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Gorilla Trekking and Dinner with Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka
Experience the magic of gorilla trekking and enjoy a dinner with Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka—a unique adventure that many travelers have described as unforgettable and life-changing. Dr. Kalema-Zikusoka is a renowned Ugandan veterinarian and the founder of Conservation Through Public Health, an organization dedicated to fostering the coexistence of endangered mountain gorillas, wildlife, humans, and livestock in Africa. Inspired by the legacy of the late Dian Fossey, Dr. Kalema-Zikusoka is one of East Africa’s leading conservationists, working tirelessly to protect these critically endangered mountain gorillas.
What to Expect from Your Trekking Experience
To embark on your gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you’ll need to purchase a gorilla trekking permit. The fees you pay for this permit play a vital role in the conservation of mountain gorillas and their habitat in Bwindi Forest, an area that Dr. Kalema-Zikusoka is passionate about protecting. Without the influx of eco-tourism generated by gorilla trekking, much of this pristine forest would likely have been destroyed. The revenue from trekking fees not only supports the conservation efforts of Uganda Wildlife Authority but also promotes environmental preservation throughout the region.
The funds collected from your trekking permit and park entrance fees benefit the local communities surrounding Bwindi Forest. These communities receive 20% of the money generated from tourism, which empowers them to play a crucial role in conserving and protecting the mountain gorillas. This financial support leads to the construction of schools and hospitals and improves agricultural practices, thereby enhancing the quality of life for local residents.
Despite the higher costs associated with trekking permits, the value of the experience far outweighs the investment. Many travelers return to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park multiple times, eager to reconnect with these gentle giants in their natural habitat. This has led some visitors to purchase more than one permit for different trekking days, affirming that the experience is worth every penny.
Pricing for Gorilla Trekking and Dinner with Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka
The cost for gorilla trekking with Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka is $1,100 per group, which includes guiding and accommodation in Buhoma. However, this does not cover the round-trip airfare with Aerolink Uganda, which costs $552.
The prices for gorilla trekking permits are as follows:
- $800 for non-residents
- $700 for residents
- 300,000 Uganda Shillings for East African citizens
These permits allow you to spend one hour with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Forest National Park. Additional costs for a successful trekking experience include transportation, accommodation, and guiding services.
How to Book Gorilla Trekking and Dinner with Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka
Booking your gorilla trekking adventure and dinner with Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is an exciting process! To secure your spot, it’s essential to obtain your trekking permit in advance. Once you have your travel dates finalized, please send us an email so we can check the availability of trekking permits through the Uganda Wildlife Authority and Dr. Kalema herself.
After confirming that permits are available for your chosen dates, we will provide you with an invoice for payment. Once we receive your payment, we’ll promptly purchase your permits and send you a scanned copy for your records. This confirmation ensures your booking for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. To enhance your chances of securing a permit, we recommend booking at least 2-3 months in advance, as permits can sell out quickly on a first-come, first-served basis.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking with Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka
The ideal time for gorilla trekking and dinner with Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is from June to October and December to March. During these months, Uganda experiences a dry season with mild rainfall, making trekking easier and enhancing your chances of spotting the gorillas. Additionally, the vegetation is less dense, offering excellent visibility for photography.
In contrast, the wet season months of April, May, and November can lead to taller vegetation, which may make spotting wildlife more challenging. However, the advantage during this time is that gorillas tend to remain in shorter distances as food is more readily available. Regardless of the season, the organization of these treks ensures that you have a 99% chance of encountering gorillas in their natural habitat throughout the year.
Why Book Gorilla Trekking with Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka through Excursia Adventures
Excursia Adventures creates unforgettable gorilla safari experiences in Uganda and Rwanda, including the unique opportunity to trek with Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka. With high ratings on TripAdvisor, we pride ourselves on offering eco-friendly and high-quality adventure safaris that not only enhance your travel experience but also support biodiversity conservation and uplift local communities.
Our offerings include a variety of activities such as chimpanzee trekking, Big Five safaris, game viewing, mountain hiking, boat excursions, and cultural encounters. By booking with us, you can expect a memorable and enriching African safari experience that spans popular destinations in Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia.
If you’re ready to embark on this incredible journey, don’t hesitate to contact us to arrange your gorilla trekking and dinner with Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka!
