FAQ about Mountain Muhavura, Sabinyo and Gahinga hiking safaris

Can you tell me where the mountains of Muhavura, Gahinga, and Sabinyo are?

The renowned Mgahinga National Park has the majestic mountains of Sabinyo, Gahinga, and Muhavura, which are situated in the Kisoro area in southern Uganda. With its bordering national parks in Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as well as Uganda’s Bwindi Forest National Park, Mgahinga National Park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. It is also the smallest national park in Uganda. The mountains are bordered by Rwanda and are rather near to one another; from their peaks, you can see the stunning landscapes of Rwanda, Congo, and Uganda.

The best way to reach Gahinga, Sabinyo, and Mountain Muhavura?

It takes just four hours to travel from Kigali, Rwanda, to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where the mountain gorillas live, via the Chanika border crossing between Rwanda and Uganda. Departing from the airport or hotel in Kigali, you may have a city tour before crossing into the Kisoro area of Uganda, where you can stop for lunch and spend the night.

Another option is to drive the 9–10 hours from Entebbe or Kampala to Mgahinga National Park via the Kampala–Mbarara–Kisoro route. The route passes through many beautiful and interesting places, including plantations, the Equator line, terraced hills, rivers, lakes, swamps, and the kind and welcoming people of Uganda. Enjoyable road journeys are possible when your driver-guide stops at regular intervals for picture opportunity and lunch breaks.

Another alternative is to fly into Kisoro Airstrip from either Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip; the journey takes around two hours. The airstrip is just around 30 minutes away from the park headquarters. Daily scheduled flights are offered by Aerolink Uganda and other airlines, and charter flights are also an option. If you want an unforgettable adventure, we may personalize your vacation so that you can climb a volcano in Mgahinga National Park.

For hikers visiting Muhavura, Gahinga, and Sabinyo, where can they stay?

There are a variety of places to stay at Mgahinga National Park, which is conveniently located near the mountains. Located on the park’s periphery, most hotels have breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and mountains. A few examples of the lodges in the area include the five-star Gahinga Lodge, the mid-range Lake Chahafi Lodge, and the affordable Lake Muhele Lodge.

You may also choose to stay in one of the several hotels in Kisoro town, which is conveniently located within a half-hour drive of the park headquarters. Since it takes around an hour’s drive to Mgahinga National Park, some tourists choose to stay in lodges or tents in the Rushaga region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

What makes Mountain Hiking of Muhavura, Gahinga, and Sabinyo an ideal destination for a safari with Katland?

Amazing mountain trekking adventures in Uganda and around East Africa are available with Katland Safaris. Mountain Muhavura, Gahinga, and Sabinyo have all been the sites of our mountain climbing expeditions. We provide cheap packages and may even create custom tours if you contact us.

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 are interested in learning about the experiences of other travelers who have been with Katland Safaris for mountain trekking, you can see their reviews and ratings on safari bookings and trip advisor.

Uganda Primate National Parks reopen with strict SOPs

Procedures for Tracking Chimpanzees and Gorillas in Uganda

In order to prevent the spread of the virus, the Ugandan government has established standard operating procedures (SOPs) that visitors interested in seeing the primates must adhere to. These SOPs affect a wide range of primate species, including chimpanzees, mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and others.

At the designated briefing areas, personnel and guests are required to take their temperature and wash their hands or use hand sanitizer.
Once each tourist has been allocated a gorilla family to monitor, they will meet again in smaller groups of no more than eight for debriefing and briefing.
No tourist, employee, or porter will be permitted to track if they are found to be unwell during the briefing. Anyone exhibiting symptoms of the flu, as well as those claiming to have diarrhea, stomachaches, or malaria, falls into this category.
Masks are mandatory for all visitors, employees, and trackers.

No more than eight (8) visitors are permitted to accompany a gorilla group on any given day.
Each group of chimpanzees may only have six(6) visitors following them at once.
During this time, visitors to the park must maintain a minimum distance of 10 meters from the apes.
When possible, the designated UWA guides will keep a two-meter social distance between themselves and the visitors they are following.

Everyone in the party is asked to wash their hands one again before the gorilla and chimpanzee viewing begins.
In order to save the workload for the porters, travelers should only bring minimal equipment on their tracking adventures.
There have been reports of negative side effects from wearing masks for extended periods of time at high elevations, therefore tourists are encouraged to take regular pauses throughout the trip to breathe fresh air. Social distance must be firmly adhered to throughout these intervals.

In the event that a tourist or team member gets ill while on the field, UWA personnel are required to follow the standard procedures for medical evacuation and first assistance.
Recreational Opportunities in Uganda’s Primate National Parks
Follow the Trail of the Gorillas

Nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas call Bwindi home, and the park has welcomed tourists from every corner of the globe. We buy gorilla tracking permits from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) on behalf of our clients. The cost per person is 800 USD for non-residents, 700 USD for foreign residents, and 300,000 Uganda shillings for east African citizens. Permits must be booked in advance.

The Habituation Experience of Gorillas

When you participate in a Gorilla Habituation Experience, instead of the typical one-hour experience, you get to spend four hours in close proximity to mountain gorillas. Because it provides a chance to learn more about mountain gorillas, this experience is one of a kind. It is suggested to schedule at least 3-4 months in advance for the gorilla tracking experience, which involves a party of 4 guests following a specific group of semi-habituated gorillas.

