Booking a Budget Gorilla Safari to Rushaga During the Low Season

Booking a Budget Gorilla Safari to Rushaga During the Low Season

Are you planning a budget gorilla safari to Rushaga during the low season? With Trek Africa Expeditions, this is not only possible but also a great way to experience the beauty of Uganda with fewer crowds. The low season months, which fall in April, May, and November, offer a unique opportunity to enjoy privacy in Uganda’s national parks and attractions, as the number of visitors significantly decreases. This makes it easier to secure accommodations and enjoy an intimate safari experience. Trek Africa Expeditions will assist you in finding the best budget lodges in Rushaga to ensure a comfortable and affordable stay during your low-season gorilla trekking adventure.

About Rushaga Sector

Located in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the Rushaga sector is home to five habituated gorilla families, making it one of the top sectors for gorilla trekking. The families here include Busingye, Bweza, Nshongi, Mishaya, and Kahungye, all offering incredible trekking opportunities. Due to its terrain, trekking in Rushaga is generally less strenuous compared to other regions. The sector also offers the rare Gorilla Habituation Experience with two families, Bushaho and Bikyingi, for those who want a deeper insight into the lives of these majestic creatures. In addition, Rushaga offers cultural encounters like visits to the Batwa community, providing an enriching experience beyond the wildlife.

Important Considerations for Your Budget Gorilla Safari in Rushaga During Low Season

1. Booking Gorilla Permits in Advance

When planning your budget gorilla safari to Rushaga, it’s crucial to book your gorilla permits at least one month in advance. Although permits tend to be more available during the low season, some dates may still sell out, especially if large groups book in bulk. A gorilla permit for tracking in Rushaga costs $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, and 300,000 Ugandan shillings for East African citizens. This permit allows you a once-in-a-lifetime chance to spend one hour with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi. Contact us for assistance with permit bookings and securing your trekking spot in Rushaga.

2. Staying at Budget Lodges in Rushaga

For a budget-friendly safari, choosing the right accommodation is essential. Rushaga offers a range of budget lodges, including Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Karungi Camp, Nshongi Camp, and Rushaga Gorilla Camp. These lodges offer comfort, safety, and accessibility to the trekking points. When you book your safari with Trek Africa Expeditions, you’ll enjoy a full-board meal plan, ensuring you have a worry-free experience.

3. Comfortable Travel to Rushaga

To travel to Rushaga on a budget, consider using a 4×4 safari van for a comfortable road journey. Alternatively, if you prefer a faster option, you can fly with Aerolink to Kisoro Airstrip, which is close to Rushaga. This option cuts the driving time from Kampala/Entebbe from 8-9 hours to a manageable 2-hour drive from Kisoro to your lodge in Rushaga.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Rushaga

Packing appropriately for your gorilla trek is key to a successful experience. Here’s what you should bring:

• A long-sleeved sweater for warmth in the cool mornings.
• Two pairs of long trousers.
• Waterproof hiking boots for the often muddy and slippery forest floor.
• A hat and sunglasses (optional, depending on the weather).
• Cameras with long-lasting batteries (note: flash photography is not allowed).
• A pair of binoculars for birdwatching and viewing other wildlife.
• Gardening gloves to protect your hands while gripping tree branches during the trek.
• A raincoat, as Bwindi’s rainforest weather can be unpredictable.
• Mosquito repellent to protect against insect bites.
• Sunscreen to avoid sunburn during hotter days.

It’s best to avoid bright colors as they can disturb the gorillas, and black or blue clothing, as these attract tsetse flies. Neutral-colored clothing is recommended.

Getting to Rushaga for Gorilla Trekking

By Air: You can fly with Aerolink to Kisoro Airstrip, which is a 2-hour drive from Rushaga. Though there are no direct flights to Rushaga, our guides will pick you up from Kisoro and transport you to your lodge. Flights allow you to avoid the long road journey, but remember there’s a 15-kilogram baggage limit, with extra weight charged at $3 per kilo. Children under 2 years fly for free, while children over 12 are charged 70% of the adult fare.

By Road: Rushaga can be reached by road from Kampala or Entebbe, with an 8-9 hour drive via Kabale. Alternatively, if you’re traveling from Kigali, Rwanda, the drive is shorter, taking around 4-5 hours.

Best Time to Book a Budget Gorilla Safari to Rushaga

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is open for gorilla trekking year-round. However, the best months to visit are June to August and December to February, when there’s less rainfall and the trails are less slippery. If you choose to visit during the low season (March to May and November), you may encounter higher rainfall, but you’ll also enjoy significant discounts on accommodation and have a more private trekking experience.

Why Book Your Budget Gorilla Safari to Rushaga with Trek Africa Expeditions?

Trek Africa Expeditions specializes in tailor-made safari experiences and prides itself on offering personalized, attentive service. Our team of experienced tour consultants responds to queries within 30 minutes and will work with you to plan every aspect of your trip. We also offer knowledgeable safari guides who cater to your language preferences. Whether you want a 2-day, 3-day, or 4-day budget gorilla safari in Rushaga, we have the perfect package for you. Contact us to start planning your dream gorilla trekking adventure today!