How to trek Mgahinga Mountain gorillas in Uganda.

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga National Park calls for first buying a gorilla permit from Uganda Wildlife Authority.

With around 33.7 square kilometers in area, Mgahinga National Park is the smallest National Park in Uganda. Just a couple of the famous six Virunga Volcanoes, the park rests on the northern slopes of Mountain Muhabura, Mountain Sabyinyo, and Mountain Gahinga. They provide the park’s stunning background.

Mgahinga National Park has one gorilla family: the Nyakagezi family. This gorilla family used to stray into Rwanda in the past, so it was difficult to get gorilla permits for this park ahead of time. But lately, this gorilla family is regularly residing in Mgahinga national park; pre-booking its gorilla permits is thus rather important.

How can I get Gorilla Permits for National Park Mgahinga?

Choose a day when you desire to conduct gorilla trekking in Mgahinga National Park and the quantity of gorilla permits you wish to purchase. Recall: Mgahinga National Park has only one gorilla family. For every gorilla family, only eight gorilla licenses may therefore be sold.

Our safari consultant reviews Mgahinga National Park gorilla permit availability per your date from the Uganda Wildlife Authority when you submit us an inquiry.

Should the gorilla’s permit situation be favorable, we urge our customers to buy them ahead of time. This is true despite their short availability as the great demand globally drives them to be sold quickly.

We ask you to provide specifics such your entire name as shown on the passport, nationality, date of birth, and expiration date. These are kept records; some of them apply to your gorilla trekking success certificate.

A Gorilla Trekking Permit for Mgahinga National Park costs what?

Mngahinga National Park’s expenses are:

$800 per person for foreign non-residents each journey

$700 per person on each trip for foreigners.

300,000 shs for residents of East Africa.

This expenditure comprises

Day park fees, security, ranger guide fees, assistance of the gorilla conservation fund, one hour of mountain gorilla watching

forbids

Drinks; tips; transportation; lodging; any other personal item.

Could I get a gorilla permit for Mgahinga National Park in instalment?

Indeed, there is possibility for one to get Mgahinga National Park licenses in installments. Purchasing the gorilla permits in installments 30% of the overall permit cost and 70% of the whole cost as a top-up according Uganda Wildlife Authority.

This is relevant both top-up before the 90 days to the date of trekking and when you buy the gorilla permit 90 days from the date of travel at least six months or one year in advance.

Please top-up; otherwise, you will lose the gorilla permit and no refund will be issued in line with Uganda Wildlife Authority regulation.

Are the Gorilla Permits for Mgahinga National Park refundable?

On gorilla permits for Mgahinga National Park, a refund is possible; however, this relies on Uganda Wildlife Authority’s refund policy.

What happens on Gorilla Trekking Briefing day at Mgahinga National Park?

Your ranger guide and park warden will walk you through the laws of gorilla trekking and other aspects of the gorilla family you are seeing when you meet at Ntebeko Center.

Into the Mgahinga forest, the ranger guide leads a party of no more than eight visitors. You might ask to have a porter before beginning the gorilla hike. A porter is someone who, sometimes when exhausted, gives you a push and helps you carry your items in the wilderness.

Apply the dos and dont of gorilla trekking advised by the ranger guide. Although the ranger guide moves at the slowest speed among the trekkers, he does not slow down the rest of the party as you must know the mountain gorilla’s position or timing. During gorilla hiking, you pause; thus, pack some food to savor during these pauses.

When you at last find the mountain gorillas, the ranger notes their general state and tells the hikers to approach or back off in case of a serious battle.

If everything is well, you may snap pictures and observe their everyday routines. But because these primates are afraid of unusual events in their habitat, no employing flash photography while gorilla trekking.

Since a space of at least 8 meters allows between visitors and the mountain gorillas, if the gorillas are more near, quietly withdraw without creating any interruption. This is for conservation purposes to stop the infectious viruses from proliferating to mountain gorillas.

After an hour with the mountain gorillas, gently and peacefully remove yourself from them so they may continue with their everyday activities.

When should one get Gorilla Trekking Permits for Mgahinga National Park?

Mgahinga National Park offers open year-round gorilla treking. Some, on the other hand, like the drier season—that which runs June to September or December to January.

The hike to find the mountain gorillas and other forest inhabitants is faster in the dry season as the forest gets less humid conditions. Consequently, the gorillas are in excellent spirits and the forest life is at its best too.

Given the great demand from other Uganda safari operations, the cost of services is more even during this busiest travel season.

For those on a tighter budget, booking gorilla permits for the low season—March to May or November—is more handy. Furthermore, with fewer visitors to the nation this season, service providers might offer cheaper rates. Thus, one may travel with a modest budget and make use of first services.

In the low season for special gorilla trekking, it is likely feasible to find area to keep off other visitors. Also probable in the low season is going gorilla trekking alone without paying extra to shut off other visitors.

Is Trekking Among Gorillas Difficult in Mgahinga National Park?

Usually volcanic, the geography of the gorilla trekking region means that you can plan to climb several hills and plateaus. Three unique mountains encompass Mgahinga National Park, painting a stunning landscape.

Sometimes mountain gorillas may be seen deep in the valley or on the slopes during gorilla treking. Your ranger guide brings you wherever they spend the day.

If you were physically fit, you could find the mountain gorillas wherever they may be.

Should you have to avoid heavy creepers, the ranger opens a way with a machete.

Your gorilla trekking gear is appropriate; comfortable safari boots will let you to negotiate the moist ground from logged water from sometimes overflowing rivers.

Other Activities Following Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park

Birding in the National Park Mgahinga

Sharp birders on a gorilla trekking safari to Mgahinga National Park have a twofold chance to see a variety of species. Although ornithologists believe the count is still growing as more people are birdwatching Mgahinga National Park has documented roughly 115 bird species so far.

Mgahinga National Park has a first-rate environment that many birds find suitable. Along the Gorge walk, you will see Afro-alpine moorland on the slopes, various birds residing in montane forest, and regenerating grassland at the lower slopes. Furthermore visible are various birds: Rwenzori Turaco, Alpine Chat, Kivu Ground Thrush, Malachite Sunbird, Dusky Turtle Dove, and others.

Climbing on Mgahinga National Park

One everyday hiking destination in Mgahinga National Park are the three volcanoes there. Mountains among them include Mountain Muhavura, Mountain Sabyinyo, and Mountain Gahinga.

Before ascending any of these mountains, you needed to have a guiding escorting ranger.

An 8-hour return trek will allow one to climb Mountain Sabyinyo, 3669 meters high. Sabyingyo locally refers to old man’s teeth; its top’s worn ring produces stubby peaks. Above you observe Uganda, Rwanda, and D.R. Congo border from one pivot.

From the Ntebeko tourist center, Mountain Gahinga, 3474 meters high, may be walked in around 6 hours. Gahinga locally refers to little stone heaps used for scattering into nearby gardens. You ascend from a bamboo forest to a verdant marsh at the top.

With a round journey of almost 8 hours, Mountain Muhabura is around 4157 meters high. Muhabura locally refers to the guide as the mountain is well-known by its tall cone serving as a navigational marker. Great alpine vistas, the rift valley, Lake Edward, the Rwenzori peaks, and much more are yours as you ascend.

 Trekking in Mgahinga National Park Golden Monkeys

Unique body forms and golden monkeys are among the most threatened primate species worldwide. One can find them quite interesting to follow. The golden monkeys exhibit their natural life even in habitation.

Their golden brown hair reflects their love swinging from one tree to another, maintaining the forest alive.

To be let do this, you need a golden monkey trekking permit from Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Garama Cave and Batwa Trail

A Mutwa guide leads visitors through their past forest life and culture during a walk the local community hosts.

The Batwa find great emotional resonance in the Garama cave since it was their hide-out after attacking the Bafumbira farmers. One also found a council chamber. Batwa presentations and performances now find an atmospheric backdrop in the Garama cave.

The guidelines of Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park?

In the forest, never spit on ground or vegetation. This could poison the food mountain gorillas eat.

When you find the mountain gorillas, keep a distance of roughly eight meters to lower your chances of infecting them with a disease.

Never litter the forest during gorilla trekking because this alters the nature of the woods.  The Mountain gorillas feed entirely on foliage, and when you litter several plastic wraps, moisture may not penetrate the ground over time.

Flash photography is forbidden as it may agitate the mountain gorillas and send them into hiding.

Keep your voices low during gorilla trekking to not scare the mountain gorillas and other forest dwellers.  The gorillas are very suspicious of intruders in their vicinity.

When eating or smoking, do this at least 300 meters from the mountain gorillas so that they are not enticed to grab it from you.  Wild animals must search for their own food and not depend on human provision.

Wear a mask and sanitize properly before meeting the mountain gorillas as a rule emphasized to prevent chances of passing any contagious infection to the mountain gorillas.  They have a DNA of about 96 % of that of humans, so they can also catch human diseases.

Never provoke the mountain gorillas because you do not know the impact.  They may go into hiding if they get agitated, yet only one hour is allowed with them.

