Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – The Crown Jewel of Gorilla Trekking
Hidden deep in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is where the wild meets the sacred. This ancient rainforest is one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth and home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Trekking here is not just about seeing gorillas—it’s about becoming part of something primal and humbling.

Trekking routes are spread across four sectors—Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo—each with unique trailheads, gorilla families, and accommodation styles. Whether you’re taking on a standard 3-hour trek or joining the immersive Gorilla Habituation Experience, Bwindi delivers an encounter that stirs the soul.

→ Explore more: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi vs. Mgahinga

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Volcanoes, Culture, and Gorillas
While smaller and often overshadowed by Bwindi, Mgahinga is Uganda’s quiet masterpiece. Located at the confluence of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, this park offers dramatic views of volcanic peaks—Mount Sabinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhabura.

Mgahinga is home to one habituated gorilla group (the Nyakagezi family), known for its consistency in location and smaller trekking groups. But this park’s charm goes deeper—it’s the only place in Uganda where you can track golden monkeys, climb extinct volcanoes, and explore rich Batwa cultural trails, all in a single visit.

→ Plan a trip: 3-Day Mgahinga Gorilla Safari

Queen Elizabeth National Park – From Gorillas to Tree-Climbing Lions
After the misty mountains, the open plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park offer a sharp and exciting contrast. This park connects beautifully with Bwindi and Kibale, making it a natural addition to longer gorilla and wildlife safaris.

Here, you’ll find tree-climbing lions in the southern Ishasha sector, dramatic game drives across Kasenyi Plains, and tranquil boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel where elephants, hippos, and crocodiles share the banks. Birders, too, will fall in love—Queen Elizabeth is home to over 600 bird species, making it a global hotspot.

→ Suggested itinerary: 7-Day Gorilla & Wildlife Safari in Uganda

Kibale Forest National Park – Chimpanzee Encounters in the Wild
While gorillas command the spotlight, Kibale Forest steals hearts in a quieter way. Known as the Primate Capital of the World, Kibale is home to over 1,500 chimpanzees and 12 other primate species. Trekking through its dense canopies is like walking through an emerald cathedral, where sunlight filters through leaves and the forest hums with life.

Chimpanzee tracking here is highly rated for its accessibility and success rate, and there’s also a Chimpanzee Habituation Experience for those wanting more than a glimpse. This park also connects easily with Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi, making it ideal for multi-park safaris.

→ Read more: Chimpanzee Tracking vs. Gorilla Trekking in Uganda