Organizing a Luxury Gorilla Trip to Ruhija During High Season

Organizing a Luxury Gorilla Trip to Ruhija During High Season

Are you considering a luxury gorilla trip to Ruhija during the high season? With Trek Africa Expeditions, it’s not only possible, but we excel at ensuring you secure gorilla permits, even when demand is high from June to September. This peak season attracts many travelers eager to experience gorilla trekking in Bwindi, often leading to permits selling out quickly. Without proper planning, you may find it challenging to trek in Ruhija and might have to explore other sectors of the park or, worse, miss out on your planned adventure.

About Ruhija Sector

Ruhija is nestled in the eastern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and is home to four habituated gorilla families: the Bitukura, Mukiza, Kyaguriro, and Oruzogo families, all available for trekking. Situated at over 2,350 meters above sea level, Ruhija is the coolest area in Bwindi. While gorilla trekking is the main attraction here, the region also boasts beautiful hiking opportunities, including charming nature trails such as those leading to Rwamunyonyi Peak. Additionally, if you’re staying in Buhoma and the permits are sold out, you can trek gorillas in Ruhija, especially during the busy high season.

Important Considerations for Organizing Your Luxury Gorilla Trip to Ruhija

Book Your Gorilla Permits in Advance

To ensure you secure your gorilla permits for trekking in Ruhija during high season, we recommend booking at least 3 to 4 months before your travel date. Permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis and can sell out quickly. The cost for a gorilla permit is USD 800 for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for foreign residents, and 300,000 Uganda Shillings for East African citizens. This permit grants you a one-hour encounter with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi. Contact us for more details on booking your permits in advance.

Stay in Luxury Accommodations

Choosing the right accommodation is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable experience during your gorilla trek. Ruhija has a limited number of luxury lodges, including the Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge. While Bakiga Lodge offers mid-range options with luxury services, many travelers opt to stay in nearby Buhoma lodges such as Bwindi Lodge, Gorilla Sanctuary Forest Camp, Mahogany Springs, and Silverback Lodge. Ensuring you have a luxury base will enhance your overall safari experience.

Travel Comfortably to Ruhija

For a smooth journey to Ruhija, we recommend traveling in a 4×4 Land Cruiser, which provides comfort and ease on the road. Alternatively, you can fly into Kihihi Airstrip, which is conveniently close to Ruhija. This option significantly reduces your travel time from Entebbe or Kampala, cutting an 8-9 hour drive down to just an hour from Kihihi to your lodge in Ruhija.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija

Wondering what to pack for your gorilla trek in Ruhija? Here’s a helpful guide on what to wear to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience:

1. Long-Sleeved Sweater: The temperatures in the park can get chilly, so it’s wise to bring a warm, long-sleeved sweater.
2. Two Pairs of Long Trousers: Opt for lightweight, durable trousers that are easy to move in.
3. Waterproof Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential for navigating the rugged terrain.
4. Hat and Sunglasses: Depending on the weather, a hat and sunglasses can be useful for sun protection, although they are optional.
5. Camera with Extra Batteries: Capture the incredible moments during your trek. Remember to keep your flash off to avoid startling the gorillas.
6. Binoculars: Bring binoculars to enjoy the rich birdlife and other wildlife in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
7. Gardening Gloves: These are handy for gripping onto trees or branches as you navigate the trails.
8. Raincoat: Since Bwindi is a tropical rainforest, rain can be unpredictable. A lightweight raincoat will keep you dry.
9. Mosquito Repellent: Protect yourself from insects by applying mosquito repellent before heading out.
10. Sunscreen: Although optional, sunscreen is a good idea if you’re trekking during warmer months to prevent sunburn.
11. Neutral Colors: Avoid wearing bright colors, as they may scare the gorillas. Also, black and blue are not recommended due to their attraction to Tsetse flies. Instead, choose neutral colors like greens, browns, and earth tones.

How to Reach Ruhija for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

By Air: The fastest way to reach Ruhija is by air. Aero Link offers scheduled and charter flights to Kihihi Airstrip. While there are no direct flights to Ruhija, you can take a flight to Kihihi, where our professional guide will meet you and drive you to your lodge, which takes about an hour. Passengers should check in 90 minutes before departure, and keep in mind that Aero Link has a baggage limit of 15 kilograms per person, with excess baggage charged at $3 per kilo. Private charters are also available for those with specific timing needs. Infants under two years can fly for free, while children over 12 years are charged 70% of the adult fare.

By Road: You can also drive to Ruhija from Entebbe or Kampala, which takes approximately 8-9 hours. The route takes you through Kabale town and Buhoma. Alternatively, you can access the park from Kigali, Rwanda, with a drive time of around 4-5 hours.

Best Time to Organize a Luxury Gorilla Trek in Ruhija

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is open for trekking year-round, but it’s important to note that it’s a tropical rainforest and can receive rain at any time. The best months for gorilla tracking are from June to August and December to February, as these months typically see the least rainfall, making the trails less slippery. Traveling during the rainy seasons (March to May and November) may bring higher chances of rain, but some lodges offer discounts during these months.

Why Book Your Luxury Gorilla Trip to Ruhija with Us

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we are a local, responsible tour operator based in Uganda, dedicated to customizing tailor-made safaris. Our diligent and trustworthy team responds to your inquiries within 20 minutes, ensuring you receive prompt assistance. We create personalized travel plans, answer all your questions, and arrange all your services in advance to avoid any inconveniences. Our knowledgeable safari guides cater to your language preferences, providing a seamless experience. We offer luxury gorilla safaris, including the 3-day and 4-day Gorilla Fly-in options, tailored to your preferences.

Contact us today to start organizing your luxury gorilla trip to Ruhija during high season!