Gorilla Conservation in Uganda
Your visit directly contributes to the protection of these magnificent creatures and their habitat.
From Critically Endangered to Thriving
The story of Uganda's mountain gorillas is one of the world's greatest conservation success stories. In the 1980s, the species was on the brink of extinction, with only around 300 individuals remaining in the wild. Decades of dedicated conservation efforts, primarily funded by responsible tourism, have led to a remarkable comeback.
Today, thanks to the collaboration between governments, NGOs, and local communities, the population has grown to over 1,000 gorillas. This positive trend has led the IUCN to downgrade the species' status from "Critically Endangered" to "Endangered," a testament to the power of conservation-focused tourism.
Threats to Gorilla Survival
Habitat Loss
Growing human populations and agricultural expansion continue to encroach on the gorillas' forest habitat, forcing them into smaller, more fragmented areas.
Disease Transmission
Gorillas share over 98% of their DNA with humans, making them highly susceptible to human diseases like the flu, measles, and Ebola, which can be devastating to a small population.
Poaching & Snares
Although not a direct target for poachers, gorillas are often injured or killed by snares and traps set for other animals like antelopes and pigs.
How Your Permit Fee is Used
Park Patrols & Protection
A significant portion of your permit fee funds the Uganda Wildlife Authority's daily anti-poaching and forest patrol teams who remove snares and protect the gorillas from illegal activities.
Veterinary Care
Funds are used to support specialized veterinary units, like the Gorilla Doctors, who provide emergency medical care for sick or injured gorillas in the wild, often treating them for human-related diseases.
Community Development
Revenue sharing programs provide a direct financial incentive to local communities to protect the gorillas. This money funds schools, hospitals, and clean water projects, linking community well-being directly to gorilla health.
Research & Monitoring
Permit fees also help fund critical research projects that monitor gorilla family dynamics, population changes, and health, providing data essential for their long-term survival.
Our Responsible Tourism Pledge
Gorilla Welfare First
We prioritize the health and well-being of the gorillas, strictly adhering to the 7-meter distance rule and limiting time with the families.
Sustainable Practices
We promote leave-no-trace ethics on every trek, ensuring our presence has a minimal impact on the forest ecosystem.
Community Empowerment
We actively hire and train local Ugandans as guides, porters, and staff, providing economic opportunities directly to those who live closest to the gorillas.
Direct Funding
We ensure that a portion of all tour packages goes directly to supporting conservation projects and local initiatives.