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Can You Block Permits and Trek the Bikingi Gorilla Family Exclusively?
The Bikingi Gorilla family, one of the five gorilla families in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, offers an exceptional opportunity for an exclusive trekking experience. This family, led by the dominant silverback Bikingi, has over 15 members, including 5 adult females, 2 sub-adult males, 2 juveniles, and 5 infants. Originally part of the Mishaya Gorilla family, the Bikingi group split off in 2012. If you’re hoping to trek this special family exclusively, it is indeed possible with Excursia Adventures.
How to Trek the Bikingi Gorilla Family Exclusively
To trek the Bikingi Gorilla family alone, you’ll need to block all available permits for that specific day. This ensures that no other tourists will be in your group, giving you a private encounter with this fascinating gorilla family. Trekking permits are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and only 8 permits are issued per day for this group.
Each gorilla permit costs:
- USD 800 for foreign non-residents
- USD 700 for foreign residents
- 300,000 Ugandan shillings for East African citizens
If you wish to trek the Bikingi family exclusively, you will need to purchase all 8 permits for the day. For foreign non-residents, this will total USD 4,800.
To block all the permits, you can pay 100%, 70%, or 30% of the total permit cost in advance. We recommend booking and securing your permits 3 to 4 months in advance, particularly if you’re traveling during the peak season when permits tend to sell out quickly.
Important Considerations When Planning to Trek the Bikingi Gorilla Family Exclusively
1. Secure All Permits in Advance
Since only 8 permits are available per day for the Bikingi Gorilla family, you will need to book all of them in advance to ensure you can trek the family exclusively. You can pay for the permits in full or in installments, depending on your preference. Early booking is crucial to avoid any disappointment.
2. Lodge Booking
To enhance your experience, it’s important to stay in a lodge near Rushaga. There are several comfortable and luxury options in the area, including:
- Luxury Lodges: Four Gorillas Lodge, Gorilla Safari Lodge, and Gorilla Valley Lodge.
- Other Options: Gorilla Heights Lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Lodge, and Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge in the nearby Nkuringo sector.
3. Travel to Rushaga
For a comfortable journey to Rushaga, we recommend traveling in a 4×4 land cruiser. This will ensure a smooth and comfortable ride through the rugged terrain. Alternatively, you can fly into Kisoro Airstrip, which is just a 2-hour drive from Rushaga. This option cuts down the long 8-9 hour drive from Entebbe/Kampala. If you’re coming from Kigali, you can cross the Cyanika border and reach Rushaga in about 4-5 hours.
What to Wear During Your Trek to the Bikingi Gorilla Family
When trekking the Bikingi Gorilla family, it’s important to dress appropriately for the adventure. Here’s a guide on what to wear and bring along for a comfortable and memorable experience:
- Long-Sleeved Sweater – The weather in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest can be chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings, so pack a warm sweater to stay comfortable.
- Two Pairs of Long Trousers – Long trousers will protect you from the dense vegetation and any insect bites during your trek.
- Waterproof Hiking Boots – A good pair of sturdy, waterproof hiking boots is essential for navigating through wet, muddy terrain.
- Hat and Sunglasses (Optional) – Depending on the weather, a hat and sunglasses can help protect you from the sun.
- Camera and Extra Batteries – Photography is an important part of your trek, so be sure to carry a camera with extra batteries. Don’t forget to turn off your flash when photographing the gorillas to avoid startling them.
- Binoculars – Bring binoculars to enjoy the diverse birdlife and spot other primates in the forest, making your trek even more exciting.
- Gardening Gloves – These are helpful when you need to grab onto trees and branches as you move through the forest.
- Raincoat – Bwindi is a rainforest, so rain can be unpredictable. A lightweight raincoat will keep you dry and comfortable.
- Mosquito Repellent – The forest is home to various insects, so be sure to wear or carry mosquito repellent to protect yourself from bites.
- Sunscreen – Although it may be cool in the mornings, the sun can be intense later in the day, especially in the dry season. A good sunscreen will help prevent sunburns.
- Avoid Bright Colors – Bright colors can agitate or scare the gorillas. It’s best to wear neutral-colored clothing like khaki, olive, or brown.
- Avoid Black and Blue – These colors attract tsetse flies, so it’s better to avoid them. Stick to earthy tones for a more comfortable trek.
How to Get to Rushaga for Your Exclusive Bikingi Gorilla Trek
By Air
A faster and more convenient option is to fly into Kisoro Airstrip with domestic flights operated by Aero Link. From there, a 1-hour drive will take you to Rushaga. While there are no direct flights to Rushaga, you’ll be dropped off at Kisoro, where our guide will meet you and take you to your lodge.
By Road
If you prefer a road trip, Rushaga can be accessed from Entebbe/Kampala, which is about an 8-9 hour drive through Kabale Town. Alternatively, you can drive from Kigali, Rwanda, which takes approximately 4-5 hours via the Cyanika border and Kisoro town.
Best Time to Trek the Bikingi Gorilla Family Exclusively
The best time to trek the Bikingi Gorilla family is during the drier months from January to February and June to early September. During this period, the trails are easier to navigate, and the vegetation is less dense, giving you a clearer view of the gorillas.
Why Book Your Exclusive Trek with Excursia Adventures?
At Excursia Adventures, we specialize in creating customized safaris that suit your unique preferences. Our team of experienced and professional consultants is dedicated to providing you with exceptional service. You can expect timely responses to all your inquiries—usually within 20 minutes. Our consultants will help plan your trip, answer all your questions, and ensure that all your bookings are made in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
We also have knowledgeable safari guides available in various languages, ensuring that you have the best experience during your exclusive trek with the Bikingi Gorilla family.
Feel free to contact us to book your exclusive trekking experience with the Bikingi Gorilla family. We look forward to making your gorilla safari unforgettable!