Locating and acclimating to golden monkeys
You may find this activity in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Each individual must pay USD140 for a habituation permit in order to monitor golden monkeys, and USD100 for a tracking permit. Upon arriving at the park headquarters, you may make reservations for both activities.

Hikes in the great outdoors
While you’re at the Camp, they can set you up with nature hikes in the woods. Join a local guide as they lead you into the forest, where you can see a wide variety of flora and fauna, including monkeys, birds, and trees. A guided trek to Bwindi wetland and a waterfall are also part of the package.

Cultural contacts with the Batwa Pygmies
Before the advent of gorilla tourism and conservation efforts, the Batwa were the native inhabitants of the area. Outside of the parks, you may find Batwa villages that sometimes hold performances showcasing their art, language, dances, beliefs, and customs.

Can I go on my gorilla and chimpanzee expedition right now?

Although we are still waiting for the airport to open for international travelers, it is now feasible to conduct your gorilla and chimpanzee trip because Uganda’s primate national parks are open. Visitors from within Uganda may visit Bwindi Forest National Park to embark on a hike with mountain gorillas or Kibale Forest National Park to see chimpanzees.

The widespread spread of the COVID-19 virus meant that many safaris had to cancel their plans, and many tourists who had planned to visit Uganda were unable to do so because of the quarantines and other travel restrictions. Since many people were unable to go to Uganda at this era, their licenses to participate in primate activities, such as gorilla, chimpanzee, and golden monkey tracking, had already expired.

Considering that the worldwide epidemic had already begun when travel was suspended, Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Uganda Wildlife Authority was had to ease its rescheduling policy, allowing several travelers who had already made reservations to transfer their journeys to future dates when travel is once again safe.

How the COVID-19 Pandemic Affected Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking Permits Will Be Refunded or Cancelled
In the event that the COVID-19 pandemic disrupts the plans of those who have already purchased permits to visit gorilla and chimpanzee habitats, Up until December 2022, individuals have the opportunity to reschedule twice, either forwards or backwards, at whatever date they want, based on availability, according to the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Due to the recent opening of the Gorilla Habituation Experience, Chimpanzee tracking, Golden Monkey tracking, and Gorilla tracking to businesses, permits may be rescheduled to dates around 2020 if originally intended for 2021. To get all the information you need, including how to contact us, go here.

Filming with gorillas and chimpanzees has also picked back up in Uganda.

The reopening of Uganda’s primate national parks has made it feasible to shoot chimpanzees and mountain gorillas in the country. Among the most thrilling adventure activities is filming gorillas and chimpanzees in Uganda. This will allow you to learn about these big apes and raise awareness about the need to protect them. Bwindi Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are two locations in Uganda where mountain gorillas are filmed.

Kubale Forest, Budongo Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park’s Kyambura Gorge, and Murchison Falls National Park are among the locations used to film Chimpanzees. In order to shoot in Uganda’s national parks with primates like mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, you must first get the necessary permits. Please get in touch with us so that we may assist you in obtaining the necessary documentation to shoot Chimpanzees and Mountain Gorillas in Uganda.

New photographing and filming fees were instituted by the Uganda Wildlife Authority for all Ugandan national parks, including those protecting primates. The Uganda Wildlife Authority has introduced new filming costs for 2020–2022, which went into effect on June 1, 2020. These fees consist of 40% of any activity charge and 10% for monitoring, which is to cover the cost of keeping an eye on all filming activities and any potential harm that may occur in a particular park.

Each member of a film crew is required to pay $800 for the gorilla permit, with an additional $280 serving as 40% of the permit. This amount covers the ability to film the mountain gorillas for one hour during their encounter in Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks. Those interested in shooting mountain gorillas for four hours in Bwindi Forest National Park would need to pay $1500 for the gorilla habituation permit and $700 as 40% of the permit.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority will collect 40% of the fees for chimpanzee permissions in Kibale Forest National Park and chimpanzee permits in Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park in order to approve chimpanzee films in these locations. You will need to pay for the chimpanzee licenses for the regions of interest and the 40% monitoring cost separately, just as when filming gorillas.

While shooting in Uganda during the current COVID-19 pandemic, everyone on the set must adhere to the standard operating procedures and take the necessary measures to avoid contracting the virus, as mandated by the Ugandan government.

The GORILLA BABY BOOM IN BWINDI, which follows the lives of gorilla families in Uganda’s Bwindi Forest, is now filming its fifth season and features the birth of a fifth baby in as many weeks.

Within the last six weeks, five baby gorillas have been born.

Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has achieved yet another amazing milestone. The most recent addition to the park’s newborn gorilla population is Buhoma, the fifth in as many weeks. The Rushegura gorilla family now has 18 members, including this youngster that was born to Adult Female Ruterana. With this birth, the total number of babies born in the Bwindi forest in the last six weeks reaches five.

The Rushegura family, who have been fortunate enough to have numerous children this year, were also observed giving birth in the park’s southern section. In April 2020, two mountain gorilla infants were born in the Muyambi and Nshongi groups in the Rushaga area. In contrast, the Muyambi tribe welcomed their first tourists in 2019. The family consists of six individuals. Following the tragic loss of Rafiki, a silverback in the Nkuringo area, several remarkable events transpired.

