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November 11, 2024Planning a Luxury Gorilla Trek to Nkuringo During the Low Season
Dreaming of a luxury gorilla trek to Nkuringo during the low season? With Excursia Adventures, this dream is a reality! The low season in Uganda typically falls in April, May, and November, when the parks are less crowded, and many tourist services are more affordable. This is the perfect time for those seeking a more private and serene gorilla trekking experience. During these months, you’ll enjoy fewer tourists, allowing you to experience the beauty of Uganda’s wildlife and landscapes in peace. Excursia Adventures can help you find the best luxury lodges in the Nkuringo sector to ensure your stay is as comfortable and unforgettable as your trek.
About Nkuringo Sector
Located in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Nkuringo is one of the most exciting places for gorilla trekking. Home to the Nkuringo, Bushaho, and Christmas gorilla families, Nkuringo offers an opportunity to see these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. However, Nkuringo’s high-altitude terrain makes trekking here more strenuous and challenging, making it ideal for adventurous travelers who are looking for more than just a glimpse of gorillas. For those with an adventurous spirit, Nkuringo also offers stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes in both Uganda and Rwanda, making it an excellent base for those looking to explore the entire region.
Key Considerations for Your Luxury Gorilla Trek to Nkuringo During the Low Season
Book Your Gorilla Permits in Advance
We highly recommend booking your gorilla permits at least 3 to 4 months before your intended trekking date, especially during the low season when permits tend to sell out quickly. Having your permit secured will guarantee your spot for a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla encounter.
- The cost of the gorilla permit is:
- USD 800 for Foreign Non-Residents
- USD 700 for Foreign Residents
- 300,000 Uganda Shillings for East African Citizens
The gorilla permit gives you access to spend one hour with the mountain gorillas, observing their behavior in the wild. Feel free to contact us for more information or to reserve your permits in advance.
Stay in Luxury Accommodations
For the ultimate luxury experience in Nkuringo, choose from a selection of top-tier lodges that offer comfort, exceptional views, and high-end services. Some of the best luxury lodges in the area include:
- Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
- Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
- Chameleon Hill Lodge
- Lake Mutanda Lodge
If you prefer, you can also stay in lodges in the nearby Rushaga sector and still enjoy easy access to Nkuringo for your trek.
Travel in Comfort to Nkuringo
For a truly luxurious and comfortable travel experience, consider hiring a 4×4 Land Cruiser for the drive to Nkuringo. The rugged terrain demands a reliable vehicle, and a Land Cruiser ensures you travel in style and comfort.
Alternatively, you can fly to Kisoro Airstrip, which is only 2 hours from Nkuringo. This flight option helps reduce the long road trip from Entebbe or Kampala, which typically takes 8-9 hours, cutting it down to just a 1-hour flight followed by a short drive.
What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Nkuringo
Wondering what to pack for your gorilla trek in Nkuringo? Here’s a list of essentials that will help you stay comfortable, safe, and prepared for your adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest:
- Long-Sleeved Sweater: The weather in Nkuringo can be chilly, so bring a cozy long-sleeved sweater or jacket to keep warm during your trek.
- Two Pairs of Long Trousers: Choose durable, lightweight trousers that will protect you from the underbrush, thorns, and insects.
- Waterproof Hiking Boots: The terrain can be muddy and slippery, so good waterproof hiking boots are a must to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
- Hat & Sunglasses: While optional, a hat and sunglasses can protect you from the sun, especially during midday. The forest can also be sunny at times, so it’s wise to be prepared.
- Camera & Extra Batteries: Capture the memories of your once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the gorillas. Bring a camera with long-lasting batteries and don’t forget to turn off the flash to avoid disturbing the gorillas.
- Binoculars: If you’re a bird or wildlife enthusiast, binoculars are great for spotting the diverse bird species and other primates in the forest.
- Gardening Gloves: These gloves will help you grip branches and trees as you navigate through the forest. They provide extra protection and make the trek more comfortable.
- Raincoat: The weather in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest can be unpredictable, so pack a lightweight, waterproof raincoat to stay dry if it rains.
- Mosquito Repellent: To protect yourself from insect bites, especially mosquitoes, apply insect repellent or wear it throughout your trek.
- Sunscreen: Depending on the season, it may get quite sunny. Protect your skin from sunburn by applying sunscreen, especially if you’re sensitive to the sun.
- Avoid Bright Colors: Bright colors can startle the gorillas, so opt for neutral shades. Also, avoid wearing black or blue clothing, as these colors attract tsetse flies.
How to Reach Nkuringo for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
By Air: For a quicker and less tiring journey, consider flying to Kisoro Airstrip via Aero Link, a domestic airline offering both scheduled and charter flights. Once you arrive at Kisoro, our professional guide will meet you and drive you to your lodge, which is about 1 hour away.
By Road: If you prefer to travel by road, Nkuringo is approximately 8-9 hours from Entebbe/Kampala. The scenic drive takes you through Kabale town before reaching the park. Alternatively, you can also access Nkuringo from Kigali, Rwanda, which is around 4-5 hours away.
Why Book Your Luxury Gorilla Trek to Nkuringo During Low Season with Excursia Adventures?
At Excursia Adventures, we create customized, luxury safaris tailored to your preferences. Our team of professional consultants will answer all your questions within 20 minutes and assist you in planning every detail of your gorilla trek. From booking your permits to arranging accommodation and transportation, we handle it all to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
We also offer knowledgeable safari guides in various languages, so you can fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Contact us today to plan your luxury gorilla trek to Nkuringo during the low season for a private, exclusive, and unforgettable adventure!