Nkuringo Region Gorilla Permits and Families

Nkuringo Region Gorilla Permits and Families: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re planning a gorilla trekking adventure in the Nkuringo sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Excursia Adventures can help you secure your gorilla permit, even during the high season when permits tend to sell out quickly. Our team specializes in navigating the booking process, ensuring you don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

About Nkuringo Sector

Located in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, the Nkuringo sector offers a unique and challenging trekking experience. The area is home to three gorilla families: the Nkuringo family, the Bushaho family, and the Christmas family. The higher altitudes in Nkuringo make trekking here more strenuous, which is why it’s recommended for younger, adventurous travelers who enjoy a good hike alongside their gorilla experience. From this region, you can also enjoy stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes in Uganda and Rwanda—an extra incentive to explore the area!

Nkuringo has a limited number of gorilla permits available each day—24 permits for 3 gorilla families—so securing your permit in advance is essential, especially during the high season.

Planning Your Gorilla Trekking in Nkuringo: Key Things to Consider

Booking Your Gorilla Permits in Advance

We highly recommend booking your gorilla permit at least 3 to 4 months in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the high season (June to September). During this time, permits can sell out quickly, and securing your spot is essential for a smooth experience. The cost of a gorilla permit for Nkuringo is as follows:

• USD 800 for Foreign Non-residents
• USD 700 for Foreign Residents
• UGX 300,000 for East African Citizens

This permit grants you access to one hour with the mountain gorillas, a priceless opportunity to connect with these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

Accommodation Options in Nkuringo

If you’re planning a budget-friendly trek, it’s important to know that Nkuringo has a limited number of budget lodge options. However, there are other alternatives, including camping or staying in budget accommodations in nearby Rushaga, from where you can access the Nkuringo trekking region.

For a more comfortable experience, consider staying in mid-range or luxury accommodations. This will ensure a relaxing stay, with easy access to your gorilla trekking adventure.

Getting to Nkuringo: Travel Tips

Traveling to Nkuringo can be part of the adventure. Here are two options for getting to the sector:

By Air: You can fly with AeroLink, a domestic airline, to Kisoro Airstrip. From Kisoro, it’s about a 1-hour drive to Nkuringo, where our guide will meet you and take you to your lodge.

By Road: If you prefer to drive, Nkuringo is approximately an 8-9 hour drive from Entebbe or Kampala, passing through Kabale town. Alternatively, you can access Nkuringo from Kigali, Rwanda, which takes about 4-5 hours by road.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Nkuringo

Packing the right clothing is crucial for a comfortable trekking experience in Nkuringo. Here’s a list of essentials:

• Long-Sleeve Sweater: The park can be chilly, so a long-sleeve sweater is recommended.
• Two Pairs of Long Trousers: Long trousers will protect your legs from thorns and insects.
• Waterproof Hiking Boots: Waterproof boots are essential for navigating the muddy, slippery trails.
• Hat and Sunglasses: These are optional but helpful if the sun is out.
• Camera and Extra Batteries: Capture the magical moments, but remember to keep your camera’s flash off.
• Binoculars: A great tool for spotting birds and other wildlife in the forest.
• Gardening Gloves: Useful for gripping onto trees or branches while trekking.
• Raincoat: Bwindi is a rainforest, so bring a raincoat in case of sudden downpours.
• Mosquito Repellent: The forest is home to various insects, so it’s advisable to carry repellent.
• Sunscreen: If traveling during the hot season, sunscreen can protect your skin from sunburn.
• Neutral Clothing: Avoid bright colors, which could scare the gorillas, and also avoid black and blue as they attract tsetse flies. Stick to earthy tones like khaki, green, or brown.

Why Book Your Nkuringo Gorilla Permits with Excursia Adventures?

At Excursia Adventures, we pride ourselves in customizing gorilla trekking experiences in Nkuringo and beyond. Our dedicated team of tour consultants will assist you every step of the way—from answering your questions within 20 minutes to ensuring all your services are booked in advance, preventing any last-minute issues.

Our knowledgeable safari guides are also available in various languages, ensuring a smooth and informative experience throughout your trek.

Ready to embark on your adventure? Contact us today for more information on Nkuringo region gorilla permits and families, and let us help you plan the trip of a lifetime!