Scheduled flights to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Regular flights will take you to Queen Elizabeth National Park if you’re interested in exploring the park by air. Situated in the southwestern region of Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is next to Kibale Forest and Rwenzori Mountain. Queen Elizabeth National Park is a must-visit destination for tourists interested in visiting Uganda. It is one of the best spots in East Africa to see wildlife, including the Big Four and other savannah wild animals.

The park also hosts over 700 bird species, making it a great place for birdwatchers. The park’s expansive grasslands and crater lakes make for great scenery and photography. Major activities in the park include game drives to view wildlife, boat cruises on Kazinga Channel, community visits, birding, and chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge, among others. The Ishasha sector, in the park’s southern half, is another option for those with more time on their hands; there, they may go on game drives in search of tree climbing lions and other animals.

Once you send us an email or make an inquiry, we will advise you appropriately. Katland Safaris arranges and can schedule all of the aforementioned activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Additionally, we provide a variety of vacation packages that may be tailored to your specific needs and preferences, including budget, mid-range, and luxury alternatives, as well as the specific safari activities you would want to include.

Flights to Queen Elizabeth National Park are offered by which airlines?

Anyone interested in visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park by air may arrange for daily scheduled flights. Scheduled flights to Queen Elizabeth National Park are offered by many domestic carriers, including AeroLink Uganda Limited and Fly Uganda. Your flight will take off from either Entebbe International Airport or Kajansi Airfield. Once you reach Kasese Airstrip, your journey to your resort in Queen Elizabeth National Park will begin. The exact amount of time it takes to reach your lodge will depend on the one you choose.

You may reach Queen Elizabeth National Park by air if you fly into Kasese/Mweya, Mbarara, or Kihihi. Your travel dates and time will determine the airline’s availability. However, if you want to arrive at Queen Elizabeth National Park early and have a shorter drive, the best airstrip to fly into is Kasese/Mweya Airstrip, so make sure to request this when you book your scheduled flight. To ensure you don’t get stuck at the airport, it’s recommended that you arrange for a shuttle to take you to your Queen Elizabeth National Park lodge as soon as you land at one of the aforementioned airstrips.

How far is Queen Elizabeth National Park from Entebbe Airport via plane?

planes that will take visitors to Queen Elizabeth Park
Journey from Entebbe to Queen Elizabeth National Park via domestic aircraft
You will need around 1 hour and 15 minutes to fly from Entebbe to Kasese/Mweya Airstrip. From there, you can connect to the Queen Elizabeth National Park Lodge for check-in via a road transfer that will take about 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the lodge you choose to stay at during your stay.

In total, you will need about 1 hour and 45 minutes to reach the park. The Kasese/Mweya Airstrip is serviced by AeroLink airline three times a day: in the morning, mid-morning, and afternoon. The first flight leaves Entebbe Airport at 7 in the morning and lands at Kasese/Mweya Airstrip at 10:05 in the morning. The second flight takes off at 10:20 in the morning and returns to Entebbe at 11:25 in the morning.

The flight leaves Entebbe Airport at 10:15 in the morning and lands at Kasese/Mweya Airstrip at 15:05 in the afternoon. The return flight takes off at 15:20 and lands back at Entebbe at 13:30 in the afternoon. Please be informed that this flight operates every day except for April, May, and November.

Leaving Entebbe Airport at 15:00, the afternoon flight lands at Kasese/Mweya Airstrip at 14:15. The return leg of the flight takes off at 14:20 and lands back at Entebbe at 16:15. Flight times may vary according on aircraft route, but all of the flights listed above go to Queen Elizabeth National Park every day; just tell us when it’s most convenient for you, and we’ll make the reservation.

Queen Elizabeth National Park: what are the top attractions?

Detailed descriptions of the many exciting things to do in Queen Elizabeth National Park follow. Those with extra time on their hands can also choose to go on game drives in the Ishasha sector, which is in the park’s southernmost region and is home to tree climbing lions and other exotic animals. When you visit this park, you may view all four of the Big Four, as well as rare savannah creatures like tree climbing lions, if you also go to the Ishasha sector.

Safaris in the Mweya Sector and the Kansenyi Plains
Tourists may see a profusion of the peculiar and unusual Euphorbia, or “candelabra” tree, in Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park’s Mweya and Kansenyi plains, which are teeming with animals. On your way to see the animals, you may enjoy the picturesque scenery of the surrounding mountain ranges and crater lakes.

The Ishasha Sector Game Drives
You may witness the rare tree climbing lions and other animals in the Ishasha area of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Exploring the Kazinga Channel by Boat
Queen Elizabeth National Park is the perfect place for a relaxing boat ride in the Kazinga Channel. You may come across warthog families, elephant herds, buffalo herds, antelope herds, hippos, and crocodiles lounging on the beach. Birds abound along the coasts of Kazinga, especially those species that stop there on their journey south to warmer climes. The picturesque Mweya Peninsula and the fishing communities that dot its shores are other great sights to see throughout the voyage.

Cultural Journey
You can see for how the locals are making a livelihood off of the park’s resources by visiting Lake Katwe on your wildlife safari with Queen Elizabeth. The fact that it is one of the parks where humans and animals live side by side is more proof that Queen Elizabeth National Park deserves that honor. Visitors interested in learning more about local life can participate in the Kasoga community experience project, where members of the community will be happy to share their stories of surviving in close proximity to the park and the challenges they’ve faced in maintaining harmonious relationships with the animals that call it home.

Witnessing the Chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge
One of the main things people do at Queen Elizabeth National Park is track chimpanzees. You may do this at the Park’s Kyambura Gorge. Depending on your schedule and the activities planned, we may arrange for the permits and the journey to see the chimpanzees, which often take place in the mornings and afternoons. Spending more time at Queen Elizabeth National Park will allow you to engage in all the specified activities, ensuring a terrific and unforgettable experience. Please let us know what you’re interested in, and we’ll send you all the necessary information when you send us an email.

Exploring the Birds
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the top places in Uganda to go birding. The park is home to more than 700 bird species, including endemic birds of the Albertine Rift, water birds, and savannah birds. The best times to see these birds are during game drives and boat rides on Kazinga Channel.

The list of birds includes the following: Pel’s fishing-owl, Collared pratincole, Palm-nut vulture, Rare swamp flycatcher, Gray crowned crane (the national bird of Uganda), Giant heron, Shoebill stork, Abyssinian ground hornbills, Nightjars, Marabou stork, Black headed lapwing, Back-bellied bustard, African jacana, Secretary bird, and many more.

In Queen Elizabeth National Park, are there any places to stay?
We suggest spending at least one night in Entebbe or Kampala before your flying safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park begins and ends. This will allow you to adjust to the flight schedule, recover from any baggage mishaps, and ensure that you don’t miss your connection to Entebbe on your way to Uganda, among other potential problems.

There is a wide spectrum of prices and quality of accommodations at Queen Elizabeth National Park. Pumba Safari Lodge and Elephant Hab Lodge are two examples of budget alternatives; their nightly rates vary from $90 to $100. Buffalo Safari Lodge and Bush Lodge are two examples of mid-range options; their rates range from $100 to $300. And last but not least, there are Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Mazike Safari Lodge, Katara Lodge, and Mweya Safari Lodge are just a few of the luxurious alternatives available, with prices ranging from $300 to $400 per person per night.

When is Queen Elizabeth National Park at its most beautiful?

