UGANDA LUXURY GORILLA TREKKING TOURS & SAFARI TRIPS

Uganda Gorilla Trekking Valuable Information

Understanding Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is an exciting adventure where you hike through lush tropical rainforests in Bwindi, Volcanoes, Mgahinga, or Virunga National Parks to encounter the endangered mountain gorillas.

In Africa, mountain gorilla trekking is exclusive to Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

To embark on gorilla tracking in these countries, you need a Gorilla tracking permit, which should be secured in advance to avoid last-minute challenges.

Cost of a Typical Rwanda/Uganda Gorilla Tour

When planning your luxury Gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda, consider three factors: the gorilla permit, accommodation, and transportation to and from the park.

Luxury Gorilla trekking in Uganda typically ranges from USD990 to USD1620 per person (excluding trekking permits).

Gorilla monitoring permits in Uganda cost USD700, while in Rwanda, it’s USD1500. Accommodation costs vary from $50 for budget hotels to $1500 or more for luxury hotels.

Bwindi and Mgahinga parks are accessible by road or air.

Duration of Uganda Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking in Uganda starts early with a briefing by ranger guides on Gorilla trekking rules. The activity can last from 30 minutes to 8 hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location.

Upon meeting the family, you have 1 hour to observe, take photos, and interact with these majestic creatures.

Best Time to See Rwanda/Uganda Gorillas

The drier months of June to February are ideal for gorilla trekking, ensuring a pleasant experience in parks like Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Volcanoes National Park.

Rain is possible even in dry seasons due to the tropical climate.

Uganda Gorilla Trekking Permits

To witness these gentle giants, a gorilla trekking permit is essential. We secure your Rwanda or Uganda trekking permit after your trip booking. Foreign visitors pay $700, foreign residents pay $500, and East African residents pay 250,000 shillings.

Issuing bodies are the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) for Uganda and the Rwanda Development Board for Rwanda.

Note: The permit is valid only for the booked date.

Booking a Rwanda/Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tour/Permit

Secure your gorilla trekking tour or permit at least 3 months before your tracking date, especially in high seasons. Late bookings may find permits unavailable, but we might have reserved permits.

Location of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Southwestern Uganda hosts half of the world’s mountain gorilla population. The park has four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. The choice depends on factors like permit availability, hotel preference, and desired trekking experience.

What’s Included in a Uganda Gorilla Trekking Permit?

The permit grants access to trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi, Mgahinga, or Volcanoes National Park. The trek, lasting 1 to 8 hours, supports gorilla conservation, park infrastructure, and local communities.

Minimum Age for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda is 15. Under special conditions, permits can be obtained for younger children. There’s no maximum age limit, and trekkers’ physical abilities determine gorilla family allocation.

With Friendly Gorillas Safaris Ltd, we tailor trekking trips based on your details.

Uganda Gorilla Trekking Packing List

For a delightful primate trek, pack essentials like trousers, hiking boots, insect repellents, a hat, sunglasses, and garden gloves. Avoid eating during the trek.

Chances of Seeing Gorillas in Uganda

Whether gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda, there’s a 99% chance of encountering these gentle giants. Ranger guides track gorilla families beforehand, ensuring a high probability of sightings.

Contact FriendlyUganda Gorilla Safaris for more information.

Uganda Gorilla tracking from Kigali/Rwanda

Planning to visit gorillas in Uganda, especially Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, for a gorilla trekking safari from Kigali is possible. The drive from Kigali to Bwindi is only 4.5 hours, making it a popular choice. Start your tour in Kigali and end in Entebbe or vice versa for added flexibility.

The East African tourist visa facilitates easy access to these countries.

Discounted Gorilla Tracking Permits

Discounted permits for Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda are available at USD1050 during the low season months of May and November. To qualify, spend three days in another Rwandan national park (Nyungwe Forest National Park or Akagera National Park).

Uganda no longer offers discounted trekking permits; the fixed fee is $700.

For low-season months, book your discounted Rwanda gorilla permit at least 6 months before your preferred tracking date. Only a limited number of permits are available each day.

Gorilla Trekking Tips

– Review the gorilla family orientation before your trek.
– Wear long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
– Carry a waterproof backpack with water, snacks, and a camera.
– Follow guidelines to maintain a safe distance from the gorillas.
– In case of illness, reschedule your trek to protect the gorillas.

Plan your Gorilla trekking adventure with care, and it will be an unforgettable experience connecting with these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

IMPORTANT: Please process the visa certification/permission in advance of your arrival, regardless of whether you fly or drive to Rwanda/Uganda – through their nearest Rwandan High Commission.

Rwanda Visa Information

If you’re not eligible for the free ninety-day entry into Rwanda or can’t get a visa upon arrival, submit an “entry facility application” on the Rwandan Immigration Authority’s website – www.migration.gov.rw – under “Public service,” click on “entry facility,” and fill in essential details like name, passport number, arrival date, and port of arrival.

Travelers planning to visit Rwanda should do this promptly to allow enough time for visa approval. Print a copy of the submission for convenience upon arrival.

