrenalin of the elating experience. Upon arrival we gathered ourselves to thank the rangers and the entire team in Rushaga Bwindi. We were rewarded with our tracking certificates.