Since the equator runs across both Queen Elizabeth National Park and Uganda, the country experiences a modified equatorial climate with two distinct rainy seasons; hence, most people believe that the park is at its most beautiful during the dry seasons. This is correct, since driving into the park to see animals becomes more difficult during rainstorms due to the pathways being too slick. December–February and June–October are the driest months to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park, followed by March–May and November. However, you may still go on a safari and observe the animals any time of year.

Katland Safaris is the best choice for your planned flight to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
In 2011, Katland Safaris began providing incredible adventures in Rwanda and Uganda. Since then, they have expanded their safari offerings to include Tanzania, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Our ability to curate unforgettable experiences is a product of the cohesive team we’ve built over the years, which includes both youthful and dynamic employees, as well as seasoned and dedicated directors and managers who are native Ugandans. If you get in touch with us, we’ll have someone on staff who can help you get reliable information quickly. Safari reservations and TripAdvisor both consistently give Katland Safaris excellent reviews and ratings.

Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge

Price List for Rooms

Nkuringo Bwindi Lodge: How to Get There

Scheduled flights to Kibale National Park

For what airlines is Kibale Forest National Park a destination?

The flying time between Entebbe and Kibale National Park is what?
Aircraft that are scheduled to visit Kibale National Park

Your total flying time from Entebbe to Kibale Forest National Park will be around 2 hours and 45 minutes because the flight to Kasese/Mweya Airstrip will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes. From there, you will transfer to the park by road, which will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The Kasese/Mweya Airstrip is serviced by AeroLink airline three times a day: in the morning, mid-morning, and afternoon.

The first flight leaves Entebbe Airport at 7 in the morning and lands at Kasese/Mweya Airstrip at 10:05 in the morning. The second flight takes off at 10:20 in the morning and returns to Entebbe at 11:25 in the morning. The flight leaves Entebbe Airport at 10:15 in the morning and lands at Kasese/Mweya Airstrip at 15:05 in the afternoon. The return flight takes off at 15:20 and lands back at Entebbe at 13:30 in the afternoon.

Please be informed that this flight operates every day except for April, May, and November. Leaving Entebbe Airport at 15:00, the afternoon flight lands at Kasese/Mweya Airstrip at 14:15. The return leg of the flight takes off at 14:20 and lands back at Entebbe at 16:15. As said, the flights are scheduled daily; however, the exact times may vary according to aircraft routing.

Kibale Forest National Park: What to See and Do?

Kibale Forest National Park is a fantastic spot for bird watching and is home to thirteen different kinds of primates, making it the monkey capital of the world. When you come, you can be sure that you will see at least one of these animals. A few of the most popular things to do in Kibale Forest National Park are listed below.

Trekking with Chimpanzees and Learning About Their Habitat at the National Park of Kibale

An important part of visiting Kibale Forest National Park is engaging in chimpanzee tracking and habituation. Tracking entails spending an hour with the apes once you come across them on your hike, while habituation requires spending half a day with the apes after you locate them.

You and your group will be escorted by knowledgeable researchers, trackers, and guides on an early morning hike into the forest to see chimpanzees and other primates in their native environment. For an hour, you’ll get to spend time right up close to these entertaining and sociable apes as they lead you through the tracking process and let you take part in their everyday life.

There are only over 5,000 chimpanzees left in Uganda, making them one of the most endangered species on Earth. Because they are always on the move in search of food, chimpanzee tracking may be a challenging endeavor. Furthermore, seeing chimpanzees is no assurance since they are wild creatures. But the success rate for watching is more than 80%.

Exploring the Birds

Kibale Forest National Park is one of the top places in Uganda to go birding. The park is home to 350 different bird species, including many endemic to the Albertine Rift, such as the Green-breasted pitta, African pitta, Abyssinian ground thrush, Crowned eagle, Dusky crimsonwing, Black-capped apalis, Collared apalis, Purple-breasted sunbird, Black bee-eater, Yellow spotted nicator, Little greenbul, Black-eared ground thrush, Brown-chested alethe, Yellow-rumped tinker bird, Blue-breasted kingfisher, and many more.

Walk through Bigodi Wetland and the Community

In Magombe swamp, you’ll find the Bigodi wetland sanctuary, where you can go on a nature walk and see a variety of birds and primates, including the red colobus, baboon, black-and-white colobus, blue-cheeked, mangabey, vervet, red-tailed, and L’Hoest monkeys. Other animals, include otters, bush bucks, mongooses, chimpanzees, Sitatunga, and bush pigs.

Among the many bird species that we may meet are the following: Green-breasted Pitta, Brown Illadopsis, Scally-breasted, Pale-breasted, and Red-chested Owlet. Blue-shouldered and red-capped Red-winged Francolins, Black-billed Turacos, White-naped and Afep Pigeons, Red-tailed Ant-thrushes, Rufous Flycatchers, Brown-eared and Yellow-crested Woodpeckers, Forest Robins, Fire-crested and Brown-chested Alethes, and Buff-spotted Woodpeckers.

Along the route, you’ll pass through several small towns, where you may experience local culture firsthand via activities like dancing, eating, drinking, and learning about the juices and foods that grow in the area.

Hike in the woods
You have the option to do this during the day or at night. If you choose the former, you may see the monkeys and other nocturnal animals, such as bush babies, while the latter offers a better chance of seeing them.

A trip to the Crater Lakes or an adventure to the edge of the planet
During this activity, you will get the opportunity to stroll around Kibale Forest National Park, take photographs from the top of a hill called Nyamirima, and meet members of the local community who will tell you about their daily lives. From there, you can overlook five beautiful crater lakes.

Near Kibale National Park, what hotels are available?

The best way to ensure that you don’t miss your flight due to unforeseen circumstances (such as losing your luggage or missing your connection to Entebbe on your way to Uganda) is to spend at least one night in either Entebbe or Kampala before your safari begins and ends. This will allow you to adjust to the flight schedule and make sure that you don’t miss any connections.

One may find inexpensive, moderate, and opulent lodges in Kibale Forest National Park. Chimpanzee Forest Guest House, Isunga Lodge, and Kibale Home stay are some of the more affordable options; Kibale Forest Camp, Turaco Treetops Lodge, and Primate Lodge are some of the more moderate options; and then there are the more expensive options, with prices ranging from $100 to $300 per night. Price ranges from $300 to $400 per night are offered by many luxury alternatives, such as Ndali Lodge, Papaya Lake Lodge, and Kyaniga Lodge, among others.

The benefits of using Katland Safaris to arrange your Kibale Forest National Park flight.
In 2011, Katland Safaris began providing incredible adventures in Rwanda and Uganda. Since then, they have expanded their safari offerings to include Tanzania, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Our ability to curate unforgettable experiences is a product of the cohesive team we’ve built over the years, which includes both youthful and dynamic employees, as well as seasoned and dedicated directors and managers who are native Ugandans. If you get in touch with us, we’ll have someone on staff who can help you get reliable information quickly. Safari reservations and TripAdvisor both consistently give Katland Safaris excellent reviews and ratings.

How to get to Volcanoes National park for gorilla trekking

By plane.

The park is conveniently adjacent to the capital, so all you have to do is be punctual, and your driver will transport you to your Ruhengeri hotel. Unlike Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which would require at least 5 hours if the flight landed in Kigali or 8-9 hours if it landed in Entebbe, this park is so close to the city that visitors can land at 1700hrs Rwanda time and still reach the park in time for the night, allowing them to be ready for gorilla tracking in the morning.