What To Carry For Gorilla Trekking In Mgahinga National Park

A raincoat in case it falls while searching in the forest.

Safari boots that cover your feet well.

Safari foldable hat to protect your hair from water dripping off the trees.

A camera to keep memories of having done gorilla trekking.

Garden gloves for your palms if you trip and fall in the wilderness.

Pajamas to wear at night as you go to sleep

A pair of binoculars for a clearer view of far-ranging features.

Insect repellant to keep away biting insects

Bug spray

Some cash to swap into local currency if you need to buy anything.

First aid pack in case you need emergency help.

Waterproof bag to take with your gorilla trekking gear.

Things to consider when booking a solo gorilla trekking safari in Uganda and Rwanda.

Solo gorilla trekking allows you time to savor that moment with the mountain gorillas as an individual free from concern about where your travel buddy may have been assigned. You go for a briefing at the ranger station before gorilla trekking; then, according on age, fitness, and other factors, you are allocated the various gorilla families. Therefore, even if you go with someone, you might be assigned different families.

Why Go Gorilla Trekking Alone?

Though you should trust the locations where you are going to go gorilla trekking as they are secure, going gorilla trekking as a solitary visitor brings conflicting emotions, particularly if you are a first-time visitor. Though the complexity of getting the gorilla permits deters many, some save their hard-earned money for some time to enjoy the gorilla trekking experience.

Use your gorilla permit if you have the time and money to support your trip plans after you have bought it. A once-in-a-lifetime event, gorilla trekking calls for full utilization of whatever opportunity presented. Gorilla licenses for conservation purposes only allow eight visitors per gorilla family.

Given the vagrancy of the rangers and other security agencies in every nation to maintain peace and order in this region, the gorilla trekking destinations—especially Uganda and Rwanda—are secure.

You also have to pay attention to personal safety by not entering the forest without an accompanying ranger guide, avoiding counting big quantities of money in public, keep up with the rest of the party while gorilla trekking so that you are not lost in the jungle and other personal safety precautions.

When may I schedule a gorilla permit as a solo visitor?

To avoid the last-minute trouble of getting your gorilla permit, you have to arrange it in advance. The great demand globally drives the gorilla permits out quickly. Furthermore, since first come, first served principle is followed, hence no permit is reserved without payment.

Though gorilla trekking is an all-year-round activity, particularly for high season permits, it is advisable to reserve your permit at least six months to one year ahead. Though their availability is limited, gorilla permits are highly sought after in June through September and December through January.

Though this is not certain, last-minute gorilla trekking permits might be found in the low season, that is, March through May or November. It also restricts your choices of prospective services from which to draw.

Can I Change My Gorilla Permit Date?

Based on policies of the Uganda Wildlife Authority or Rwanda Development Board, chances of postponing your gorilla permit exist.

About your want to reschedule your gorilla permit, the date you wish to reschedule too, and the cause for rescheduling, you must write to these authorities in advance. Attach any standing proof you have too as supporting documentation.

Should Rwanda Development Board or Uganda Wildlife Authority contact you with a good response, our safari consultant must verify availability per your preferred dates.

Your gorilla permission will be changed later as asked.

For those buying your gorilla permit in installments, make sure your permit is fully paid for. Rwanda and Uganda provide chances for buying the gorilla permit payment; that is, 30% and 70%. This does, however, apply before the day of trekking and you have to top up completely ninety days before the date of the trip.

What lodging should one book for Gorilla Trekking?

Rwanda has a selection of reasonably priced, mid-range or luxury lodging around the park.

Among the Rwanda Gorilla safari lodging are Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Kinigi Guest House, Lebambo, and others. You may also spend overnight in Kigali city, but you have to there somewhat early to meet up with the ORTPN briefing time.

The park is large, hence lodging in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Uganda is scheduled based on the region. It was split thus into four sections: the Ruhija region in the east, the Rushaga area in the south, the Buhoma area in the south, and the Nkuringo area.

Although the gorilla permits for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are bought based on the region, the driving time from one place to another is somewhat considerable. Should you get a gorilla permit for another location, you may have to get up early to travel in the dark in order to meet a briefing. You can find yourself caught on the road, so this is a dangerous endeavor.

Among the many lodging facilities in Bwindi Impenetrable national park are Gorilla Forest Camp, Clouds Lodge, Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge, Buhoma Lodge, Mahogany Springs, Gorilla Resort, Lake Kitandara Campsite, Gorilla safari camp, Silverback Lodge, and others.

Mgahinga National area in Uganda’s lodging still has to be developed as the area is little frequented. While some hotels are located in Kisoro town, others are Gahinga Lodge.

Which Nation Would be Ideal for Solo Tourists Doing Gorilla Trekking

Whether you are gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda, that moment when you are directly facing the mountain gorillas helps you forget everything you could have gone through in getting ready for this safari.

Through gorilla treking in Rwanda and Uganda, you may choose which nation individually appeals to you. The two nations have a about six to seven hour time difference. You may therefore go gorilla trekking in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda or Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

Furthermore helping one to distinguish Uganda from Rwanda gorilla trekking is:

Whereas the Uganda gorilla permit is $800 per person per trip, the gorilla permit fee for Rwanda is $1500 per person. One hour with the mountain gorillas, ranger guide costs, gorilla fund support, security, etc. counts here. The gorilla permit fees exclude beverages, tipping, transportation, and any other personal item.

Though the longest path is tarmacked, the drive from Kigali Airport to Volcanoes National Park is around three hours on serpentine roads. Especially in the rural areas, the travel from Entebbe Airport to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga National Park takes eight to nine hours on sandy roads.

Game drives, chimpanzee trekking, birdwatching, and other activities abound in Uganda gorilla trekking that may be combined to cut the journey. Conversely, Rwanda gorilla trekking is rare; other safari choices to mix with it include wildlife drives in Akagera National Park and chimpanzee treking in Nyungwe National Park.

While Rwanda has 15 gorilla families accessible for public booking, Uganda has 19 gorilla families fit for gorilla treking.

How many days could I spend on Gorilla Trekking Safari alone?

You have to list the days you want to be on your gorilla trekking expedition. While in Rwanda the lowest number of days you may go on safari is two days gorilla trekking, in Uganda three gorilla trekking is the minimum number of days.

If you would like to spend more time with the mountain gorillas or choose gorilla habituation in Uganda, which takes four hours with the gorillas, double gorilla journey in case of either. These are semi-habituated mountain gorillas, nevertheless, whose attitude swings at any moment; so, you should be more compliant to gorilla trekking guidelines.

Ten days of gorilla, chimpanzee, trekking and wildlife safari; five days of gorilla, chimpanzee, trekking; ten days of gorilla, chimpanzee, trekking; so much more.

Which Safari Package Should I Select for a Solo Travel?

Budget, mid-range, or luxury packages define the gorilla trekking safaris. Every plan includes and excludes depending on the client’s demands. Knowing your budget will help you to choose a gorilla trekking program by means of appropriate expenditure.

You also have to decide whatever kind of transportation you want to use to reach the road or air transportation hubs. Since the planes do not land in the National Parks, make sure you get a transfer car from the airport where they arrive to the lodges. These all have to be booked ahead of time.

How To Get Ready For Solo Tourist Gorilla Trekking

To remain fit, make sure you do some easy workouts. Trekking in gorillas is an exciting hobby wherein one walks over the forest. Because of volcanic activity, this region has highlands covering its terrain. You have to be healthy enough to follow the mountain gorillas wherever they may be since even the time you may spend tracking them is still under dispute.

Plan your overseas flights so that, when you have to go into Africa, you won’t have to rush at last-minute. Though each gorilla permit is only useful up to the day it is booked, the date of gorilla trekking has yet to be changed at last-minute.

Your odds of not engaging in this experience are great if you miss your flight and have no additional days for the gorilla trip. We so advise our customers to buy their foreign tickets early on. Before beginning the gorilla trip safari, one should spend at least a day in either Uganda or Rwanda.

 What should I bring for Gorilla Trekking? Safari Alone Travel

a camera for pictures of your visit with the mountain gorillas. This is a once-in- a lifetime event with memories worth treasured and revisited later.

Garden gloves shield your palms from hard wilderness conditions.

Insect repellent to ward off possibly harmful stinging insects.

Raincoat as this place gets rain any time of the day and should it rain without notice.

Warm clothes can help you stay warm whatever time it rains, early morning or late afternoon.

Organize your stuff in a backpack so it won’t be strewn in the woods or damp from the weather.

Torch to illuminate should solar lights turn out at night.

If your wilderness wandering makes you thirsty, pack a water bottle with drinking water.

bring with your stuff a Duffel bag. It has to be light enough to carry should you find no help.

Safari boots must be comfortable enough to walk over the occasionally muddy and damp jungle; they are meant for use in the wilderness.

Safari cap to guard your hair from leaf drops of water.

Snacks to chew on while searching for the mountain gorillas on trail. The path is lengthy, so breakfast should be consumed first to last the whole trip.

Extra fully charged batteries to replace those running low in case one

Bug spray should your room have any.

