Uganda Gorilla Trekking from Kenya

Uganda Gorilla Trekking from Kenya

Are you planning an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Uganda while starting your journey from Kenya? Or perhaps you’re based in Kenya and want to combine your safari adventures in Kenya with gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, or Congo? Look no further! Trek Africa Expeditions organizes seamless gorilla trekking tours starting from Kenya, ensuring an unforgettable journey for nature lovers.

Kenya offers a quintessential African safari experience. From the iconic wildlife of the Masai Mara, the pristine beaches of Mombasa and Malindi, to the breathtaking Rift Valley landscapes, Kenya truly has it all. Its vibrant coral reefs, mountain vistas, and ancient Swahili cities make it a destination worth exploring before or after your gorilla trekking adventure. Whether by road or air, traveling from Kenya to Uganda for gorilla trekking is convenient and hassle-free.

Why Go Gorilla Trekking in Africa?

Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience that draws travelers from around the globe. Despite the cost, effort, and challenging terrain, trekking through the lush forests of Uganda, Rwanda, or Congo to see these endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is worth every moment.

This incredible activity involves hiking through dense forests, crossing rivers, and navigating rugged terrain in search of gorilla families. It can be physically demanding, so a moderate level of fitness is required. However, the reward—spending one magical hour observing gorillas in their natural environment—is unmatched.

For those seeking an even more immersive experience, Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest offers the Gorilla Habituation Experience, allowing visitors to spend four hours with semi-habituated gorillas alongside researchers and trackers.

Where Can You Go Gorilla Trekking in Africa?

If you’re traveling from Kenya, you can enjoy gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. These three countries host the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, found across four national parks:

• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park (Uganda)
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda)
• Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)
• Virunga National Park (Congo)

In addition to mountain gorillas, Congo also offers the chance to see lowland gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park.

A gorilla permit is required to participate in trekking, and availability can be limited, especially during the peak season (June to September). For this reason, it’s highly recommended to book your gorilla safari at least 5 months in advance. You can arrange permits directly or through trusted tour operators like Trek Africa Expeditions.

Cost of Gorilla Permits in Uganda

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda depends on your residency:

• $800 per person for foreign non-residents
• $700 per person for foreign residents
• $80 per person for East African citizens (Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Burundi, and South Sudan)

These permits allow you to spend one hour with a gorilla family in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

For those who want a longer, more immersive experience, Bwindi Forest also offers the Gorilla Habituation Experience. This experience costs $1,500 per person and allows you to spend four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla group, accompanied by researchers and expert trackers.

You can book gorilla permits directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or work with a reliable tour operator like Trek Africa Expeditions, which simplifies the process and ensures your permits are secured.

What is the Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years, while the maximum recommended age is 85 years, depending on your physical fitness level. However, gorilla trekking has been made more accessible for elderly visitors, especially in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, thanks to the availability of sedan chair carriers. These chairs are designed for individuals who may feel unfit or unable to walk through the forest during their trek. Porters will carry you to and from the forest, ensuring you don’t miss out on this incredible experience.

You can hire a sedan chair in advance or on the day of your trek, with costs typically ranging between $400–$500. This service allows everyone, regardless of fitness level, to enjoy the magical experience of seeing gorillas in their natural habitat.

Gorilla Permit Cancellation Policy in Uganda

To participate in gorilla trekking, you must have a valid gorilla permit. Once you book a permit, it’s essential to utilize it on the scheduled trekking date. Gorilla permit cancellation policies in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo are similar. If you cancel within 0 to 8 days before the trek or on the trek day itself, you won’t receive a refund.

What is the Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking in Uganda can be done year-round, but the best time to embark on this adventure is during the dry seasons: January to February and June to early September. During these months, the forest trails are less muddy, making it easier to trek through the dense vegetation. Additionally, the lower vegetation height during the dry season provides better visibility of the gorillas. These months are also ideal for easier travel to the parks and more enjoyable safari experiences.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Proper preparation is essential to ensure a comfortable and successful gorilla trekking experience. Here’s a list of recommended items to pack:

• Comfortable walking/hiking boots: A must for navigating muddy, steep, and uneven forest trails.
• Lightweight long-sleeve shirt and trousers: Protects you from stinging nettles and biting ants.
• Insect repellent: To keep bugs and insects at bay.
• Rain jacket: Sudden rains are common in the forest.
• Gardening gloves: Protect your hands while grabbing vegetation for support.
• Water bottle: Stay hydrated during the trek.
• Camera and lenses: Capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments.
• Sweater or fleece: The mornings can be chilly, especially in high-altitude areas.
• Hat and sunscreen: To protect against the sun when trekking in open areas.
• Binoculars: Great for birdwatching and spotting other wildlife.
• Torch/flashlight and spare batteries
• Wet wipes: For quick refreshment during the trek.
• Sandals or comfortable footwear: For relaxing at your lodge after the trek.
• Swimwear: If your lodge or accommodation has a pool.

Packing appropriately will ensure you are well-prepared and comfortable as you explore the incredible forests of Uganda.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we organize gorilla trekking tours from Kenya to Uganda. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of the planning and booking process. Whether you’re looking for budget, mid-range, or luxury safari packages, we’ve got you covered, including securing your gorilla permits.

We pride ourselves on exceptional customer service, and our past clients have shared their experiences in our glowing TripAdvisor reviews. When you book with us, you can rest assured that your gorilla trekking experience will be seamless and memorable.

Our knowledgeable tour consultants are always ready to answer your questions and provide tailored recommendations to suit your preferences. With Trek Africa Expeditions, you’ll enjoy a stress-free journey and an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, Rwanda, or Congo.