If you’re planning to start your journey in Entebbe or Kampala, Uganda, you have the option of taking a domestic flight to Kisoro Airstrip. These flights are available at affordable prices, but please note that all of them take place in the morning due to weather conditions in the region.

Rooms to rent.

There is a wide selection of hotel options close to the park, from high-end to more affordable options; the choice of where to stay is totally up to the traveler, depending on their budget and personal desire. The Sabinyo Silverback Lodge, Bisate Lodge, Virunga Volcanoes Lodge, Mountain Gorillas’ Nest Lodge, and In Luxury Five Volcanoes Hotels are the most popular hotels amid the volcanoes. Lodges go to extraordinary lengths to make sure their guests are happy and comfortable; for example, VIP rooms may feature in-room dining and complimentary alcoholic beverages (check the lodge’s inclusions before making a reservation).

Volcanoes National Park offers a variety of lodging alternatives, including midrange lodges like Mountain Gorilla View Lodge and Lebambou Gorilla Lodge, as well as more affordable options like Davinci Lodge, that provide excellent value for your money.

Guests on a tight budget may pick from a wide variety of lodging alternatives, including the Gorilla Solution Lodge, Villa Gorilla, Virunga Hotel, Faraji Hotel, Kinigi Hotel, Hotel Muhabura, La Palme Hotel, Home Inn, and Hotel Muhabura.

If you want to go gorilla tracking, we recommend that you stay at a hotel or motel close to the park headquarters. That way, you can easily connect to the park and be at the headquarters by 7:00 in the morning, when the briefing exercise begins. At that time, you will learn the ins and outs of gorilla tracking and register.

The cost of the gorilla permit.

Volcanoes National Park has the most expensive gorilla permits at $1500 per person per trek; however, visitors to the other three Rwandan national parks can get their permits for $1500 per person per trek at a discounted rate of $1050.00 per person per trek, and conference attendees can get their permits for $1755.00 per person.

What time is best to go?

Although gorilla tracking is possible year-round in the park, it is most popular between mid-September and the driest months of June, July, and August. However, the park is open all year. December to February, with the remainder of the year seeing rain. Since gorilla tracking is an activity that can be done at any time of year and permits are available daily, travelers may pick and choose the times that work best for them.

Extras to enjoy in Volcanoes National Park if time permits.

If you’re planning a trip to Volcanoes National Park, don’t restrict yourself to only gorilla tracking; there are plenty of other activities to enjoy as well. Tracking golden monkeys is one of these, and it takes a whole day because the process is very similar to tracking gorillas: you get a briefing at the park at 7:00 in the morning, and then you go out into the forest to find the monkeys. Once you meet them, you get an hour to spend with them, just like with gorillas. For non-Rwandan nationals, the Golden Monkey permit is $100.00; for Rwandan nationals, it’s $65.00; and for East African nationals, excluding Rwanda, it’s $80.00.

You might also go trekking; the park is home to five of the Virunga mountains, and treks are available every day without any special preparation. With Mount Karisimbi at 4507 meters, Mount Bisoke at 37771 meters, Mount Gahinga at 3470 meters, Mount Muhabura at 4157 meters, and Mount Mikeno at 4437 meters, there are plenty of possibilities for a day climb to the summit and back.

Among the many other things to do in the area include birdwatching, hiking, caving, volunteering, and exploring the world-renowned Dian Fossey route. You may book all of them on the spot and don’t need to make any type of advance preparations.

A guide to arranging a gorilla safari.

If you want all of your services booked and verified, it’s preferable to choose a reputable safari provider. If you’re having trouble deciding which firm to work with, Katland Safaris can help. If you want to know more about our reputation, you can check out our TripAdvisor and Safari Bookings pages. We have years of expertise in trip planning and provide trustworthy service.

Organizing fly-in safaris to Murchison falls National Park and Kidepo Valley National Park.

For anyone interested in flying safaris in Uganda, we offer trips to two of the best parks for wildlife viewing: Kidepo Valley National Park and Murchison Falls National Park. Located north of Kampala and Entebbe, in the Albertine Rift Valley’s northern area, are the parks. The 76 animal species that call these places home include four of the “big five”—lions, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes—among many more. Giraffes, Jackson’s hartebeest, hyenas, waterbucks, warthogs, Uganda Kob, giraffes, etc., are among the other species. Hippos, crocodiles, and other aquatic residents populate the Nile River and its surrounding waterways.

The Murchison Falls National Park is home to a variety of monkeys and baboons, among other animals. Several bird species call this area home, including the endangered shoebill stork. The majestic waterfalls, once known as Kabalega falls in the area, were renamed Murchison Falls.With an area of 3,840 sq km, it is also the largest national park in the nation.

Towards the extreme northeastern corner of the country, near the border with Sudan and Kenya to the south, is Kidepo Valley National Park. Savannah grassland occupies the vast majority of the park’s 1442 square kilometers, with views of Mount Molongore, Narus Valley, and the river Kidepo Valley, which is only flowing part of the year. Given its relative isolation from popular tourist destinations like Entebbe Airport and Kampala, this national park is one of the few that has remained largely undiscovered. However, that is beginning to change as flights to the park are becoming more widely available.

Take flight from one of the airstrips in Kidepo Valley or Murchison Falls National Parks.
Safaris to Kidepo Valley and Murchison Falls by air have been planned.

Arranging air safaris to Kidepo Valley and Murchison Falls?

Flying safaris to Kidepo Valley and Murchison Falls National Parks are arranged by Encounter Africa Safaris. On your safari to this fantastic park, you may land at one of three major airstrips in Murchison Falls National Park. You may take off and land at two different airstrips in Murchison Falls National Park: Chobe Airstrip, which is the most popular, and Pakuba Airstrip, located in the park’s northernmost section. Chobe Safari Lodge and Bugungu Airstrip are both convenient for high-end tourists looking for a place to stay in the southern region of Murchison Falls National Park.

Flights to Kidepo leave from Entebbe International Airport on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, with both morning and afternoon flights available. Apoka Airstrip is located in Kidepo Valley National Park, so visitors may fly there for a real wilderness experience.

Entebbe International Airport and Kajjansi Airstrip are the two main airports from which flights to Murchison Falls National Park leave. The southern Ugandan airports of Kasese, Kisoro, and Kihihi, as well as the northern Ugandan airport of Kidepo, provide flights to Murchison Falls National Park. During your safari, we can arrange flights to any national park so you may see gorillas, chimpanzees, wildlife, hikes, and cultural exchanges.

Murchison Falls National Park is accessible by plane from three main airlines. Aero Link Uganda is the top airline in Uganda, offering daily flights from Entebbe International Airport to Kidepo Valley National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and other popular sites in the country. The Park’s airstrips at Pakuba, Bugungu, Chobe, and Apoka are all serviced by Aero Link aircraft, which depart in the morning and afternoon and can carry a maximum of eleven passengers.

Other airlines that fly from Kajjansi Airstrip to national parks including Kidepo Valley and Murchison Falls are Eagle Air and Fly Uganda. Scheduled and chartered flights may be operated by any of these firms. If you’re arriving at any of the park’s airstrips, our professional, experienced, and qualified English-speaking driver guides will be ready to take you to your destination. For your comfort and an unforgettable experience, we only use 4×4 safari vehicles.