A debt of gratitude is due to the Bwindi and Uganda Wildlife Authority conservationists. Are you thinking of shooting monkeys in Uganda? For the last eight years, our Ugandan firm, Film Crew Fixers, has provided assistance to production firms and filmmaking companies throughout East Africa. With the help of our expert crew of local fixers and driver guides, we can take care of any fixer service that you may need. We have the necessary relationships with various service providers and government authorities to expedite the processing of accreditation and filming permissions. Kindly reach out to us at this location.

Planning Your Visit to Uganda to See Gorillas During the COVID-19 Pandemic

With Katland Safaris on your side, booking your gorilla permits in Uganda online is a breeze and won’t cause any worry or hassle. With over 300 reviews on TripAdvisor, Katland Safaris has shown themselves time and time again as the go-to destination for customized safaris.

A heads up, though: permits need prior booking, which means you’ll also need to secure your flights and lodging. It is highly recommended to book your safari in advance and provide a modest deposit to ensure all of your services, since permits are often in great demand, flights must be verified, and lodges may not be available.

Ideal Season to View Ugandan Primates

The pleasant weather in Uganda allows visitors to view and hike among primates at any time of year. If you are planning a trip to Uganda to see gorillas or chimpanzees, you should do it in the dry months of June, July, August, September, December, January, and February.

When planning your Ugandan gorilla and chimpanzee trek, why not work with Katland Safaris?

Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are all part of Katland Safaris’ incredible gorilla trekking adventures. Get in touch with us here for reduced packages and customized safaris; we’re prepared to adhere to all established SOPs to guarantee the safety of our customers when they travel in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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. You may read about other people’s experiences on safari bookings and trip advisor, where Katland Safaris has a lot of positive ratings.

How to reschedule Gorilla habituation permits

Concerning the Habituation Experience of Gorillas

The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda is the only place where gorilla habitatuation may be experienced. Seeing the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is an unforgettable and once in a lifetime event. The term “gorilla habitatuation experience” refers to a method of socializing wild mountain gorillas with humans via repeated visits from researchers, guides, and tourists.

The habituation process for gorillas might take anywhere from two to three years. They get to know each gorilla better and get insight into its unique habits, including how it moves, feeds, and lives. As the gorillas get used to the researchers, they are eventually given names. Researchers will bring in a few humans, including scientists and guides, to see the mountain gorillas as part of a practice run once they are certain the animals can journey.

Daily, between the Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, gorillas undergo habituation. The experience begins with a 7:00 a.m. lecture on what visitors should do to help the habituated gorillas. The hike, which might last an hour, half a day, or even a whole day depending on the whereabouts of the gorillas, is an activity in which only four people per day are permitted to accompany researchers and guides.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority, which oversees all of Uganda’s conservation areas, launched the gorilla habituation experience in 2014 for people who wanted to spend more time watching gorillas in their natural habitat rather than trekking them. Guests could spend up to four hours with the primates during this experience.

Regarding the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Southern Uganda is home to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, which spans the districts of Kanungu and Kisoro. The Virunga conservation area is near by, and it borders the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The park was designated as a Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1994. It is one of the oldest woods in Africa. More than 400 plant species call Bwindi Impenetrable National area home.

The area is also home to 150 animals, including many primates, such as the world-famous gorillas, chimpanzees, baboons, forest elephants, and antelopes. Tourists first came to Uganda to see gorillas in Bwindi Forest. The park is home to over 500 gorillas—more than half of the world’s total population—and 19 habituated groups, where visitors can participate in mountain gorilla trekking and gorilla habituation experiences in the southern part of the park, between the Nkuringo and Rushaga Sectors.

Methods for rescheduling the habituation permits for gorillas.

If you would want to rearrange your gorilla habituation permit in Uganda to coincide with your preferred trip dates, Katland Safaris can easily do so. To make the application process easier for our customers, we often send letters to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) on their behalf, outlining the reasons for the rescheduling and providing necessary documentation.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority is flexible in its policy to let you reschedule your already-purchased permit to new dates in the event that you need to do so due to illness, the loss of a loved one, financial demands, or any other cause. If you would want to change the dates of the gorilla occupancy permits, you must first pay for them in full.

When is the best time to reschedule the gorilla habitat permit?

We need you to choose a day and then inform us of it. Then, we’ll see whether the permits are available for that date. During the busy season, most dates may sell out quickly, so checking availability can help you apply for times that aren’t completely sold out. The Uganda Wildlife Authority would not reschedule your appointment to a different day if the one you requested is already full.

Any time between the rescheduling and two weeks before the journey date, a reschedule might be approved. We will assist you in rescheduling all of your services to reflect the new dates that you have chosen to reschedule your permits. This includes changing the dates that you will be staying at the lodges. Simply let Katland Safaris know when you have decided to reschedule your permits, and we will take care of the rest.

Access to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for Gorilla Habituation Permits

In Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, you may purchase a gorilla permit for the same amount as a Habituation permit in Uganda; but, with the latter, you get four hours with the gorillas instead of only one. The cost of the gorilla habituation licenses is $1,500 for non-residents, $1,000 for foreigners, and 750,000 Ugandan Shillings for citizens of East Africa. Depending on availability, Katland Safaris can assist you with booking and securing the permit for the day of your choice, along with all the services necessary for your gorilla expedition.

