Budget Gorilla Safari to Rushaga

Budget Gorilla Safari to Rushaga

Are you dreaming of an unforgettable budget gorilla safari in Rushaga? With Trek Africa Expeditions, that dream is within reach! Securing a spot for gorilla trekking in Rushaga can be quite a challenge, especially since it’s one of the most sought-after sections of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. During the high season, gorilla permits and services tend to sell out quickly, often leaving many tourists disappointed. To avoid missing out, we strongly recommend booking your gorilla trek in Rushaga well in advance. At Trek Africa Expeditions, we also specialize in helping you find the best budget lodges in the Rushaga sector to make your stay comfortable and affordable.

About Rushaga Sector

Located in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Rushaga is home to five gorilla families—the most of any sector in the park. The terrain here makes trekking easier, providing a more enjoyable experience for visitors. Rushaga is conveniently accessible from Kisoro, making it a straightforward tracking point for those traveling from Kigali, Rwanda. The habituated families you can track in this region include Busingye, Bweza, Nshongi, Mishaya, and Kahungye. Additionally, Rushaga is the only sector in Bwindi that offers a Gorilla Habituation experience, with two families, Bushaho and Bikyingi, currently undergoing this process. For those interested in cultural encounters, the sector also provides opportunities to visit the Batwa community.

Important Considerations for Your Budget Gorilla Safari to Rushaga

Booking Your Gorilla Permits in Advance

When planning a budget gorilla safari to Rushaga during the high season, it’s crucial to book your gorilla permits at least three to four months before your trek. Gorilla permits sell out quickly on a first-come, first-served basis during this time. The cost for a gorilla permit is $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, and 300,000 Uganda Shillings for East African citizens. This permit allows you to spend one hour with the majestic mountain gorillas in Bwindi. For more details on booking your permits in advance, don’t hesitate to contact us here.

Accommodation Options

Choosing the right place to stay is vital for a comfortable experience during your budget gorilla safari in Rushaga. There are several budget lodge options available, such as Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Katuru Camp, Nshongi Camp, and Rushaga Gorilla Camp. Many of these lodges offer a full board meal plan when you book your safari with Trek Africa Expeditions, ensuring you’re well-fed throughout your adventure.

Comfortable Travel to Rushaga

To make your journey to Rushaga as comfortable as possible, consider traveling in a 4×4 safari van. This budget-friendly transportation option will provide a smooth ride to your destination. If you prefer a quicker route, you can opt for a budget flight with Aerolink to Kisoro Airstrip, which is close to Rushaga. This will significantly cut down your travel time from Entebbe or Kampala—typically an 8-9 hour drive—to just about a 2-hour drive from Kisoro to your lodge in Rushaga.

What to Wear During Gorilla Trekking in Rushaga

Are you preparing for an exciting trek in Rushaga and wondering what to wear? We’ve got you covered! Here’s a helpful list of essential clothing and gear to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable gorilla trekking experience.

Clothing Essentials

1. Long-Sleeved Sweater: The temperatures can drop in the park, so a warm, long-sleeved sweater is a great choice to keep you comfortable.
2. Two Pairs of Long Trousers: Opt for durable, lightweight trousers that are easy to move in. This will protect your legs from branches and insects during the trek.
3. Waterproof Hiking Boots: Invest in a good pair of waterproof hiking boots to navigate the muddy trails comfortably. Sturdy footwear is crucial for a successful trek.
4. Hat and Sunglasses: Depending on the weather, a hat and sunglasses can help protect you from the sun. This is optional but can enhance your comfort during the trek.
5. Camera with Extra Batteries: Capture your memories with a reliable camera. Don’t forget to bring extra batteries, and remember to keep the flash off to avoid disturbing the gorillas.
6. Binoculars: A pair of binoculars will allow you to enjoy the diverse birdlife and other wildlife in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
7. Gardening Gloves: These can be useful for holding onto trees and branches for support as you trek through the forest.
8. Raincoat: As a tropical rainforest, Bwindi can experience unpredictable rain. Carrying a raincoat will keep you dry and comfortable.
9. Mosquito Repellent: Protect yourself from pesky insects by wearing mosquito repellent or bringing it along for use.
10. Sunscreen: While optional, sunscreen is advisable, especially during warmer months, to prevent sunburn.

Color Considerations

When choosing your trekking attire, avoid bright colors, as they can startle the gorillas. Also, black and blue are not recommended since they attract Tsetse flies. Instead, opt for neutral colors that blend in with the natural surroundings.

Getting to Rushaga Sector for Gorilla Trekking

By Air

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Rushaga. Aerolink offers both scheduled and charter flights to Kisoro Airstrip. While there are no direct flights to Rushaga, you can be dropped off at Kisoro, where our professional guide will pick you up for the approximately 2-hour drive to your lodge in Rushaga. Be sure to check in 90 minutes before your flight departure, and note that Aerolink has a baggage limit of 15 kilograms per person, with excess charges of $3 per kilogram. For families, infants under two travel for free, while children over 12 pay 70% of the adult fare.

By Road

If you prefer to travel by road, Rushaga can be accessed via the main highway from Entebbe or Kampala, which takes about 8-9 hours. You will pass through Kabale town on your way. Alternatively, if you’re traveling from Kigali, Rwanda, the drive will take approximately 4-5 hours.

Best Time to Plan Your Budget Gorilla Safari to Rushaga

Rushaga is open for trekking year-round, but it’s essential to consider that it is a tropical rainforest and can experience rain at any time. The best months for gorilla trekking are June to August and December to February when rainfall is lower and the trails are less slippery. If you travel during March to May or November, you may encounter more rain, but some lodges offer discounts during these times.

Why Book Your Budget Gorilla Safari to Rushaga with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we take pride in creating tailor-made gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda. Our dedicated team is here to assist you every step of the way. We respond to your queries within 30 minutes and can help you plan your itinerary, ensuring all services are booked in advance to avoid any inconveniences. With our knowledgeable safari guides, who can cater to your language preferences, you’ll have an enriching experience in the heart of Uganda’s wildlife.

Ready to start your adventure? Feel free to contact us here for more information and to book your unforgettable gorilla trekking experience!