Planning a Budget Gorilla Trip to Ruhija During High Season

Planning a Budget Gorilla Trip to Ruhija During High Season

Planning a Budget Gorilla Trip to Ruhija During High Season — Are you dreaming of a budget-friendly gorilla trek in Ruhija during the high season? With Trek Africa Expeditions, it’s definitely possible! We’ve perfected the process of securing gorilla permits, even during the busy high season from June to September, when permits can sell out quickly. This is when many travelers flock to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, making it harder to book treks in popular sectors like Buhoma. If you’re looking to trek in Ruhija, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll help you secure your permits in time, so you can enjoy the beauty of this unique sector without stress.

About Ruhija Sector

Ruhija is located in the eastern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and it’s home to four incredible gorilla families: Bitukura, Mukiza, Kyaguriro, and Oruzogo. All of these families are available for tracking, making it an excellent destination for gorilla trekkers.

At an altitude of over 2,350 meters above sea level, Ruhija is the coldest region in Bwindi, offering a refreshing and unique trekking experience. In addition to gorilla trekking, this sector boasts beautiful hiking trails and nature walks, such as the Rwamunyonyi Peak trail, which gives trekkers stunning views of the surrounding forest and mountains.

Ruhija also provides a great alternative for travelers staying in Buhoma, especially during the high season when permits for Buhoma may already be sold out. It’s an opportunity to still experience the magic of gorilla trekking in Bwindi without missing out on your adventure.

Key Considerations for Planning Your Budget Gorilla Trip to Ruhija During High Season

1. Book Your Gorilla Permits Early

When planning a budget-friendly gorilla trip to Ruhija during the high season, it’s crucial to book your permits at least 3 to 4 months in advance. While permits are easier to secure during the low season, high season is a different story. Due to the high demand, last-minute bookings can result in missed opportunities. The cost for a gorilla permit in Ruhija is as follows:

• USD 800 for Foreign Non-Residents
• USD 700 for Foreign Residents
• 300,000 Uganda Shillings for East African Citizens

This permit grants you the rare privilege of spending one hour with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi, a truly unforgettable experience. Contact us today for more details on how to reserve your permits in advance.

2. Stay in Comfortable Accommodations

While planning your budget gorilla trip to Ruhija, consider where you’ll be staying. Ruhija offers a few luxury lodges, such as:

• Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Bakiga Lodge (mid-range, offering luxury services)

However, because accommodations in Ruhija can be limited during peak season, many travelers opt to stay in nearby lodges in Buhoma, which include:

• Bwindi Lodge
• Gorilla Sanctuary Forest Camp
• Mahogany Springs
• Silverback Lodge

These lodges offer fantastic comfort and are within easy reach of Ruhija, ensuring you have a relaxing stay before or after your trek.

3. Consider Comfortable Travel Options

For a smooth and comfortable journey to Ruhija, we recommend traveling in a 4×4 Land Cruiser, which provides a comfortable ride on Uganda’s roads. If you’re looking to save time, you also have the option of flying into Kihihi Airstrip, which is about an hour’s drive from Ruhija. This option can save you up to 8-9 hours of driving from Entebbe/Kampala, offering a much more convenient and efficient way to reach your destination.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija

If you’re wondering what to pack for your gorilla trekking adventure in Ruhija, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of essentials to make sure you stay comfortable and prepared for the trek:

• Long-sleeve sweater: The temperatures in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest can be chilly, so it’s best to have a warm layer.
• Two pairs of long trousers: For protection against the forest’s thorny vegetation and to keep you comfortable throughout the trek.
• Waterproof hiking boots: The terrain can be muddy, so waterproof boots will keep your feet dry and provide the support you need for hiking.
• Hat and sunglasses: Depending on the weather, these can help protect you from the sun. (This is optional, but recommended if the sun is out.)
• Camera with extra batteries: You’ll want to capture every moment of your gorilla trekking experience. Just remember to keep your flash off when taking photos to avoid disturbing the gorillas.
• Binoculars: Useful for birdwatching and spotting other wildlife, like primates, in the forest.
• Gardening gloves: These will come in handy when holding onto branches and trees while trekking through the forest.
• Raincoat: Since Bwindi is a rainforest, rain can happen unexpectedly. A raincoat will keep you dry during a downpour.
• Mosquito repellent: The forest is home to various insects, so bring along repellent or wear it to avoid bites.
• Sunscreen: While it can be cool in the forest, the sun can be strong at times, so applying sunscreen will help prevent sunburns.
• Neutral-colored clothing: Bright colors can scare away the gorillas, so it’s best to wear muted tones like greens, browns, or khakis. Avoid black and blue, as they attract Tsetse flies.

How to Get to Ruhija for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

By Air:

For a quicker and more comfortable journey, you can fly to Kihihi Airstrip, which is the nearest airstrip to Ruhija. Aero Link offers scheduled and charter flights to Kihihi, and from there, it’s just a 1-hour drive to Ruhija.

Flights depart from Entebbe and take roughly 1 hour, with baggage restrictions of 15 kilograms per person. There are also private charters available for more flexible schedules. If you’re traveling with children under 2 years old, their flights are free!

By Road:

If you prefer to travel by road, Ruhija is accessible via the main highway from Entebbe or Kampala, with the drive taking approximately 8-9 hours. You’ll pass through Kabale before continuing towards Buhoma, and then head to Ruhija. Alternatively, if you’re traveling from Kigali, Rwanda, the drive is much shorter at around 4-5 hours.

Why Book Your Budget Gorilla Trekking Trip to Ruhija During High Season with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we organize personalized, budget-friendly gorilla treks to Ruhija during high season. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing prompt, reliable service and ensuring that your trip goes smoothly. We respond to inquiries within 20 minutes and work with you to create a tailor-made travel plan, ensuring that all your accommodations, permits, and logistics are handled well in advance.

Our safari guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and fluent in multiple languages, providing you with an exceptional experience. Contact us today to begin planning your unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure in Ruhija!