Get in touch with us regarding the dates and details of your trek, and we’ll check the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s online system for permit availability. If permits are available, we’ll send you an invoice to pay for them. If they aren’t, you can choose another date that does have availability.

We will confirm your journey and email you a copy of the receipt with booking ID after we receive payment. After that, we will arrange and get your permits from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Booking months in advance for your selected date is highly recommended due to the high demand for the gorilla habituation permits, which are restricted to four per day.

Guidelines for Habituation Activities with Gorillas

There are a lot of restrictions that tourists must observe before and after a gorilla trek in Uganda, just like any other tourist activity. We have a responsibility to protect these endangered gorillas for the sake of future generations, and although there may be some changes to these protocols throughout time, they are generally as follows:

• A valid gorilla habituation permit is required of all visitors according to the norms and regulations of gorilla habituation. Permits to habituated gorillas must be reserved in advance and are only valid on a certain day. A valid gorilla habituation permit is required for participation in this adventure. The Uganda Wildlife Authority offers four-hour gorilla habituation licenses for $1500.00 USD.

• One must be fifteen years old or older to take part in the gorilla habituation experience. The minimal age for gorilla habituation, similar to that of gorilla trekking, is fifteen years old or older in order to prevent inexperienced participants from acting like children. You can never tell how kids would act when they get to see gorillas, according to experts. Additionally, mountain gorillas are susceptible to contagious infections that disproportionately affect children under the age of fifteen. The Uganda Wildlife Authority takes this matter very seriously and may want to see your birth certificate if they are still uncertain.

• To preserve the natural ecology, talk quietly and don’t make a lot of noise when you explore the forest, which is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. You can better see the forest’s various wildlife, including as the birds, primates, and mammals that call Bwindi Impenetrable National Park home, if you keep your voice quiet.

• Preserve the natural environment by avoiding leaving trash or empty plastic bottles lying about in parks or on trails. Leave rubbish in the bins provided or put it in your bag.

• While traveling to the gorillas’ habitat, be sure to constantly listen to and follow the directions of your guide or researchers. This aids in maintaining order throughout the whole process.

• All visitors are required by habituation standards to maintain a distance of seven to five meters from mountain gorillas. This will prevent mountain gorillas from attacking you and will also lessen the likelihood that you may infect them.

• Keep your hands away from the gorillas while they’re habituating; don’t use a flash while taking pictures of them; and don’t eat or drink anything when they’re around you since they may fume.

Researchers or your guide may arrange for a toilet or dig a hole for you if you feel the urge to relieve yourself. Thank you for your cooperation in staying behind and seeking medical assistance if you feel unwell before going gorilla habituation. The Uganda Wildlife Authority may arrange for an alternative experience if needed.

Steps to reach Bwindi for a habituated gorilla tracking expedition.

You can reach Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southern Uganda by car or plane if you want to embark on a gorilla habituation adventure. Aerolink Uganda, a highly regarded aviation company, offers daily flights to Bwindi and Kisoro Airstrip; the journey takes around one hour.

From Entebbe International Airport/Kajjansi Airstrip, you may drive to your reserved accommodation. You may also choose to drive from Kampala/Entebbe to Bwindi; the journey takes about 8 or 9 hours, but it’s well worth it since you get to see the countryside, the Equator, and the Igongo Cultural Museum in Mbarara.

Our Rwandan capital, Kigali, is a great starting point for a road trip to Uganda, where you can see the genocide monument and then cross into Uganda at the Katuna border to see gorillas in their natural habitat. Before stopping for lunch in Kabale, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at overlooks and snap photos, such as Lake Bunyonyi and Twin Lakes.

In contrast to the 8 to 9 hours it takes to travel from Entebbe or Kampala to Bwindi, the trip from Kigali only takes about four or five hours. You may customize your gorilla habituation experience anyhow you want by selecting from all available choices.

Where may one stay on a habituation safari with gorillas?

Lodges, hotels, and campgrounds abound in the Rushaga and Nkuringo districts, perfect for your gorilla habituation activities. Prices and service levels vary across the board, from inexpensive to extravagant. Safaris with Katland can assist you in reserving the room of your choice, If you’re looking for a mid-range, luxurious, or affordable place to stay in the Rushaga area, consider Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Four Gorilla Lodge, or Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge.

There are two types of gorilla lodges in Nkuringo: one for those on a tighter budget and one for those want to splurge, the Clouds Mountain gorilla resort. Lodges are best reserved in advance, particularly during peak season, when they may reach capacity.

Re: safaris with Katland

The Ugandan travel company Katland Safaris has its headquarters in the town of Entebbe. A Ugandan family owns and operates Katland Safaris. Our company has been providing eco-friendly vacations and once-in-a-lifetime adventures to every country in East Africa for over 15 years. The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) has officially recognized us as a member of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO).

Booking your gorilla permits and safari from Kigali is made easier because to our solid and long-standing working connection with UWA (Uganda Wildlife Authority). Safari reservations and TripAdvisor both give Katland Safaris great reviews. If you are planning a future trip to any of the five East African countries—Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Kenya, or Tanzania—please get in touch with Katland Safaris. Whatever you’re hoping to accomplish during your gorilla habituation, we can make it happen.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking Countries in Africa

Lake Mutanda Resort.

