Gorilla Trekking in Buhoma
January 6, 2025
Gorilla Trekking Age Limit
January 6, 2025
Plan Your Uganda Trip with Gorilla Trekking for an Unforgettable Safari
Plan Your Uganda Trip with Gorilla Trekking — Are you looking to visit Uganda and experience the thrill of gorilla trekking? Trek Africa Gorillas makes it easy to organize your gorilla trekking safari, ensuring you secure permits throughout the year—no matter the season. While booking gorilla permits can be challenging during peak season (June to September), when demand is high, we handle all the details for you, so you don’t have to worry about missing out. Skip the hassle and get in touch with us today for booking and reservation information.
Why Choose a Uganda Trip with Gorilla Trekking from Kigali?
Our Uganda gorilla trekking safaris from Kigali are perfect for travelers who want to start and end their journey in Rwanda. This option is also great for those on a budget since a gorilla permit in Uganda costs just USD 700 compared to USD 1,500 in Rwanda. Plus, you’ll save on travel time. The drive from Kigali to Bwindi takes about 4-5 hours, much shorter than the 8-9 hour drive from Entebbe.
At Trek Africa Gorillas, we are one of the leading tour operators for both Uganda and Rwanda. We’re highly recommended on TripAdvisor and our team of professional safari designers in Entebbe is always ready to assist you with tailored advice and timely information to help plan your dream safari. Upon arrival in Uganda, we’ll assign you an experienced, English-speaking driver-guide who will show you the beauty of Uganda.
Where is the Best Place to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is done in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi is divided into four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga. Each sector offers different mountain gorilla families for trekking, with Rushaga having the most families. Depending on where you’re staying, you can combine your trek with a game-viewing experience, particularly in the Buhoma and Ruhija sectors, which are closer to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of Africa’s oldest and most biodiverse forests. It is home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas (over 500 individuals), making it the ideal destination for gorilla trekking. The park also boasts an incredible range of wildlife, including 350 species of birds, 310 butterflies and 120 mammals. There are over 15 habituated gorilla families in the park, each offering a limited number of permits (8 per family per day) to ensure a personalized experience.
How Much Does a Uganda Trip with Gorilla Trekking Cost?
The cost of gorilla permits is as follows:
- USD 800 for Foreign Non-Residents
- USD 700 for East African Residents
- USD 80 for East African Citizens
The permit allows you to spend one hour with the mountain gorillas once you find them during your trek. A 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking safari from Rwanda costs approximately USD 1,290 per person, including accommodation and other services.
How to Book a Uganda Trip with Gorilla Trekking
To secure your place for gorilla trekking, you’ll need to purchase your gorilla permit in advance. These permits can be obtained from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), either in Kampala or Kisoro (for travelers entering through Kigali). Trek Africa Gorillas can help you book your permits quickly and efficiently, even on short notice.
Once you share your preferred dates with us, we’ll tentatively reserve your permits online and send you an invoice for payment. Once payment is received, we’ll confirm your booking and send you scanned copies of the permits for your records.
Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
The best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the drier months, from January to February and June to early September. The dry season makes it easier to travel to the park and provides clearer views of the gorillas, as the vegetation isn’t as dense.
Start planning your gorilla trekking adventure with Trek Africa Gorillas today and experience one of Africa’s most incredible wildlife encounters. Whether you’re starting your journey from Kigali or Entebbe, we’ll ensure a smooth and unforgettable experience.
What to Wear on Your Uganda Gorilla Trekking Adventure
Wondering what to pack for your gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda? Here’s a helpful guide on what to wear and bring for the best experience:
- Long-Sleeved Sweater: Temperatures in the forest can be chilly, so a long-sleeved sweater will keep you warm.
- Two Pairs of Long Trousers: Protect your legs from brush and insects while trekking.
- Waterproof Hiking Boots: The terrain can be muddy, so waterproof boots are essential for comfort and stability.
- Hat and Sunglasses (Optional): Depending on the weather, a hat and sunglasses can protect you from the sun.
- Camera with Extra Batteries: Capturing memories of your gorilla encounter is a must but make sure to turn off your flash to avoid disturbing the gorillas.
- Binoculars: For birdwatching and spotting other wildlife in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
- Gardening Gloves: Useful for gripping trees and branches during your trek.
- Raincoat: Bwindi is a rainforest, so the weather can change quickly. Always have a raincoat on hand.
- Mosquito Repellent: Protect yourself from insects in the forest.
- Sunscreen (Optional): If you’re visiting during the hotter months, sunscreen can prevent sunburn.
- Neutral Clothing: Avoid bright colors, as they can scare the gorillas. Black and blue are also not recommended, as they attract tsetse flies. Stick to neutral tones like green, brown or khaki.
Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is done in four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga. Here are some of the best accommodation options for each sector:
Rushaga Sector:
- Rushaga Gorilla Camp
- Four Gorillas Lodge
- Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
- Nsongi Camp
- Icumbi Gorilla Safari Lodge
- Gorilla Safari Lodge
- Gorilla Valley Lodge
- Karungi Camp
Nkuringo Sector:
- Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
- Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
- Lake Mutanda Resort
Buhoma Sector (Northern Part):
- Buhoma Lodge
- Bwindi Lodge
- Buhoma Community Rest Camp
- Ride 4 a Woman
Ruhija Sector (Northern Part):
- Trekkers Tavern Cottages
- Agandi Eco Lodge
- Gift of Nature Lodge
- Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge
- Broadbill Tented Camp
Each of these accommodations is conveniently located near the gorilla trekking starting points, ensuring easy access to your trek.
Why Book Your Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tour with Trek Africa Gorillas?
Trek Africa Gorillas is a trusted local tour operator specializing in tailor-made gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda. Whether you’re starting your journey in Kigali or Entebbe, we offer personalized tours that suit your preferences and budget.
Why choose us?
- Responsive Team: We respond to all queries within 20 minutes, providing prompt and helpful answers.
- Expert Guidance: Our knowledgeable tour consultants help design your perfect itinerary and ensure all your services are booked in advance, saving you time and hassle.
- Experienced Safari Guides: We provide professional, English-speaking guides (or guides in your preferred language) who are passionate about showing you the wonders of Uganda.
- Highly Recommended: We are highly rated on TripAdvisor and pride ourselves on offering unforgettable experiences.
Get in touch with us today to start planning your Uganda gorilla trekking trip. Let us handle the details for an unforgettable adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
