15 Frequently Asked Questions About Gorilla Habituation Experience.

List fifteen frequently asked questions about gorilla habituation experience. Following the half-habituated gorillas to assist them get acquainted with human presence is known as gorilla habituation—not a term from dictionaries. Beginning with the American anthropologist Dian Fossey’s methods for safeguarding the mountain gorillas, Gorilla habituation developed from

Originally the activity of researchers, gorilla habituation in Uganda was extended to visitor booking in 2014 by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Early rising at around 07030hrs marks the beginning of gorilla habituation to meet them as they de-nest, track them to their feeding ground, and enjoy their daily routines.

You should be aware that mountain gorillas are half-habituated and so their wild behavior is not yet under control. When you find them with other researchers, you have four hours of monitoring, documenting their behavior, noting how each unique gorilla spends its day and so much more.

longer than one hour permitted with the mountain gorillas during gorilla trekking, Gorilla habituation offers you longer time with them. Being a new hobby raises some of the many questions concerning gorilla habituation.

What is habituation in a gorilla?

As stated above, gorilla habituation is the action that wild gorillas get used to human presence. Once a gorilla family is discovered, scientists begin to gently accompany it everyday to accustom it to human presence.

Though their dark-furred bodies and great bulk make them normally timid animals, with gorilla habituation they approach the presence of people.

Uganda Wildlife Authority authorized gorilla habituation for tourist booking in 2014 to increase the financing sources for gorilla conservation and community support.

Gorilla Habituation in Uganda: How Much

Right now, each gorilla habituation permit in Uganda is $1500 per person per trip. This price covers park admission fees, a gorilla research support charge, medicine for the gorillas, local community assistance and so much more—a ranger guide to lead you into the jungle.

To carry your item in the forest, you may pay a friendly charge to hire a porter. One approach to directly help the nearby community is here. These money help their children to pay medical bills, get clothing, purchase books, get education, and much more.

Where should one do gorilla habituation?

Only the southern Bukingyi and Bushaho gorilla family has two gorilla families in Uganda Bwindi Impenetrable National Park scheduled for gorilla habituation set for. One family lives in the Rushaga neighborhood while another in the Nkuringo area.

All people interested in gorilla habituation will therefore have to visit the southern section of Bwindi impenetrable National Park as all two gorilla families are situated in that area.

Gorilla Habituation: How Long Does It Take

Depending on the time you spend looking for the mountain gorillas, Gorilla habituation takes around four hours or more; just four hours are allotted with the gorillas once you find them. Under the leadership of the study group, you participate in the identification of the gorillas, seek for their distinct unique behavior, snap pictures as directed and so much more.

When does the Gorilla Habituation begin?

While gorilla trekking starts at 0830 hours, each day gorilla habituation starts at 0730 hours earlier. Make sure you brought lunch as the activities you have to engage in in the forest surely come after lunch.

Instead of attempting to borrow from others, carry the appropriate gorilla habituation tools with you to enjoy every minute with the mountain gorillas.

Allowance for Number of People Doing Gorilla Habituation

Only 4 gorilla habituation licenses per family of mountain gorillas are permitted daily attendance at gorilla habitation. Remember; the gorillas are gradually becoming used to human presence. Should you attack the gorilla family with a large human count, they could flee in terror.

Although in some severe instances it may last as long as five years, gorilla habituation usually takes two to three years to finish. Every step reached during gorilla habituation is very valuable and should be handled carefully.

The Age Limit For Gorilla Habituation

15 years and above is the age restriction for Gorilla habituation as the degree of fitness for people at this age can tolerate forest circumstances.

At age 15 following the guidelines of gorilla habituation is more crucial and one is more composed to acquire gorilla habituation experience.

How Many Individuals Can Practice Gorilla Habituation?

Only four visitors are permitted to undertake gorilla habituation alongside researchers in order to prevent overwhelming the mountain gorillas under habituation.

To what extent safe is gorilla habituation?

Peak Mountains Though they are wild in behavior and large in numbers, gorillas are not aggressive unless one ignores gorilla habituation guidelines. One must be somewhat patient and ready to bear wilderness circumstances.

You accompany a group of researchers and ranger guides during gorilla habituation to guard you should anything endanger you.

Gorilla habituation is thus safe; still, follow the guidelines to really appreciate the experience.

Exists a discounted gorilla habituation permit?

