Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Discounts

Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Discounts: Your Ultimate Guide

Planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Africa but not sure where to go? Uganda offers one of the best and most affordable options for this unforgettable experience. Gorilla trekking can be done in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Among these destinations, Uganda stands out as the safest and most cost-effective choice. A gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs $800 per person, compared to $1,500 in Rwanda and $400 in DR Congo, where instability remains a concern. This safari offers you the chance to spend one magical hour with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Here’s everything you need to know about securing discounts and planning your Bwindi gorilla trekking adventure.

Why Choose Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi?

Gorilla trekking is more than a safari—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Accompanied by experienced ranger guides, you’ll hike through Bwindi’s dense rainforest, tracking habituated mountain gorilla families. Once you find them, you’ll have the rare opportunity to observe their behaviors, learn about their lives, and spend an unforgettable hour in their presence.

How to Book Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Discounts

1. Secure Your Gorilla Permit

The first step is purchasing a gorilla trekking permit, which is issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). The permit prices are as follows:

• $800 for Foreign Non-Residents.
• $700 for East African Residents.
• $80 for East African Citizens.

Contact us, and we’ll help you secure your permit. Once you share your travel dates, we’ll check availability with UWA and reserve your spot. After payment, you’ll receive a scanned copy of your permit as proof of booking.

2. Plan in Advance

Bwindi has 36 habituated gorilla groups, allowing only 288 permits per day. To avoid missing out, it’s best to book your permit 3–5 months in advance, especially during the high season.

How Much Does a Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Tour Cost?

The cost of a gorilla trekking safari depends on your travel style (luxury, mid-range, or budget), itinerary, and duration. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:

1. Gorilla Permit

• $800 for Foreign Non-Residents.
• $700 for East African Residents.
• $80 for East African Citizens.

2. Accommodation

• Budget: Starting at $100 per night.
• Mid-Range: Around $200 per night.
• Luxury: $300–$700 per night.

3. Sample Itinerary Costs

A popular choice is the 3-Day Budget Gorilla Tracking Safari, which includes:

• Solo Traveler: $1,700 per person.
• 2 People Sharing: $1,290 per person.
• 3 People Sharing: $1,270 per person.
• 4 People Sharing: $1,250 per person.

What’s Included:

• Gorilla trekking permit.
• Budget accommodation.
• Transport in a 4×4 safari van.
• English-speaking driver-guide.
• Drinking water.

What’s Not Included:

• Tips, Uganda visa, flights, and alcoholic drinks.

Contact us for tailored packages that suit your preferences and budget.

When Is the Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is available all year round, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons:

• January to February
• June to early September

During these months, travel to the park is easier, and the vegetation is less dense, offering clearer views of the gorillas.

However, the rainy seasons (March to May, October to November) can also be ideal. The rains encourage food growth in the forest, meaning gorillas often stay closer to the trails, reducing the distance you need to hike.

Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

When planning your gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, choosing the right accommodation is essential for a comfortable and convenient experience. Gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is conducted in four main sectors: Buhoma and Ruhija in the north, and Rushaga and Nkuringo in the south. Below is a guide to the best accommodations in these areas, ensuring you stay close to the trekking start points.

Accommodation in the Southern Sectors

Rushaga Sector

The Rushaga sector offers a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some great options:

• Rushaga Gorilla Camp
• Four Gorillas Lodge
• Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
• Nsongi Camp
• Icumbi Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Gorilla Valley Lodge
• Karungi Camp

Nkuringo Sector

If you’re trekking in Nkuringo, consider staying at these top lodges:

• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
• Lake Mutanda Resort

These lodges are conveniently located near the starting points for gorilla trekking and gorilla habituation experiences.

Accommodation in the Northern Sectors

Buhoma Sector

Buhoma is one of Bwindi’s most popular trekking sectors, offering excellent accommodations:

• Buhoma Lodge
• Bwindi Lodge
• Buhoma Community Rest Camp
• Ride 4 A Woman

Ruhija Sector

For those trekking in Ruhija, the following lodges provide great options:

• Trekkers Tavern Cottages
• Agandi Eco Lodge
• Gift of Nature Lodge
• Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Broadbill Tented Camp

Each of these lodges is close to the trekking start points, making your adventure stress-free and enjoyable.

Where is Gorilla Trekking Done in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking in Uganda takes place in two national parks:

1. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

You can reach these parks by flying into Entebbe International Airport and starting your journey to southwestern Uganda. Travel options include:

By Road

• Duration: Approximately 9–10 hours from Entebbe or Kampala.
• Route: Pass through major towns such as Masaka, Mbarara, and Kabale.

By Air

• Fly to Kisoro Airstrip for easy access to the southern sectors of Bwindi and Mgahinga.
• Fly to Kihihi Airstrip for access to the northern sectors of Bwindi.

Via Kigali, Rwanda

For travelers arriving in Rwanda, you can reach Bwindi or Mgahinga through the Cyanika or Katuna Border. This route takes about 4–5 hours, including time spent at immigration.

Visa Requirements

• East African Visa: For $100, this visa allows multiple entries to Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya. It’s cost-effective for multi-country safaris.
• Single-Entry Visas: Uganda’s visa costs $50, while Rwanda’s costs $30.

Why Book Gorilla Trekking with Us?

At Excursia Adventures, we organize unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda. Here’s why you should choose us:

• Expert Guidance: We assist you in securing gorilla trekking permits and planning your trip.
• Tailored Packages: We offer a range of safari packages—budget, mid-range, and luxury—designed to meet your needs and preferences.
• Trusted Service: Check out our glowing TripAdvisor reviews from happy clients who’ve experienced memorable safaris with us.
• Customer Satisfaction: Our team of dedicated tour consultants is always ready to answer your questions and ensure you have a seamless safari experience.

When you book with us, you’re guaranteed a well-organized, stress-free, and rewarding gorilla trekking adventure.