Combine Mount Kilimanjaro Hike with Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Combine Mount Kilimanjaro Hike with Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and trekking with gorillas in Uganda is a unique adventure that blends two of Africa’s most iconic experiences. The chance to combine Mount Kilimanjaro hike with gorilla trekking in Uganda offers an unforgettable blend of mountain summits and lush rainforest encounters with endangered wildlife. Kilimanjaro, a dormant volcano located in Tanzania, is the highest mountain in Africa, towering at 5,895 meters above sea level. It features three volcanic peaks: Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira. With its diverse trekking routes, Mount Kilimanjaro offers a challenge suited for all levels, from the easier Rongai Route to the more challenging Machame Route, which is popular for its spectacular views. Kilimanjaro’s beauty is not just about its height but its lush landscapes and the opportunity to camp under the stars as you ascend.

How to Combine Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro with Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

There are several ways to combine climbing Mount Kilimanjaro with gorilla trekking in Uganda. You could start by visiting Uganda for gorilla trekking, then fly to Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro Airport to tackle the mountain or vice versa. Flights between Tanzania and Uganda are well-connected, with options from airlines like Kenya Airways, Rwandair and Airlink.

Best Time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

The best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is during the dry season, from June to September and December to February. During these months, the trails are less muddy, making hiking easier and more accessible. However, given the mountain’s high altitude, be prepared for cooler temperatures and occasional drizzles, especially near the summit.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is one of the highlights of any visit to the country. Uganda is home to the endangered mountain gorillas, which can be found in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi, located in the southwest, is divided into four trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga. Each sector has different habituated gorilla families available for trekking. Rushaga sector is especially popular due to its larger number of families.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Prices

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is:

• USD 800 for foreign non-residents
• USD 700 for East African residents
• USD 80 for East African citizens

These permits allow you to spend an hour with the gorillas once you find them on your trek.

How to Book Your Gorilla Trekking Permit

Booking your gorilla permit in advance is essential. Permits are available through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), either at their headquarters in Kampala or at their Kisoro office for those arriving via Kigali. Trek Africa Gorillas can assist in securing your gorilla permit, ensuring you get your permits in advance. Simply share your travel dates with us via email or WhatsApp and we’ll handle the rest.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The best time for gorilla trekking is during Uganda’s dry seasons: January, February and June to September. These months make for easier access to the park and better visibility of the gorillas, as vegetation is less dense.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Here’s a helpful list of what to wear for your trek:

• A long-sleeved shirt and trousers (for protection from branches and insects)
• Waterproof hiking boots
• A hat and sunglasses (optional, depending on the weather)
• A camera with extra batteries (no flash)
• Binoculars (to enjoy the diverse wildlife)
• Gardening gloves (for gripping tree branches)
• A raincoat (since rain is unpredictable in the rainforest)
• Mosquito repellent
• Sunscreen (if it’s hot)
• Neutral-colored clothing (bright colors can scare the gorillas)

Accommodation During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Depending on your trekking sector, you have a variety of accommodation options. In Rushaga and Nkuringo, you can stay at places like Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge and Lake Mutanda Resort. In Buhoma and Ruhija, there are options such as Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge and Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge.

Why Book with Trek Africa Gorillas?

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we specialize in customizing your dream adventure by combining Mount Kilimanjaro climbs with gorilla trekking in Uganda. We are a reliable local tour operator with a team of expert consultants, offering quick responses to your inquiries. We’ll help you design the perfect travel plan, book your permits and ensure that everything runs smoothly so you can focus on enjoying your experience.

Contact us today to plan your ultimate adventure combining Mount Kilimanjaro with gorilla trekking in Uganda!