Gorilla Trekking from Tanzania

Gorilla Trekking from Tanzania: An Unforgettable Adventure

Are you based in Tanzania or planning to start your trip from there,  and dreaming of combining your safari with an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience? Whether you’re planning to visit Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for gorilla trekking, Trek Africa Expeditions is here to help you plan the perfect trip starting from Tanzania.

Tanzania, located in East Africa and bordering Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, and Burundi, offers some of the best safari experiences in Africa. From the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro to its world-renowned national parks, Tanzania is a hub for wildlife enthusiasts. Did you know that you can easily travel from Tanzania to Uganda, Rwanda, or DRC for an amazing gorilla trekking adventure? You can either go by road or by air, making it a seamless addition to your Tanzanian safari.

Why Gorilla Trekking in Africa?

Gorilla trekking is one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences in the world. Despite the challenges of the hike through dense forests, rough terrain, and swampy conditions, seeing these endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is worth every step. Trekking through the forest to find these magnificent creatures takes you on an adventure that’s physically demanding but incredibly rewarding. In Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo, you’ll spend an hour observing these gentle giants up close, and if you’re looking for a longer encounter, the Gorilla Habituation Experience in Uganda offers up to four hours with the gorillas.

Where to Go Gorilla Trekking?

From Tanzania, you can embark on your gorilla adventure to the following countries:

• Uganda: Trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
• Rwanda: Explore Volcanoes National Park.
• Democratic Republic of Congo: Trek in Virunga National Park for mountain gorillas or Kahuzi-Biega National Park for lowland gorillas.

To trek in these parks, you’ll need to secure a gorilla permit. These permits can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons (June to September), so it’s best to book at least 5 months in advance. You can either book directly with the national authorities or through a trusted tour operator like Trek Africa Expeditions.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Costs

• Uganda:
  • $800 for foreign non-residents per trek.
  • $700 for foreign residents.
  • $80 for East African citizens (Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi, South Sudan).
  • Gorilla Habituation Experience (4 hours) costs $1500 per person.
• Rwanda:
  • $1500 for foreign non-residents per trek.
  • $500 for foreign residents.
  • $200 for East African citizens.
• DR Congo:
  • $400 for foreign non-residents in Virunga (high season).
  • $200 in the low season.
  • Kahuzi-Biega National Park permits cost $400 for foreign non-residents and $200 for East African residents.

Please note that the cost of the permit does not include accommodation, transportation, or meals. It’s essential to get the full details from your tour operator.

Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking

The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15, with the maximum age being 85 years, depending on your fitness level. For older travelers, especially in Uganda’s Bwindi Forest, sedan chairs are available to help those who struggle with walking. You can arrange this service for an additional fee, ranging from $400 to $500.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Cancellation Policies

Due to the recent impact of the pandemic, the cancellation policies have been relaxed, and some flexibility is now offered. However, if you cancel within 0 to 8 days of the trekking date, you won’t be refunded. It’s crucial to finalize your plans as early as possible to avoid issues.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking

The best time for gorilla trekking is during the dry months of January, February, and June to early September. These months offer better conditions for trekking, as the terrain is less muddy and the vegetation isn’t as thick, providing better views of the gorillas.

What to Pack for Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Packing for a gorilla trek requires practical clothing and gear. Here’s a list of essentials:

• Comfortable, durable hiking boots
• Long-sleeve cotton shirt and lightweight long trousers
• Insect repellent
• Torch/flashlight with spare batteries
• Water bottle
• Camera with extra lenses
• Gardening gloves for extra grip
• Hat and sunscreen
• Rain jacket and sweater
• Wet wipes
• Binoculars for wildlife spotting

Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we pride ourselves in organizing seamless gorilla trekking tours starting from Tanzania. Our experienced team offers personalized advice, ensuring you get the best experience tailored to your preferences and budget. We provide options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury packages, and we can handle the entire booking process, including securing your gorilla permits.

Check out our reviews on TripAdvisor to see what our happy clients have to say. We pride ourselves on providing excellent service, and our team is dedicated to ensuring that your African safari and gorilla trekking adventure will be unforgettable.

Start planning your adventure today by contacting us for expert guidance and assistance.