Trekking Gorillas in Uganda Exclusively Alone

Trekking Gorillas in Uganda Exclusively Alone

Trekking Gorillas in Uganda Exclusively Alone — If you’re planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda and are considering trekking alone, this guide will help you plan and book your trek with ease. Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that many travelers dream of during their African safari. Although it comes with a higher price tag and a physically demanding hike, the opportunity to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo is something every wildlife enthusiast should experience.

Can I Trek Gorillas in Uganda Exclusively Alone?

Yes, you can trek gorillas exclusively by yourself in Uganda. The process involves hiking through dense forest terrain, often navigating steep paths, thick vegetation, and even crossing rivers and swamps in search of these endangered creatures. While this is a physically challenging activity, it offers the rare opportunity to experience gorillas in the wild for one hour in their natural environment.

For those who want a more intimate experience, Uganda offers the Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, which allows you to spend up to four hours with the gorillas. This gives you a deeper connection with these magnificent creatures, under the guidance of expert trackers and researchers.

Where Can I Trek Gorillas in Africa?

Gorilla trekking is primarily done in three countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo, all of which are home to the remaining mountain gorillas. Here are the main parks you can visit:

• Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
• Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park
• Congo: Virunga National Park (for mountain gorillas) and Kahuzi Beiga National Park (for Lowland gorillas)

In order to trek gorillas in any of these parks, you must secure a gorilla permit, which allows you to join the trek and observe the gorillas. Given the limited number of permits and the high demand, especially during peak seasons (June to September), it’s highly recommended to book your gorilla permits at least 5 months in advance.

How Do I Trek Gorillas in Uganda Exclusively Alone?

To trek gorillas exclusively in Uganda, you would need to purchase all 8 permits for a specific gorilla family. This ensures that no other trekkers will be in your group, providing a completely private and personalized experience. The gorilla trek will be just you and the gorillas, offering a unique and peaceful experience without any distractions from other groups.

Cost and Booking Gorilla Permits in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is an incredible experience that brings you face-to-face with the magnificent mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. If you’re planning to visit Uganda for a gorilla trekking adventure, here’s everything you need to know about gorilla permits and how to secure them.

Gorilla Permit Pricing in Uganda:

• Foreign non-residents: $800 per person per trek
• Uganda residents: $700 per person
• East African citizens (Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi, and South Sudan): UGX300,000 per person

With your gorilla permit, you’ll enjoy an hour-long encounter with the mountain gorillas in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Uganda is home to 17 habituated gorilla families—16 in Bwindi and 1 in Mgahinga—meaning there are 136 permits available daily for trekking in these parks.

For those who want to spend more time with the gorillas, you can opt for the Gorilla Habituation Experience, which is available exclusively in Bwindi Forest. This experience costs $1,500 per person and allows you to spend four hours with the semi-habituated gorillas, under the guidance of expert researchers and trackers.

How to Book Gorilla Permits in Uganda

You can book gorilla permits directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or by working with a trusted tour operator like Trek Africa Expeditions. We can assist with securing your permits and organizing the full trekking experience.

Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years. The maximum age is typically 85 years, depending on the individual’s fitness level. For elderly trekkers, sedan chairs are available in Bwindi Forest to carry those who may struggle with the physical demands of the trek. These chairs are provided by local potters and can be rented in advance or on the day of your trek, with prices ranging from $400-$500.

Gorilla Permit Cancellation Policy

It’s important to note that gorilla permits are non-refundable. If you need to cancel or reschedule your trek, you won’t be able to get a refund for the permit. However, due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, Uganda has relaxed its cancellation policies, allowing for two reschedules for permits affected by the pandemic.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda can be done year-round, but the best time to visit is during the drier months of January, February, and June to early September. These months offer better trekking conditions, as the trails are less muddy, and the vegetation is not as thick, providing clearer views of the gorillas.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking requires careful preparation. Here’s a list of items you should pack for your trek:

• Comfortable, sturdy walking boots or shoes (essential for muddy and uneven terrain)
• Insect repellent (to protect against biting insects)
• Flashlight and spare batteries
• Water bottle to stay hydrated
• Camera and lenses (for capturing the gorillas in action)
• Lightweight long sleeves and trousers (to protect against undergrowth and insects)
• Gardening gloves (for protection while tracking)
• Rain jacket and a sweater/fleece (the weather can be unpredictable)
• Hat and sunscreen (to protect against the sun)
• Binoculars (for bird watching and viewing distant wildlife)
• Swimwear (if you plan to visit a nearby lodge with a pool)

Why Book Your Gorilla Trek with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we are experts in organizing gorilla trekking tours in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly, mid-range, or luxury trekking experience, we have various packages to suit your preferences. We handle the logistics, from securing your gorilla permits to arranging transportation and accommodation.

We take pride in providing excellent customer service and ensuring your gorilla trekking adventure is seamless and memorable. Our team of knowledgeable tour consultants is always available to answer any questions and assist with your planning. Check out our reviews on TripAdvisor and see how we’ve helped other travelers create unforgettable experiences in Uganda.

Book with us today and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to see the mountain gorillas in Uganda!