A moderately priced retreat, Lake Mutanda Resort The resort provides cozy rooms with breathtaking views from its perch on a peninsula in Lake Mutanda, under the Virunga Mountains. Those seeking a magical spot in nature for an African holiday, whether they are gorilla trackers, lake loungers, volcano climbers, bird enthusiasts, or similar interests, will find it to be an ideal base.

Price List for Rooms

This resort on the shores of Lake Mutanda is large and well designed. The cottages are furnished with comfy mattresses and mosquito nets, and they come with a private balcony and an en-suite toilet. The rooms range from single to triple, with options for double, twin, or family. In 2020 and 2021, the accommodation prices already include VAT per room per night. With a full board meal plan, a single room costs $210, a double or twin room costs $295, and a triple or family room costs $400.

The lakemutanda resort’s entry instructions

From Kampala or Entebbe, you may take a 9- or 10-hour road drive to the Kisoro area. From Kisoro town, the resort is a 45-minute scenic drive away. Along the journey, you will witness the stunning countryside, the Equator, locals, and stores. A shorter route, over the Cyanika Border between Uganda and Rwanda, would also get you to the resort from Kigali; the journey would take about five or six hours and would be filled with interesting sights.

Another option is to fly into Kisoro Airstrip, which is very near to the resort, from Entebbe International Airport/Kajjansi. There are domestic flights every day, with morning and afternoon itineraries offered by domestic airline firms. We can also arrange safaris to other parts of the park.

Things to Do Near Lake Mutanda Resort Visit Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks for Gorilla Trekking

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga National Park, Lake Mutanda Resort, and Scheduled Flights: A Comprehensive Guide
Follow the trail of the gorillas in the impenetrable rainforest of Bwindi
You must not miss the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hike with the gorillas while at Lake Mutanda Resort.

Thanks to the resort’s convenient location, guests have the option to hike gorillas in either Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park, depending on the availability of permits. To plan your gorilla trek, get your permits, and reserve your room at Lake Mutanda Resort, contact Katland Safaris.

Mgahinga National Park: a haven for golden monkeys

Staying at Lake Mutanda, adjacent to Mgahinga National Park, allows you the opportunity to witness these magnificent, uncommon primates in their natural habitat. You may hike with endangered golden monkeys, who are found only in Mgahinga National Park. In addition to the guide price and park admission fee, the golden monkey permit adds USD100 to each person’s trip cost.

The journey to Mutanda Islands

You may plan this excursion during your free time at the resort. The boat ride to Mutanda Island, the largest and only inhabited island, takes two or three hours. After seeing the burial site of Kyangushu, you will return to the resort. Behold the breathtaking panoramas of the Congo border, Lake Mulehe, and the thick Bwindi forest. If you want to save expenses and have more fun on your excursion, you may join forces with other Resort residents.

Encounter on the Batwa Trail

An essential part of any trip to Uganda is learning about the indigenous Batwa pygmy people. The Batwa are a native people that lived in the forest before to their forced relocation, where they helped preserve the area’s flora and fauna. Their language, customs, dances, and way of life may all be better understood and appreciated. Arrange this encounter at the Resort or via Katland safaris in advance; a nominal cost applies.

In Mgahinga, you may go hiking on a volcano.
For those interested in mountain climbing in Uganda, staying at Lake Mutanda Resort offers volcanic trekking, one of the most adventurous activities.

Hiking here is risk-free and entertaining, and you may learn a lot about other cultures and time periods. Mountain climbing on Mgahinga Volcano is among the most picturesque hiking destinations in Uganda. From here, you have the option to climb Sabinyo, Muhavura, and Gahinga, three of the six Virunga mountains in the Rwandan, DRC, and Ugandan mountain chains, which are renowned for mountaineering and gorilla trekking.

Mountain Hiking Safaris Fact sheet.

Most people think of wildlife safaris, gorilla tracking, chimpanzees, and golden monkeys when they think of Uganda. However, only people who have heard rave reviews about Mountain Hiking Safaris book a package here. Anyone planning a hiking trip should know that Uganda boasts some of the world’s best hiking trails. Mount Rwenzori, Elgon, Gahinga, Muhavura, and Sabinyo are just a few of the well-known mountains in the area that provide excellent trekking opportunities.

Elgon Mountain.

The Elgon Ranges, a group of five major mountains in eastern Uganda, are home to the country’s tallest peak, Wagagagai, at 4,321 meters; the next highest point, Sudek, at 4,302 meters, is on the Kenyan border; Koitobos, at 4,222 meters, is on the other side of the continent; Mubiyi, at 4,211 meters, is in Uganda; and Masaba, at 4,161 meters, is also in Uganda.

The volcano last erupted over 24 million years ago, making it the oldest extinct volcano in the East African region. The region, which spans 1,279 square kilometers across both Uganda and Kenya, was gazetted as a national park in 1968 on the Kenyan side and in 1992 on the Ugandan side.

Ascending Mountain Elgon, one of the top Ugandan hiking destinations, may take days and provide you breathtaking views of the world’s biggest caldera, measuring 7 square kilometers in circumference, and a variety of flora types. At its peak, the mountain presents a formidable obstacle to hikers, but it is also a rewarding and exciting experience.

What to view when trekking Mount Elgon.

If you are planning a hiking trip in Uganda, you absolutely must stop by this place because of all the amazing sights you will view along the way.

