Gorilla Trekking Briefing in Bwindi: What to Expect Before Meeting the Mountain Gorillas

For anyone planning a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, the experience begins long before you set foot in the forest. It starts with a mandatory gorilla trekking briefing held at the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) park headquarters, a crucial session that sets the tone for a safe, respectful, and rewarding encounter with the endangered mountain gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park or any other gorilla parks in Africa.

This article walks you through everything you need to know about the gorilla trekking briefing: what it is, why it matters, when it happens, and how it differs from the gorilla habituation briefing. If you’re preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trek, this guide is essential reading.

What Is the Gorilla Trekking Briefing?

The gorilla trekking briefing is an orientation session that all trekkers must attend before they are allowed to enter the forest to search for gorillas. Conducted by experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers, this early morning session is held at your designated trekking sector in Bwindi Forest (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, or Nkuringo) or at Ntebeko Gate in Mgahinga.

During the briefing, trekkers are:

• Assigned to gorilla families (based on fitness and interest)

• Introduced to their ranger guide

• Informed about the rules and safety procedures

• Educated about gorilla behavior, conservation ethics, and trekking expectations

This moment is both informative and inspiring — it ensures that everyone enters the gorillas’ natural habitat responsibly and with a clear understanding of their role in protecting Uganda’s mountain gorillas.

What Time Does the Gorilla Trekking Briefing Start?

The briefing begins promptly at 7:30 AM, so all visitors must arrive at the UWA park headquarters between 7:00 AM and 7:20 AM. Trekkers coming from lodges nearby in Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, or Nkuringo usually drive or walk to the station that morning.

If you’re coming from further away, like Kisoro or Lake Bunyonyi, ensure your driver departs early enough to avoid missing the session, because no briefing, no trekking.

What’s Covered in the Gorilla Trekking Briefing?

1. Introduction to Gorilla Conservation & Tourism Ethics

The rangers begin the briefing by introducing you to the Uganda Wildlife Authority, the role of gorilla conservation, and the importance of regulated eco-tourism in protecting endangered species. You’ll learn about:

• The history of gorilla trekking in Uganda

• Gorilla population recovery success

• Community benefit programs from your permit fee

• How tourism supports anti-poaching efforts and park protection

This grounding ensures you’re not just a tourist — but a partner in gorilla conservation.

2. Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations

To safeguard both visitors and gorillas, UWA enforces strict trekking rules, all explained in detail during the briefing:

• Only 8 people per gorilla family per day are allowed

• Maintain a 7-meter distance from the gorillas at all times

• Do not eat or drink near gorillas

• Flash photography is strictly prohibited

• Do not touch the gorillas — no matter how close they get

• Cough or sneeze away from them

• Speak in low tones and avoid sudden movements

• If you’re feeling sick, you must report it (you may be barred from trekking for gorilla safety)

These guidelines protect the health and peace of these critically endangered animals, who are highly susceptible to human diseases.

3. Trek Assignment and Family Grouping

After the rules are explained, trekkers are divided into groups of eight and assigned to specific gorilla families. The ranger takes into account:

• Your fitness level and age

• Your lodge location (to avoid long drives post-trek)

• Gorilla family location from the previous day

• Interest in shorter or longer treks

Some gorilla families may require just 30 minutes to reach, while others involve 3-5 hours of hiking each way. It’s during the briefing that final groupings are made — a key moment in determining what kind of physical and emotional experience you’ll have.

4. Introduction to Your Ranger Guide

Once your group is assigned, you’ll be introduced to your armed UWA ranger-guide who will lead your trek. These rangers are experienced trackers and conservationists who:

• Keep you safe in the wild

• Interpret signs and gorilla behaviors

• Coordinate with advance trackers (who locate the gorillas)

• Ensure group discipline and enjoyment

Your guide will be with you throughout the journey, from the forest edge to your magical one-hour encounter with the gorillas.

5. Packing and Dress Code Reminders

Though you should arrive properly dressed and packed, the briefing includes reminders about:

• Wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts

• Carrying at least 2 liters of water

• Bringing snacks and energy bars

• Having a rain jacket or poncho

• Wearing insect repellent and hiking boots

Optional but recommended: garden gloves, a walking stick (usually provided free), and gaiters or long socks to prevent safari ants.

Related Reading: What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking

Why the Gorilla Trekking Briefing Is Essential

The briefing is not just a formality. It’s a core conservation tool and one of the reasons Uganda has successfully maintained a stable and healthy mountain gorilla population.

Here’s why it matters:

• Prepares trekkers emotionally and physically

• Prevents risky or disrespectful behavior in the forest

• Reduces disease transmission to gorillas

• Helps rangers tailor treks to visitor ability

• Promotes responsible and sustainable tourism

Without this guided preparation, visitors might unknowingly cause harm to the gorillas or themselves. The briefing is your bridge to a deeper, more meaningful gorilla trekking experience.

Where Does the Gorilla Trekking Briefing Happen?

In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, briefings are held at:

• Buhoma (north)

• Ruhija (east)

• Rushaga (south)

• Nkuringo (southwest)

In Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, the briefing takes place at Ntebeko Visitor Center.

Your briefing location is determined by the sector listed on your gorilla permit, which also dictates which lodge you should book.

Gorilla Trekking vs Gorilla Habituation Briefing

While both experiences include briefings, there are some differences:

Related: Gorilla Habituation vs Gorilla Trekking

Final Tips for the Gorilla Trekking Briefing

• Arrive early to avoid group reshuffling

• Bring your passport and gorilla permit

• Be open to group discussions and ranger advice

• Ask questions — the rangers are incredibly knowledgeable

• Respect the rules, even if they seem strict — they exist for a reason

This briefing is the first step to one of Africa’s greatest wildlife encounters. Take it seriously, soak in the knowledge, and prepare yourself for an emotional and unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure.