Combining Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with a Zambia Safari

Combining Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with a Zambia Safari: The Ultimate Adventure

Are you looking to combine the thrilling experience of gorilla trekking in Uganda with an unforgettable safari in Zambia? At Trek Africa Expeditions, we can help you plan the perfect trip that lets you explore the endangered mountain gorillas of Uganda and then take you on an exciting wildlife safari through Zambia’s famous national parks. Here’s everything you need to know about combining these two amazing African adventures.

Why Combine Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with a Zambia Safari?

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda is a must-do for any wildlife lover. Located in the far southwestern corner of Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offer some of the best gorilla trekking experiences in the world. These parks are home to the endangered mountain gorillas, with Bwindi hosting the largest population of them. Trekking through the misty forests, encountering these majestic creatures up close, is an experience you won’t forget.

After your gorilla adventure, head to Zambia, often considered one of the best safari destinations in Africa. Known for its walking safaris, Zambia offers a truly immersive experience in nature. The Luangwa Valley, Lower Zambezi, and Kafue National Park are some of the country’s most beautiful and wildlife-rich areas. Whether you’re walking through the bush, on a game drive, or enjoying a boat safari, Zambia promises an exciting wildlife experience.

How to Combine Gorilla Trekking with a Zambia Safari?

There are several ways to combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with a Zambia safari. You can start your trip in Uganda with gorilla trekking and then fly to Zambia for your safari, or vice versa. Flights between Zambia and Uganda are available from airlines like Kenya Airways, Rwandair, and Airlink, offering easy connections for this type of trip.

• Uganda to Zambia: Fly into Entebbe for your gorilla trek and then take a flight to Zambia for your safari adventure.
• Zambia to Uganda: Start with a safari in Zambia and then fly to Uganda to track the gorillas in Bwindi or Mgahinga.

Can I Drive Between Zambia and Uganda?

If you’re up for a road trip, it is possible to drive between Uganda and Zambia. The journey covers about 2,994 km and takes approximately 44 hours of driving. If you’re starting from Zambia, the best route is to head northwest to Tanzania, then travel north and cross the border into Uganda via the Mutukula border. If you’re interested in this adventurous road trip, Trek Africa Expeditions can guide you with all the necessary information and help with your travel arrangements.

Combined Wildlife Safari Options

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we offer several combined wildlife safaris that include both gorilla trekking in Uganda and a safari in Zambia. Here are some of our popular itineraries:

• 8 Days Uganda Primates and Wildlife Safari (through Kigali)
• 10 Days Kenya Game and Uganda Primates Safari
• 11 Days Gorillas and Tanzania Safari
• 11 Days Rwanda-DR Congo Primates and Cultural Tour
• 13 Days Combined Kenya and Tanzania Trip
• 21 Days Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda Wildlife Safari
• 22 Days Best of Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda Classic Wildlife Safari

What to Expect on Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Uganda

When you embark on a gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you’ll have the opportunity to trek in one of four distinct sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga. Each sector offers its own unique experience:

• Buhoma and Ruhija are located in the northern part of Bwindi, near Queen Elizabeth National Park. These areas are perfect for combining gorilla trekking with game viewing, as they are easily accessible from the park.
• Nkuringo and Rushaga, in the southern part of Bwindi, are close to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and offer an exciting combination of gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking.

Each sector in Bwindi is home to different groups of habituated gorillas. The Rushaga sector stands out for having the highest number of gorilla families, making it an excellent choice for trekking.

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Cost?

The cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda depends on your residency status. Here’s a breakdown of the pricing for gorilla permits:

• Foreign Non-Residents: USD 800 per person per trek
• East African Residents: USD 700 per person per trek
• East African Citizens: UGX 300,000 per person per trek

A gorilla permit grants you the incredible opportunity to spend one hour with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park once you find them during your trek. It’s an unforgettable experience and a must-do for nature and wildlife lovers.

How to Book Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Booking your gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda starts with securing a gorilla permit in advance. Permits are available through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). You can purchase your permit at their headquarters in Kampala or at their Kisoro office, which is closer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

For those flying into Uganda via Entebbe, it’s recommended to purchase permits from Kampala. If you’re entering through Kigali (Rwanda), you can buy your permit at the UWA branch in Kisoro, just 1-2 hours from Bwindi.

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we make the process easy for you. Simply share your trekking dates with us via email or WhatsApp, and we’ll reserve your gorilla permits online. Once we receive your payment, we’ll finalize the purchase and send you your permit details and confirmation.

What is the Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

The best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry months of January, February, and June to early September. During this time, the weather is more favorable, with easier access to the park and less vegetation, giving you clearer views of the gorillas.

What to Wear During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Wondering what to wear for your gorilla trekking adventure? Here’s a list of essentials:

• Long-sleeve sweater: The forest can get chilly, especially in the morning.
• Two pairs of long trousers: This will protect you from the dense undergrowth.
• Waterproof hiking boots: Essential for muddy and slippery terrain.
• A hat and sunglasses: Optional, depending on the weather.
• Camera with extra batteries: You’ll want to capture this incredible experience! Just remember to turn off your flash.
• Binoculars: A great addition for spotting the rich wildlife and birds in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
• Gardening gloves: Useful for holding onto trees and branches during the trek.
• Raincoat: Since the forest is a tropical rainforest, the rain can be unpredictable.
• Mosquito repellent: To protect against insects in the forest.
• Sunscreen: If you’re trekking during the hotter months.
• Neutral colors: Avoid bright colors or dark shades like black and blue, as they can attract tsetse flies or scare the gorillas.

Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Where you stay depends on which sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park you’re trekking in. The park is divided into four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga. Each sector offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from budget to luxury options.

Rushaga and Nkuringo (Southern Bwindi)

• Rushaga Gorilla Camp
• Four Gorillas Lodge
• Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

Buhoma and Ruhija (Northern Bwindi)

• Buhoma Lodge
• Bwindi Lodge
• Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Trekkers Tavern Cottages
• Agandi Eco Lodge

These lodges are located close to the starting points of your gorilla trekking and gorilla habituation experiences.

Why Book Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and a Zambia Safari with Trek Africa Expeditions?

Trek Africa Expeditions is a trusted local tour operator specializing in gorilla trekking in Uganda and safaris in Zambia. We offer tailor-made travel packages that allow you to combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with an incredible safari in Zambia. Our team of professional consultants is always ready to answer your questions and create a personalized travel plan just for you.

We take care of every detail, including booking your gorilla permits, arranging accommodation, and organizing safaris in both Uganda and Zambia. Whether you’re looking for an exciting wildlife safari or a peaceful trek with the mountain gorillas, we’re here to help make your dream trip a reality.

Contact us today to start planning your gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda and safari in Zambia with Trek Africa Expeditions! Let’s make your journey unforgettable.