Products your skin finds pleasant for toiletries. Some lodges provide them, but what is given might irritate someone with sensitive skin. Bring your own to prevent anything that will rob you of your enjoyment of gorilla treking.

First aid kit including Items fit for emergency care should you get injuries in the woods.

Get in touch for more information.

Reasons why Uganda Gorilla permits are cheaper than Rwanda.

Though for various reasons, Uganda gorilla trekking permits are less expensive than those in Rwanda. For international non-residents, for instance, a Rwanda gorilla trekking permit is $1500 per person per Trek; for foreign residents, it runs $500. For East Africans, it runs $300. For international citizens, Uganda gorilla licenses cost $800 per person per Trek; for East Africans, they cost 300 000shs.

While Rwanda gorilla treking takes place in Volcanoes National Park, gorilla trekking in Uganda is conducted in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park.

Some of the factors influencing Uganda Gorilla Permits’ lower cost

Uganda has several families of gorillas.

Living in Mgahinga National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable national park, Uganda has over nineteen gorilla families. Before making lodging reservations, you should find out where your gorilla permit for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is booked as these permits are reserved based on the location. Four sites comprise the Bwindi Impenetrable national park: the Buhoma region, the Rihija area, the Rushaga area, and the Nkuringo area.

Among the Uganda gorilla families are those of Rushegura, Mubare, Bitukura, Oruzogo, Nkuringo, Busingye, Kahungye, Bweza family, Christmas family, and others.

One has great possibilities of getting gorilla permits for Uganda. Unfortunately, the presence of additional gorilla families causes availability to be only occasionally present. People do book gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda, however, extremely fast.

Cover for the Long Distance Traveled From Entebbe Airport to Mgahinga National Park or Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Entebbe Airport to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is around 530 kilometers for roughly 8 to 9 hours; Entebbe to Mgahinga National Park is roughly 540 kilometers.

This distance is offset by providing much less gorilla permits in Uganda than in Rwanda, where the time from Kigali Airport to Volcanoes National Park is around

Comparatively to Rwanda, Uganda offers more Safari options to mix with Gorilla Trekking.

The price of the gorilla permit is reduced to provide customers opportunity to also engage in other Uganda safari activities such chimpanzee trekking, wildlife drives, white water rafting, viewing the River Nile source, and others. Unlike Rwanda. Apart from chimpanzee trekking, climbing, Kigali city tour, and wildlife drives, Rwanda offers few safari choices to go with gorilla trekking.

If you have additional days on vacation, remember to ask our safari adviser about the various Uganda safari activities you may mix with a gorilla tracking trip. Because of our expertise throughout the years, at Katland  Safaris we take great satisfaction in offering the greatest current knowledge about Uganda safaris or Rwanda safaris.

Advertising Solutions for Uganda Safari Activities

For its safari sites, Uganda has launched limited local and worldwide advertising efforts; its international gorilla trekking safari recognition still needs to be greater than that of Rwanda, whose travel to Rwanda advertising campaigns are running globally.

Rwanda is executing the expensive campaign Visit Rwanda with Arsenal football team. Rwanda has to raise the price of its gorilla permit to $1500 per person in order to pay for this.

Government Entanglement in Gorilla Trekking Safaris

The government of Rwanda closely watches the mountain gorillas, sets guidelines, and sells licenses. Even Rwanda’s tourist budget is significant, however, but Uganda’s government sets little resources for administering the tourism industry. This results in a bad road system to the Uganda gorilla trekking sites and bad service delivery. All this makes it difficult to raise the gorilla permit fee in Uganda.

What is the value of a Uganda Gorilla Trekking Permit?

One Ugandan gorilla trekking permit is $800 per person. The gorilla approves for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park based on the region. Bwindi has four areas: the Ruhija area, the Nkuringo area, the Buhoma area, and the Rushaga area.

You have to take into account the location where your permit is booked while selecting lodging for a gorilla trekking safari in Bwindi’s impenetrable National Park. This helps one avoid rising early to travel and catching up with briefing somewhere else. Furthermore, the superior state of the roads linking these places might lead your car to become caught on them.

Exists possibility of paying for a Uganda Gorilla permit in installments?

Though this must be 90 days before the trip, Uganda may pay for a gorilla permit in installments. For instance, you may pay 30% of the overall gorilla permit cost and then top up with the 70% 90 days before the day of treking.

When Should One Book a Gorilla Trekking Permit?

Safe booking of your gorilla permit at least six months in advance or one year before the date of gorilla trekking. This is so because the great international demand for the licenses causes them to sell quickly. Eight gorilla permits for each family maximum quantity issued for public booking daily.

Although two are set aside for gorilla habituation, Uganda has nineteen gorilla families available for treks.

Most preferred for gorilla trekking is the dry season, which runs from June to September and from December to January. This is so because sunray penetration throughout the deep forest to the ground is more significant and the woods have less humid conditions. Rivers run within their course, and the paths are less muddy.

Not only other forest residents like monkeys, birds, butterflies, and others, even the mountain gorillas are more active in the forest.

The paths are somewhat muddy and wet during the rainy seasons; most monkeys would rather hide in the trees or spend the day on the hills. This makes gorilla trekking more difficult, particularly in cases of poor physical condition.

Because few people are reserving during the wet season, chances of cheaper rates on lodging, car rental, and driver guides costs are more available.

For Gorilla Trekking in Uganda, which Bwindi Area Is Best?

Four sections comprise Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhijah, and Nkuringo; choosing the finest will rely on personal preferences. Alternatively, you may do gorilla treks more than time but in various locations.

In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the Buhoma region has the oldest habituated gorilla families—that of the Habinyanja family, Rushegura family, and Mubare family.

So far the Ruhija region consists of the Oruzogo family and the Butukura family.

Nkuringo area has Bushaho family, Chrismans family, and Nkuringo family.

Busingye family, Nshongi family, Kahungye family, Bweza family, Muchunguzi family, Muhozi family, Rwigi family, Mishaya family Rushaga area

Since the encounter with the mountain gorillas is a mysterious experience, the emotion you receive is unparalleled. After finishing the mountain gorillas, everyone feels differently; most people have a closer relationship with these honored mountain gorillas.

Since you get to meet some of the few remaining mountain gorillas in the world, most visitors claim gorilla trekking is a once-in- a-lifetime safari worth every cent you pay. But this moment causes you to forget the bustle you could have gone through getting ready for gorilla treking.

Every place has unique interesting attractions. Particularly when you follow the route to the Mubwindi wetland, Ruhijah region is the main birding spot in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. For avid

Ornithologist: This is a two-edged gift as you may birding and gorilla trekking at an additional fee.

How Long Is Ugandan Gorilla Trekking?

Though the exact timing of finding the mountain gorillas is yet unknown, it may take two hours to three-quarters of the day. Finding the mountain gorillas relies on elements like the weather the forest experiences and the accessibility of their food.

During the heavy rainy season, the mountain gorillas eat well above the earth. Should a conflict arise between two gorilla families, the trekkers’ and others’ degree of physical condition will be crucial.

The ranger guide moves at the slowest speed of the slowest trekkers so that none of them get lost in the woods.

How Can I Reschedule a Uganda Gorilla Trekking Permit and Cancel a Date?

You have to write to Uganda Wildlife Authority stating your intention to postpone your gorilla permit date if you want to cancel and reschedule. State excellent reasons why would wish to postpone the gorilla Trek date.

Offer proof beyond a reasonable doubt to support your request. Should you be successful, we have to verify availability based on your preferred date. Since your gorilla permit must be paid in whole, top up to 100% in case you paid in installments and need to reschedule.

Which nation of Uganda and Rwanda would be best for gorilla treking?

You may have to visit both Uganda and Rwanda to obtain the best response on which nation is greatest for gorilla treking. Some, however, claim that seeing the mountain gorillas at last results in a magnetic bond that causes one to forget everything they may have gone through to find them. There are certain variations as follows:

While the Uganda gorilla licenses are $800 per person per Trek, the gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is $1500.

Traveling along twisting roads, the travel from Kigali airport to Volcanoes National Park takes three hours. On rough, dusty, or slipper roads, the travel from Entebbe Airport to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga National Park takes eight to nine hours.

While Rwanda has around 15 gorilla families ready for tourists, Uganda has 19 families open for business.

While Rwanda has few choices, Uganda has other choices you might mix with gorilla trekking for additional safari activities.

Is safeness of gorilla trekking in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking is secure in Uganda as the rangers cooperate with other security agencies to guard visitors and other members of the society.

By only entering the forest with an accompanying ranger guide, you also have to consider personal security.

Steer clear of carrying around your valuable belongings, which can draw criminals following you.

Should you go with your children for gorilla trekking, keep them closer to you. Gorilla hiking is just 15 years and above. Adult Uganda begins from eighteen years and above.

When you encounter the mountain gorillas, avoid aggravating them as you can set off a stampede.

The Gorilla Trekking packing list for Uganda

Safari begins

They ought to be covered to protect your feet from the hard jungle ground.

Insect repellent used to drive away jungle stinging insects.

Long pants and a shirt to conceal your body from hard circumstances in the woods define Safari wear. They have to be in tones like brown and Khaki that fit nature.

