How to Plan Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Uganda

How to Plan Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Uganda

Planning a trip to see gorillas in Uganda is an exciting and memorable experience. To ensure your trek goes smoothly, there are a few key steps to follow, including securing your gorilla permits in advance. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to plan your perfect gorilla trekking adventure.

Step 1: Secure Your Gorilla Permits

To trek with the gorillas in Uganda, you’ll need to obtain a gorilla trekking permit or gorilla habituation permit. A gorilla trekking permit allows you to spend one hour with the gorillas, while the gorilla habituation permit lets you spend four hours with them in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. These permits are required for trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

How to Book Your Gorilla Permit:

• Book Early: Gorilla permits are in high demand, especially during peak seasons (June to September). We recommend booking your permits at least 2-3 months in advance to secure your spot.
• Availability Check: Once you’ve decided on your travel dates, reach out to us, and we’ll check availability with the Uganda Wildlife Authority for your desired dates.
• Payment and Confirmation: Once we confirm the availability of your permits, we will send you an invoice. After payment, we’ll purchase your permits immediately and send you a scanned copy as confirmation.

Remember, permits sell out quickly, so it’s always a good idea to start the booking process early to avoid disappointment.

Step 2: Decide Where to Trek

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is primarily done in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, both located in the southwestern part of Uganda. These parks are home to the endangered mountain gorillas, and each offers a unique trekking experience.

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Known for its lush, misty forest, Bwindi is home to 17 habituated gorilla families, spread across four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Located near the border with Rwanda and Congo, Mgahinga is home to a single gorilla family, the Nyakagezi group.

In addition to Uganda, gorilla trekking is also available in Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). However, Uganda remains a top destination for trekking, offering the most habituated gorilla families.

Step 3: Understand the Costs

The cost of your gorilla permit varies depending on your residency:

• $800 per person for foreign non-residents.
• $700 per person for residents.
• $80 per person for East African citizens (Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan).

In addition to the regular gorilla trekking experience, Uganda offers a Gorilla Habituation Experience, where you can spend 4 hours with semi-habituated gorillas. This experience costs $1500 per person and provides a more immersive encounter with the gorillas.

Step 4: Know the Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking

To participate in gorilla trekking, you must be at least 15 years old. The maximum age is typically 85 years, depending on your fitness level. For older visitors who may struggle with the physical demands of the trek, sedan chairs are available to carry you through the forest. These chairs are carried by porters and are available for hire at $400-$500 per day. You can arrange this service in advance or on the day of your trek.

Step 5: Book Through a Trusted Tour Operator

While it’s possible to book your permits directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority, many travelers prefer to work with a trusted tour operator like Trek Africa Expeditions. We provide expert guidance, help with booking permits, and offer a variety of gorilla trekking safari packages, ranging from budget to luxury options.

We handle all the details, from booking your permits to arranging accommodations and transportation, so you can focus on enjoying your once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can count on us to deliver a seamless, unforgettable journey.

Gorilla Permit Cancellation Policy in Uganda

When planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, it’s essential to understand the cancellation policy regarding gorilla permits. These permits are required to go gorilla trekking, and once booked, it’s expected that you’ll use them on the scheduled date. However, life happens, and plans sometimes change. Here’s everything you need to know about the cancellation penalties and policies.

Cancellation Policy and Penalties

For those who need to cancel their gorilla trekking permit, Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo have similar policies. If you cancel your permit within 0 to 8 days before the trek, you will not receive any refund. Gorilla permits are non-refundable for cancellations made within this time frame, as the permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis and are highly sought after.

Please feel free to contact us for more information about the latest updates on permit cancellations and rescheduling options.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is an incredible experience that can be done year-round, but the best time for trekking is during the drier months of the year. These months are from January to February and from June to early September. During these times, the trails are less muddy, making the hike easier, and the vegetation is less dense, offering clearer views of the gorillas.

However, trekking in the wet season (March, April, and November) is still possible, but it can be more challenging due to muddy conditions and dense vegetation.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

When heading out for a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, you’ll need to pack for both comfort and practicality. The trek involves walking through dense forests with muddy and sometimes slippery trails, so proper gear is crucial.

Here’s a list of essential items to pack:

• Comfortable Hiking Boots: Ensure your boots are sturdy, waterproof, and comfortable for long walks.
• Long-Sleeve Shirt & Long Trousers: To protect against stinging nettles, undergrowth, and biting insects.
• Insect Repellent: Essential to avoid pesky bugs.
• Flashlight (Torch) with Spare Batteries: For dark or shaded areas of the trek.
• Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during the trek.
• Camera & Lenses: Capture the moment, but avoid using a flash that might disturb the gorillas.
• Gardening Gloves: To protect your hands when touching plants or bushes.
• Sandals or Comfortable Walking Shoes: For after the trek or around your lodge.
• Hat and Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun.
• Rain Jacket: The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared for rain.
• Sweater/Fleece: The mornings and evenings can be chilly in the forest.
• Binoculars: For bird watching or game viewing along the way.
• Swimwear: If your lodge offers a pool or a relaxing soak after your trek.

How to Get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Getting to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is relatively easy, with both road and air options available.

• By Road: The drive from Entebbe or Kampala to Bwindi’s southern sector (Rushaga and Nkuringo) takes about 8-9 hours. From Kabale, take the Muko-Kisoro Road, following the signs to Uganda Wildlife Authority offices and your accommodation.
• By Air: Fly from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi airfield to Kisoro Airstrip, the closest airstrip to Bwindi. Domestic airlines like Aero Link and Fly Uganda operate scheduled and chartered flights. A transfer from the airstrip to the park can be arranged with your tour operator.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking Permit with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we’re committed to providing personalized, safe, and memorable experiences for our clients. Here’s why you should choose us:

• Tailored Services: We work with you to create a unique safari experience, ensuring every detail is taken care of.
• Eco-Friendly Approach: We embrace responsible travel practices with our “Take Nothing but Photographs, Leave Only Footprints” philosophy.
• Post-COVID Safety: The health and safety of our clients are our top priority. We ensure all our staff and partners follow the latest COVID-19 protocols for your peace of mind during your safari.
• Expert Knowledge: Our team has in-depth knowledge of Uganda’s parks and wildlife, ensuring you get the best experience possible.

Contact Trek Africa Expeditions today for more information on how to plan your trip to see the gorillas, book your permits, or learn about our available packages. We’re here to help you plan the adventure of a lifetime!