Is It Possible to Block Permits and Trek the Bitukura Gorilla Family Alone?

Is It Possible to Block Permits and Trek the Bitukura Gorilla Family Alone?

Yes, it is possible to arrange an exclusive trek with the Bitukura Gorilla family in Bwindi’s Ruhija sector, located on the eastern side of the park. This group, named after a nearby river, currently consists of 14 members, including 4 silverbacks, 4 adult females, 3 juveniles, and 1 infant. Led by the peaceful silverback Ndahura, the Bitukura family offers a unique experience for those seeking an intimate encounter with mountain gorillas.

If you’re interested in trekking the Bitukura family alone, you can block all available permits for a specific day, ensuring that no other visitors join your group. To make this happen, you’ll need to secure all 8 daily permits, each costing USD 700 for foreign non-residents, USD 600 for foreign residents, or 250,000 UGX for East African citizens. For non-residents, the total for an exclusive trek would be USD 5,600.

By booking with Trek Africa Expeditions, we can facilitate this exclusive experience for individuals or private groups. You’ll have the chance to enjoy one hour with the Bitukura family, without other tourists nearby, for a truly personal encounter.

Important Considerations for Planning an Exclusive Trek with the Bitukura Gorilla Family

1. Booking Permits in Advance

For an exclusive experience, all 8 permits must be secured in advance. You can choose to pay 100%, 70%, or 30% upfront, depending on your preference, to hold the permits. However, we recommend booking 3-4 months before your travel date, especially during the high season when permits sell out quickly. Contact us at Trek Africa Expeditions for assistance in booking and reserving these permits.

2. Reserving Accommodation in Ruhija Exclusively

Staying in a private lodge enhances the exclusivity of your trek. The Ruhija area offers several quality options like Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge and Bakiga Lodge for a luxurious stay. Alternatively, you can also stay in nearby Buhoma, with options such as Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, and Silverback Lodge.

3. Comfortable Travel to Ruhija

For a smooth journey, consider traveling by 4×4 Land Cruiser, which offers comfort on the rugged roads to Ruhija. If you’d like to reduce travel time, there’s also the option of flying to Kihihi Airstrip, which is close to Ruhija and cuts the travel from Entebbe or Kampala down to a 2-hour drive. Alternatively, you can drive from Kigali, Rwanda, which is approximately a 4-5 hour drive via the Katuna border.

What to Wear for Trekking the Bitukura Gorilla Family

Planning to trek the Bitukura gorilla family? Here’s a list of essentials to help you stay comfortable and prepared for the adventure:

• Long-Sleeved Sweater or Jacket: The park can get chilly, especially in the early morning, so a warm layer is essential.
• Two Pairs of Long Trousers: These protect your legs from insects and thorny bushes.
• Waterproof Hiking Boots: Good quality, waterproof boots are a must for the sometimes muddy, uneven trails.
• Hat and Sunglasses (Optional): These can be useful for sun protection, depending on the weather.
• Camera with Long-Lasting Batteries: Capture memories with a reliable camera, but be sure to turn off the flash to avoid disturbing the gorillas.
• Binoculars: Great for spotting birds and other wildlife as you trek through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
• Gardening Gloves: Useful for gripping trees and branches along the trail.
• Raincoat: Bwindi is a rainforest, so rain can come unexpectedly. A raincoat is essential to stay dry.
• Mosquito Repellent: As the forest is home to various insects, insect repellent will help keep bites at bay.
• Sunscreen (Optional): For sunny days, sunscreen will protect against sunburn.
• Neutral-Colored Clothing: Avoid bright colors that can disturb or scare the gorillas. Also, steer clear of black and blue, as these can attract tsetse flies.

Best Time to Trek the Bitukura Gorilla Family Exclusively

For the best experience, plan your trek during the drier months of January, February, June, or early September. The weather is generally more comfortable for trekking, and the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot the gorillas.

Why Book Your Exclusive Trek with Trek Africa Expeditions

Trek Africa Expeditions specializes in custom, exclusive gorilla trekking experiences. Our team is dedicated to seamless planning, with knowledgeable consultants ready to answer your inquiries within 20 minutes. From organizing permits to arranging transport and accommodations, we handle every detail so you can enjoy a stress-free adventure. Plus, our expert guides are chosen to match your language preferences for a truly immersive experience.

Contact us today to book your exclusive trek with the Bitukura gorilla family!