Mountain Meru Climbing
December 13, 2024
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Starting from Ruhija Sector
December 13, 2024
Plan Your Memorable Trip to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking
Are you dreaming of a trip to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience? At Excursia Adventures, we organize 3-day gorilla trekking road trips to Bwindi tailored to your budget, preferences, and schedule. Our package includes transportation, gorilla permits, accommodation, and personalized service, ensuring a hassle-free and memorable experience.
Why Visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?
Located in southern Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers the rare opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Divided into four gorilla trekking sectors—Rushaga, Buhoma, Ruhija, and Nkuringo—Bwindi provides multiple entry points to experience gorilla tracking. Each gorilla family is led by a dominant silverback and offers visitors a chance to connect with these incredible primates up close.
In addition to gorilla trekking, Bwindi also features breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and a wealth of biodiversity, making it a top destination for nature lovers.
Cost Breakdown for Your Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Adventure
Planning your gorilla trekking trip to Bwindi requires understanding the main costs involved. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Gorilla Permits
A gorilla permit is required to trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi. Permit costs are as follows:
- USD 800 per person for Non-Foreign Residents
- USD 700 per person for Foreign Residents
- UGX 300,000 for East African Citizens
If you’re interested in a more immersive experience, gorilla habituation permits are available at a higher cost, allowing you to spend up to four hours with the gorillas.
During peak seasons (January, February, July, August, September, and December), permits sell out quickly. Excursia Adventures will check permit availability, secure your booking, and provide all the necessary documentation to confirm your trek.
2. Transportation Costs
Your journey to Bwindi can be tailored to suit your budget:
- By Road: A road trip to Bwindi from Kampala or Entebbe takes approximately 8–9 hours. Costs include vehicle hire, fuel (approximately USD 280 round trip), and a driver-guide allowance (USD 50 per day). Traveling in a 4×4 safari vehicle ensures comfort and a smooth experience.
- By Air: For a faster option, domestic flights are available to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips near Bwindi. From there, it’s a short drive to your lodge.
3. Accommodation Costs
Where you stay will depend on your budget and the sector where you’ll be trekking. Here’s an overview:
- Luxury Lodges: USD 400–1,000 per person per night (e.g., Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Buhoma Lodge).
- Mid-Range Lodges: USD 150–300 per person per night (e.g., Bakiga Lodge, Gorilla Safari Lodge).
- Budget Lodges: USD 70–100 per person per night (e.g., Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Trekkers Tavern Lodge).
We recommend booking your accommodation well in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
What to Expect During Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Gorilla trekking begins early in the morning, starting with a briefing on the dos and don’ts while in the forest. A group of expert guides and trackers will lead you through the dense forest to locate a gorilla family. Once found, you’ll have one magical hour to observe and photograph these gentle giants.
Gorillas share 95% of their DNA with humans, and watching their interactions in the wild is a profound and unforgettable experience. To protect the gorillas, only eight visitors are allowed per family per day, and participants must be 15 years or older.
Packing List for Gorilla Trekking
To ensure a comfortable and safe trek, we recommend packing the following:
- Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
- Waterproof hiking boots
- A raincoat (Bwindi is a rainforest, so rain is unpredictable)
- Gardening gloves for gripping branches
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- A hat and sunglasses (optional)
- Camera with extra batteries (no flash photography allowed)
- Neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors, black, or blue to minimize attraction to insects like tsetse flies)
Why Book Your Bwindi Gorilla Safari with Excursia Adventures?
Excursia Adventures is committed to creating personalized and eco-friendly travel experiences. Here’s why travelers trust us:
- Expert Planning: Our team handles all the details, from securing permits to booking accommodations, so you can focus on enjoying your trip.
- Experienced Guides: Our knowledgeable guides enhance your experience with insights about the wildlife, flora, and culture.
- Tailored Packages: Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group, we design trips to suit your preferences and budget.
- Top Ratings: We’re highly rated on platforms like TripAdvisor and SafariBookings, with glowing reviews from satisfied travelers.
How to Book Your Road Trip to Bwindi
Booking your gorilla trekking adventure is simple! Reach out to us via email or WhatsApp to discuss your preferred dates, budget, and any additional activities you’d like to include. We’ll provide a detailed itinerary and ensure everything is arranged for a seamless and unforgettable journey.
Contact Excursia Adventures Today
Let us help you plan your dream gorilla trekking trip to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Start your adventure with us and create memories to last a lifetime!