Activities in Kidepo Valley and Murchison Falls National Parks whilst on a flying safari

One of the most exciting things to do in Uganda is to take a flight to two national parks—Kidepo Valley and Murchison Falls—for a wildlife safari. From the moment you take off on your trip, which offers breathtaking views of Northern Uganda, there is an abundance of things to see and do. The main things that are done are;

Kidepo Valley National Park and Murchison Falls are great places to go on game drives. National Park
Murphy plummets Various animals and birds call National Park home. Among the mammals and birds found there are 76 different kinds of buffalo, elephants, antelopes, lions, kobos, giraffes, hyenas, bushbucks, shoebill storks, and warthogs. They forage for food or graze extensively throughout the Savannah grasslands.

Because of this, the park’s environment is ideal for game drives and wildlife observation. Game drives often begin at around 6:00 in the morning (when there is a good possibility of seeing cats) and continue until sunset; they may begin at any time of day and typically follow the Victoria, Albert, and Buligi Tracks in the northern part of the park, where the trails are located. On this safari, every vehicle has a pop-up canopy that lets you see well from a distance and takes amazing photos. As you travel at a snail’s pace, the driver-guide will point out various birds and animals for you to identify.

With more than 80 species of animals and 28 species of mammals unique to the Karamoja area, visitors to Kidepo Valley National Park are in for a visual feast. This park is well-known as one of the best in Uganda for game watching. Sighting is much simpler in the terrine since it is flat.

You may go on game drives in the morning, evening, or even at night in search of nocturnal species; there is no set time for games. Lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, Uganda Kobs, orbis, kudus, buffalos, oryx, elephants, giraffes, striped hyenas, reedbucks, waterbucks, duikers, crocodiles, and many more creatures are among those that may be seen.

Take a boat ride down Murchison Falls National Park’s base

It is an unforgettable experience to go on a Nile cruise and cruise down to the base of the falls. There is a good probability that you may observe crocodiles, birds, hippos, and other aquatic species when you are on the riverbanks, whether they are drinking water or just relaxing. On a typical Launch Cruise, you and other tourists will go off on an animal-spotting adventure with a knowledgeable guide who will point out and name various creatures while you snap photos and film.

At the base of the falls, you can hear their roar and take in the stunning scenery. The voyage lasts for two hours, although more time may be purchased at a higher price. You have the option to choose between two sessions: one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Customize your fly-in safari to the magnificent Murchison Falls, National Park by sending us an email.

Adventure in a Hot Air Balloon Over Murchison Falls.

While on safari at Murchison Falls National Park, you must not miss this thrilling and unforgettable event. You will get the opportunity to see the Park’s flora, fauna, and natural splendor. Murchison Falls National Park’s balloon is an ultra-magic type M-160, registered with the CAA under the mark 5X-JBH. It was produced in Spain. The maximum altitude that the balloon can reach is 10,000 feet, and it can carry 8 people.

In accordance with the manufacturer’s rules, the hot air balloon undergoes regular inspections by the CAA and is serviced after each flight. It also possesses an airworthiness certificate. Pilots piloting the balloon have a combined 1,000+ flight hours of experience and have licenses issued by the civil aviation authorities of Egypt and Uganda. The balloon ride will be the highlight of your safari.

Kidepo and Murchison National Parks: A Meeting of Cultures and Communities

One of the most memorable aspects of visiting a local community is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local way of life, language, and culture. Visiting the park’s artisan centers is a great way to meet locals, and you can also see cultural groups perform around the lodge’s campfire. When you shop locally, you raise people’s living standards, which in turn allows them to purchase more food from farmers markets, pay for further education, and more.

There are indigenous villages in and surrounding Kidepo Valley National Park. Visiting this area and meeting the Karamojong, a nomadic herders group, and the IK people is an authentic and unforgettable cultural experience. The Karamojong are nomadic herders who take great pleasure in their manyattas, which they utilize as a sign of their riches and social status as they go about grazing their livestock. Living among the Ik in the highlands is a fascinating experience, as is seeing their dances and way of life.

Explore Murchison Falls National Park on foot and make it to the waterfall’s vantage point.

You should definitely make time to see the breathtaking waterfalls. The boat ride will bring you to the trailhead where you may begin the hour-long stroll to the falls’ vantage point. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Murchison and Uhuru waterfalls from a vantage point that will allow you to capture their beauty in all their glory. Get in touch if you want to personalize your vacation with a handoff of fantastic activities.

Finding chimpanzees at the National Park of Murchison Falls

Among the many things to do at Murchison Falls National Park is go chimpanzee tracking or habitatuation. The Budongo Forest Reserve, a part of the Park, is an ideal location for this. We can arrange the permits and walk for you, and you may choose between morning or afternoon chimpanzee tracking.

Spending extra time at Murchison Falls National Park will let you to participate in all the above activities, ensuring a terrific and unforgettable experience. Please let us know what you’re interested in, and we’ll send you all the necessary information when you send us an email.

Experience the thrill of birdwatching.

Murchison Falls National Park and Kidepo Valley National Park are two of the top places in Uganda to go on a birding safari. These parks are home to more than 451 different bird species, including unique birds of the Albertine Rift, water birds, and savannah birds. One of the most fascinating things to do on a flying safari in Uganda is to see birds in their natural habitats, which include the beautiful landscapes, the River Nile, swamps, and the incredible fauna of Murchison and Kidepo.

Shoebill storks, Grey-crowned cranes, Abyssinian ground hornbills, nightjars, marabou storks, black-headed lapwings, back-bellied bustards, swamp flycatchers, giant herons, secretary birds, and many more species of birds can be found here.

Where can I stay on my fly-in safari to Kidepo Valley and Murchison Falls National Parks?

There is a wide range of lodging options available to safari guests in Murchison Falls National Park. From ultra-luxurious resorts to more affordable options, the lodges cover it all. For ease of access, it is usually recommended to pick lodges according to the airfield you are flying into. Among the most opulent lodges in the world are Chobe, Nile, and Bakers. Lodges in the middle price bracket include Kabalega Wilderness Camp, Paraa Safari Lodge, and Murchison River Lodge.

There are a plethora of affordable resorts to choose from, including Pakuba Safari Lodge, Pumba Safari Lodge, Red Chili Hideaway,. Get in touch with us and let us know which lodge you would like to stay at; we will then create a personalized itinerary or provide budget-friendly recommendations.

Within an hour’s drive of the airstrip, you’ll find a wide range of affordable accommodations in Kidepo Valley National Park. Apoka Safari resort is the greatest resort in the park in terms of quality and value for money, therefore it’s a good choice for anyone seeking a luxurious experience.

Apoka Uwa Bandas are a good choice for those on a budget, while Kidepo Savannah Lodge, Nga Moru Wilderness Camp, and Adere Safari Lodge are good selections for those in the middle of the price range. Bring your own food with you; this place doesn’t provide any.

If you want to see more of the park, save time compared to driving, and have an unforgettable experience, book a flying safari to Murchison Falls National Park and Kidepo Valley National Park. You may also choose to fly to Murchison, then fly to Kidepo Valley National Park, and then return to Entebbe/Kampala by road. This way, you can complete the big five experience by doing rhino tracking.

Send us an email if you would want to arrange for any service, including flights, admission permits, activities, and more. We can create a flying safari to Murchison Falls and Kidepo Valley National Park that is perfect for you, among our numerous options. Some of these safaris include a 5-day fly-in safari, a 4-day fly-in safari, a 6-day fly-in safari, and many more. Flying safaris to Kidepo Valley and Murchison Falls National Parks are available at reduced rates via our website.

How many hours can one spend with chimpanzees in Budongo Forest Reserve?

How much time can one devote to chimpanzees?