Safari’s hat will help you to hide your hair from wilderness buzzing insects.

Warm coat to guard your body from being chilly particularly early morning and late afternoon.

If you want to make any transactions, hard cash may be converted into local money.

Garden gloves protect your hands from sharp wilderness surfaces.

Backpack for your gorilla hiking equipment.

Bug spray

Extra fully charged batteries to replace those in case one falls low.

Since solar energy is the main source of power used in hotels, a torch in case lights go out is advisable.

Rules of Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Offer to remain behind if you develop a communicative illness like cholera, fever, or cough.

Since mountain gorillas eat plants, there is no spitting on them.

Gorilla hiking has an age restriction of fifteen years or above.

If you desire to cough or sneeze, do so away from the mountain gorillas to prevent passing any diseases to them.

Trekking to find the mountain should be done with quiet voice.

Try not to aggravate the mountain gorillas; they could become angry and hide.

One hour is allotted with the mountain gorillas if you find them.

Why are passport details required when booking Uganda and Rwanda gorilla permits?

Booking Gorilla Trekking Permits in Rwanda and Uganda: Methodology

If you want to go gorilla treking in Uganda, you have to have a confirmed or tentative date. Including the folks you intend to go with for gorilla treking.

An inquiry or safari consultant verifies the availability status per your date from the Uganda Wildlife Authority or Rwanda Development Board gorilla permit listing when you email us.

We kindly ask that you get gorilla permits as soon as they become available as they fast run out. Still, their daily maximum is eight licenses for each gorilla family. Consequently, particularly in the busiest seasons of June to September and December to January, the demand for these permits is very strong.

Later on when Uganda Wildlife Authority or Rwanda Development Board issues the gorilla permit, certain personal information is needed like names on the Passport, nationality, date of birth, and passport expiration date.

Why Should I Show Passport Details When Making a Gorilla Permit Order for Record Keeping?

For records only, the Uganda Wildlife Authority—also known as Rwanda Development Board—makes use of passport information. They track which Nationalities visited the mountain gorillas most and the reasons for their visits year. Furthermore, the mountain gorillas that need to be preserved need money, hence the people who help them to survive are also recorded under these bodies.

Advertising Scope of Gorilla Trekking Safaris

Knowing passport information, Uganda and Rwanda can target most advertising for the gorilla trekking tours. The present census counts only around 1000 mountain gorillas alive on Earth.

The marketing teams have to visit these records in order to decide where to promote the mountain gorillas.

Finding the age of a visitor on a gorilla trekking trip

Gorilla trekking is age 15 years and above, hence some passport information is required to search for this. Since the timing of finding the mountain gorillas is unclear, no youngster below this age may engage in gorilla treking. Young children below the age of fifteen could not be patient in the woods.

Because of volcanic activity, the ground of the places where mountain gorillas reside is jagged; hence, occasionally you need trek several ridges and plateaus to reach the mountain gorillas. A youngster below this age might find it difficult to negotiate steep and treacherous hills to reach the mountain gorillas.

Find out when the Passport May expire.

Presenting the date the Passport can expire helps us to guide you on when to conduct gorilla trekking most wisely. We advise you to renew your Passport so that your trip plans are only disturbed once the day of gorilla trekking is decided upon if it expires before that.

Easy client identification on Gorilla Trekking Safari

On the day of gorilla trekking, some of these specifics are displayed to help visitors to be readily recognized during the briefing. The age is determined based on the data even when they are being assigned to gorilla households.

Some Information To Add On The Gorilla Trekking Accomplish Certificate

Every guest receives a certificate of success upon returning from the gorilla trip. One of the mementos you should keep with you to serve as a reminder of your kind donation to the mountain gorilla survival during your safari.

How much could I pay for a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda and Uganda?

A Rwanda gorilla permit is $1500 per person; a Uganda gorilla permit runs $800 per person per trip.

This covers one hour with the mountain gorillas, park admission fees, ranger guide feed, security, gorilla medicine, local community assistance, and others.

The Gorilla permit fee excludes transportation to the location, gratuity, porter expense, refreshments, and other personal things.

Can I postpone the permission for the Gorilla Trekking?

As long as you write to Uganda Wildlife Authority or Rwanda Development Boards declaring a standing cause for you not attending the scheduled gorilla trekking date, you are free to reschedule.

Imagine they answer and grant you permission. If you paid your gorilla permit in installments, you must have paid it in whole. Top up so that it may be moved to a future date. Paying for a gorilla permit in 30% and 70% of the total fee is allowed by Uganda Wildlife Authority and Rwanda Development Board respectively. But carrying in installments for the gorilla trekking permit is only permitted ninety days before the date. Top-up so has to be done at least 90 days before the trip.

Before rescheduling, our safari adviser must confirm the availability of the gorilla permits for the day of your preferred option.

Where To Go Gorilla Trekking In Uganda and Rwanda?

Bwindi Impenetrable Park

Located in southwest Uganda, this park has a dense ancient forest that has endured many years. Among the four only mountain gorilla habitats, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has approximately half the total count seen worldwide. There are eighteen gorilla families in full view for visitors at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park consists of four gorilla trekking sites due in great part to its vastness. To be under one authority was extremely important. These four places cover Buhoma, Ruhujah, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.

You ought to reserve lodging near these sites so you won’t have to rush from one place to another catching up with the briefing. Sometimes the slick roads—especially in the wet seasons—cause the roadways linking these places to be inaccessible.

Mginga National Park

Mgahinga National Park stretches far southwest in Uganda. There is one gorilla family available for visitors right now. The Nyakagezi gorilla family moved to Rwanda as, in the wild, the gorillas lacked awareness of political borders.

Mountains you might climb in Mgahinga National Park span eight hours’ travel time. Among these mountains are Mountains Muhavura, Sabyinyo, and Gahinga.

With around 115 bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics, the park is among the well-known birding hotspots.

Volcanoes National Park

One gorilla treking site in Rwanda is Volcanoes National Park. With a background of five mountains—Mountain Sabyinyo Mountain—Volcanoes National Park offers an amazing perspective that makes it a great wildlife destination in Rwanda.

Mountains Karisimbi, Bisoke, Gahinga, Mountain Muhabura.

To see the mountain gorillas in Rwanda, you have to get a gorilla permit. Volcanoes National Park consists now of fifteen gorilla families.

How should I behave on the Gorilla Trekking?

You have to go to a briefing before embarking on gorilla treking as the ranger guide covers a lot. Therefore, even if you study the guidelines for gorilla trekking, make sure you follow the briefing as additional information regarding the specific family you are seeing will be covered.

Trekking to find the mountain gorillas requires you not to create noise in the forest as they are very sensitive to foreign disturbance in their vicinity. A rush in the jungle caused by any noise might disturb neighboring gorilla families or forest inhabitants.

If you come across an infectious ailment like cholera, coughing, flu, etc., offer to remain behind.

Feeding mountain gorillas or other forest residents is very illegal as wild creatures have to hunt for food.

Once you find the mountain gorillas, keep about eight meters away from them. They are very prone to human illnesses, hence maintain some distance from them. This is a preventive action for diseases.

Though just one hour is permitted, provoking the mountain gorillas is banned as it may disturb them and drive the family into hiding.

Mountain gorillas and other forest residents take their food from the ground, hence spitting on plants or the ground is banned. Spitting on it might contaminate these surviving primates with pathogens.

Every trekker should always wear a facemask; furthermore, keep your shoes clean.

How Much Is a Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda and Uganda?

The gorilla trekking safari packages go into premium, middle ground, and budget ranges.

First you have to get a gorilla permit; the normal price for all packages in Rwanda or Uganda.

Other elements that give gorilla trekking safaris more thought include

The count of guests funding the gorilla safari.

The fee per person dropped the more people joined the gorilla trekking expedition. You get to split certain costs such car hiring, gasoline, and others. On gorilla trekking safaris, single visitors pay the whole safari fee.

The gorilla trekking tour booking date

Usually, the peak season draws expensive expenses for most services due to the global great demand. On the other side, the low seasons provide opportunity for cheaper rates for several services like housing, driver guides, and others.

Extra activities along with gorilla trekking

Since every activity is priced differently, the safari package price increases with the more activities mixed with gorilla trekking.

The days to engage in gorilla trekking expedition

Since service providers charge daily expenses, the safari package increases the more days you remain on the gorilla trekking vacation.

Arranging your gorilla trekking trip at least six months ahead lets you choose from a large spectrum of services.

Is Trekking Gorilla Difficult in Uganda or Rwanda?

The geography of Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trekking sites is volcanic with jagged mountains. Because of the mountains that define Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, the paths there are steeper. Consequently, while steeper, the gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda is rather fascinating as well.

Mgahinga National Park gorilla trekking in Uganda is comparable to that of Rwanda as Mgahinga National Park is on the southern side of three Volcanoes that the Rwanda side owns. Among these mountains are Mountain Muhavura, Mountain Sabyinyo, and Mountain Gahinga.

Having some degree of fitness will help one to be comfortable on the way to find the mountain gorillas. Each National park has sedan chairs for usage in the forest in case of physical disability.

