Combining Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with a Kenya Safari

Combining Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with a Kenya Safari

If you’re planning to visit Uganda for a memorable gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and you’re also keen to experience the wild beauty of Kenya, you’re in for an unforgettable trip! In this article, we’ll show you how to combine these two amazing destinations and explain how Trek Africa Gorillas can help you plan and book your Gorilla Trekking in Uganda alongside a thrilling Kenya Safari.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: A Must-Do Adventure

One of the highlights of any trip to Uganda is gorilla trekking. You’ll have the rare opportunity to trek through lush forests and encounter the magnificent mountain gorillas that call Bwindi Impenetrable National Park home. Bwindi, along with Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, is one of the only two places in Uganda where these endangered creatures can be found, making it an exclusive experience. The other parks where you can track mountain gorillas include Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: What You Need to Know

Gorilla trekking in Uganda takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is divided into four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga.

• Buhoma and Ruhija are located in the northern and northeastern parts of Bwindi, near Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering the option to combine gorilla trekking with a game safari if you’re trekking in these areas.
• Rushaga and Nkuringo are located in the southern part of the park, close to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where you can also enjoy golden monkey trekking.

Each sector in Bwindi has different habituated gorilla families that are available for trekking, with Rushaga boasting the highest number of families, giving you more options to choose from.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Cost in Uganda

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is as follows:

• USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents
• USD 700 for East African residents
• UGX 300,000 for East African citizens

This permit allows you to spend one hour with the mountain gorillas once you find them during your trek.

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

Booking your gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda is an exciting step toward an unforgettable experience. The first thing you need to do is secure your gorilla trekking permit. These permits are essential for accessing the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

You can purchase your permit directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), either at their headquarters in Kampala or in Kisoro. If you’re flying into Uganda via Entebbe, it’s best to buy your permit at the Kampala office. For travelers arriving through Kigali, Rwanda, permits can be purchased at the UWA branch in Kisoro, which is just 1-2 hours’ drive from Bwindi.

If you prefer a hassle-free booking process, Trek Africa Gorillas can assist with securing your permit in advance, even at short notice. Once you confirm your travel dates, simply reach out to us via email or WhatsApp. We’ll reserve your permits online, send you an invoice and as soon as we receive your payment, we’ll finalize the permit purchase. You’ll then receive scanned copies of your permits for your records, confirming your gorilla trekking booking.

When is the Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

The ideal time for gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the drier months, which are typically January, February and June to early September. During these months, the trails are easier to navigate and the visibility is better, allowing you to get a clear view of the gorillas without dense vegetation obstructing your path.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Wondering what to wear for your gorilla trek? Here’s a helpful packing list to ensure you’re fully prepared for the adventure:

• Long-sleeve sweater: It can get chilly in the mornings, so a long-sleeve sweater is a must.
• Two pairs of long trousers: It’s best to wear durable pants to protect your legs from thorny bushes and insects.
• Waterproof hiking boots: The terrain can be muddy, so waterproof boots will help keep your feet dry.
• Hat and sunglasses: Depending on the weather, these can protect you from the sun.
• Camera with long-lasting batteries: Capture the moments with the gorillas! Remember to keep your flash off to avoid startling them.
• Binoculars: Helpful for spotting wildlife and birdwatching in the dense forest.
• Gardening gloves: These come in handy when holding onto branches or trees during the trek.
• Raincoat: Since Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a rainforest, rain is always a possibility. Be prepared with a lightweight, packable raincoat.
• Mosquito repellent: The forest is home to various insects, so insect repellent is essential.
• Sunscreen: While it may be cool in the forest, it can get hot, especially when trekking in open areas, so apply sunscreen to protect your skin from sunburn.

Also, avoid wearing bright colors, as this can startle the gorillas. Black and blue are not recommended either, as they attract tsetse flies. Instead, opt for neutral tones that blend in with the natural surroundings.

Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers several accommodation options in both the northern and southern sectors. Here’s where you can stay:

• Southern Sector (Rushaga and Nkuringo):
  • Rushaga Gorilla Camp
  • Four Gorillas Lodge
  • Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
  • Gorilla Safari Lodge
  • Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
  • Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
  • Lake Mutanda Resort
• Northern Sector (Buhoma and Ruhija):
  • Buhoma Lodge
  • Bwindi Lodge
  • Buhoma Community Rest Camp
  • Trekkers Tavern Cottages
  • Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge
  • Broadbill Tented Camp

All these accommodations are conveniently located near the trekking starting points, ensuring easy access to the gorilla families.

Discover the Magic of Kenya: Safari and Beyond

After an unforgettable time trekking gorillas in Uganda, head to Kenya for a true African safari experience. Kenya is home to some of the continent’s most famous game reserves, including the Masai Mara, which offers a chance to see the “Big Five” in their natural habitat. Beyond the wildlife, Kenya is also known for its beautiful beaches, such as those in Mombasa and Malindi, where you can relax after your safari adventure. The country also offers dramatic mountain vistas, thriving coral reefs and rich cultural experiences.

How to Combine Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with a Kenya Safari

There are several ways to combine your Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with a Kenya Safari. You can begin your trip with gorilla trekking in Uganda and then fly to Kenya for your safari or vice versa. There are direct flights connecting Uganda and Kenya through airlines like Kenya Airways, Rwandair and Airlink, making it easy to move between the two countries.

Can I Drive or Do a Road Trip Between Kenya and Uganda?

Yes, it’s absolutely possible to drive between Kenya and Uganda. If you’re starting from Kenya, you can take a scenic drive west, crossing the border at Busia, a major border town. This road trip will offer a unique and immersive experience of East Africa’s landscapes and cultures. If you’re interested in traveling by road, Trek Africa Gorillas can assist you with advice and logistics for your journey, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.

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

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we pride ourselves in creating customized travel experiences for visitors looking to combine the best of Uganda and Kenya. Whether you’re interested in gorilla trekking in Uganda or a thrilling Kenya safari, we offer expert guidance and seamless booking services to make your trip unforgettable.

Our team is committed to providing personalized itineraries and answering all your questions. Your trip will be carefully planned and all services will be booked well in advance to avoid any inconvenience. We also offer knowledgeable safari guides who speak various languages, ensuring you get the most out of your experience.

Ready to embark on your gorilla trekking adventure? Contact us today to book your trip or for more information on combining Uganda gorilla trekking with a Kenya safari!