Visit to Sipi Falls. Anyone traveling through eastern Uganda must stop at these stunning waterfalls. Not only are they beautiful to look at, but the sound of the water crashing against the rocks creates an awe-inspiring atmosphere. Additionally, there is a trail that leads to the top of the falls, where you can explore the caves. You may begin your journey to Mount Elgon from this location by following a certain path.

Plant life. Mountain flora includes open woods, bamboo forests, grassy heathers, flowery heathers, rocks, and Afro-montane zones. Since hiking across different climates isn’t something most people do on a daily basis, it might be an amazing experience for hikers.

This is the caldera. The 7-square-kilometer crater of Mount Elgon is the biggest on Earth; hikers who have the opportunity to ascend the mountain may see not only the caldera but also the peaks below.

Getting there.

The park is situated 235 kilometers east of Kampala in Uganda; getting there involves taking a route via the cities of Jinja and Mbale to Kapchorwa, from which hikers may begin their ascent of the mountain. This excursion is best done in a 4×4 vehicle.

The ideal time to go is…

Anyone interested in the trek may undertake it at any time of year, but for the most lively and picturesque experience, we recommend going between December and March or June and August, when the weather is drier. Regardless of the season, Katland Safaris is committed to helping you plan your trip and is accessible 24/7 to do so.

The mountain range.

The Rwenzori Mountain Ranges

Located in the Kasese region in western Uganda, near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, this mountain range has a snow-capped summit at 5,109 meters and is part of Mount Rwenzori. Among Africa’s mountains, this one ranks third in height.

The Eastern Rift Valley is home to Mount Rwenzori. Glaciers atop the snow-capped peak contribute to the Nile River’s water supply. Margherita, at 5,109 meters, is the third-highest mountain in Africa; other summits in Rwenzori include 4,890-meter Mount Speke and 4,843-meter Mount Baker. The 1,000-square-kilometer national park around Mount Rwenzori, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, was gazetted in 1994.

Our experts at Katland Safaris are well-versed in creating customized itineraries for customers, and we have extensive knowledge of Rwenzori National Park and trekking in particular. In such case, feel free to ask away.

Observations made while trekking up Mount Rwenzori.

From its base to its peak, the mountain is covered with a variety of flora kinds. Animals such as monkeys, elephants, and zebras inhabit the Savannah grassland, which extends from an altitude of 3,500 to 5,500 meters. In this area, you may find lianas, ferns, banana plantations, grassland, and rainforests. Next comes a bamboo forest, which stretches from 5,500 to 9,500 feet in elevation.

After that comes heath and moorland, which go up to 15,000 feet. Then comes the Alpine Zone, which begins at 15,000 feet and continues to 14,500 feet in elevation. Finally, at the very top, you can see glaciers that reach 16,763 feet in height, at the Margherita peak.

Getting there.

From Kampala, you may reach Rwenzori Mountain simply by using one of two routes: either drive via Fort Portal to Kasese, then connect to the park, a 369-kilometer journey; or, alternatively, travel through Mbarara to Kasese, a 421-kilometer drive.

A 4×4 safari vehicle is recommended for the drive since the roads include gravel and highly rough stretches, as well as sections of asphalt and murrum.

An alternative is to take a 1.5-hour flight from Entebbe to Kasese, where you may connect to the park and begin your 40-minute drive to the mountain’s base. Areolink and FlyUganda are only two of the many airlines that provide daily flights to this area. Contact us and we will see what flights are available and set up a package for you if you would want us to arrange internal flights.

The ideal time to go is…

Although the Rwenzori Hiking trip can be enjoyed at any time of year, the driest months—June to August and then December to February—are ideal because the roads are less muddy and there is less likelihood of rain than in the wetter months. This is in addition to the fact that the hike itself is less muddy and more likely to occur during these times.

Mount Virunga.

The Albertine Rift Valley is home to these, which can be found bordering the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda. Mount Nyamurangira and Mount Nyirangongo are active volcanoes in the Democratic Republic of the Congo; the other seven volcanoes in the Virunga ranges—Mounts Karisimbi, Visoke, Mikeno, Muhabura, Sabinyo, and Gahinga—are all dormant. At 4,507 meters, Mount Karisimbi is tallest among them all.

Today we will examine Mount Sabinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhabura in Uganda. In the Kisoro area, you may find them right on the border of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda. Three mountains stand at 4,157 meters: Mount Sabinyo, 3674 meters, and Mount Gahinga, 3474 meters. These have long been recognized as excellent hiking locations, and hikers may easily complete the ascent and descent in a single day.

Getting there.

The Kisoro Distract provides access to these mountain ranges in western Uganda for tourists beginning their journey from Entebbe, a distance of around 540 miles. Kigali, the Rwandan capital, is just 170 kilometers from the airport; crossing the border to go there will provide you access to these highlands as well.

I am the minimum age to go mountain hiking.

You must be at least 15 years old to participate in mountain hiking safaris in Uganda. Additionally, you should be in good physical condition and free of any heart conditions, as these activities can be particularly taxing on people with preexisting conditions.

Gear for outdoor adventures.

Packing Lightweight Hiking Clothes for Mountains.

Silk, quick-drying, moisture-wicking garments, and long-sleeved shirts are ideal travel companions. This will shield you from the sun and reduce the amount of clothing you need to bring along, which is proportional to the number of days you have.