Porters will help you move to where the mountain gorillas could be relaxing or eating. Hiring a porter can assist you carry your equipment and other possessions before gorilla trekking. Every porter you employ helps the re-families by a little fee.

The most of the porters are locals from the nearby area. You help to preserve the mountain gorillas by employing a porter. The mountain gorillas and other forest inhabitants living nearby should be appreciated by the society.

Mountain gorillas are mobile creatures, hence even if you choose which gorilla family is more easy to find, you must be patient. Especially for adventurous humans, they remain in a certain place for particular reasons like the availability of food and the want of the Dominant Silverback.

A list of popular Rwanda safari activities and things to do.

One of the most popular safari locations in Africa is Rwanda, which is known for its amazing gorilla trekking experiences.

Rwanda has learnt some lessons from its terrible past, and the nation is still healing from the ashes of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Unfortunately, Rwanda’s inadequate resources have prevented it from marketing and publicizing its safari activities both domestically and abroad.

Things to Do in Rwanda While Safari Gorilla Trekking

Some of the remaining endangered mountain gorillas may be found in Rwanda, one of the world’s gorilla trekking locations. There are presently around 605 mountain gorillas in the Virunga region, which includes Rwanda.

The mountain gorillas live in families and are exclusively found in Volcanoes National Park. Every gorilla family has a dominant silverback who is followed by the other members of the family.

About 15 gorilla families are completely habituated and accessible to tourists in Rwanda. To be permitted admission into Volcanoes National Park for a gorilla trekking safari, each individual must obtain a gorilla permit.

How Much Does a Rwandan Gorilla Permit Cost?

Currently, each Rwandan gorilla permit costs $1500 per trekper. This covers day-use park fees, ranger guide fees, security, assistance for the Gorilla Conservation Fund, and local community support.

Tipping, transportation, and any other personal belongings are not included in the price of a Rwanda gorilla permit.

Is it possible to schedule a Rwandan gorilla permit in installments?

Depending on when you buy the permit, you may reserve Rwanda gorilla permits in installments. When purchasing a Rwanda gorilla permit in installments, a proportion between 30% and 70% of the entire fee is permitted.

You must buy your gorilla permit 90 days prior to the trip date in order to apply, and don’t forget to top it up 90 days before the trek date.

Rwandan chimpanzee hiking

Nyungwe National Park is the location for Rwandan chimpanzee trekking. The southwest region of Rwanda is home to Nyungwe National Park. The park was created in 3004 and became a Rwanda National Park in its entirety in 3005. It may take five hours to travel from Kigali airport to Nyungwe National Park, which is around 230 kilometers away.

Despite their semi-habituated state, the chimpanzees in this park are fascinating to watch at this time. Nyungwe National Park is home to two chimpanzee populations. One of the places where a gathering takes place is Cyamdongo. Part of the Rwandan chimpanzee populations reside here, which is located on the outskirts of Nyungwe National Park.

Nyungwe National Park’s primary park headquarters is Uwinka, where you get a briefing before to chimpanzee trekking and then follow a number of paths.

It is necessary to obtain a chimpanzee trekking permit in Rwanda, which currently costs around $90 per person per trip.

How much does a Rwandan chimpanzee permit cost?

Ranger guide costs, assistance for the Chimpanzee Conservation Fund, security, an hour with the chimp, and other expenses are included in the purchase of Rwandan chimpanzee licenses.

Tipping, logistics, transportation to Nyungwe National Park, porters, and any other personal belongings are not included in this price.

How to Purchase a Rwandan Chimpanzee Trekking Permit

Decide how many permits you want to buy and the day you want to go chimpanzee trekking. Because of the destination’s rough terrain, the time it takes to find the chimpanzees, and other issues, make sure all participants are at least 15 years old.

To find out whether Rwanda chimpanzee permits are available on the day of your choice, get in touch with Katland  Safaris or the Rwanda Development Board. Nyungwe National Park has two morning and afternoon chimpanzee trekking programs.

Chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda is limited to 10 visitors, thus reservations are required in advance.

Nyungwe National Park Canopy Walk

The canopy walks over Nyungwe National Park are an exhilarating experience on a roughly 90-meter-long suspension bridge. From the summit, you may take in the stunning views of Nyungwe National Park and the surrounding area.

After receiving a briefing from Uwinka, you begin your quest by following the igishigishigi route. Seek for a variety of monkeys, including olive baboons, red-tailed, grey-cheeked mangabeys, black and white colobus, and others. Enjoy the presence of the many birds that frequent this woodland.

Trekking with Golden Monkeys in Volcanoes National Park

There are between 30,000 and 40,000 golden monkeys in the globe, making them one of the endangered primates.

They have a bigger body structure than typical monkeys and are entertaining creatures to watch. They also have lower back hairs that are golden brown.

Golden monkeys in the jungle are fascinating to observe as they bounce from tree to tree; despite being used to human presence, they still exhibit their innate traits.

How much do licenses for Rwandan Golden Monkeys cost?

Currently, the cost of a golden monkey permit in Rwanda is $100 per person per trek for international nonresidents, $65 per person for foreign residents in Rwanda, $80 per person for foreign residents in East Africa, and RWF 4,000 per person for Rwandan nationals.

What The Golden Monkey Permit For Rwanda Covers

Ranger guide costs, security, an hour with the golden monkeys, conservation assistance, local community support, and other expenses are included in the price of Rwanda’s golden monkey permit.

Tips, snacks, porter fees, beverages, a packed lunch, and other personal belongings are not included in the price of this golden monkey permit.

Rwandan cultural experience

One African nation that takes pride in its own culture is Rwanda. Make preparations if you want to learn anything about Rwandan culture. You could be unable to stay sitting while seeing the Intore dance, which is rhythmic and accompanied by loud drums.

You may discover more about the defunct Rwandese monarchy by seeing the king’s old palace.

See Rwanda’s Genocide Memorials.

Locals in Rwanda perished from ignorance over a terrible 100-day period. Furthermore, a number of victims endured abuse at the hands of their fellow citizens.

In remembrance of this, a number of facilities containing the bones of the dead have been established across the nation for the surviving Rwandans and anyone who would want to interfere with their freedom without attempting genocide.

St. Famille Church, the Gisozi Genocide Memorial, the Blue Beret Memorial site, and others are examples of Rwandan genocide memorials.

Rwandan Birdwatching

You may add Rwanda’s outstanding bird habitats to the list of places to see while on a safari there. Volcanoes National Park, home to more than 300 bird species, Nyungwe National Park, Akagera National Park, and other areas are well-known birdwatching sites in Rwanda.

On a Rwandan birding trip, you could see endemic species of the Albertine Rift. The Blue Turaco, Shelley’s Crimsonwing, Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo, White-bellied Robin-Chat, Banded Prinia Apalis, Handsome Francolin, and other species are also found in various parts of Rwanda.

Tour of Kigali City

One of the most beautiful cities in Africa is Kigali, which has a clean environment and stringent regulations. No trash dumping in Kigali city, notwithstanding.

You may see the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology, Kadit House, Kwita Izina Function, and the genocide monuments. To get through the traffic, it would be ideal to have a well-planned schedule.

Go to the grave of Dian Fossey.

It is well worth the effort to take a guided trek in the footsteps of Dian Fossey, the heroine of the fallen mountain gorilla. The American primatologist Dian Fossey saved the mountain gorillas from extinction.

In 1967, she established the Karisoke study Station and conducted study on mountain gorillas in Rwanda. Her findings form the basis of most contemporary research on mountain gorillas.

She was brutally slain by unidentified attackers in 1985, and her bones were interred with the gorillas she had fought for to the end of her life.

When Is the Best Time to Reserve a Safari in Rwanda?

Safari activities in Rwanda are available year-round, however the dry season (June to September and December to January) is when most visitors choose to go.

This is also the busiest time of year for tourism in Rwanda. This is due to the fact that the majority of Rwanda safari activities take place in natural environments, or the wild.

There is life in the forest since the majority of its inhabitants are active throughout the dry season. There may likely be trekking involved in some events since Rwanda is a country with thousands of hills.

Because there are less people during the wet season, you may enjoy the activities all to yourself on your Rwanda safari. Taking excellent wildlife shots is not hindered by any distractions.

In the low season, which is often the rainy season, there is a greater chance of finding several Rwanda safari activities and service providers at a reduced cost.

You may also take advantage of the inexpensive Rwanda safari season if you’re on a tight budget.

How Secure Is Rwanda for Safari Travel in Africa?

Rwanda has learnt from its previous errors and is not prepared to repeat them in the wake of the 1994 genocide.

The security forces in Rwanda are alert and prepared to fight against anything that would bring the country back to this despotism.

You are safe wherever you go on the Rwanda safari. You risk being imprisoned in one of the local jails if you break any of Rwanda’s laws.

Make sure you don’t throw trash on the streets; in Rwanda and other countries, it’s illegal to wear drugs.

How much does a safari in Rwanda cost?

