Bwindi Impenetrable National Park lies at an altitude of approximately 1,160 to 2,706 meters above sea level. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi can be physically demanding; however, some sectors like Buhoma sector are generally considered the easy and most suitable for older trekkers.
The trek to see the gorillas usually takes between 2 and 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family on that day. Once you find the gorillas, you will spend one hour observing them.
On the morning of the trek, park rangers will give a full briefing explaining what to expect. Trekkers are divided into small groups of no more than eight people, and each group is assigned a gorilla family. The assignment is based on age, fitness level, and terrain, so less strenuous routes can be arranged. Some gorilla families live closer to the trails, while others are in steeper areas.
Rangers take this into careful consideration to ensure safety and a comfortable experience. The guides are very experienced and will allow regular breaks for rest, water, and snacks as needed.
There are generally three types of treks: short, medium, and long. During the briefing, you may request to be assigned the easiest gorilla family or a shorter trek.