Discounted gorilla habituation permits are not yet approved. You have to pay the $1500 general cost.

When Would One Want To Do Gorilla Habituation?

Though it is open all year long, gorilla habituation is best done in the dry months when the terrain is not so muddy, much like gorilla trekking is. Longer hours of tracking the gorillas define gorilla occupancy, hence you need perfect weather to survive the already damp jungle circumstances.

Compared to the rest of the year, the months June through September and December through January have less rain. These months allow you to schedule a gorilla habituation stay. Advance booking is required as limited gorilla habituation licenses—just 4 permits per gorilla family—are issued daily.

How Difficult Is Habituation for Gorillas?

While difficult, following semi-habituated mountain gorillas is also interesting. It is unlike anything else to be one of the fortunate visitors assisting the gorillas in adjusting to tourist activity. Knowing that your name will be part of the history of a specific gorilla trekking family in the future makes you an achiever.

Although the terrain may be very difficult, the work is well worth it particularly after you complete the four hours. Make sure you have brought the appropriate tools to get you over the gorilla habituation process.

How Different Gorilla Trekking Is From Habituation

Gorilla trekking is the activity in which one searches, finds, stays with the gorillas for one hour. Gorilla habitation is an exercise in which one spends four hours in the bush trying to become used to human presence.

Gorilla habituation starts with gorilla trekking and takes around two to three years to completely get a wild gorilla family accustomed for human presence.

With only eight gorilla permits available daily, two gorilla families are now allowed for tourist visits in Uganda.

Road access to the Gorilla Habituation Area inside Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

From Kampala the most direct path to the southern side of Bwindi Forest is Kampala to Kabale; Nkuringo is around 105km from Kabale and lasts roughly 4 hours. Since the topography of this region is usually hilly, you can anticipate to travel along twisting roads.

Before visiting the Nkuringo gorilla region or the Rushaga area, you could choose to spend night at Kisoro.

From Kisoro, you travel around eighty kilometers before reaching the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

By Aviation

Daily domestic flights leave Kajjansi Air or Entebbe Airport to Kisoro airfield and you may get a transport vehicle from the airfield to the Nkuringo region or Rushaga gorilla trekking location.

On request, charter flights may be booked to Kisoro Airstrip.

What should one pack for Gorilla Habituation Trekking footwear that will resist the muddy terrain particularly in areas with heavy rainfall but the earth contains volcanic soils that get boggy?

a camera with a good lens capable of capturing a decent picture among surfaces of leaves and tree dripping water.

a waterproof bag to prevent your stuff from dispersed across the jungle.

Two garden gloves to firmly grab on the creepers you go past.

Long-sleeved shirts and pants in tones fit for the woods will shield your body from biting nettles and pricking surfaces.

To replace a running low additional fully charged battery.

Since this part is usually chilly both day and night, a poncha or sweater will help you stay warm.

Energy bites to eat when you find yourself hungry in the bush. You need some energizers as the journey at times becomes difficult and exhausting.

a torch for additional illumination when nightlights go out.

Some cash to convert into local money should you want to do any ground-based transactions—such as souvenir purchases.

Toiletries should be ready in case your lodging lacks

Warm flip flops to wear in the hotel; most rooms have chilly flooring, hence the slippers you have might also be cold.

Cover your hair from drizzling water from the tree branches and leaves with a cap or big brim hat. Your hair could catch even flying insects from the jungle.

Insect repellant friendly to your skin so as to guard it from stinging insects in the woods.

A water container to hold drinking water to satisfy thirst while you go to find the mountain gorillas.

Contact Katland safaris by phone or email to get more information about 15 often asked questions regarding gorilla habituation experience. And please visit our trip advisor page to learn more about Katland and see what others have to say about our offering.

What Makes Uganda and Rwanda Safe Destinations for Gorilla Trekking?

Would want to discover why gorilla trekking finds Uganda and Rwanda secure places? A safe place is a joyful vacation area; for gorilla trekking, Uganda and Rwanda are the best places found in Africa. One saves his or her hard-earned money to have a trip and escape the rigours of daily life.  Nobody would want to go to a vacation site if they are unsure of making a safe return home.

Trekking among Rwanda’s gorillas takes place at Volcanoes National Park in the country’s North Western region. About 160 square kilometers make up the park. Usually, Volcanoes National Park’s landscape is mountainous. Comprising five Virunga Volcanoes, its lovely green landscape of peaks and valleys is breathtaking. Among these volcanoes are Mountains Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhavura, Sabyinyo, and Gahinga.