For re-entry into Uganda from Rwanda by road, consider a transit visa for USD 15 or a new single-entry visa at USD50, depending on your itinerary.

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months with clear pages for visas. British passport holders visiting Uganda need a passport valid for 12 months.

Uganda Gorilla Tours Health Requirements

Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory for East African safari destinations. If you have liver problems, consult your doctor before your Uganda gorilla tour.

Typhoid may be required when crossing into Rwanda. Check with your local clinic or a travel clinic.

Tetanus and Cholera are recommended but not compulsory. Hepatitis vaccination is at the traveler’s discretion.

Malaria tablets are necessary; consult your pharmacist/doctor for a suitable prescription. Bring insect repellent for evenings and mornings.

Uganda Gorilla/Chimpanzee Trekking Requirements

For Uganda, gorilla/chimp trekking, be visibly free of contagious illnesses. Sick individuals are not allowed to visit gorillas in Uganda. In case of emergencies, inform your safari guide promptly.

Follow tracking guidelines strictly to avoid conflicts with Gorilla tracking authorities.

Uganda Gorilla Trekking Road Safety

Expect rough roads in Uganda/Rwanda, but the diverse scenery makes the journey exciting! Uganda luxury safari vehicles transfer between destinations, national park game drives, and activities.

Gorilla Trekking Luggage Info

Limit luggage due to space constraints. Recommend a barrel or smooth bag (15 kg max) for essential gear. Avoid hard luggage; soft bags are safer on flights.

For charter flights in Uganda, baggage restrictions vary but are typically up to 10kg per person in soft baggage.

Rwanda/Uganda Gorilla Trekking Attire

You can go on a gorilla trekking in Uganda/Rwanda at any time. Bring rain gear, light clothing, and sneakers for gorilla hikes.

In jungle areas, wear hiking boots and neutral clothes. Avoid blue shades in areas prone to tsetse flies.

For mountainous areas like Bwindi or Virungas, bring warm layers for colder evenings. Pack a rain jacket for rainforest areas.

Uganda Gorilla Filming Info

Personal filming with video cameras is free. Professional photographers, filmmakers, or media personalities should inquire about filming costs.

Charge your camera during your gorilla tour in Uganda. Follow gorilla filming tips for the best experience.

Laundry Info

Laundry service is available at a small extra cost during your gorilla safari. Some lodges have machine laundry; check upon arrival.

Electricity in Uganda

Uganda: 240 volts British Standard, Rwanda: 240 volts, 2-pin European style plugs. Some lodges have limited power; check your detailed itinerary for charging locations.

Which Currency Should I Carry

Carry US dollars to Uganda/Rwanda. Exchange some for local currency. Use small notes (USD 1, 5, 10, 50) and bills newer than 2009. Keep receipts for currency exchange.

Avoid traveler’s cheques; use cash for better flexibility. Contact Friendly Gorillas Uganda for more details.

Credit Card Usage during Uganda Gorilla Trekking

Limited credit card cash advances; Visa cards are usually accepted, Mastercard is very rarely accepted. Big hotels allow credit card payments with additional fees.

ATM Machines

ATMs may not always work. They dispense local currency and require an international use PIN code. Contact Friendly Gorilla Tracking Uganda for details.

Drinks to Expect during Uganda Gorilla Safaris

Purchase your drinks on a luxury safari. Most camps/lodges offer a variety of beverages at varying prices. Drink bottled water for safety.

Travel Insurance

Medical insurance is strongly recommended. The minimum cover should be $50,000 for medical and related expenses.

AIRPORT DUTY-FREE SHOPPING

Entebbe Airport has a duty-free section. The duty-free allowance is 2 bottles of wine/spirit and 200 cigarettes.

How Safe Is Uganda Gorilla Trekking

Take care of personal possessions. Use a “moon bag” for storing valuables. Be cautious in crowded areas to avoid theft.

Tipping Guidelines

Tipping is discretionary but appreciated. Offer tokens of appreciation to guides, porters, drivers, and lodge/camp staff based on your experience.

Accommodation during Uganda Gorilla Tours

Accommodation ranges from luxurious to budget. Modest local hotels/guest houses provide basic facilities. Contact us for a personalized itinerary with details.

Green Forests Uganda

Uganda’s lush forests offer a unique safari experience. Explore Uganda safari to discover the rich biodiversity.

Ugandans Hospitality

Ugandans are known for their friendliness. Connect with locals to enhance your travel experience. Engage in cultural safaris to explore Uganda’s fascinating culture.

Cheaper Gor

illa Permits in Uganda

Uganda offers lower gorilla tracking permit prices than Rwanda. With over 9 gorilla tracking families, it’s easier to find gorillas in Uganda.

Green and Responsible Gorilla Tourism

Friendly Gorillas Safaris practices responsible tourism by involving local communities and promoting eco-friendly lodges. Engage with local communities responsibly.

Bwindi National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a renowned gorilla tracking destination, offers four regions for gorilla tracking. Choose a region based on your preference for accommodations, gorilla permits, and transportation. Contact us for more information about Bwindi gorilla treks and holidays.”