Typically, you should pack enough clothing to last for half of the tour’s duration. Trousers that are both lightweight and flexible are essential for tracking. Additionally, it is easier for you to carry if it is lightweight and requires less effort. It would be ideal if they could withstand rain as well.

Mountain Boots

If you’re going on a hiking vacation, you must need these boots. They’re designed to handle steep terrain, climb stairs with ease, and traverse wet terrain with ease. Hiking boots are a great way to keep your feet cool and dry in hot weather, so be sure to choose a pair that can withstand rain and muddy terrain.

Flat shoes

Put on a new pair of sandals so your feet may relax and breathe after a day of trekking and moving about. These are used after a bath and while resting by a campfire before going to bed.

Weatherproof outerwear

Bring a raincoat to protect your belongings and photographic gear from the heavy rain that falls often in Uganda. You never know when the rain can strike when you’re trekking. In Uganda, you may purchase one in any town if you happen to be without any.

Trading equities

You can’t wear shoes without them, and they’re essential for soaking up all the sweat your feet generate. Please be sure to bring along a few of these. In order to avoid having stinky feet and to regularly changing them. Bring as much gear as you like on your journey; just remember that it gets chilly at night and that you’ll need warm socks.

Carrying case

Since most trips last several days, you’ll need a sturdy backpack to consolidate all of your belongings. They can hold a lot of them and are simple to transport.

Tents and sleeping bags

It is highly recommended to bring a sleeping bag and a tent for the night on most of the walks since there aren’t many places to stay and the weather may be rather harsh, especially in the Rwenzori.

Little Bite

Due to the limited availability of food throughout the climb, it is recommended to bring snacks to keep you going. Make sure to pack enough to last the whole length of your trip. When the meal isn’t quite done, they will provide you a much-needed energy boost to keep going.

a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

To protect yourself from heat and sunburn, they are essential. Due to the fact that sun exposure causes skin issues for many individuals.

Water purification system

You should bring a water purifier and filter to filter the water before drinking it since, with limited water supplies, you will likely consume water from streams flowing down the mountain.

Hand protection

An essential item for any hiking excursion, they will keep you warm and protected from rocks and scrapes; if you forget to bring some, you can easily get them in Uganda before you go.

Beam light

When venturing out from your tent at night, you’ll need a headlamp or flashlight since there is no power in these areas. If your trek requires you to get up early in the morning to cover distance between destinations, this will be a lifesaver.

Hand sanitizer.

If you tend to acquire a runny nose in the winter or perspire much when hiking, this will come in handy. Additionally, you should never be without one, regardless of your destination.

Emergency medical supplies

Hiking expeditions are notoriously risky, and accidents like cuts and dislocations of joints are all too prevalent. Remember to include all the necessary items for your first aid kit, including bandages, tablets, moleskin, pain relievers, and drugs for any difficulties that may emerge due to the high altitude.

Several spare memory cards and batteries for the camera

Having wonderful memories is the only way to genuinely say a vacation was enjoyable, and there’s no penalty for carrying whichever camera you choose on your trip. There are plenty of picturesque spots to stop and take pictures along the route, so bring along an additional memory card and some spare batteries—there isn’t much power up there—because you’re free to bring your photography gear.

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.

Scheduled flights to Mgahinga National Park

Organizing flying safaris to Murchison Falls National Park

FAQ about Mountain Elgon Hiking Safaris

In what time does it take to climb Mount Elgon to its peak?

how much it would cost to hike Elgon.

At each trailhead, there is a UWA office where you may get a hiking permit. Hiking fees, transportation, lodging, guide fees, and other services add up to the total cost of a hiking trip to Mountain Elgon. Get an all-inclusive package designed just for you by Katland Safaris.

Methods for reserving hiking safaris to Mount Elgon

The process of reserving a trekking safari in Mount Elgon is identical to that of reserving any safari in Uganda; the only difference is the demand. Hiking is a year-round activity, so scheduling is a breeze. Just tell us when you want to go, how much time you have, and what you’re interested in, and we’ll create a package just for you. In order to secure your hiking permits, cooks, potters, lodging, transportation, and all other services for your trip in advance, we will send you an invoice for payment after you confirm your booking with us.

Here at Katland Safaris, we offer a variety of travel choices to Mountain Elgon National Park, ranging from budget-friendly to ultra-luxury. Check out our popular itineraries below to see the Eastern region of Uganda and walk up Mount Elgon. Just visit our website, tell us what you’re interested in, how much money you have, and how much time you have, and we’ll tailor a tour to fit your requirements.

When is the best time to plan a hike up Mount Elgon?

Mountain Elgon National Park: Directions

Accommodations around Mount Elgon

Is climbing Mount Elgon a safe idea?

For your Mountain Elgon Hiking Safari, why should you choose Katland Safaris?

Organizing a flying safari to Kidepo National Park.

Are you planning a trip to a prime national park in Uganda to see exotic animals? Our professional safari advisers are accessible 24/7 and will respond to your query within 30 minutes to assist you create a personalized package that fits your needs and your budget here at Katland Safaris.

You should find a firm with expertise in destination management if you want to arrange a flying safari to Kidepo National Park. Popular with fly-in safaris, the amount of time visitors spend in Kidepo Valley National Park depends on their interests and the amount of days they have.