Residents of Volcanoes National Park, around 13 gorilla trekking families—among them the Amahoro family, group 13 family, Hirwa gorilla family—along with many others

Located in the far south Western Part of Uganda, Mgahinga National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park host Uganda gorilla trekking safaris. The great expanse of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park led to the authorities to split it in two: the northern and southern parts. Currently housed in gorilla trekking zones for simple management, the park has the largest number of habituated gorilla families in the world.

The gorilla trekking sites in Uganda are Rushaga, Nkuringo, Buhoma, and Ruhija.

Highlights of what makes Rwanda and Uganda safe Gorilla Trekking destinations?

Political Balance between Rwanda and Uganda

Managing Gorilla Research Organizational Stake Holder Involving Gorilla Trekking

Good Road System to the Parks for gorilla Trekking

Close proximity to the gorilla trekking parks from and to the airport

Running Gorilla Park Authorities

Restining the Count of Gorilla Trekkers

Having a well trained ranger team at Gorilla Parks

Political Unrest in Rwanda and Uganda

Political stability has been enjoyed for a significant number of years by Uganda and Rwanda. After the 1980s conflict administration of Uganda has maintained the nation with less significant political unrest. There is no one preventing you to rob or point a pistol at you in the parks, especially Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Like the tourist police, senior security institutions have been involved in conservation.

Following the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, the nation has been recovering the victims and safeguarding the conservation parks also impacted by this age. The greatest foreign currency earner in Rwanda and the primary Wildlife Park there is Volcanoes National Park. Using rangers and other internal security agencies, Rwanda’s government safe protects all park activity.

Uganda and Rwanda have developed a collaboration for conservation that suits gorilla welfare. This is why one gorilla trekking family is able to go from Uganda and wander into Rwanda without restrictions. Free range apes, the mountain gorillas wander the jungle in quest of food to sarticize their belling. Sometimes the Nyakagezi Gorilla family of Mgahinga National park ventures into Rwanda.

Control regulating The Gorilla Trekking safari Stakeholders in Rwanda and Uganda

Policies and laws both in Uganda and Rwanda bind all those engaged in gorilla trekking operations. From the lodges, tour companies, rangers, to gorilla researchers and many more.

Under policy of the Uganda Wildlife Authority or Rwanda Development Board, this is done to prevent con artists. To enable faster monitoring of their services to their customers, the stakeholders have to be registered with the government and trained.

Engaging Gorilla Research Groups

Many local and international research groups work on gorilla conservation in Rwanda and Uganda. Beginning with Dian Fossey, the dead American philanthropist founding the Karisoke Research Center in Rwanda. After realizing that one approach to preserve mountain gorillas is to include people in their protection, her efforts spawned gorilla trekking.

Among them are those who cure the gorillas, engage in gorilla habituation, conduct gorilla census over a certain time, and so much more. These maintain the gorillas habituated to human presence and aid in their conservation, which has resulted in their population rise in Rwanda and Uganda. Among the institutions are Gorilla Fund, UNESCO, Gorilla Doctors,

These groups provide a lot of guidance on the way of life and behavior of the gorillas. This has over time improved gorilla trekking experiences.

Excellent Road Network to Gorilla Trekking Parks

With a better road system, it has become easier to reach the gorilla trekking sites from Kampala or Entebbe or Kigali. Parks such as Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Mgahinga National Park in Uganda, or Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Australia are situated in rather isolated locations. Although their accessibility was difficult in the past, the roads have been improved and further building is under progress.

Kabale in Uganda has some public transportation from the capital Kampala; you may then link with a transfer vehicle to Bwindi I impenetrable National Park via many paths.

Public transport in Rwanda runs from Kigali City to Musaze then catches a transfer van to Volcanoes National Park.

A domestic daily aviation service is running in Uganda, opening up this formerly inaccessible territory more widely. From Kajjansi Airstrip or Entebbe Airport, you may land at either Kihihi Air Strip or Kisoro Airstrip. Those terrified of lengthy rides on rough roads have chosen this alternative.

Although both Uganda and Rwanda offer charter flight schedules, you must plan ahead.

