Can You Book a Private Trek with the Mubare Gorilla Family?

Can You Book a Private Trek with the Mubare Gorilla Family?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for an exclusive gorilla trekking experience, it’s possible to secure all the permits for the Mubare Gorilla Family and enjoy a private encounter. The Mubare Gorilla Family is the oldest habituated group in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, dating back to 1993 when gorilla tourism was first introduced in the region. Named after the Mubare Hills, where the group was initially spotted, the family has an intriguing history. Initially led by the dominant silverback Ruhondeza, the group faced several challenges and dwindled to just five members. However, under new leadership by silverback Kanyonyi, the family has grown back to nine members today.

How to Book an Exclusive Trek with the Mubare Gorilla Family

If you’re interested in a private trekking experience, you can block all available permits for the Mubare Gorilla Family on your chosen date. This way, you won’t share the experience with any other tourists, allowing you and your group a more intimate encounter with the mountain gorillas.

The costs for the permits are as follows:

• Foreign Non-Residents: USD 800 per permit
• Foreign Residents: USD 700 per permit
• East African Citizens: UGX 300,000 per permit

There are 8 permits available per day for the Mubare Gorilla Family. To secure a private trek, you need to purchase all 8 permits for the day, totaling USD 5,700 for foreign non-residents. You can choose to pay 100%, 70% or 30% of the total amount upfront to block the permits. We recommend booking your permits at least 3 to 4 months in advance, as they sell out quickly, especially during peak season (June to September).

Tips for Planning Your Exclusive Mubare Gorilla Trek

1. Book All Permits in Advance: With only 8 permits available per day, it’s crucial to book early to ensure exclusivity. By securing all permits, you guarantee a private experience without sharing the trek with other tourists. Reach out to us for assistance with booking and to check availability.
2. Reserve a Private Lodge in Buhoma: To enhance your exclusive experience, consider booking an entire lodge for your stay. Buhoma offers several luxury options, including:
   • Buhoma Lodge
   • Bwindi Lodge
   • Silverback Lodge

   Reserving a lodge exclusively for your group ensures a personalized and private stay.

3. Choose a Comfortable Travel Option: Getting to the Buhoma sector can be a long journey, so comfort is key. We recommend traveling in a 4×4 Land Cruiser for a smooth ride. Alternatively, you can fly from Entebbe or Kampala to Kihihi Airstrip, which is just a 2-hour drive from Buhoma, significantly reducing travel time. Another option is to drive from Kigali, Rwanda, via the Katuna border, which takes about 4-5 hours.

What to Wear for Your Exclusive Mubare Gorilla Family Trek

Planning an exclusive trek to see the Mubare Gorilla Family? If you’re wondering what to pack, here’s a detailed guide on what to wear to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Essential Clothing and Gear

1. Long-Sleeved Sweater or Jacket: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest can get quite chilly, especially in the early mornings. A warm, long-sleeved sweater will help you stay comfortable throughout the trek.
2. Long Trousers: Wear two pairs of long, sturdy trousers to protect your legs from scratches and insect bites as you navigate the dense forest.
3. Waterproof Hiking Boots: The forest trails can be slippery and uneven, so invest in good-quality, waterproof hiking boots for a safer and more comfortable hike.
4. Hat and Sunglasses: Depending on the weather, a hat and sunglasses can help protect you from the sun. This is optional but recommended for sunny days.
5. Camera and Extra Batteries: Capture your unforgettable moments with a good camera. Don’t forget to bring spare batteries, as the cold weather can drain them quickly. Remember to keep the flash off when photographing the gorillas.
6. Binoculars: Bwindi is home to a variety of bird species and other wildlife. A pair of binoculars will help you spot birds and primates high in the trees.
7. Gardening Gloves: These will protect your hands as you hold onto branches or tree trunks during the trek.
8. Raincoat: Bwindi is a tropical rainforest and rain can be unpredictable. A lightweight, waterproof raincoat is a must to keep you dry.
9. Mosquito Repellent: Protect yourself from insect bites with a good mosquito repellent. The forest is home to various insects, so it’s wise to come prepared.
10. Sunscreen: If you’re trekking during the warmer months, apply sunscreen to avoid sunburn, especially if you have sensitive skin.
11. Neutral-Colored Clothing: Avoid bright colors, as they may disturb the gorillas. We also recommend staying away from black and blue clothing, as these colors can attract tsetse flies. Opt for earth tones like brown, green and khaki.

Best Time to Trek the Mubare Gorilla Family Exclusively

For the best experience, plan your trek during the dry months of January, February, June and early September. These months offer better hiking conditions, as the trails are less muddy and the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot the gorillas.

How to Get to Buhoma Sector for Mubare Gorilla Trekking

By Air

The quickest way to reach Buhoma is by flying. AeroLink offers scheduled and charter flights to Kihihi Airstrip, the nearest airstrip to Buhoma. From Kihihi, our professional guide will pick you up and transfer you to your lodge, which is about a one-hour drive away.

• Check-in: Passengers are required to check in 90 minutes before departure.
• Baggage Allowance: The baggage limit is 15 kilograms per person, with an excess charge of $3 per kilogram.
• Private Charters: Private flights are available for those who prefer flexible timings or special routes.
• Children’s Fares: Infants under 2 years fly for free and children over 12 years pay 70% of the adult fare.

By Road

If you prefer a road trip, you can drive from Entebbe or Kampala. The journey takes about 8-9 hours, passing through Kabale town before reaching Buhoma. Alternatively, you can travel from Kigali, Rwanda, which takes about 4-5 hours via the Katuna border. Another option is to access Buhoma through the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you might spot the famous tree-climbing lions.

Why Choose Trek Africa Gorillas for Your Exclusive Mubare Gorilla Trek

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we pride ourselves on providing personalized, tailor-made safari experiences. Here’s why you should book with us:

• Quick Response Time: We respond to your inquiries within 20 minutes, ensuring efficient communication and planning.
• Expert Travel Consultants: Our knowledgeable team will create a customized travel plan, answer all your questions and handle all bookings in advance, saving you time and avoiding any last-minute inconveniences.
• Experienced Safari Guides: Our guides are not only experienced but also cater to your language preferences, making your trek more enjoyable and informative.

Ready to plan your exclusive trek with the Mubare Gorilla Family? Contact us today and let’s create a memorable adventure for you!