Organizing Your Gorilla Trekking Trip to Uganda

Organizing Your Gorilla Trekking Trip to Uganda

Are you excited about planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda? At Trek Africa Expeditions, we make it easy for you to secure your gorilla permits year-round, regardless of the season. During peak months like June to September, demand for permits can be high, making it challenging for travelers to secure their spots. Don’t let the stress of booking overshadow your experience—contact us today for hassle-free booking and reservation details.

Where to Go for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda takes place primarily in two stunning national parks: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These parks are part of a select group of only four locations worldwide that are home to the endangered mountain gorillas, the others being Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Bwindi Forest is one of Africa’s oldest forests, rich in biodiversity, hosting over 350 bird species, 310 butterfly species, 200 types of trees, 51 reptiles, 88 moths, and 120 mammals, including various primates like chimpanzees and L’Hoest’s monkeys. Remarkably, about half of the global population of mountain gorillas, which totals around 1,064 individuals, resides in Bwindi, where you can find over 15 habituated gorilla families available for tracking. Each group allows for eight trekking permits per day, ensuring an intimate experience with these magnificent creatures.

Gorilla Trekking Sectors in Bwindi

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is organized in four sectors of Bwindi: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga.

• Buhoma is situated in the northern part of the park, while Ruhija is located in the northeastern area, both of which are conveniently close to Queen Elizabeth National Park. This proximity makes it easy to combine your gorilla trek with a game viewing experience.
• In the southern region, you’ll find Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors, which are near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where you can also partake in golden monkey tracking. Rushaga boasts the most habituated gorilla families among the sectors.

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking Cost in Uganda?

The cost for a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda varies by residency status: it is USD 700 per person for foreign non-residents, USD 600 for foreign residents, and UGX 70,000 for East African citizens. This permit grants you a memorable one-hour encounter with mountain gorillas once you locate them during your trek.

How to Purchase Your Gorilla Trekking Permit

You can purchase gorilla trekking permits directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. For travelers arriving in Uganda through Entebbe, we recommend buying your permits at their headquarters in Kampala. If you’re entering via Kigali, you can acquire them at the UWA branch office in Kisoro, which is just a 1-2 hour drive from Bwindi.

Trek Africa Expeditions is among the leading safari companies in Uganda and can help you secure your gorilla permits in advance or on short notice. Once you confirm your travel dates with us via email or WhatsApp, we will tentatively reserve your permits online and provide you with an invoice for payment. As soon as we receive your payment, we’ll finalize the purchase and send you scanned copies of your permits for your records.

When is the Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

The best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the drier months of January, February, and from June to early September. During these periods, travel to the parks is easier, and the vegetation is less dense, providing clearer views of the gorillas.

What to Wear During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Planning your gorilla trekking adventure and wondering what to wear? Here’s a helpful guide to ensure you’re well-prepared for your trek in Uganda’s beautiful Bwindi Impenetrable Forest:

1. Long-Sleeved Sweater: Temperatures can drop, especially in the early morning and late afternoon, so bring a warm layer.
2. Two Pairs of Long Trousers: Opt for comfortable, durable pants that protect your legs from thorns and insects.
3. Waterproof Hiking Boots: A sturdy pair of waterproof boots is essential for navigating muddy trails and uneven terrain.
4. Hat and Sunglasses: Depending on the weather, a hat can provide shade, and sunglasses can protect your eyes from glare.
5. Camera with Extra Batteries: Capture the memories of your encounter with the gorillas! Remember to keep your flash turned off to avoid startling them.
6. Binoculars: These will enhance your experience by allowing you to spot the diverse bird species and other wildlife in Bwindi.
7. Gardening Gloves: Handy for holding onto trees and branches while trekking, offering you extra grip and protection.
8. Raincoat: As a rainforest, Bwindi’s weather can be unpredictable. A lightweight, waterproof jacket is a must-have.
9. Mosquito Repellent: Protect yourself from insect bites during your trek by applying a good repellent.
10. Sunscreen: If you’re trekking during the hotter months, sunscreen can prevent sunburn, so consider applying it before you set off.
11. Neutral Colors: Avoid bright colors that could scare away the gorillas. Opt for muted tones instead. Black and blue are also not recommended, as they attract tsetse flies.

Where to Stay During Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure

When organizing your gorilla trip to Uganda, accommodation options are plentiful near the trekking sectors in Bwindi Forest National Park:

• Rushaga Sector: Lodges include Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Four Gorillas Lodge, and Gorilla Safari Lodge. These options are close to the starting point for gorilla habituation and trekking.
• Nkuringo Sector: Consider staying at Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge or Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge for a comfortable experience.
• Buhoma Sector: Popular accommodations here include Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, and Buhoma Community Rest Camp.
• Ruhija Sector: Options like Trekkers Tavern Cottages and Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge provide convenient access to the trails.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Gorilla Trekking Experience?

Trek Africa Expeditions is a reputable local tour operator in Uganda, specializing in customized safari experiences. Our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional service, responding to your inquiries within 20 minutes and crafting a travel plan that suits your needs.

We also have knowledgeable safari guides available in various languages to enhance your experience. Our mountain gorilla safari packages include options like the 2-Day Gorilla Fly-In Safari, 3-Day Gorilla Fly-In Safari, and 4-Day Gorilla Fly-In Safari, allowing you to choose what fits your schedule and preferences best.

Ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? Contact Trek Africa Expeditions today to start organizing your unforgettable gorilla trekking trip to Uganda!