Planning a Budget Gorilla Safari to Rushaga During Low Season

Planning a Budget Gorilla Safari to Rushaga During Low Season

Dreaming of an unforgettable budget gorilla safari to Rushaga during the low season? You’re in luck! With Trek Africa Expeditions, it’s not only possible but can also be an incredible experience. The low season months—April, May, and November—are the perfect time to explore, as Uganda sees fewer tourists during these months. This means less crowded parks, quieter attractions, and a greater sense of privacy while trekking. Plus, with fewer visitors, you have a better chance of enjoying the beauty of Bwindi’s wilderness almost entirely to yourself. We can also help you find the best budget-friendly lodges in Rushaga for a comfortable stay during your adventure.

Discover the Rushaga Sector

The Rushaga sector, located in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, is a haven for gorilla trekking enthusiasts. It’s home to five habituated gorilla families, making it one of the best sectors for trekking. The gorilla groups in Rushaga include Busingye, Bweza, Nshongi, Mishaya, and Kahungye, all of which are open for trekking. This sector offers relatively easy trekking terrain, making it ideal for first-time trekkers or those looking for a more relaxed experience.

What’s more, Rushaga is the only sector in Bwindi where you can experience the Gorilla Habituation Experience. Here, you can spend more time with gorillas from the Bushaho and Bikyingi families as they undergo the habituation process. It’s also a great place to experience the local culture, with the opportunity to visit the Batwa community for an insightful cultural encounter.

Tips for Planning Your Budget Gorilla Safari to Rushaga in Low Season

1. Book Your Gorilla Permits in Advance

Even though it’s the low season, it’s still important to book your gorilla permits at least a month in advance. While permits are more readily available during these months, they can still sell out, especially for groups traveling together who may buy in bulk. Securing your permit early ensures you have a confirmed trekking spot in Rushaga without any last-minute issues.

• Gorilla Permit Prices:
  • Foreign Non-Residents: USD 800 per person
  • Foreign Residents: USD 700 per person
  • East African Citizens: UGX 300,000 per person

This permit allows you a one-hour encounter with the magnificent mountain gorillas in Bwindi. If you need help booking your permits, reach out to us, and we’ll handle the process for you.

2. Choose the Right Budget Lodging in Rushaga

Selecting comfortable yet affordable accommodation is key to making the most of your budget gorilla safari. In Rushaga, you’ll find plenty of budget-friendly lodges that offer great value and convenience, ensuring a pleasant stay.

Some recommended options include:

• Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
• Karungi Camp
• Nshongi Camp
• Rushaga Gorilla Camp (Standard Rooms and Camping Grounds)

These lodges offer full board meal plans when you book your safari with us, providing you with breakfast, lunch, and dinner for a worry-free stay.

3. Comfortable Travel to Rushaga Sector, Bwindi

To ensure a smooth and comfortable journey, consider traveling in a 4×4 safari van, which is a great budget-friendly option. These vehicles are well-suited for Uganda’s roads, offering a reliable and comfortable ride.

If you’re looking to cut down on travel time, there’s also the option of flying with Aerolink Uganda to Kisoro Airstrip, which is the closest airstrip to Rushaga. This flight significantly reduces the journey time from Entebbe or Kampala (which normally takes 8-9 hours by road) to just a 2-hour drive from Kisoro Airstrip to your lodge in Rushaga.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Rushaga Sector

If you’re wondering what to wear for your gorilla trekking adventure in the Rushaga sector, we’ve got you covered! Here’s a guide to help you prepare for a comfortable and safe trek through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest:

1. Long-sleeve Sweater – The mornings can get chilly in the park, so it’s best to wear a sweater with long sleeves.
2. 2 Pairs of Long Trousers – These will help protect your legs from scratches and insects during the trek.
3. Waterproof Hiking Boots – The trails can be muddy, so a good pair of sturdy, waterproof hiking boots is essential.
4. Hat and Sunglasses – While optional, a hat and sunglasses are useful for sun protection, especially if you’re trekking on a sunny day.
5. Camera and Extra Batteries – Photography is an important part of the experience, so bring a camera and make sure to have extra batteries. Remember to keep the flash turned off to avoid disturbing the gorillas.
6. Binoculars – A pair of binoculars is helpful to get a closer view of the fascinating wildlife, including birds and other primates in the forest.
7. Gardening Gloves – These will help when holding onto trees and branches during your hike.
8. Raincoat – Since Bwindi is a rainforest, rain can be unpredictable. Carrying a raincoat ensures you stay dry in case of a downpour.
9. Mosquito Repellent – The forest is home to various insects, so it’s important to bring or wear mosquito repellent.
10. Sunscreen – Depending on the season, it can get hot, so applying sunscreen will help protect your skin from sunburns.

What to Avoid Wearing

• Avoid wearing bright colors, as they might startle the gorillas.
• Black and blue colors are also not recommended, as they attract Tsetse flies. Stick to neutral tones like khaki or green to blend into the natural surroundings.

How to Get to Rushaga Sector for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

By Air

If you’re looking for a quicker, less tiring way to reach Rushaga, flying is the ideal option. Aerolink Uganda offers both scheduled and charter flights to Kisoro Airstrip, which is about a 2-hour drive from Rushaga. Upon arrival at Kisoro, you’ll be met by one of our professional guides who will take you to your lodge.

• Baggage Allowance: Aerolink allows a maximum of 15 kilograms per person. Additional weight will incur a charge of USD 3 per kilogram.
• Flight Information: Please check in 90 minutes before your scheduled departure.
• Child Policy: Infants under 2 years fly for free, while children aged 12 and above are charged 70% of the adult fare.

By Road

If you prefer to travel by road, Rushaga can be accessed from Entebbe/Kampala via the main highway, which takes about 8-9 hours. You’ll pass through Kabale town before arriving in Rushaga. Alternatively, if you’re coming from Kigali, Rwanda, it’s about a 4-5 hour drive.

Best Time for a Budget Gorilla Safari to Rushaga During Low Season

The Rushaga sector is open for trekking throughout the year, but it’s important to consider the weather. Being a tropical rainforest, it can rain at any time, especially during the wet season. The best months to visit are from June to August and December to February, when rainfall is minimal, and the trails are less slippery.

• March to May and November are the wettest months, but you can enjoy discounts on accommodation during this time.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Budget Gorilla Safari to Rushaga?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we organize tailor-made safaris that fit your budget and preferences. Our team of professional consultants is dedicated to providing you with all the information and support you need, and we guarantee to respond to your queries within 20 minutes. Here’s why you should book your budget gorilla safari with us:

• Personalized Service: We’ll create a custom travel plan for you, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
• Experienced Safari Guides: Our guides are knowledgeable and will enhance your experience, offering insights into the wildlife and culture of the area.
• Various Safari Packages: Choose from our budget-friendly options, including the 2-day, 3-day, and 4-day gorilla safari packages to Rushaga.

Feel free to contact us to learn more about planning your budget gorilla safari to Rushaga during the low season. Let us help you experience the magic of Uganda’s gorillas!