Combining Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with a Burundi Safari

Combining Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with a Burundi Safari

Are you planning a trip to Uganda for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and also interested in adding a Burundi safari to your itinerary? In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to combine these two exciting destinations for an unforgettable African adventure. Trek Africa Expeditions is here to help you plan and book this perfect combination of gorilla trekking in Uganda and a Burundi safari.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Uganda. During your trek, you’ll have the rare opportunity to encounter the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Uganda is home to two of the only three national parks in the world that protect these incredible creatures: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Other than Uganda, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Virunga National Park in DR Congo are the only other parks where mountain gorillas are found. Trekking through Uganda’s lush forests is an experience that should be on every wildlife lover’s bucket list.

Exploring Burundi

Burundi is a beautiful, landlocked country located in East Africa. It shares borders with Rwanda to the north, Tanzania to the east and south, and DR Congo to the southwest. While Burundi may be small, it is rich in natural beauty, with breathtaking landscapes, dramatic mountain ranges, and serene lakes. The country’s highest point is Mount Heha, which rises to 9,055 feet (2,760 meters) in the Bujumbura Rural Province.

Although Burundi is less well-known as a safari destination compared to its neighbors, it offers unique wildlife experiences, including Rusizi River safaris and visits to Kibira National Park, where you can explore its dense forests and spot primates like colobus monkeys.

How to Combine Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with a Burundi Safari

There are several ways to combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with a Burundi safari. You can start your journey with gorilla trekking in Uganda and then fly to Burundi for your safari or vice versa. Flights between Uganda and Burundi are available through various airlines such as Kenya Airways, Rwandair, and Airlink.

Can You Drive Between Uganda and Burundi?

Yes, it is possible to drive between Uganda and Burundi. The most common route starts from Burundi, where you drive north to Rwanda, then proceed northwest to cross the border into Uganda via either the Cyanika or Gatuna border posts. This journey offers a scenic drive through the heart of East Africa, and Trek Africa Expeditions is ready to assist with travel tips and advice to ensure your road trip is smooth and safe.

What to Expect in Uganda and Burundi

• Uganda’s Gorilla Trekking: Gorilla trekking in Uganda is conducted in four sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. The trekking experience varies in each sector. For example, Rushaga is known for having several gorilla families, while Buhoma and Ruhija are closer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, making it easier to combine gorilla trekking with a game safari.
• Burundi Safari: While not as famous for safaris as its neighbors, Burundi offers incredible wildlife and birdwatching opportunities. Explore Kibira National Park, famous for its rich biodiversity, including primates like chimpanzees and colobus monkeys, or visit Rusizi River for a more relaxed safari experience.

Gorilla Trekking Costs in Uganda

The cost for a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is as follows:

• USD 800 for Foreign Non-Residents
• USD 700 for East African Residents
• UGX 300,000 for East African Citizens

This permit grants you the rare chance to trek in the Bwindi Forest and spend one hour with the mountain gorillas once you find them. It’s an unforgettable experience worth every penny.

How to Book Gorilla Trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park? Securing your gorilla permit in advance is essential for confirming your booking. These permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), and there are a couple of ways to obtain them based on your travel plans.

• For travelers arriving through Entebbe: It’s best to purchase your gorilla permit at UWA’s headquarters in Kampala.
• For travelers arriving via Kigali (Rwanda): You can buy your permits at UWA’s branch office in Kisoro, which is just a 1-2 hour drive from Bwindi.

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we make the booking process simple and hassle-free. Once you share your travel dates with us via email or WhatsApp, we’ll reserve your gorilla permits tentatively online. After that, we’ll send you an invoice for payment. Once your payment is received, we’ll finalize the booking and send you scanned copies of your permits for your records. With this, you can rest assured that your gorilla trekking permits are secured.

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

The ideal time for gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the drier months, which are typically January, February, and June to early September. During these months, the trails are easier to navigate, and the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot the gorillas. The drier weather also improves visibility, making your trekking experience more enjoyable.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Wondering what to pack for your trek? Here’s a handy guide to help you prepare for your adventure:

• Long-sleeved sweater or jacket: The park can get cold, especially in the morning and evening.
• Two pairs of long trousers: These will protect you from brush and insects during the trek.
• Waterproof hiking boots: Given the terrain and potential rain, waterproof boots are a must.
• Hat and sunglasses: Optional, but they can protect you from the sun.
• Camera with extra batteries: You’ll want to capture memories of your encounter with the gorillas. Don’t forget to turn off the flash.
• Binoculars: These are great for spotting birds and other wildlife along the way.
• Gardening gloves: Useful for gripping onto branches and trees during the hike.
• Raincoat: Since Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a rainforest, the weather can change unexpectedly.
• Mosquito repellent: Protection against insects is essential in a tropical environment.
• Sunscreen: If you’re trekking in the hot season, sunscreen can prevent sunburn.
• Avoid bright colors: Bright colors can startle the gorillas. Stick to neutral tones for the best experience.
• Avoid black and blue: These colors can attract Tsetse flies, so it’s best to wear earth tones.

Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Accommodation near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is available in both the northern and southern sectors of the park. Here are some of the best options:

• Rushaga Sector (Southern Bwindi):
  • Rushaga Gorilla Camp
  • Four Gorillas Lodge
  • Gorilla Safari Lodge
  • Icumbi Gorilla Safari Lodge
  • Gorilla Valley Lodge
• Nkuringo Sector (Southern Bwindi):
  • Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
  • Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
  • Lake Mutanda Resort
• Buhoma Sector (Northern Bwindi):
  • Buhoma Lodge
  • Bwindi Lodge
  • Buhoma Community Rest Camp
  • Ride 4 a Woman
• Ruhija Sector (Eastern Bwindi):
  • Trekkers Tavern Cottages
  • Agandi Eco Lodge
  • Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge
  • Broadbill Tented Camp

These accommodations offer easy access to the trekking starting points, ensuring that your adventure begins smoothly.

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

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in creating customized, hassle-free safari experiences. Whether you’re booking gorilla trekking in Uganda or a combined Uganda and Burundi safari, our team is dedicated to making your trip seamless. Here’s why you should choose us:

• Expert Consultation: Our team of professional tour consultants is always ready to answer your queries within 20 minutes and assist you with planning every detail of your trip.
• Tailor-made Experiences: We specialize in creating personalized itineraries, ensuring your needs and preferences are met.
• Booking Made Easy: We handle all the logistics, including accommodation, permits, and transport, so you can focus on enjoying your safari.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Our guides are local experts, fluent in a variety of languages, and will ensure that your experience is both educational and unforgettable.

Start your gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda and explore Burundi’s unique safari offerings with Trek Africa Expeditions today. Contact us now for more information!