Why Book a Gorilla Tracking Safari in Uganda

Why Book a Gorilla Tracking Safari in Uganda

Gorilla tracking is a remarkable adventure that can only be experienced in a few places around the world, including Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Among these, Uganda stands out as the safest and most affordable option for gorilla tracking. The cost of a gorilla permit in Uganda is USD 800 per person, significantly lower than Rwanda’s USD 1,500 and DR Congo’s USD 400, which can be unstable. This safari allows you to spend an unforgettable hour with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, offering a unique opportunity to connect with these majestic creatures.

Gorilla tracking in Uganda is more than just a hike; it’s an experience of a lifetime. Guided by experienced rangers, you’ll trek through the lush forest in search of habituated mountain gorillas. Once located, you’ll have the chance to observe them up close, learn about their behaviors, and take in the awe-inspiring moment of being with them in the wild.

How to Book a Gorilla Tracking Safari in Uganda

The first step in planning your gorilla tracking safari in Uganda is securing your gorilla permit. These permits are available exclusively through the Uganda Wildlife Authority. The prices are as follows: USD 800 for Foreign Non-Residents, USD 700 for East African Residents, and USD 75 for East African Citizens.

Reach out to us for assistance in securing your permit. Once you have your travel dates in mind, we will check the availability of permits for your desired gorilla tracking experience. After confirming availability, we can provisionally book your permit. An invoice will then be sent for payment. Once we receive proof of payment, we will finalize the purchase and send you a scanned copy of your permit for your records.

It’s important to note that gorilla tracking is conducted in groups of up to eight tourists, accompanied by park rangers. With 36 habituated mountain gorilla groups available for tracking in Bwindi, only 288 permits are issued each day. Due to the limited availability, we recommend booking your permit at least 3-5 months in advance to ensure you don’t miss out on this incredible experience.

How Much Does a Gorilla Tracking Safari in Uganda Cost?

The total cost of a gorilla tracking safari in Uganda varies depending on your travel style—luxury, mid-range, or budget—as well as your itinerary and the number of days you plan to spend. The gorilla permit remains the most significant expense, priced at USD 800 for Foreign Non-Residents, USD 700 for East African Residents, and USD 75 for East African Citizens.

Accommodation costs can range from USD 100 for budget options to USD 300-$700 for luxury lodges. A popular choice is the 3-Day Gorilla Tracking Budget Safari, which costs USD 1,600 for a solo traveler, USD 1,190 per person for two sharing, USD 1,170 per person for three sharing, and USD 1,150 per person for four sharing. This all-inclusive price covers the gorilla tracking permit, accommodation (budget range), transport in a 4×4 safari van, an English-speaking driver-guide, and drinking water. Please note that tips, Uganda visas, flights, and alcoholic beverages are not included.

What is the Best Time for a Gorilla Tracking Safari in Uganda?

Gorilla tracking in Uganda is a year-round activity, particularly well-organized in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. However, the best times to embark on your gorilla tracking adventure are during the drier months of January, February, and from June to early September. During these periods, travel to the park is easier, and visibility is improved since the vegetation is not overly dense.

Interestingly, the rainy season also has its advantages. The abundant food supply due to rainfall means that gorillas tend to move shorter distances in search of food, making them easier to spot during your trek.

Where to Stay on a Gorilla Tracking Safari in Uganda

Gorilla tracking safaris in Uganda take place in different sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park: Buhoma and Ruhija in the northern part, and Rushaga and Nkuringo in the southern part.

In Rushaga, you have several excellent accommodation options, including Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Four Gorillas Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Nsongi Camp, Icumbi Gorilla Safari Lodge, Gorilla Safari Lodge, Gorilla Valley Lodge, and Karungi Camp. If you choose to stay in Nkuringo, consider Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, or Lake Mutanda Resort, all conveniently located near the Gorilla Habituation starting point.

In the northern Buhoma sector, you can find places like Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, Buhoma Community Rest Camp, and Ride 4 a Woman. In the Ruhija sector, Trekkers Tavern Cottages, Agandi Eco Lodge, Gift of Nature Lodge, Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge, and Broadbill Tented Camp are popular choices.

Where is Gorilla Tracking Done in Uganda?

Gorilla tracking in Uganda primarily takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. To reach these incredible parks, you can fly into Entebbe International Airport and begin your journey south through towns like Masaka, Mbarara, and Kabale.

The drive from Entebbe to the parks typically takes about 9-10 hours, but you can also opt for a faster route by flying to Kisoro Airstrip for the southern part of Bwindi or Kihihi Airstrip for the northern section. Additionally, you can fly into Kigali International Airport and enter Uganda through the Cyanika or Katuna border, which takes only 4-5 hours, including immigration time.

We recommend acquiring an East African Visa, which allows for multiple entries into Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda. The East African Visa costs USD 100 and can be obtained upon arrival at the airport or online. This option is more economical than purchasing individual visas. Alternatively, single-entry visas are available, with the Rwandan visa costing USD 30 and the Ugandan visa USD 50.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking Safari with Us?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in crafting unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda and Rwanda. Our highly-rated services on TripAdvisor reflect our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. We combine gorilla trekking safaris with eco-friendly high-end adventures and wildlife experiences that contribute to biodiversity preservation, wildlife conservation, and community upliftment.

In addition to gorilla tracking, we offer a range of activities, including chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 safaris, game viewing, mountain hiking, boat excursions, and cultural encounters. All of these experiences come together to provide you with a truly memorable African safari, including visits to renowned destinations in Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia.

Feel free to reach out to us to learn more about why you should book your gorilla tracking safari in Uganda!