A few hours from Kigali Airport, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is close by both before and after Gorilla Trekking Safari. On a twisting picturesque route, the travel may take three to four hours. This is the reason one may get off the early morning international flight and join up with gorilla trekking briefing at ORTPN on the same day.

Although Entebbe Airport is roughly 8 to 9 hours away from Impenetrable National Park in Uganda Bwindi, local daily flights to upcountry Air strips Kihihi and Kisoro Airstrip make life faster and simpler. After roughly two and half hours to the Airstrips, the domestic planes land and you then spend another hour connecting via a transfer vehicle to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

You may quickly connect to the international airport at any time even on departure day from either Uganda or Rwanda after a gorilla trekking expedition.

Operating Gorilla Park Governments For Uganda and Rwanda

Volcanoes National park’s functioning is neglected by Rwanda Development Board. All operations in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda are under the responsibility of Uganda Wildlife Authority.

These agencies guarantee that park rangers are educated to standard, maintain park trails, coordinate and take part in mountain gorilla counts and so many more. All those involved in gorilla trekking in either Uganda or Rwanda must abide by the rules these authorities have in place.

They give defaulters fines and honor the diligent workers. These all seek to maintain high standards of the parks so as to provide value for money to visitors along with gorilla protection during gorilla trekking.

Restining the Count of Gorilla Trekkers

For the mostly vegetarian mountain gorillas, massive gorilla trekking would mean food loss. There may only be eight gorilla hikers maximum to prevent trampling on the forest.

One must go to a briefing at the ranger station ORTPN in Rwanda and Uganda Wildlife Authority park headquarters in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga National Park when gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda. The rangers walk you through the guidelines of gorilla trekking and the general gorilla behavior.

Later, you are split into groups of no more than eight hikers to spend the day following a certain gorilla family. More trekkers would make it difficult for the rangers to personally tend to the visitors, which may result in some lost in the bush or perhaps less enjoyment experienced. Many people vying for view of the mountain gorillas would ambushed them. The mountain gorillas are agitated by this and hide.

The mountain gorillas are accustomed to be in the company of only eight humans daily.

In Gorilla Parks, a Well Trained Ranger Team

gorilla trekking is a great outdoor experience when skilled and informed ranger guides accompany you.  The personnel of Uganda’s wildlife Authority and Rwanda Development Board has been extensively educated about the gorillas and even updated with the background of particular gorillas.

The rangers openly provide information about a gorilla family, which makes the trip fascinating; by the time you find the gorillas, you have a closer relationship with them.

Early morning, a team of rangers watches over the mountain gorilla families scheduled for travel. Based on their observations, which accompanying rangers base the information they provide to visitors for the day, they provide comments to the authorities. Based on the state of the forest, gorillas exhibit dynamic behavior much like humans do.

Note

Your personal safety comes first even if gorilla trekking sites in Rwanda or Uganda are safe. Different individuals dwell and frequent these places, hence you have to guard your possessions. The presence of cameras may not be favorable for your sturdy products.

Since the geography of this region is usually hilly, pack appropriate gorilla trekking equipment to enjoy the fun in the jungle. Sometimes you may have to climb to the hills in search of the mountain gorillas.

This is for better follow-up; update your tour company in case of unusual conduct either at the lodge or at the location. Our purpose at Katland Safaris is to provide value for money and enjoyment to our customers on safari.

Frequently Asked Mgahinga National Park Questions.

Often asked Mgahinga National Park questions. Although Mgahinga’s National Park is the smallest National Park in Uganda, this does not imply it provides less attractions for visitors.  Situated on 33 square kilometers of terrain with three volcanoes Mountain Gahinga, Mountain Muhavura, and Mountain Sabyinyo around, the park seats

Among the well-known residences of the few surviving mountain gorillas worldwide is this one. The only habituated family in the park is the Nyakagezi gorilla trekking family, but sometimes passes into Rwanda. Many more different primates, including golden monkeys, blue monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabey, red-tailed monkeys, black and white colobus, find solace in the park.

Hiking to the summit of Sabyinyo Mountain in Mgahinga National Park would allow you to see the Uganda border, D. R. Congo, and rich green Rwanda. Hiking other mountains in the park provides a stunning surrounding greenery view along with unusual flora down the slopes.

Mgahinga National Park has a great abundance of birds because this immaculate forest offers over 79 bird species a suitable habitat. Mgahinga National Park provides a secure place even for endemics from Albertine. For birders, the park is a fun place as every second they may find at least one fresh bird species.

