Combining Gorilla Habituation with Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Combining Gorilla Habituation with Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Are you passionate about spending quality time with mountain gorillas? If so, combining the Gorilla Habituation Experience (a 4-hour encounter) with the traditional 1-hour Gorilla Trekking Experience is the perfect option for your safari in Uganda.

The Gorilla Habituation Experience is exclusive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and offers a rare opportunity to spend extended time observing and interacting with semi-habituated gorillas alongside researchers and rangers. For a more diverse experience, you can include a traditional gorilla trek either in Bwindi or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in planning seamless gorilla safari itineraries. Whether you want to experience both Bwindi’s Gorilla Habituation and trekking in Mgahinga, we can help tailor a trip to suit your needs.

How Many Days Do You Need?

To combine the Gorilla Habituation Experience with additional trekking, you’ll need a minimum of 4 days. This allows you to participate in both activities while enjoying your stay in Uganda’s lush rainforest.

• Gorilla Habituation Experience: This is a unique activity that grants you 4 hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family. You’ll learn about their behavior and participate in the process of habituating them to human presence.
• Gorilla Trekking: The traditional trek involves spending 1 hour with a fully habituated gorilla family, perfect for capturing unforgettable moments.

Booking Gorilla Habituation and Trekking Permits

To participate in these activities, you’ll need two separate permits:

• Gorilla Habituation Permit: $1,500 per person
• Gorilla Trekking Permit: $700 per person

Booking permits in advance is highly recommended, especially as only 8 permits for habituation are available daily (4 people per group). Ideally, book your permits 3–5 months in advance to secure your spot.

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we handle the entire process for you, from checking permit availability with the Uganda Wildlife Authority to securing your bookings. We’ll also send you a scanned copy of your permits for confirmation.

Cost of Combining Gorilla Habituation and Trekking

The cost of your safari will depend on your travel style (luxury, mid-range, or budget) and the duration of your trip. Here’s a breakdown of common expenses:

• Gorilla Habituation Permit: $1,500 per person
• Gorilla Trekking Permit: $800 per person
• Accommodation:
  • Budget: $100 per night
  • Mid-Range: $200 per night
  • Luxury: $300–$700 per night
• Transport: A 4×4 safari vehicle with an English-speaking guide
• Sample Budget Package (3 Days):
  • Solo traveler: $3,100
  • Two people sharing: $2,590 per person
  • Four people sharing: $2,550 per person

This includes permits, accommodation, transport, an experienced driver-guide, and bottled water. Costs exclude tips, visas, flights, and alcoholic beverages.

Best Time to Combine Gorilla Habituation and Trekking

Both activities are available year-round, but the dry season is considered the best time:

• January–February
• June–September

During these months, trails are less muddy, making it easier to trek, and visibility is improved due to thinner vegetation. However, the rainy season (March–May, October–December) also has its advantages. The abundance of food keeps gorillas closer to their nests, meaning shorter trekking distances.

Where to Stay During Your Safari

Gorilla Habituation is only available in the southern region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, within the Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors. There are plenty of accommodation options close to the trekking start points:

• Rushaga Sector:
  • Rushaga Gorilla Camp
  • Four Gorillas Lodge
  • Gorilla Safari Lodge
  • Karungi Camp
• Nkuringo Sector:
  • Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
  • Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
  • Lake Mutanda Resort

These lodges cater to a range of budgets and are conveniently located to minimize travel time.

Getting to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

• By Road: A scenic 9–10-hour drive from Entebbe/Kampala passing through Masaka, Mbarara, and Kabale towns.
• By Air: Fly to Kisoro Airstrip for quicker access to Bwindi’s southern sector.
• From Rwanda: Fly into Kigali International Airport and drive 4–5 hours via the Cyanika or Katuna border.

For multi-country safaris, we recommend the East African Visa, which allows entry into Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya for $100.

Why Book with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we pride ourselves on delivering unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences while promoting eco-tourism and supporting local communities.

• Expertise: We specialize in organizing gorilla trekking and habituation safaris across Uganda and Rwanda.
• Eco-Friendly: Our tours are designed to conserve wildlife, protect biodiversity, and uplift local communities.
• Tailored Packages: From budget-friendly to luxury experiences, we cater to all travelers.
• Beyond Gorillas: Combine your safari with activities like chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 safaris, boat cruises, mountain hikes, and cultural encounters.

Check out our TripAdvisor reviews and see why travelers trust us for their African safari adventures. Contact us today to start planning your gorilla habituation and trekking experience in Uganda!