A Rwanda safari’s price is determined by a number of variables, including

The duration of the safari vacation in Rwanda

The gross cost of the Rwanda safari increases with the number of days. This is due to the fact that the majority of Rwandan activities and service providers charge daily rates.

To make the most of your time in Rwanda, it would be ideal if you collaborated with a knowledgeable and skilled tour operator to create an amazing itinerary.

The number of passengers on the Rwanda safari

The cost per participant for the Rwanda safari will decrease as more people sign up. Some expenses, such as car rental, petrol, driver’s guide, and others, are shared by you.

How many activities are included in the safari package for Rwanda

Combining the aforementioned Rwanda safari activities will cost you the most money. The cost of each activity varies. In Rwanda, you may set up chimpanzee and gorilla trekking safaris.

The low-cost plan you choose for your safari in Rwanda

The prices of Rwanda safari packages vary depending on whether they are luxury, midrange, or budget packages. A Rwanda safari package’s total cost increases with the number of features it offers, since each option has unique inclusions and exclusions. The cost of each safari package decreases with the number of inclusions.

When to arrange a safari in Rwanda

Safari packages in Rwanda are often expensive during the busiest times of the year, which are June through September and December through January. Rwanda safari packages may be eligible for discounts from some service providers, like as lodging and vehicle upgrades, during the off-peak months, which are typically March through May and November.

What Are The Requirements For A Safari in Rwanda?

It takes 72 hours to fully immunize against COVID-19 or to carry a certificate proving negative findings from a COVID-19 PCR test.

Given that Rwanda is a tropical nation, use sunscreen.

If you are going on a safari in the Rwandan bush, bring insect repellent.

Given that Rwanda is a nation with thousands of hills and a generally cool climate, you should bring a sweater or warmers.

A first aid bag including emergency drugs.

Passports and other easily identifiable travel papers are necessary for Rwanda.

A safari hat

For the Rwanda safari adventure you could participate in, extra clean safari clothing is required.

Bring adequate supplies in a duffel bag for your safari trip in case you need assistance.

Advantage of trekking gorillas twice.

Visitors visiting Uganda typically want to spend more time with the mountain gorillas at the Volcanoes National Park, Magahinga National Park, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. There are a number of reasons why individuals choose to go gorilla trekking before we examine the benefits of doing so again.

Most travelers who include gorilla trekking in their schedule always want the finest experience, and they begin organizing their vacations well in advance. They strive to ensure that they would prefer to spend more money and engage in this activity just once because gorilla trekking is somewhat pricey and remote in Africa.

Some people plan a second journey so they may try again since they think they could miss spotting gorillas on their first one. In Rwanda and Uganda, gorilla trekking is so well-organized that there is a 98% probability of encountering gorillas. This implies that your chances of encountering gorillas are quite high, even if you just hike once or twice.

Benefits of going on two gorilla treks in Rwanda or Uganda

Spending adequate time with the gorillas is one of the benefits of hiking with them twice. You have your first chance on the first excursion, and the second one is no different. In contrast to a single walk, you spend two hours with the gorillas.

You can request another gorilla family if you’d like, giving you the chance to travel with two distinct families and contrast your experiences. That possibility is not available with a single gorilla walk; instead, you must enjoy what you receive for the allotted hour.

Another benefit is that you may try again if the initial excursion doesn’t provide exactly what you’re looking for. Those who have reserved two gorilla excursions will benefit from this. Those who like to trek gorillas twice are not an issue for us at Katland Safaris; if you get in touch with us, we will verify availability and make the reservation so you may take advantage of the double gorilla trek. We suggest the gorilla habituation experience, which allows you to spend four hours with the gorillas, for individuals who would like to spend more time with them.

How to book last minute gorilla safari and permit in Uganda and Rwanda.

It is possible to book gorilla trekking at the last minute, but your options are restricted. The gorilla trekking package includes a lot of services, such as lodging, car rental, expert driver guide, and much more.

Seasons affect the availability of gorilla permits; during the busiest times of the year, which are June through September and December through January, permits are in great demand. There may not always be a large demand for gorilla permits during the off-peak months.

Particularly during the busiest time of year, obtaining a gorilla permit at the last minute can occasionally result in anxiety and restrict the options for service providers.

In the instance of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, obtaining a gorilla permit on the spot on the day of trekking is feasible but highly unpredictable because you could not be aware of the exact location where your permit is booked.

Businesses who are reselling their gorilla permits are attempting to obtain one at the last minute. However, businesses that are registered with the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) can take use of this opportunity. The Association of Uganda Tour Operators counts Katland  Safaris as one of its full members.

When Is It Best To Reserve Permits For Gorilla Trekking?

Gorilla permits should be obtained at least six months to a year in advance, according to Katland  Safaris. Because there are only a certain number of gorilla permits available, it is possible that even last-minute reservations will be made. Gorilla licenses are sold on a first-come, first-served basis by the Rwanda Development Board and the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Additionally, each family is only allowed to have a maximum of eight gorilla permits each day.

About 160 gorilla permits from 19 gorilla families are available for the public to reserve each day in Uganda.

Every day, over 96 gorilla permits are made available for public booking in Rwanda.

The only way to demonstrate your commitment to taking part in the gorilla trekking safari is to get your gorilla permit.

In order to avoid having to drive so early in the morning to attend a briefing in another location, you must be aware of the area in Uganda where your gorilla permit is reserved before booking lodging. The road is occasionally slick and full of potholes that might cause your tires to rupture. Being stranded in the middle of nowhere when on safari would hardly make anyone pleased.

How Much Does It Cost To Purchase A Rwandan or Ugandan Gorilla Trekking Permit?

Gorilla permits in Rwanda presently cost $1500 per person per trip, whereas those in Uganda cost $800 per person every trek.

Ranger guide costs, an hour of mountain gorilla viewing, security, gorilla medicine, park fees, and other expenses are all included in the cost of gorilla permits.

Porter fees, beverages, a packed lunch, gratuity, transportation, and other personal expenses are not included in the price of the gorilla permit.

Your gorilla permit may be purchased from the Rwanda Development Board or Uganda Wildlife Authority through a tour operator such as Katland  Safaris. Although going through the lengthy call line to find out availability might be annoying, you can also buy it straight from either body.

Can I get a refund for my gorilla permit?

The Rwanda Development Board or Uganda Wildlife Authority is in charge of overseeing the gorilla permit refund policy. Since a gorilla permit is indicated as sold when it is obtained, reimbursement is contingent upon the return policy.

If you bought your gorilla permit in installments, you can reschedule it for a later time, but you will still need to pay the whole amount. As long as you buy your gorilla permit 90 days before to the trekking date, Uganda and Rwanda let you to pay for it in installments. You risk losing it if you don’t remember to top it up before the ninety days before the trekking date.

According to these organizations’ regulations, you can be eligible for a reimbursement if you volunteer not to go gorilla trekking after learning that you have a contagious infection beforehand.

How Much Time Does It Take to Trek with Gorillas?

It is difficult to predict how long your gorilla expedition will go on the day of the walk. There are several criteria that determine where to find the mountain gorillas.

The mountain gorillas’ food is close by. The mountain gorillas may eat in one place for a while before moving to another until their food supply runs out.

The family you are hiking with may move to a different region if they are defeated in a conflict with another mountain gorilla family, extending your trip. If the family wins, they could party for a while, which could occasionally make it simple to find them.

The routes become more slick during the intense rainy season, and unexpected downpours occur in the forest. Because the mountain gorillas occasionally go to the slopes, this might make it take longer for you to find them.

A gorilla family may get depressed after losing a member, which might cause them to hide and make it difficult to find them.

The entire gorilla family may be compelled to engage in the daring pastimes of the dominating silverback. Because of this, walking to find the mountain gorillas is also difficult.

Out of Rwanda and Uganda, which is the best place to go gorilla trekking?

Because you are standing in front of the only remaining mountain gorillas in the world, meeting them is an experience that cannot be duplicated. When getting ready to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda or Uganda, you could forget all you’ve been through.

You may take advantage of the chance to go gorilla trekking in both Rwanda and Uganda to truly grasp the differences. However, you may identify a few distinctions between Rwanda and Uganda, such as the following:

How much gorilla permits cost

Gorilla permits in Rwanda cost $1500 per person per hike, while those in Uganda cost $800 per person per day.

There are currently 15 gorilla families in Rwanda that are accessible to tourists, compared to 19 in Uganda.

It takes around three hours to travel from Rwanda’s Kigali Airport to Volcanoes National Park, and eight to nine hours to drive from Entebbe Airport to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga National Park.

There are several safari activities available in Uganda that you may combine with gorilla trekking, but there aren’t many in Rwanda.

While the Uganda briefing point still requires work, the Rwanda gorilla trekking briefing point has a well-organized layout.

Gorilla trekking is described by many people as a mysterious pastime that makes you feel somehow connected to the mountain gorillas.

Locations for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda and Uganda

Volcanoes National Park

In addition to being a biosphere reserve, this is the only gorilla trekking site in Rwanda. Approximately 15 gorilla families now reside in Volcanoes National Park, which is a historic forest. With five unique volcanoes—Mountain Gahinga, Mountain Muhavura, Mountain Sabyinyo, Mountain Karisimbi, and Mountain Bisoke—the park’s geography is primarily mountainous.