Activities One Should Do In Mgahinga National Park

 Trekking in Mgahinga National Park with Gorillas

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga National Park is second on the list. Trekkers start each day at the ranger station at Ntebeko Visitor Center for briefing. Although permits for this park are provided depending on the availability of mountain gorillas, everyone must have a scheduled gorilla trekking permit. Sometimes the sole family available for visitors from the Nyakagezi gorilla family crosses to Rwanda or D.R.Congo.

Either you have negative Corona Virus readings obtained at least 72 hours before your gorilla trip or you have a document proving you have been vaccinated against Covid-19. With your hiking equipment in hand, little party headed for the great jungle quest.

Mgahinga routes have more flora around them as they are less disturbed and hence bring gorilla trekking equipment to help you on your journey. You may carry tracking boots that can negotiate steep hills, dirt-friendly long pants and a shirt, a flash-less camera, a pair of binoculars and so much more.

Early morning briefing at Mgahinga lasts from 0745 to 0830 hours. A ranger guide leads you into the bush to start gorilla walking. Look out also for various primates like blue monkeys, black and white colobus, vervet monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabey, red-tailed monkeys, and many more.

Birding in the National Park Mgahinga

Mgahinga National Park has seen the reported nesting of over 79 bird species. One of the unique Uganda Birding locations that offers opportunity to see a variety of birds including rare Albertine endemics. Among the species you could see are Kivu Ground Thrush, Malachite Sunbird, White-tailed Blue Flycatcher, Rwenzori Turaco, Montane Double-collared sunbird, and so many more.

The great Gorge tail, which wraps half-way up mountain Sabyinyo, has most of the avian attractions. This tail crosses many highland environments.

Mounting The Mountains

Three unique volcanoes, Mountain Muhavura, Mountain Sabyinyo, and Mountain Gahinga, protect Mgahinga National Park. Every one of these mountains may be climbed in one day; no particular hiking equipment is needed.

Mount Sabyinyo hiking

Walking a distance of around 14 kilometers, ascending and descending mountain Sabyinyo might take eight hours. You proceed via steep and muddy crumbling to reach the peak after walking a small ridge with a view of great gorges.

From the summit, Uganda, Rwanda, and D.R. Congo are all visible.

Trekking Mount Muhavura

Mountain Muhavura is crowned from the summit by a crater lake. Rising this peak offers amazing panoramic views of lash alpine flora. The fastest and shortest rising path with amazing dramatic vegetation is the Muhavura trail; five additional Virunga Volcanoes also become visible. This round journey takes about eight hours.

Mounting Gahinga

Walking over the bamboo woods towards lash vegetation emerging from the crater is Gahinga Mountains. You get to see a beautiful panorama with a canopy of Virunga forest. About six hours pass throughout this climb.

Primate Walk In Mgahinga National Park Golden Monkey

Golden monkeys also call Mgahinga National Park home. Among the rarest monkeys are these ones. They live only in the Virunga region, throughout the whole planet. Their body form is bigger than any other monkey species and coated with golden brown hairs at the rear.

The funny character of the golden monkeys makes following them interesting. Though they have been acclimated, nature constantly surfaces; the forest is kept active all day long. They are woodland ninjas, so expect to remain on your feet while pursuing them.

Although the permission cost $100 at Uganda Wildlife Authority, each golden monkey never ventures into the jungle without a ranger guide—even when treking.

More primates also reside in the park-like black and white colobus, vervet monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, olive baboons, blue monkeys, L’Hoest’s and so many more.

Trail Batwa Trail and Garama Cave Walk

Starting from the Muhavura base to Garama Cave, one walks into the ancient life of the Batwa pygmies. A Mutwa Guide with particular expertise of historical forest behavior and culture leads this trek.

After attacking the Bafumbira farms, the Batwa used the approximately 342-meter-long Garama cave as their council room and escape point. Under a plateau close to Mgahinga National Park’s northern edge, this cave

Batwa aim to show how they lived their past life like hunting, medical treatment, cooking, and so many more while at the cave. Upon request, a dancing troupe may amuse you with plays, music, and drama reflecting the previous lives and beliefs.