Upon Kidepo Valley National Park

The park stretches all the way to the northeastern corner of Uganda, on the border with Sudan and Kenya to the south. Overlooking Mount Molongore, Narus Valley, and the seasonal Kidepo Valley River, the park’s 1442 square kilometers are mostly covered by savannah grassland.

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.

In 1958, the park was gazetted as a national park in an effort to curb poaching and tsetse fly control efforts. Some of the displaced peoples, like the Ik and Karamajong, made the journey to the planned relocation locations, while others fled to neighboring Kenya and Sudan to escape the widespread starvation that hit the area.

Over the years, the park has flourished, becoming home to more than 450 bird species and 80 animal species, 28 of which are native to the area. This makes it an ideal safari destination for people of all interests.

Flights and when to travel.

Aerolink and Kampala Executive Aviation are now the most dependable of the several Kidepo operators. Scheduled flights depart from Entebbe and arrive in Kidepe Valley National Park in about an hour. The scheduled departure time for all flights is 15:30 hours, and passengers are required to check in one hour before to takeoff.

As a connecting flight, the plane may make a stop at Murchison Falls National Park’s pakuba or bugungu airstrips to collect passengers on route to Kidepo Valley National Park. You should also know that in order to take off from Kidepo, every scheduled aircraft requires a minimum of 4 passengers. If your party is less than 4, you will be required to pay for additional seats. They will always keep you informed if there is a weather delay that might affect your flight schedule.

Any trip you plan should be structured around the flight schedule to Kidepo Valley National Park, which is every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. Depending on your trip length, you may spend three, four, five, or even more days in the park.

If you can afford to charter a flight, you may travel to and from whatever date you like. However, there is an alternative to charted flights that does come with a fee.

Where can I stay?

Kidepo Valley National Park has a wide range of affordable accommodations, the most of which are within an hour’s drive of the airstrip. Apoka Safari Lodge is a great alternative for anyone seeking a luxurious stay in the park. It offers the greatest service and provides great value for your money.

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.

Organizing the journey.

Since there aren’t many service providers for flying safaris to Kidepo National Park, you’ll need to plan ahead if you want to make sure you don’t miss out on essentials like flights and lodging. That’s where Katland Safaris comes in; they’ll make sure you have everything you need for your trip, including domestic flights, lodging, transfer vehicles, and tour guides.

The optimal time to go on a trip.

Though visitors may take use of the park’s facilities year-round, the driest months—July, August, September, and December–January—are ideal for a visit. For one, the heat brings out the park’s few water sources, making them ideal viewing spots for wildlife.

Two, the roads are dry and much easier to navigate than they are during the wet season, when mud and slippery surfaces make for a less pleasant experience.

Tourists should not hurry through their time at Kidepo National area; rather, they should allow at least four days to fully experience the area and see all that it has to offer. The likelihood of seeing cheetahs and leopards in Kidepo National Park is much lower than in other national parks.

No matter the season, a 4×4 Landcruiser is always a good choice for tours to Kidepo Valley National area because of the terrain and character of the area.

The Kidepo Valley National Park must-do attractions.
Drives for games.

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—and one of the most well-known and consistently satisfying national parks 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.

Events across cultures.
The Karamajong people are herders and nomadic people who live in close proximity to the park. Visiting this area is a great way to immerse yourself in their culture. Cattle herders, they live in temporary settlements called manyattas and go about grazing their animals.

They take great delight in tending to big herds of cattle, which are a status symbol and a sign of their abundant fortune. In traditional marriage rituals, this animal is also utilized as the bride price. Visit Kidepo for a day and immerse yourself in the local culture; doing so will give you a taste of Ugandan life and traditions. The money you pay will go toward building boreholes so the locals can access clean water, which is a major concern due to the region’s semi-arid climate.

Those peeps. They are the original inhabitants of the mountain ranges of Mount Molongore and remain in the northern regions. With a population of few thousands and a culture on the brink of extinction, they were forcibly removed when Kidepo Valley National Park was designated a national historic site by UNESCO.

They subsisted mostly on hunting, gathering fruits and vegetables, and tending to beehives. There are a lot of adolescent weddings, and meeting one’s fundamental survival requirements is a prerequisite for finding a spouse. They see having offspring as a divine gift and practice polygamy.

Those who want to visit the village should bring gifts and presents to help alleviate their poverty, and they should also hire an indigenous guide to accompany them on the tour.

Exploring the Birds
It is easier to see birds in this park because to the terrine and flora, and the park is home to a wide range of bird species. The park is a great place for birdwatchers to go since it is home to over 450 different kinds of birds. Ostrich, secretary bird, small green bee-eater, Kori bustard, pygmy falcon, and Karamoja apalis are some of the species to keep an eye out for. Notable among Kidepo’s 58 bird species are owls, crews, and raptors, such as the Pygmy Falcon, Egyptian vulture, and Verreaux’s eagle.

Guided nature hikes in the park and a visit to the hot springs are two more noteworthy things that you may undertake if you have the time.

Re: safaris with Katland
Local firm Katland Safaris has been running tours in Uganda for 10 years, so they know the ins and outs of package tours in the country. Because of our expertise, we are the ideal choice to plan this excursion for you. Get in touch with us, and we promise to respond to your inquiry within 30 minutes.