Volcanoes National Park is also home to a variety of other primates, including as the grey-cheeked mangabey, vervet monkeys, golden monkeys, blue monkeys, black and white colobus, and others.

Volcanoes National Park is home to a variety of birds, including those peculiar to the Albertine Rift. Additionally, you may trek on the final steps of mountain gorilla heroin, Dian Fossey.

To spend an hour with the mountain gorillas, you must reserve a Rwanda gorilla trekking permit. You may also check the availability of Rwanda gorilla permits online, as the Rwanda Development Board is the organization that sells them.

In Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in the southwest region of Uganda. Because of its thickness, the Bwindi forest has two names that are interchangeable, meaning that Bwindi signifies impenetrable locally.

Nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas are found in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. While walking to see the mountain gorillas, it’s wonderful to see other primates as well. Chimpanzees, olive baboons, grey-cheeked mangabeys, red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys, and others are some of these primates.

The Bwindi forest is home to a diverse array of birds, including seven IUCN Red List species and endemics of the Albertine Rift.

You need a gorilla permit, which is area-specific, in order to undertake gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. There are four gorilla trekking zones in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: the Buhoma, Ruhijah, Rushaga, and Nkuringo areas.

You need to know which region your gorilla permit is booked for before making travel or lodging arrangements for your gorilla safari. This will keep you from getting up too early to attend a briefing at another location. The roads can be quite slick at times, and the surrounding darkness can present problems for vehicles.

Make sure you rent a transfer vehicle if you have a reservation for a fly-in gorilla trekking safari because the park’s major administrative hub, Buhoma, is almost two hours away from the Kihihi airport, where flights land.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

In addition to being the smallest national park in Uganda, Mgahinga National Park is home to mountain gorillas. Three unique volcanoes—Mountain Gahinga, Mountain Muhavura, and Mountain Sabyinyo—make up its topography. This park, which shares a base with Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, is located on the southern side of these mountains.

There is now only one gorilla family in the park, the Nyakagezi. Although it previously known to wander into Rwanda, the gorilla family has recently established a stable home in Uganda. Gorilla permits may now be reserved in advance, something that wasn’t previously possible.

As an alternative, you may trek for eight hours on each mountain in a single day. You also need an accompanying ranger guide. With over 115 bird species identified by ornithologists—and the number growing—this park is a Ugandan birding paradise for avid observers.

How old can you be to go gorilla trekking?

The age restriction for gorilla trekking is 15 years old and above for a number of reasons, such as the fact that it takes time to find the mountain gorillas, which means patience is needed. A youngster younger than this might not be able to survive the forest’s circumstances.

Sometimes completing the full hike requires physical fitness, which kids younger than this might not have. The remaining members of the gorilla trekking group can become irate as a result of this delay.

A youngster under this age may not get along with the mountain gorillas’ occasionally provocative behavior. You must abide by the instructions provided by the ranger guides during the briefing.

What are the Gorilla Trekking Dos and Don’ts?

Smoking and eating are prohibited within 300 meters of the mountain gorillas to prevent them from becoming dependent on human food.

Spitting on restricted land or flora might spread pathogens to the mountain gorillas.

When you find the gorillas, stay around 8 meters away from them. They are quite prone to infections from people.

Keep quiet or speak quietly when looking for mountain gorillas since they are afraid of strange noises around them.

The only camera that is permitted to take pictures during gorilla trekking is one without flash. This reduces the possibility of starting a stampede in the forest.

When you find the mountain gorillas, you are only permitted to spend an hour in their presence. They have been accustomed to spending that hour with others so they may carry out their daily tasks.

It is prohibited to provoke mountain gorillas since doing so might disturb them and lead them to go into hiding.

Ask the ranger guide to dig a hole around 30 cm deep and cover everything completely if you want to conduct a lengthy call.

In the event that you get a contagious disease, such as the flu or a cough, offer to stay behind.

How to spend more hours with mountain gorillas in Uganda.

There is just one viewing hour for gorilla trekking in Uganda, but you might require more time to spend with the mountain gorillas. The mountain gorillas are only used to spending a few hours with people. This allows them to be left alone to continue their daily routines, which include eating, grooming, relaxing, and other activities.

Some visitors feel that spending just an hour with the mountain gorillas is insufficient. Some choose to trek with two gorillas. To spend more time with the mountain gorillas, people get gorilla permits for two or more days. Eight individuals is the maximum number permitted to undertake gorilla trekking.

What is Safari Gorilla Trekking?

You are only permitted to spend an hour in front of a fully habituated mountain gorilla family during this safari excursion. A gorilla permit, which presently costs $800 in Uganda, is necessary for gorilla trekking. 19 gorilla families in Uganda are now available for reservations by tourists. They are found in two gorilla parks: Mgahinga National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

How Much Does a Ugandan Gorilla Trekking Permit Cost?

The cost of a gorilla permit in Uganda is $800 per person per day of trekking. You must get a permit for each additional gorilla trekking date if you want to double or more. These licenses are sold by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. To allow mountain gorillas to be left alone to continue their daily routines, which include eating, grooming the young, relaxing, and much more, gorilla trekking is conducted once a day.

Others buy permits for gorilla habituation.

Gorilla Habituation: What Is It?
Permits to accompany semi-habituated mountain gorillas are known as “gorilla habituation permits,” and they allow you to do so without changing the gorillas’ natural behavior. Only four individuals per day each hike are allowed to get habituated to gorillas.

What is the duration of gorilla habituation?
When you find mountain gorillas during gorilla habituation, you are only permitted to spend four hours with them. Because mountain gorillas are still getting used to being around people, it is normal for them to hide during gorilla habituation.

Since mountain gorillas are wild creatures who must forage for their own food, it is uncertain how long it takes to locate them after habituation because they continue to wander aimlessly around the jungle.

You must be patient and adhere to the guidelines and information provided during the briefing. This is due to the fact that the mountain gorillas are still developing trust with people during habituation and are still extremely sensitive to outsiders.

How Should Gorilla Habituation Be Prepared?

You must continue performing basic workouts after receiving the gorilla habituation permit in order to further expand your muscles before beginning your expedition. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park’s terrain is mostly volcanic, with plateaus and mountains.

You must be somewhat fit to complete the full journey because you will need to hike at times to find the mountain gorillas. The mountain gorillas occasionally like spending time on the highland slopes.

In order to avoid being delayed in the event that there are no seats available, make your international travel reservations in advance.

To ensure your comfort when hunting mountain gorillas, get the required gorilla habituation equipment.

How much do gorilla habitat permits cost in Uganda?

The cost of each gorilla habituation permit is $1500 each expedition. The ranger tour charge, park fees, gorilla fund support, security costs, and four hours of mountain gorilla watching are all included in this price.

Tipping, porters, transportation, beverages, a packed lunch, and other personal belongings are not included in the price of the gorilla habituation permit.

Where in Uganda Can I Perform Gorilla Habituation?

Thus far, the only gorilla habitat is in the southern region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Only a maximum of four people are permitted to participate in this expedition, while two gorilla families are now available for habituation.

Tourists who have made reservations for gorilla habituation accompany a team of habituators and researchers into the jungle each day in order to find and spend time with the mountain gorillas. Since this data is utilized to provide information on the mountain gorilla family, you might need to take some notes.

To avoid having to get up so early for a briefing, be sure you reserve lodging for your gorilla trekking safari in the southern region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

What Time of Year Is Best to Reserve a Gorilla Safari in Uganda?

Although you may schedule a gorilla trekking or gorilla habituation safari at any time of year, most tourists prefer to obtain their gorilla permits at least six months to a year in advance.

This is because there is a strong demand for permits but a limited supply. Each gorilla family may only have a maximum of eight gorilla trekking licenses. There may be no more than four gorilla habituation licenses issued each day.

Many individuals are left out because of this small quantity and the tremendous global demand, particularly during the busiest travel seasons. You must book your permit in advance to ensure that you don’t miss one on the day of your choice.

How to Travel by Road to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Travel from Kampala to Ntungamo, Rukungiri, Kihihi, and Buhoma

From Kampala, this is the quickest way to go to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. It takes around 390 kilometers to drive from Kampala to Rukungiri, and another 90 kilometers to connect to the Buhoma region.

Kabale, Kampala, Kanungu, and Buhoma

It takes around 414 kilometers to drive from Kampala to Kabale, and another 150 kilometers to connect with Kanungu and Kanyantorogo.

Nkuringo to Kabale to Kampala

It takes around 414 kilometers to drive from Kampala to Kabale, and then another 115 kilometers to go to Nkuringo. You might choose to stay at Kisoro town, which is around 80 kilometers from Kabale. From there, you can go another 35 kilometers to Nkuringo.

By Air

Domestic flights to Kihihi or Kisoro airports leave daily from Entebbe Airport or Kajjansi. To be able to take these flights, you must secure a seat in advance.

Although charter flights can also be arranged, advance planning is required in order to get air clearances.

