Can You Block Permits and Trek the Bweza Gorilla Family Exclusively?

Can You Block Permits and Trek the Bweza Gorilla Family Exclusively?

The Bweza Gorilla Family is one of the five gorilla families in the Rushaga sector of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Initially, this family broke away from the Nshongi Gorilla Family in 2013, consisting of 8 members. Although park authorities attempted to reunite Bweza with Nshongi, the group remained separate and has been open for public trekking ever since. Today, the family includes one silverback, along with females and juveniles and is one of the most exciting groups to observe as they go about their daily activities in the park.

If you are wondering whether it’s possible to block permits and trek the Bweza Gorilla Family exclusively, the answer is yes! At Trek Africa Gorillas, we offer exclusive trekking experiences, allowing you to see this fascinating gorilla family privately, either as an individual or with your travel group.

How to Secure Exclusive Access to the Bweza Gorilla Family

To trek the Bweza Gorilla Family exclusively, you’ll need to block all 8 permits for the day. Here’s how it works:

• Gorilla Permit Costs:
  • USD 800 for foreign non-residents
  • USD 700 for foreign residents
  • UGX 300,000 for East African citizens These permits grant you a one-hour private encounter with the gorillas.
• Blocking the Permits: To secure exclusive access to Bweza, you must block all 8 permits for that specific day. If you plan to travel alone, you’ll need to pay for all the permits (USD 5600 for foreign non-residents). You can pay for the permits in full (100%) or in installments of 70% or 30% of the total cost.

Important Considerations for Exclusive Trekking of the Bweza Gorilla Family

1. Book Your Permits Well in Advance

The Bweza Gorilla Family has 8 permits available for sale each day and these often sell out quickly, especially during the high season. To ensure exclusive access, we recommend booking your permits at least 3 to 4 months in advance. You can secure your permits by contacting us at Trek Africa Gorillas and we’ll guide you through the booking process.

2. Choose Comfortable Lodge Accommodation in Rushaga

To enhance your trekking experience, it’s a great idea to book a lodge in Rushaga where you can stay exclusively. There are several accommodation options in the area, including:

• Luxury Lodges: Four Gorillas Lodge, Gorilla Safari Lodge and Gorilla Valley Lodge.
• Other Options: If you prefer staying in a nearby sector, Nkuringo offers lodges like Gorilla Heights Lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Lodge and Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge.

By staying close to the trekking start point, you’ll ensure a more comfortable and stress-free experience.

3. Comfortable Travel Options to Reach Rushaga

• By Road: The drive from Entebbe/Kampala to Rushaga takes approximately 8-9 hours via Kabale Town. A 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended for the journey.
• By Air: For a faster option, you can fly to Kisoro Airstrip, which is just 2 hours from Rushaga. After arriving at Kisoro, our guide will pick you up and transfer you to your lodge.
• From Kigali: Rushaga is also accessible from Kigali via the Cyanika border, with a 4-5 hour drive.

What to Wear for Trekking the Bweza Gorilla Family Exclusively

When trekking the Bweza Gorilla Family exclusively, it’s important to wear comfortable and practical clothing to ensure you’re prepared for the adventure in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Here’s a list of essential items to pack for your trek:

1. Long-Sleeved Sweater

The weather in Bwindi can get chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings, so a long-sleeved sweater will help keep you warm.

2. Two Pairs of Long Trousers

To protect your legs from scratches and insects, pack two pairs of sturdy, long trousers. Lightweight and breathable fabrics are ideal.

3. Waterproof Hiking Boots

Bwindi is a rainforest, so waterproof hiking boots are essential to keep your feet dry and comfortable as you navigate through muddy and uneven terrain.

4. Hat and Sunglasses (Optional)

Depending on the weather, a hat and sunglasses might come in handy to shield you from the sun. This is optional but recommended for sunny days.

5. Camera and Extra Batteries

Photography is one of the highlights of the trek. Bring a good camera with long-lasting batteries but remember to keep the flash off to avoid disturbing the gorillas.

6. Binoculars

A pair of binoculars will enhance your experience by allowing you to spot the many bird species and other primates in the forest from a distance.

7. Gardening Gloves

Gardening gloves are useful for gripping trees or branches as you maneuver through the forest, ensuring you don’t hurt your hands.

8. Raincoat

Bwindi is known for its unpredictable weather, so carrying a lightweight raincoat is a must. Be prepared for rain showers at any time.

9. Mosquito Repellent

As Bwindi is a tropical rainforest, there are insects. Applying mosquito repellent will help protect you from bites, especially from mosquitoes that can carry diseases.

10. Sunscreen (Optional)

If you’re trekking during the warmer months, sunscreen will protect your skin from sunburn. This is particularly important when trekking in open areas.

11. Avoid Bright Colors

Bright colors can alarm or scare the gorillas, so it’s best to wear neutral tones such as khaki, brown or green. Additionally, avoid wearing black or blue, as these colors attract Tsetse flies.

How to Get to Rushaga for Your Exclusive Bweza Gorilla Trek

By Air

Flying is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Rushaga. You can book a flight with Aero Link, which offers scheduled and charter flights to Kisoro Airstrip. From there, it’s about a 1-hour drive to Rushaga, where our professional guide will pick you up and take you to your lodge.

By Road

If you prefer traveling by road, Rushaga is about an 8-9 hour drive from Entebbe or Kampala, passing through Kabale Town. Alternatively, you can travel from Kigali, Rwanda, which is approximately 4-5 hours via the Cyanika Border and Kisoro Town.

Best Time to Trek the Bweza Gorilla Family Exclusively

The best time to trek the Bweza Gorilla Family is during the drier months: January, February and June to early September. During these months, the trails are less muddy, making trekking easier and the vegetation is not as thick, providing clearer views of the mountain gorillas.

Why Book Your Exclusive Trek with Trek Africa Gorillas?

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we create customized safaris tailored to your specific needs and preferences. Here’s why you should choose us for your exclusive Bweza trek:

• Expert Travel Consultants: Our professional team responds to your inquiries within 20 minutes, helping you plan every detail of your trip.
• Hassle-Free Experience: We take care of all your bookings in advance to ensure a smooth and worry-free experience.
• Experienced Guides: Our knowledgeable safari guides are available in different languages and will enhance your experience with their deep understanding of the gorillas and the forest.

Ready to experience the Bweza Gorilla Family in a truly exclusive way? Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable adventure!