Book Mgahinga National Park Gorilla Permits:

For all of the gorilla parks, the Uganda Wildlife Authority is mandated to sell and distribute gorilla trekking permit cards. Given the great demand for gorilla permits, walking in to get one might be difficult. You should find availability as some visitors book their gorilla permits as early as a year in advance.

Purchased Gorilla permits in Mgahinga National Park are dependent on the movable Nyakagezi gorilla family presence. This family sometimes travels to Rwanda or D.R. Congo.

A Mgahinga National Park gorilla treking permit is $800 day per person.

Getting to Mgahinga National Park via road

Kambala-Kabare Kisoro

From Kampala City, Mgahinga National park is 540 kilometers by road and takes 8 to 9 hours excluding pauses. From Kabale, the meandering route of almost 80 kilometers brings you to Ntebeko Visitor Center, the park headquarters. On a smooth road, this journey takes two hours or so.

Using Air

Entebbe Airport/Kajjansi Air Strip to Kisoro

Every day domestic flights leave Kajjansi Airstrip or Entebbe Airport for the Kisoro Airstrip. To go to Mgahinga National Park, you must transfer in a vehicle.

Requesting charter flights from either Kajjansi or Entebbe Airport allows one to organize them.

What Facilities To Plan In Mgahinga National Park?

One may get Mgahinga National Park lodging in Kisoro town or just inside the park. They vary from Budget to Luxury to Moderate lodging.

Among the available accommodations are some

Volcanoes Camp, visitor hotel Kisoro, Traveler’s Inn, camping

When Should One Plan to Book a Gorilla Trekking Safari in Mgahinga National Park?

Since the Nyakagezi gorilla family has been created in Uganda during previous years, Mgahinga National Park is accessible for visitor reservations all year round.

Because of the volcanic work and sometimes gorilla feeding from the hillside with bamboo availability, trekking in Mgahinga National Park is more difficult.

The extreme wet seasons force the gorillas to descend the volcanic highlands, which increases the difficulty of the search.

For what duration is Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park?

Depending on the gorilla mobility, a two-hour to three-quarter of the day gorilla trekking in Mgahinga National park takes. Sometimes the gorillas battle with wild families and other times hunt for fresh food, which forces them into hiding should they lose.

This makes the search for the mountain gorillas quite erratic in terms of timing. Before visitors are allowed to begin gorilla treking, a team of ranger guides observes the gorillas every day. Once they find them, the party of visitors follows the later path leading to their location.

What to bring for activities in Mgahinga National Park?

Mgahinga National Park has softer, volcanic soils. You should use hiking boots that will hold as they usually are muddy and damp.

Rainproof gears because any moment without notice is raining.

Water bottle to carry drinking water for rehydration on the trail to find the birds and gorillas.

A camera to save pictures and memories of your amazing Mgahinga forest encounters.

Energy nibbles for re-energies throughout the woodland treks and climb.

Some hard money to convert into local money should you desire to make a purchase.

Warm clothing covering your body against woodland stingers such biting nettles: pants and long sleeved shirts.

a waterproof light bag to carry your stuff in the wild.

Changing into when you see the mountain gorillas and masks to wear before gorilla trekking

Two binoculars can let you to clearly see things such birds, mountain tops, monkeys, gorillas, and so much more from fur-ranging distances.

A cape or big brim cap to shield your hair from leaf falling water.

Insect repellent to cover your body before starting any kind of woodland activity.

Please get more information on frequently asked Mgahinga National Park inquiries via phone or email from Katland Safaris. To see what other customers have to say about our offerings, check our trip advisor Review page as well.

How To spend 7 days In Murchison falls National Park.

How best to spend seven days at Murchison Falls National Park in northern Uganda? The seven-day safari to Murchison allows you enough time to completely bathe in the smells of the Kew gardens and zoo combined on the infinite scale as described by Winston Churchill.

National Park falls Every day, see the wonderful treasures of the River Nile emerge right before your eyes—aquatic creatures, abundant bird life, the cool air, and so much more. Indeed River Nile is a caretaker straight from its origins in Jinja via Murchison falls Park to the delta in Egypt where it is called the heart of Egypt.

Safari Summary

Day 1 drive to Murchison passes National Park (see Ziiwa Rhino Sanctuary).