You may spend as little as an hour or as much as four hours in the company of chimpanzees in Uganda’s Budongo Forest Reserve. Non-Foreign Residents: USD230, Foreign Residents: USD160, and Uganda Citizens: USD90 for the chimpanzee permit habituation in Budongo Forest Reserve. In order to get a feel for how chimpanzees live, eat, and communicate, you may get a habituation permit that lets you spend four hours in their company. Researchers and forest rangers lead the excursion.

The chimpanzee trekking permit is given to anyone who are interested in seeing habituated chimpanzees; once located, visitors are allowed one hour to observe and spend time with the animals. Each individual must pay USD 130 for non-residents, USD 150 for foreign residents, and USD 85 for Ugandan citizens in order to get this permission. At Budongo, visitors may go chimpanzee trekking at any time of day or night. The morning trip begins at 8:00 am and the afternoon trek begins at midday.

You will be briefed on the dos and don’ts at the forest headquarters in the morning, and then you will be led to the forest for your chimpanzee experience in groups of people accompanied by Park guides and Rangers. Depending on the chimps’ whereabouts, the hike might take anywhere from two to four hours. You will spend an hour with these incredible animals when you find them, watching them eat, sleep, and play. Along the way, you may see forest elephants and other primates, reptiles, and animals. Reach out to us via email at to schedule a suitable time to see the chimpanzees at Budongo Forest Reserve.

Which groups of chimpanzees inhabit the Budongo Forest Reserve?

The chimpanzee population in the Budongo Forest reserve has been slowly rising over the years, and there are now 800 of them. We first examined the chimpanzees in Budongo forest in 1960, and since then, conservation efforts have been keeping the chimpanzees alive and well, drawing in more tourists. Over the years, various groups have been accustomed, and among them are;

More than 85 individuals make up the Sonso Chimpanzee community, which is one of the oldest groups that have made Budongo Forest their home. A small group of people broke away from the Sonso village and eventually grew into the larger Waibira Chimpanzee community, which now numbers over a hundred persons. You may find the Kaniyo-Pabidi Chimpanzee Community on the way from Masindi to Murchison Falls National Park; it was habituated by the Jane Goodall Institute and is currently managed by Budongo Eco-Lodge.

Near the Waisoke River is the habituated Waisoke Chimpanzee Community. Its origins are in the Sonso community, but it has members from all around. It is not always possible to predict when chimpanzees would go from the forest’s far east to its far north. Trekking with chimpanzees demands some physical fitness, but if you’re not up to the task, the guides and porters will be more than happy to assist you.

Budongo Forest Reserve chimpanzee permits: how to book?

Katland safaris make it easy to book chimpanzee permits all year round. Just let us know when you’re interested in trekking the chimps and when you’d like to go, and we’ll check availability, confirm if the permits are available, or suggest a different date to get them. Then, we’ll send you a bill for the permits, and you can pay with a credit card or a bank transfer.

We will obtain your permissions and email you a scanned receipt for your records and perusal after we receive payment. Plan a memorable primate encounter by reserving chimpanzee permits for special occasions like wedding anniversaries, birthdays, honeymoons, or family vacations. During the peak season, these permits sell out fast, so it’s best to reserve and get them early.

Why should one choose Budongo Forest Reserve for chimpanzee trekking?

Compared to Kibale Forest National Park, where chimpanzee permits cost $300 per person, Budongo Forest Reserve’s permits are far more affordable at USD130 per person. In addition to the Big Five, a trip to Bubogo opens the door to Uganda’s second-largest national park, Murchison Falls, and the chance to undertake rhino tracking in the Zziwa Rhino sanctuary. Taking a chimpanzee excursion to Budongo is an unforgettable experience. For customized bundles, get in touch with us.

Budongo Forest Reserve: how can I get there?

From Kampala or Entebbe, the travel to Masindi or Budongo Central Forest Reserve takes just four or five hours by car. Access the forest reserve from the main gate of Murchison Falls National Park. Park entrance fees are required. Our all-inclusive packages include the opportunity to visit the tops of the falls and participate in other activities according to your interest, so there’s no need to worry.

In addition, you may fly to Budongo Forest Reserve from Pakuba, Chobe, or Bugunga Airstrips in Murchison Falls National Park; this will cut your travel time to only one hour. Domestic flights to these locations run daily. If you’re planning a trip to view the chimpanzees in Budongo Forest Reserve, you may take one of Aerolink Uganda’s morning or afternoon flights to Murchison. The exact time of your journey depends on your itinerary.

In Budongo Forest Reserve, where can one find a place to stay in order to see chimpanzees?
Murchison Falls National Park has long been a favourite among tourists because to its abundance of lodges and its proximity to Budongo Forest Reserve.

Lodges of all price points and levels of luxury are available. The most luxurious alternatives for lodging are the Bakers Lodge, the Murchison River Lodge, and the Paraa Safari Lodge; the most affordable options are the Pakuba Safari Lodge and the Kabalega Wilderness Camp; and for those on a tighter budget, there are the Red Chilli Hideaway and the Pumba Safari Lodge. The Budongo Eco Lodge is an affordable option in the forest, where you may enjoy a night’s sleep while listening to nature’s soothing noises.

Safaris to Tanzania, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are now available from Katland, a company that got its start arranging incredible adventures to Rwanda and Uganda. Over the previous decade, we’ve built a team that includes both youthful and dynamic employees, all under the direction of seasoned directors and managers that are deeply committed to Ugandan culture and their work.

Within five minutes of your inquiry, a member of our team will respond with reliable information that is both correct and up-to-date. For a personalized safari that includes time spent with the chimpanzees in Budongo Central Forest Reserve, visit Katland Safaris’ website. We have excellent reviews and ratings on both TripAdvisor and safari bookings.

DR Congo mountain gorilla safari from Uganda

FAQ about Mountain Rwenzori hiking safaris

In how many hours might one expect to climb the Rwenzori Mountains’ tallest peak?

To climb Mount Rwenzori, how much money would one need?

Guide to Aruambo hiking safaris

When is the best time to plan a hike in the Rwenzori Mountains?

Time of year to visit or go hiking on Mount Rwenzori

What is the location of the Rwenzori Mountains?

Does Congo have Gorilla habituation experience safaris?

The habituation experience with gorillas entails researchers visiting a specific group of wild gorillas on a daily basis until the animals get used to their presence. Tourists that partake in this event join participate on the process of naming and sex-coding each gorilla as it develops over time. The gorillas will undergo a six- to eight-month period of practice visits before researchers feel comfortable bringing people to see them.

The habituated family will be available for tourists after this is done. Because all of the gorilla families in Virunga National Park are habituated, gorilla habituation experience safaris are not accessible in the Congo. The only place in Uganda where such a safari is possible is Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.

Congo: Where can one go on a gorilla trek?

Visitors to the Democratic Republic of the Congo who are interested in seeing gorillas may perform the typical trekking in one of two parks: Virunga National Park for mountain gorillas or Kahuzi Beiga National Park for lowland gorillas.

Referring to Virunga National Park

Trekking mountain gorillas in Congo is one of the most well-known activities in Virunga National Park, one of the oldest and most diversified tropical rain forests in Africa. Other popular activities include hiking up the Nyiragongo volcano, birdwatching, nature walks, tracking chimpanzees, and habitatuation. In the whole globe, mountain gorillas are found in only three nations. Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Uganda are all part of this group.

