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Booking Uganda Gorilla Permits Through Tour Companies
Planning a gorilla trekking experience in Uganda often raises questions like:
- How do I book gorilla permits for Uganda or Rwanda?
- Where can I purchase gorilla permits?
- When is the best time for gorilla trekking?
If you’re wondering how to secure your Uganda gorilla permits, this guide will provide all the answers you need. Booking your permit in advance is essential to confirm your gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
How to Secure Gorilla Permits in Uganda
The best way to secure your gorilla permit is by working with a trusted tour company. Here’s how Excursia Adventures can help:
- Send Us Your Travel Dates: Once your travel dates are confirmed, email us at info@trekafricagorillas.com to check the availability of permits.
- Permit Availability: We’ll check with the Uganda Wildlife Authority and let you know if permits are available for your preferred dates.
- Payment Process: Upon confirmation, we’ll send you an invoice. Once payment is received, we’ll secure your permits and provide a scanned copy for your records.
It’s highly recommended to book your permits at least 2–3 months in advance, as they are limited and sell out quickly, especially during the peak season (June–September).
Where to Trek Gorillas in Africa
Gorilla trekking is available in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), each offering unique experiences in their respective national parks:
- Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
- Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park.
- DRC: Virunga National Park (Mountain Gorillas) and Kahuzi-Biega National Park (Lowland Gorillas).
A gorilla permit is mandatory for trekking in any of these parks. If you’re planning a trip, it’s best to start the booking process early, especially for peak seasons when demand is high.
Gorilla Permit Costs
Uganda
- Foreign Non-Residents: $800 per person per trek.
- Foreign Residents: $700 per person per trek.
- East African Citizens: $80 per person per trek.
Uganda offers an exclusive Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi, where you can spend up to four hours with semi-habituated gorillas. Permits for this experience cost $1,500 per person.
Rwanda
- Foreign Non-Residents: $1,500 per person per trek.
- Foreign Residents: $500 per person per trek.
- East African Citizens: $200 per person per trek.
Rwanda’s permits are for Volcanoes National Park, which has 12 habituated gorilla families, with 96 permits available daily.
Democratic Republic of Congo
- Virunga National Park (Mountain Gorillas):
- $400 per person during high season (December–March, June–October).
- $200 per person during low season.
- Kahuzi-Biega National Park (Lowland Gorillas):
- $400 for foreign non-residents.
- $200 for East African residents.
- $20 for DRC citizens.
What’s Not Included in Gorilla Permit Costs?
Gorilla permit prices only cover the cost of your trekking experience. Additional expenses such as accommodation, transportation, meals, and airfare are not included. When booking your trip, consult your tour operator for a detailed package that covers these costs.
What Is the Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking in Africa?
The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Africa is 15 years, and there is no strict maximum age. However, participants aged 85 years and older are encouraged to consider their fitness levels. For elderly or less physically fit trekkers, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda offers the option of sedan chair carriers. These chairs allow visitors to be carried by trained porters to and from the gorilla trekking site, ensuring everyone can enjoy this incredible experience.
How Much Does a Sedan Chair Cost?
The cost of hiring a sedan chair ranges between $400 and $500 and can be arranged in advance or on the day of your trek.
Gorilla Permit Cancellation Policy in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo
When planning your gorilla trekking adventure, it’s essential to understand the cancellation policies for permits in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo:
- Gorilla permits are non-refundable if canceled within 8 days or less before your scheduled trek.
To avoid losing your permit investment, we recommend planning carefully and reaching out to us for further details on rescheduling and cancellations.
What Is the Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Africa?
Gorilla trekking is available year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons:
- January and February
- June to early September
During these months, travel to the parks is easier, and the forest vegetation is less dense, providing better visibility for gorilla sightings.
What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Africa
Preparing for gorilla trekking involves packing the right essentials for your adventure. Here’s a checklist to ensure you’re ready:
Clothing and Footwear:
- Comfortable, durable hiking boots
- Long-sleeve shirts and lightweight trousers (to protect against stinging plants and insects)
- Rain jacket
- Sweater or fleece for cooler mornings
Gear and Accessories:
- Insect repellent
- Torch/flashlight with spare batteries
- Gardening gloves (to protect hands during the trek)
- Water bottle
- Camera with lenses
- Binoculars (great for bird watching and game viewing)
Other Essentials:
- Hat and sunscreen
- Wet wipes
- Swimwear (if your lodge has a pool)
Packing these items will ensure you’re comfortable and well-prepared for the trek.
Why Book Gorilla Permits and Safaris with Excursia Adventures?
At Excursia Adventures, we prioritize personalized service, safety, and sustainable tourism practices. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Dedicated Service: We ensure your gorilla trekking experience is seamless, from securing permits to organizing every detail of your trip.
- Eco-Friendly Values: We follow the principle of “Take Nothing but Photographs, Leave Only Footprints,” ensuring our safaris are environmentally responsible.
- Community Impact: We support local communities and wildlife conservation efforts through our tours.