Day 2 Game Drive and Launch Tour

Day three game drive and visit top of the falls

Fourth day Trekking in chimpanzees

Day 5 Nature Trek in Budongo Forest

Day 6 Community Visit or Spot Fishing; Day 7 Departure

Short Background about Murchison Falls National Park

Comprising 3893 sq km of territory and bisected by the Victoria Nile, Murchison falls National Park is the biggest preserved national park in Uganda. Especially during the June to September dry season, the temperature could reach 38 degrees centigrade.

Early adventurers John Speke and James Grant’s travels to the park in 1862 helped to make it well-known. Later Sir Samuel Baker and his wife discovered all the beauty of Murchison, a name derived from the then-president of the Royal Geographic Society to which he joined.

Many visitors, including foreign dignitaries, are motivated by Murchison Falls National Park’s rich legacy to go on safaris and spend time on the same grounds where early explorers created history.

 Activities to Do Over Seven Days in Murchison Falls National Park

Driving to Murchison Falls National Park and Ziiwa Rhino Sanctuary first day

The road drive to Murchison Falls National park takes around five hours and forty minutes if you spend the night in Kampala. A break at Ziiwa Rhino Sanctuary allows you to help the Rhino restoration effort in Uganda while still having fun.

While some were hunted by residents to gather the horn, which is said to have natural powers, the Rhinos sank into extinction during Uganda’s civil conflicts.

Look at your lodging within your means and be set to fully enjoy Murchison Falls National Park. Among the many accommodation options for every budget are Paara safari Lodge, Murchison River Lodge, Sambiya Lodge, Heritage Safari Lodge, Amuka Safari Lodge, and Bwana Tembo Safari Camp.

The Second Day comprises game drives and a launch trip to Murchison Falls.

Rising early before dawn to move to the Northern side in case your overnight was on the southern side provides you opportunity to meet early risers as they leave their night hideouts. Usually, Murchison Falls National park game drives take place on the Northern bank in an open savannah where hyenas, lions, leopards, and jackals may be seen in action.

From this vast savannah with average-sized grass where they can also look out for hunters, several herbivores include Uganda kobs, hartebeest, and waterbucks spend the most portion of the day eating. Following the Buligi path provides the most likely opportunities to see the game in action. Look for beautiful species like black-bellied bustards, silver birds, yellow-headed tinkerbirds, shoebills and so much more.

Following lunch, the Launch ride to Murchison is exciting on top of an ice cake that takes around three hours. Two launches per day start from the pier in the morning at 0900h and in the afternoon at 1400h. Look for outstanding sights like the high plateau overlooking River Nile Valley, where many Robins have built nests. One may organize private launch excursions upon request.

One cannot miss the crocodile restaurant near the banks, where large Nile crocodiles often hang around tanning in the sun waiting to grab victims. Elephants’ herds may also be seen washing and drinking to try to offset the heat of the day. Schools of hippos cannot be excluded since they resemble boulders buried under water.

At last, water turbulence will shift as the boat approaches the huge falls. Slowly visible on the lake surface are foamy forms. As you get closer, you could plainly hear the roar from strong Victoria Nile water slamming through a 7-meter wide canyon.

One bright, sunny day you could see a lovely rainbow forming just front of you. Photographs from the boat are great, but avoid trying to enter the water since it is inhabited with vipers and crocodiles. See the lovely Murchison falls continuing their path down the 43-meter high cliff to the bottom. Back to your lodge before evening.

Third Day Game Drive and Hike From the top of the falls

Trying your lucky charm to capture a moment with wild creatures you could have missed, Uganda game safaris in Murchison Falls National park have you yoning for another game drive day.

Look out giraffes, lions, rare leopards, oribi, herds of elephants, Topis, hartebeests, hyenas, wild dogs, warthogs, birds, and a breathtaking view of the Nile valley.

Later, go to the top of the falls to get a greater perspective of the active Victoria Nile stumbles on pebbles buried beneath before racing around the little curve. Photographs standing at the point of view here Try to remain a safe distance as this place could induce some adrenaline, particularly for those who are terrified of heights. Get back to the lodge to unwind.

 Fourth Day: Chimpanzee Trekking In Kaniyo Pabadi Forest

Great chimpanzees call Kaniyo Pabidi woodland inside Murchison Falls National park home. With about 98% human DNA, chimps are the closest cousins of man in the animal world. Under a democratically chosen Alpha male, they live in communities.

With a distance of around 8 meters away from the chimpanzees and so much more, the ranger guide leads you through the chimpanzee trekking guidelines including avoiding feeding the chimps. Although these rules are meant to shield the chimpanzees from human illnesses or human habitation, they are wild creatures who have to fend for their food.

