Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with a Tanzania Safari

Combine Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with a Tanzania Safari

Are you dreaming of an unforgettable adventure that includes gorilla trekking in Uganda and an exciting safari in Tanzania? With Trek Africa Gorillas, you can make that dream come true! We offer expertly planned packages that combine gorilla trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park with a safari trip to Tanzania.

Why Combine Gorilla Trekking and a Tanzania Safari?

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Trek through the lush forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda, where you’ll come face-to-face with the endangered mountain gorillas. Uganda is home to the world’s highest population of these majestic creatures and trekking through the forest to meet them is a thrilling experience. This activity is mainly done in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, two of only four parks in the world where mountain gorillas can be found, alongside Virunga National Park in DR Congo and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

After your gorilla trekking adventure, head to Tanzania, Uganda’s neighbor and embark on a classic African safari. Tanzania is known for its diverse wildlife, including the Big Five and its beautiful national parks. Visit iconic destinations like Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and other stunning parks such as Lake Manyara National Park and Tarangire National Park, famous for its large herds of elephants.

How to Combine Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with a Tanzania Safari

There are several options for combining gorilla trekking and a safari in Tanzania. You can start your adventure with gorilla trekking in Uganda and then fly to Tanzania for your safari or vice versa. Flights between Uganda and Tanzania are frequent and can be booked with airlines like Kenya Airways, Rwandair, Uganda Airlines and Airlink.

Can You Drive from Tanzania to Uganda?

Yes, it’s possible to drive between Tanzania and Uganda, though it’s quite a long journey. The best route is to travel north through Tanzania and then cross the border into Uganda via the Mutukula border. The journey takes approximately 20-24 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. If you prefer, we can guide you throughout the entire road trip to ensure a smooth and safe journey.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is done across four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga. Buhoma and Ruhija are in the northern and northeastern parts of the park, close to Queen Elizabeth National Park, making it easy to combine game viewing with gorilla trekking if you’re trekking in these areas. Rushaga and Nkuringo, located in the southern part of Bwindi, are closer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where you can enjoy gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking. Each sector has several habituated gorilla families, with Rushaga having the largest number of families.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Prices

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

Your gorilla permit grants you one hour of face-to-face time with the gorillas once you find them on your trek, making it an incredibly special experience.

How to Book Gorilla Trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Booking a gorilla trekking experience in Uganda is easy with the right guidance. To secure your spot, you’ll need to purchase a gorilla permit in advance. These permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and there are a few ways you can get them.

If you’re arriving in Uganda through Entebbe, it’s recommended to purchase your permit directly from UWA headquarters in Kampala. For those coming through Kigali, Rwanda, you can buy your permit from the UWA office in Kisoro—just a 1-2 hour drive from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we make the booking process hassle-free for you. Once you confirm your travel dates, simply send them to us via email or WhatsApp. We’ll reserve your permits online and send you an invoice for payment. Once we receive the payment, we’ll secure your gorilla permits right away and send you the scanned copies for your records.

What is the Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

The best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the drier months, from January to February and June to September. During this period, the weather is more favorable for travel and the vegetation in the forest is less dense, offering clearer views of the gorillas.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Wondering what to pack for your gorilla trekking adventure? Here’s a list of essential items to bring:

• Long-sleeved sweater: The park can get chilly, especially in the morning.
• Two pairs of long trousers: For protection against vegetation and insects.
• Waterproof hiking boots: The terrain can be muddy and slippery, so sturdy footwear is crucial.
• Hat and sunglasses: These are optional but useful for sun protection.
• Camera with long-lasting batteries: You’ll want to capture your memories. Just remember to keep the flash off to avoid startling the gorillas.
• Binoculars: These will come in handy for spotting the park’s diverse birdlife and other wildlife.
• Gardening gloves: Ideal for gripping onto trees or branches while trekking.
• Raincoat: Since Bwindi is a rainforest, rain can occur unexpectedly, so be prepared.
• Mosquito repellent: Protect yourself from insect bites in the forest.
• Sunscreen: Optional but it can be useful during the hotter months.
• Neutral-colored clothing: Avoid bright or dark colors like black and blue, as they can attract unwanted attention from insects or scare the gorillas.

Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is divided into different sectors and your accommodation will depend on which sector you’re trekking in.

• Rushaga & Nkuringo Sectors (Southern Bwindi): Here, you’ll find several cozy lodges like Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Four Gorillas Lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge and Lake Mutanda Resort. These are conveniently located near the trekking starting points.
• Buhoma & Ruhija Sectors (Northern Bwindi): In these sectors, stay at Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge or Trekkers Tavern Cottages, among others. These lodges are close to the trekking trailheads, offering a comfortable stay after a long day’s trek.

Why Book Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Tanzania Safari with Trek Africa Gorillas?

As a local tour operator in Uganda, Trek Africa Gorillas is your trusted partner for planning the ultimate gorilla trekking adventure and safari experiences. We specialize in customized packages, including combinations of gorilla trekking in Uganda and safaris in Tanzania.

Our professional team is committed to providing exceptional service. Whether you’re planning a gorilla trek or a full safari package, we’re here to assist you. Our expert consultants will quickly respond to your inquiries (usually within 20 minutes) and ensure your trip is carefully planned, with all services booked in advance to avoid any hassles.

We also have experienced safari guides who speak a variety of languages to suit your needs. Contact us today to start planning your dream gorilla trekking and Tanzania safari with Trek Africa Gorillas!