Virunga National Park in the Congo is home to mountain gorillas, whilst Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is where you may find these primates. In Uganda, you can see gorillas at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The national parks are located in close proximity to one another inside the Virunga mountain range.

Concerning the Kahuzi Beiga National Park

The Kahuzi Beiga gorilla family

The first Lowland Gorilla trekking took place in 1973 in Kahuzi Beiga National Park, which was gazetted in 1970 with the goal of conserving the Grauer’s gorilla species, the biggest gorilla species in the world. Trekking with Eastern Lowland gorillas, also called Grauer’s gorillas, is possible in the Congo’s Kahuzi Biega National Park, which is 30 kilometers from Bukavu town and can be reached by road or plane.

These gorillas are the biggest of the four subspecies. This park ranks highly for lowland gorilla trekking because it was gazetted in 1970 and the first lowland gorilla trekking was conducted here in 1973. There are fifteen gorilla groups in the park, but only two of them have acclimated to humans and are available for treks. Chimanuka is home to more than 36 gorillas, making it one of the biggest gorilla families in the world. Mugaruka is the name of another dominating gorilla family. Both families are named after powerful silverbacks.

If you’re interested in a more opulent Congo vacation, Katland Safaris offers both affordable and luxurious safaris to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, including a mountain gorilla safari. You will be chauffeured in our luxurious land cruisers, accommodated in the most opulent lodges, and treated like a VIP the whole time. Feel free to contact us via email if you can’t locate the exact trip that you’re seeking on our website; we’ll do our best to tailor an itinerary to your specific interests, needs, and availability.

Methods for planning and executing a gorilla safari in the DRC

Katland Safaris is the best destination management firm for planning and booking gorilla trekking in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Ugandan offices of Katland Safaris ensure that all services, including transportation to and from Kigali or Uganda, hotels, and gorilla permits for Kahuzi Beiga and Virunga National Parks, are available. Once you’ve had your fill of gorilla trekking in Virunga and Kahuzi Beiga National Parks, your safari with Katland Safaris may take you back to Kigali or Uganda to catch your international flight home.

Skilled safari driver guides, located in Kigali or Uganda, operate all of our 4×4 vans or Jeeps and are well-versed in the areas of Rwanda and the Congo. Book a DR Congo mountain gorilla safari from Kigali with Katland Safaris, and you will feel secure and comfortable since they know all the corners and routes.

What is the price of a Congolese Lowland gorilla safari?

at order to go on a gorilla trek at Kahuzi Biega National Park, you must first get a gorilla permit. To help you organize a gorilla safari in the Congo, Katland Safaris offers up-to-date information on how to book gorilla permits. By selecting one of our Congo gorilla trips, you will save the trouble of arranging for your gorilla permit. On your behalf, we will verify availability and schedule all services, including permits for gorillas.

Obtaining a gorilla permit often requires planning ahead, typically many months. Due to the limited number of groups that may go on treks in Kahuzi Biega National Park, we strongly suggest planning your visit at least five months in advance. Paying the gorilla permit money in advance allows us to collect it on your behalf when you schedule a gorilla trip.

The following are the prices for lowland gorilla trekking permits in the Congo Kahuzi Biega National Park:

Outside of the country-$400

Residents of East Africa—$300

Congolese nationals – $20

What is the going rate for a Congolese mountain gorilla safari?

In Congo’s Virunga National Park, visitors can go gorilla trekking every day. The adventure begins at 7:45 in the morning with a briefing, and after that, you’ll be paired with a gorilla for the day. Then, you’ll head out into the forest to find the gorillas, and once you do, you’ll spend an hour getting up close and personal with them. Just like in other national parks where mountain gorilla trekking is popular, visitors to Virunga National Park can expect to see primates and birds, and, with any luck, mountain gorillas.

Here at Katland Safaris, we provide transparent, all-inclusive gorilla trip packages to our valued guests. The gorilla permit fee is the first and foremost expense you’ll pay in order to guarantee your journey in Virunga National Park. We provide a wide variety of safari packages to suit any budget, and we can also personalize your trip to fit your interests. From Kigali, you may go on a mountain gorilla safari in the Democratic Republic of the Congo as part of one of our gorilla travel packages. As an affordable alternative, you may spend $1100 for a two-day trip from Kigali that includes transportation, lodging, food, and guide services. This price also covers gorilla permits.

Methods for Obtaining Congolese Gorilla Trekking Permits

We will confirm your trek for the day you have picked in Virunga National Park after you contact us and pay for the permits. Then, we will obtain the permits at the park headquarters in Congo and email you a copy of the receipt. You may pay the remaining amount for all of your services when we verify your permissions, after which you can book your overseas flights.

What to Expect From a Gorilla Safari in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

One of the most popular things to do in Virunga National Park is mountain gorilla trekking. Even though the park has a lot of space for these primates, there are only six families that allow visitors to come and see them up close: the Kabirizi, Humba, Rugendo, Mapuwa, Lulengo, Munyaga, Nyakamwe, and Bageni groups.

With more than 300 gorillas, Kabirizi is the biggest of these groups and a popular destination for travelers interested in gorilla trekking. To ensure that you do not miss out on trekking this particular troop of gorillas, you must reserve your gorilla permit at least three months in advance.

The second most popular activity in Virunga National Park is chimpanzee tracking and habituation. On chimpanzee habituation treks, you spend the entire day with the apes, while on chimpanzee tracking you get an hour-long encounter. Both treks start in the morning when you’ll be joined by researchers and trackers as you walk through the forest in search of chimpanzees.

You’ll have the opportunity to observe and learn about their feeding habits, natural behavior, and habits. On the other hand, chimpanzee tracking treks last all day, while on chimpanzee habituation treks last all day. You still need to reserve your permit at least three months in advance to avoid missing out on the gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, and habituation activities.

As part of your DR Congo mountain gorilla safari from Kigali, you’ll have the opportunity to go on nature walks through the Virunga Forest. This forest is one of the oldest tropical rain forests in Africa and is incredibly densely vegetated. As you stroll through the forest, you’ll learn about the different kinds of trees, birds, and, if you’re lucky, you might even see some mammals and reptiles.

Hiking the Nyiragongo Volcano is an incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience. While in Virunga National Park on a DR Congo mountain gorilla safari from Kigali, you can also hike the world’s most active volcano, which stands at 3,470 m (11,380 ft). The exact length of time the volcano has been erupting is unknown, but it has occurred at least 34 times since 1882, with the most recent eruption occurring in 3002.

Among the many things to do on a DR Congo mountain gorilla safari from Kigali is to go bird watching in Virunga Forest, one of the most biologically diverse tropical forests. The park’s many different ecosystems, including swamps, grasslands, and forests, are home to a wide variety of bird species. On a birding expedition, you get an opportunity to witness over 706 different kinds of birds. Get in touch with us at and we’ll take care of organizing this safari for you.

In Kahuzi Beiga National Park, you can go lowland gorilla trekking. However, you’ll need to get a permit in advance to do this, as the park only allows two families to be visited at a time, making the gorilla permits extremely sought-after and limited, especially during the busy months of June, July, August, September, December, and February. It is suggested that any traveler book their gorilla permits three to four months in advance, since they sometimes sell out four months in advance.

When is the ideal season to go gorilla trekking in the Congo?

Tropical rain forests cover most of Virunga and Kahuzi Beiga National Parks, so rain can fall at any time of day or night. Fortunately, there is a dry season that runs from December to September, when the parks are less humid and the trails are easier to walk on. During this time, you can also see more gorillas because the vegetation isn’t fully grown. Most tourists stay away from gorilla viewing in the somewhat rainier months of March, April, May, October, and November due to the fully grown foliage and the resulting treacherous pathways.