See also more magical troupes of monkeys like black and white colobus, olive baboons, grey-cheeked mangabey, vervet monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and so many more. The amazing birdlife the woodland has keeps you constantly turning from side to side. For avid birders particularly, the bird songs add to the enjoyment of the tour. Among the birds you could find there are the secretary bird, Abyssinian horn bill, Malakite Kingfisher, red-throated bee-eaters, and others.

Day five nature trek in Rabongo Forest

One of the popular nature treks in Murchison Falls National Park is the tropical Rabongo forest because of its special character. Look for many birds that spend most of their waking hours building nests and looking for food. Apart from the sausage tree said to be an energy booster, some tree species that have highly medical value to the people also exist.

There are many freshwater streams that serve as water reservoirs from which the woodland dwellers get their nourishment. Particularly in breeding season, beautiful butterflies abound throughout the forest. You could get up close to giraffes, elephants, Uganda Kobs olive baboons, black and white colobus, red-tailed monkeys, and more throughout the walk.

Day Six Community Walking or Sport Fishing

A stroll around the nearby towns while on Uganda Safari to Murchison Falls National Park provides understanding of the livelihood of common people. Those that live in this region are the Acholi. Still, you have to leave the limits of the park.

Spending time in nearby villages to hear their folk stories—like the Acholi origin, which they say to be descended from Gipiri and Labongo. If you reserve in early, you might experience local dance groups performing beautiful music from African Instruments as “Akogo,” Tube Fido, and “Adungu.”

Spend some time with remains of the tragic Konyi battle of the 1990s, which took many local people leaving them physically crippled or earless. Though the wounds of this civil war still show in the neighborhood, the residents are attempting to return to their normal way of life.

Alternatively, you might engage in sport fishing on River Nile, but this comes with a certain price. Depending on their luck, anglers may capture some rather large Nile perch, tilapia, cut fish, and mudfish.

Everyone is expected to have their own lure. This setup requires advance scheduling as sport fishing has certain spots and has restrictions. In advance, one pays for a fishing permit; furthermore, a private boat is reserved with a skipper.

Day Seven Departure day after safari in Murchison Falls National Park 

Return to Entebbe Airport for your departing aircraft after running through all the breathtaking events on safari to Murchison Falls National park.

How To Visit Murchison Falls National Park

The most often used way to reach Murchison Falls National Park is via road. From Kampala, one may reach the park without stopping approximately five hours. The park may be accessed by Wankwar Gate near Purongo, Tangi gate in Pakwarch, Chobe gate over Karuma Falls,

Daily flights from Entebbe or Kajjansi airport go to Bugungu or Pakuba Air Strip. Advance planning allows charter flights to Murchison Falls National park to be arranged.

An hourly car ferry crossing is available to help you in case you are overnighting on Paraa Lodge, the Northern bank location of River Nile.

What To Bring For Murchison Falls National Park Uganda Safari

The park is rather hot during the dry seasons, which run June to September, hence carry light, comfortable clothing like sleeveless with flip flops. Like Khaki, the color of clothing you bring has to be dirt friendly.

This is how certain vivid colors might seem suspicious to some wild creatures and set them off in a fury against you. At times, the park is also muddy and dirty, which would not be ideal for bright colored apparel. The Uganda government does not approve military camouflage; so, try to avoid bringing and wearing it unless you are a security agent.

a camera to capture pictures and save special events you experienced on a Murchison Falls national park Uganda safari

In case of one blackout, an alternative completely charged buttery should be switched with.

Two binoculars can help you to get a better view of far-off wild creatures.

Since you can anticipate to come across stinging insects in the forest, insect repellent is appropriate for your skin and should be used before game safari or chimpanzee trekking.

When is the ideal time for 7 Day Murchison falls Safari?

Uganda safaris to Murchison are available all year long, although the dry months June through September are more sought after as the grass is shorter and wild animals are easier to see. March through May’s wet months provide great opportunity to see more infants as there is enough food for them.

Even hotels in the park are less busy during Shoulder season, which runs from March to May. Plus game paths within the park are Less rivalry for prime locations for wild animals.

Please email Katland Safaris or check our travel adviser website for the most recent evaluations about our service to get more information on how to spend seven days in Murchison Falls National Park.