Accommodation options for a Kigali–to–DR Congo mountain gorilla safari

Virunga National Park rooms. From affordable to high-end, this covers it all. Bukima Tented Camp and Kibumba Tented Camp are two examples of budget options with prices ranging from $90 to $100 per night per person. Tchegera Island Camp and Lulimbi Tented Camp are two examples of mid-range options with prices ranging from $100 to $300 per night per person. Mikeno Lodge is one example of a luxury option with prices ranging from $300 to $400 per night per person. Just tell us which one works best for you, and we’ll check availability and make the reservation for you.

Kahuzi Beiga National Park lodgings. From affordable to high-end, this covers it all. From the most affordable (90-100 USD per person per night) to the most luxurious (300-400 USD per person per night), there is a wide range of options to suit any budget in Bukavu. Some examples of budget hotels are Hotel Begonias, Exodus, and Lake Side Hotel. Coco Lodge Bukavu is one mid-range option. Just tell us which one works best for you, and we’ll check availability and make the reservation for you.

Which routes go into the Congo to see the gorillas?

Two parks in the eastern part of the Congo—Kahuzi Beiga and Virunga—are the best places to undertake gorilla trekking in the country. After taking a flight to Kigali International Airport, you’ll transfer to Gisenyi town. From there, you’ll cross the Rwanda-Congo border to Goma town in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. From there, it’s about a two-hour drive to the park headquarters of Kahuzi Beiga National Park and Virunga National Park, where your gorilla trek will begin.

When is the best time to schedule a gorilla safari in the Democratic Republic of the Congo?

The best time to book a mountain gorilla safari from Kigali to the Democratic Republic of the Congo depends on your budget, but because permits for mountain gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park sell out fast, it’s recommended to do so at least three months in advance.

It’s wonderful that Congo offers both regular and discounted gorilla trekking permits every year. Consequently, you should get in touch with Katland Safaris well in advance of your planned visit to ensure that we can verify the availability of gorilla permits in Virunga National Park, get them for you, and pay for them.

Consider these reasons to book a gorilla safari in the Democratic Republic of the Congo with Katland Safaris:

Launched in 2011, Katland Safaris aspires to provide unparalleled and expert tour and travel services in Rwanda, Congo, Tanzania, and Uganda. Afterwards, Katland Safaris became a frontrunner among Rwanda and Uganda trip providers. The office and field staff at Katland are well trained and ready to answer any questions or concerns you may have.

We collaborate closely with the Uganda Wildlife Authority and are proud members of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (POTO). Both SafariBookings and TripAdvisor had nothing but praise for us. From Kigali, you can access the finest and most up-to-date information on our website, making it a credible starting point for your preparations for your DR Congo mountain gorilla safari. Owned and operated by Ugandans, the staff at Katland Safaris are experts in their field and would gladly share their knowledge with you.

A complete Guide to Gorilla Tracking in Rwanda

Finding the way there

From Kigali (Airport) or Gisenyi, you may take public transportation to the park in the nearby settlement of Musanze, which is also known as Ruhengeri. For those who would rather have their journeys planned by travel agencies, transportation to and from the park may be arranged in a 4×4.

Because it is just a two-hour drive from Kigali, it is feasible to drive straight there, see the gorillas, and then return for your flight home, as long as you get to the park before 7:00 am Rwandan time and arrange for your flight to leave at least after 6:00 pm.

While there aren’t any direct flights from Kigali to the park, you can still arrange for opulent cars equipped with air conditioning and a mobile fridge to keep your beverages cold on the go. Because the national carrier flies to so many different locations, visiting Rwanda no longer requires the hassle of connecting flights and many aircraft changes.

The park can also be reached from Uganda, which is a great starting point for longer trips or if you happen to live there. The drive from Kampala takes around 9 to 10 hours, but it’s a beautiful one with plenty of photo ops at the Equator, the Igongo Cultural Centre, the Kigezi Hills, and the Cyanika Border. Many visitors come from nearby national parks, such as Bwindi Impenetrable, Lake Mburo, or Kibale and Queen Elizabeth, with the latter two accessible via Kabale, a two-hour drive away.

You have two alternatives for flights from Entebbe to Kisoro Airstrip: Areolink Uganda or Kampala Executive Aviation. The flight takes an hour, and then you may connect to Kigali by driving two tours in a 4×4 vehicle. If you’re the kind who gets antsy on lengthy car rides, this will cut down on the 10 hours you’ll spend driving.

Allowances for gorillas at Volcanoes National Park.

Like their Ugandan counterparts, the gorillas in Rwanda are acclimated to human presence and travel in groups with no more than eight observers each day. Eighty permits are issued daily. It is only permissible to monitor a gorilla family once, according to regulations set by the Rwanda Development Board.

The cost of the gorilla permit.

Volcanoes National Park has the most expensive gorilla permits at $1500 per person per trek; however, visitors to the other three Rwandan national parks can get their permits for $1500 per person per trek at a discounted rate of $1050.00 per person per trek, and conference attendees can get their permits for $1755.00 per person. In contrast to its neighbors, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, who charge USD800.00 and USD400.00 per person, each trek, respectively, for their permits.

After you’ve confirmed that the dates you want to visit are available, all you have to do is get in touch with Katland Safaris, and we’ll take care of booking the permits.

Families of Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park

To keep the gorillas from becoming scared and attacking if there are too many people around, this is necessary. The ten gorilla families are as follows: Agashya, Sabyinyo, Karisimbi, Umubano, Kwitonda, Hirwa, Bwenge, and Ugyenda. For the sake of gorilla study, one group is designated as Titus.

Apes of the Susa

The famed and historically significant Susa River passes through this region, giving rise to the name of this prominent group. This is a group that renowned naturalist Dian Fossy investigated from 1967 till her death in 1985. Located at a considerable elevation on Mount Karisimbi, this group is both the biggest and most elusive in Volcanoes National Park.

The pride takes great satisfaction in the fact that its current membership includes the impano and byishimo twins, as well as the remaining 28 gorillas and three silverbacks, from a total of 42 at habituation. This is the most elusive group because to the high altitudes at which they remain, although they may provide an exciting challenge to adventurers and hikers.

Primates of the Sabyinyo Forest

The gorillas in this group got their name from the nearby peak Sabinyo; both Rwanda and Uganda share this mountain range, but the gorillas themselves remain on Rwandan soil. Among the groups in the area around the park headquarters, this one is among the simplest to follow.

Guhonda, the largest Silverback in the group, may reach a weight of about 220 kg, and he is preventing Ryango, its major rival, from joining them. With three adult females and three youngsters, it is one of the top groups for travelers to visit.

Homo karisimbiensis

The silverback Nyagakangaga is the head of this band, and the name derives from Mount Karisimbi, the current home of the band. Because to this group’s 3009 split, only around 26 of the original 42 Susa gorillas are still part of the Susa group. After forming a breakaway group with thirteen individuals, Nyagakangaga was once known as Susa B but changed its name to Karisimbi Gorilla Family in 2010. There are eleven people in the group at the moment: three mothers, four fathers, a black back, and two babies.

The Family of Amahoro Gorillas

Two silverbacks, two blackbacks, five juveniles, five females, and four young gorillas make up the group of eighteen, with the dominant silverback being named Ubumwe, meaning unity. Peace is the meaning of the Rwandese name Amahoro, and anybody who has visited the family will attest to it. Those interested in seeing this group should be physically fit, since it is located on the slopes of Mount Visoke and involves a moderate hike.

The Family of Umubono Gorillas

A dominant silverback named Ubumwe—whose name means “live together”—leads a group of thirteen people and two silverbacks. Following Charles’s death, Ubumwe assumed leadership of this faction that had split off from the Amahoro.

Primates of the Agashya Family

Because there were 13 individuals who lived together as a family for a long period, this group was formerly called the 13 Group. At first, Nyakarima was in charge, but Agashya the Silverback eventually deposed him. The group’s size has increased to 25 individuals, including 1 silverback, 15 females, 3 juveniles, and 7 young gorillas, all because to improved conservation efforts. Typically, you may see the herd meandering along the Sabinyo and Mgahinga mountain ranges. Every time he detects danger, the fiercely protective Agashya orders his tribe to advance upward.

Gorilla Family Kwitonda

Research suggests that this gorilla population may have crossed into Rwanda in 3003 due to territorial disputes with other gorilla groups in the area or maybe a lack of food, since it ended up in Rwanda’s southern region. After displacing Kwitonda, the younger silverback, Akerevoru became leadership of the group and took the name of the dominant silverback at the time. After a postmortem examination confirmed that Kwitonda had died of natural causes in 2015, his body was discovered ten days after he had escaped from the gang. Roughly twenty-three people make to the group.

Family of Hirwa Gorillas

With one silverback and sixteen members, this is one of the newest groups to emerge from the merging of the Sabinyo and Group 13 families. You may find the group nestled between Sabinyo Mountain and Mgahinga. The Hirwa family is one of the rare ones to get twins; the name means “Lucky One” in Japanese.

The Family of Bwenge Gorillas

For those seeking a more manageable trip, or if you are an old person, this is the best group to join; there are eleven of them and they congregate in the Visoke parts of the mountain. Silverback Bwenge, who had separated from his old pack, is now the leader of this new group that includes two females. The sudden deaths of six of his infants cast a shadow on the group. As far as hiking groups go, this one is simple, too.

The Family of Ugyende Gorillas

There are eleven individuals total, including one silverback, in this group. Their name, Ugyenda, means “on the move,” and that’s exactly what these nomadic people do—live and travel about the Mount Bisoke region. Because it is located high on the slopes of Mount Bisoke, this group offers a somewhat more challenging hike.

Titus and the Gorillas

The lineage of the group can be traced back to silverback Titus, who was born during the time that Dian Fossey was conducting her research at Karisoke Research Center. As the lone survivor of his family, he endured numerous hardships, including being taken in by another family at a young age. Eventually, he matured into a dominant silverback and formed his own group with other males, including Beetsme, and five females, who are now known as Titus’s descendants.

At the age of 35, Titus passed suddenly. He had 20 children, but they continued drifting apart as he got older. From Titus’s poor beginnings to the group’s current success, this is the most inspiring tale in Volcanoes National Park. If there is a scarcity of permissions or if there is an allowed special request, the group may be accessed for tracking reasons, but it is reserved for research purposes only.

Policies and Procedures for Gorilla Trekking
Following the acquisition of gorilla licenses, there are several requirements that must be followed by anybody interested in gorilla tracking in Rwanda. These regulations are as follows:

One more thing to remember before you begin gorilla tracking
The monitoring of gorillas is done in groups called trek families. Each family is visited by a group of eight people every day. This system is put in place to prevent humans from disturbing the gorillas and to lessen the likelihood that they may get illnesses that humans carry.

People who want to go gorilla tracking should make sure they’re well before they go. Since gorillas share so much DNA with humans, they’re more likely to get dangerous illnesses like the flu or a cough.

Verify that you are in possession of your identity papers and gorilla permission.

Gorilla tracking requires you to wash your hands first.

Tourists’ Guide to Gorilla Tracking in Rwanda
To ensure the well-being of mountain gorillas, a set of regulations and standards has been meticulously crafted. In addition to being very vulnerable to human illnesses and viruses, gorillas experience stress when there are an excessive number of visitors or when they are too near to them.

Keep in mind that these are wild creatures who will go to great lengths to safeguard their offspring. The only way for these apes to be healthy and live is if they are not disturbed while eating, sleeping, or interacting with other members of their own species.

First and foremost, visitors who are sick should get well before going gorilla tracking; otherwise, park employees have the right to refuse entry to anybody they suspect is carrying a sickness that might infect the primates.

(2) There is a daily limit of eight visits per gorilla group, and no two visitors from the same gorilla group may be monitored at the same time. This is to prevent the gorillas from becoming too excited and aggressive, which might lead to their attacking humans.

Thirdly, as a general rule, anybody who is physically and mentally competent of making the walk may undertake gorilla tracking if they are fifteen years old or older. A lot of kids are startled quickly and could act out if they encounter gorillas, which is discouraging because of all the childhood ailments.

RULE 4: No one may spend more than an hour in close proximity to the gorillas at any one time. This is due to behavioral, stress, and infection concerns, since gorillas are not able to be restrained to remain within the prescribed 7 meters.

5. Photography is permitted, however flash photography is prohibited. This is because it has the potential to shock or disturb the gorillas, which might lead them to become aggressive towards people.

RULE 6: Observers are asked to maintain a distance of seven meters from the gorillas. In the event that the gorillas approach closer, as is common with young and immature gorillas, they are urged to step back at least five meters. If you are unable to relocate, the rangers and wildlife personnel will provide you with instructions on what to do next.

The seventh rule is that visitors should keep to themselves so the gorillas may eat freely. In an attempt to defend their area, gorillas may attack at you if they see you dispersed about.

Gorillas, especially silverbacks, feel scared when you stand too near and are taller than them. Additionally, infant gorillas are readily enticed by people who are standing, so it’s best to sit or be on the porch if you observe gorillas.

Visitors should not point, lift their hands or arms, or stare at them because body language is crucial (RULE 9). Because gorillas rely so heavily on nonverbal cues, you can never be sure of the meaning of a sign or gesture you make.

The gorillas may be scared and feel threatened if you cut vegetation near to them, therefore it’s best not to do so (RULE 10). When cleaning sight vision, guides will give you their best advice on how to achieve so.

Rule 11: The guides will give you instructions on what to do if a silverback shows symptoms of charging at you, so don’t run away. They may use this to gauge your response or to determine whether you pose a danger.

Rule 15: You are not allowed to eat, drink, or smoke within 300 meters of the gorillas. This is because these activities may be disruptive and even harmful to the gorillas. Advice on where to eat will be given to those who have parked their lunches.

Regulation 13 states that all guests must maintain the utmost silence and use the whispering technique. Keep quiet if stinging nettles or Safari ants bite you. Keep your distance from gorillas if you scare them. You may study them even more closely if you remain silent.

Rule 14: When someone is sneezing or coughing, they should turn away from the person and cover their mouth and nose. Because of this, the gorillas are less likely to get airborne infections that might be deadly if they unknowingly came into contact with them.

The burial of all falcal items is required under Rule 15. It is possible to borrow a machete from the guides, dig a hole 30 cm deep, and then fill it. These are very contagious and may spread illness to many wild animals, including gorillas.

RULE 16: Clean up after yourself; don’t leave trash lying about the park; instead, put it in your pockets or bags and dispose of it when you leave the Forest. When animals consume them, not only do they cause damage, but they also degrade things in the ecosystem.