Do Mountain Gorillas Pose a Threat?

Because of their physical characteristics, mountain gorillas appear frightening at first glance. They have black eyes that are sunken, are enormous, and use their knuckles to walk. At first, this could make your heart race, but as soon as you see how peaceful and content these primates are, you will relax.

These monkeys are timid, and they have never attacked their guests in the history of gorilla trekking or gorilla habituation.

To avoid upsetting the mountain gorillas, you only need to abide by the guidelines for gorilla trekking and the information provided during the briefing. They are extremely sensitive primates who pay close attention to trespassers and their actions. When they become irritated, they leave their guests and retreat into the deeper reaches of the forest. While four hours are permitted with the mountain gorillas during the habituation experience, keep in mind that you are only permitted to spend an hour with them when gorilla trekking.

Other Attractions in the Impenetrable National Park of Bwindi Aside from mountain gorillas
Bwindi Forest’s Diverse Bird Life

More than 350 different bird species may be found in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Approximately seven bird species in the park are included on the IUCN Red List. Approximately 23 of the 24 species known to exist in Uganda are found in this park, which is home to several unique species of the Albertine Rift.

You might be able to see birds like the red-faced Woodland Wabler, African Hill Babbler, Rwenzori Batis, White-tailed Crested Flycatcher, collared Apalis, Mount Masked and Chestnut-Throated Apalises, African Green Broadbill, and Shelley’s Crimmsonwing when you go on a birding safari to Mubwindi Swamp in the Ruhija area of Bwindi Forest.

Numerous Other Primates

Other primates, including olive baboons, vervet monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, blue monkeys, chimpanzees, black and white colobus, and others, may be found at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in addition to mountain gorillas.

Community Walks in the Area

The local community must support mountain gorilla conservation efforts for them to be effective. There are community projects in the Bwindi area that are managed by the locals, and all of the money raised goes toward helping them with things like developing water sources, maintaining roads, constructing schools, supporting health care centers, and much more.

The Buhoma community walk project, where you may engage with local homesteads, meet traditional healers, visit a local brewer, and much more, is one of the community-run initiatives in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Visit the local brewery, traditional healer, blacksmith, and other establishments along the Nkuringo community path.

A stroll in nature

You may stroll along the paths of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with a ranger guide to observe a variety of naturally occurring trees. More than 300 tree species have endured over time in the Bwindi Forest.

The Bwindi Forest is home to around 310 different kinds of butterflies and more than 88 months of life. There are also glistening waterfalls in Bwindi Forest. By following the Muzabajiro Loop Trail, you reach the top of Rukubira Hill, where you may take in stunning views of the western Rift Valley, the Virunga Volcanoes, and Bwindi Forest and its canopy.

Things to Bring for Ugandan Gorilla Trekking

Because it may be so cold—temperatures might dip as low as 7 degrees Celsius—you should wear thick clothing in the morning and late afternoon.
Use bug repellent to protect yourself from stinging insects that might hurt you while you’re out searching for the mountain gorillas.
Wearing garden gloves will shield your hands from nettles and any uneven terrain you could trip over and fall on.

In the event that your room is contaminated, bugs spray.
Toiletries in case your lodge doesn’t have any or your skin is really sensitive.
Breakfast is eaten too early to survive the whole day in the bush, so you’ll need snacks to eat in case you feel hungry.

If it rains while in the bush, bring a raincoat or poncho. Rainfall can occur suddenly and at any moment in this location.
To protect your body from the severe circumstances in the forest, you should wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt.

In order to keep insects out of your clothing and to keep your trousers in place, you should wear stockings.
Because the wilderness is frequently wet and rivers overflow, particularly during the intense rainy seasons, safari boots that can withstand the moist surfaces of the jungle are essential.

If it rains or dew drips off the leaves, use a safari hat to protect your hair.
pajamas to put on before sleeping in the evening.
Keep your valuables in a duffel bag since sometimes you won’t get assistance loading or unloading your baggage.

If you’re bored of wearing closed shoes after gorilla trekking, you can change into flip flops.
Clean face masks to wear in front of the mountain gorillas; enough cash to convert into local currency when you want to make any purchases locally. This was embraced following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Given that they have around 96% human DNA, mountain gorillas are vulnerable to human illnesses and might become infected by this virus.
A camera to capture images and preserve memories of your gorilla trekking adventure.
Your gorilla trekking equipment should be carried in a lightweight, waterproof bag, and if you hire a porter, they can carry your baggage for you. You don’t lose any gears even if you trip and tumble.

How do you know that your gorilla trek in Uganda or Rwanda is guaranteed?

Gorilla trekking for seniors or old people in Uganda and Rwanda.

All ages, including seniors and the elderly, are eligible to go gorilla trekking as long as they are at least fifteen years old. All you have to do is get a gorilla trekking permit for the date you want to travel. To successfully complete the entire gorilla trekking experience, you can still perform additional workouts to further extend your muscles.

Sedan chairs are reasonably priced and available for rental if you have a physical disability. Porters are also included in the price, but it depends on the type of chair you choose—some original chairs and locally manufactured sedan chairs are available. A porter is someone who raises the sedan chair or carries your gorilla trekking equipment for the entire journey.

It is essential to provide your age when reserving your gorilla permit so that you are informed of the requirements in the event that you get older. As long as they are eligible, anyone can go gorilla trekking.

How to Reserve an Elderly Gorilla Trekking Permit in Rwanda and Uganda

Decide on a date for your gorilla trekking trip in Rwanda or Uganda. It’s also crucial to know how many individuals you could be traveling with.

When you contact Katland  Safari to inquire about gorilla trekking, our safari advisors look up the gorilla permit listing from the Rwanda Development Board and Uganda Wildlife Authority to see whether it is available. If you want the consultant to give your age greater consideration while scheduling the gorilla permits, be sure to mention that.

To avoid being outbid by other bidders, we suggest our clients to get their gorilla permits in advance if possible. The gorilla permits are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. This is due to the fact that each gorilla family is only allowed a maximum of eight permits each day.

Personal information such as nationality, birthdate, complete name as listed on the passport, passport expiration date, and others must be provided later.

These information are kept on file and are used to determine where safaris in Rwanda or Uganda should focus their marketing efforts.

How Much Does It Cost To Purchase An Elderly Gorilla Trekking Permit In Rwanda Or Uganda?

Ugandan gorilla permits cost $800 per person, whereas Rwandan gorilla permits cost $1500 per person per trip.

What Does the Price of a Gorilla Permit Include?

One hour with the mountain gorillas, as they are accustomed to spending that much time in front of people.

Gorilla medicine: Despite being untamed creatures that must forage for sustenance, gorillas occasionally need additional assistance from gorilla physicians. They occasionally get into traps that harm them. Veterinary professionals may need to give them extra care, but this is done in the forest.

Security when gorilla trekking is a wilderness excursion where everyone wants to make it home safely. In order to maintain security in the park and its environs, the ranger guides collaborate with other security agencies in both nations.

Park fees are used to fund conservation efforts. You have to pay park admission fees before you may enter any national park in Rwanda or Uganda.

ranger guide costs because the ranger guide conducts every gorilla walk, discusses other forest inhabitants, and provides a detailed explanation of the characteristics of the gorilla family you are seeing. The genuine truth of the gorilla families can only be found on the ground, despite the fact that broad information about them is written about online and in other papers. The reason for this is that the gorilla families are always changing.

What a Gorilla Trekking Permit Does Not Include

Porter fees, refreshments, a packed lunch, gratuity, transportation to the gorilla trekking locations, and other personal belongings.

Can my Gorilla Trekking Permit be rescheduled?

Rescheduling a gorilla permit is feasible, but make sure you have topped off your permits if you bought them in installments.

You send a letter explaining your want to change the dates to the Rwanda Development Board or the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Add evidence as well to support your argument.

Make sure you know the date you want to transfer your gorilla permit if you receive a good response. Your permit is adjusted to that date if there is still room after our safari expert verifies the availability.

In Rwanda or Uganda, how much does a gorilla trekking safari cost?

The permit fee, which applies to all packages—luxury, mid-range, and budget—is the first expense of a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda and Uganda.

The following is the basis for additional gorilla trekking package costs:

Time of Reservation for the Gorilla Trek

Due to competition for services from other safari activities like game drives, birdwatching, and others, gorilla trekking often has high prices during the peak season, which is June to September or December to January. However, because there is less demand for services like lodging, driver guides, and others during these times, low seasons may provide lower prices.

Traveling with a large group of people allows you to split expenses like petrol, car rental, and other expenses. The whole safari budget is also borne by lone tourists.

amount of days on a gorilla trekking safari; in Rwanda, the minimum gorilla trekking duration is two days, whereas in Uganda, it is three days. Additionally, the cost of your safari goes up with each extra day.

Chimpanzee trekking, wildlife drives, birdwatching, sport fishing, and other activities are sometimes coupled with gorilla trekking.

Which Rwandan Volcanoes National Park locations are best for gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda?

Volcanoes National Park is located in Rwanda’s northwest. There are now 15 gorilla families in this park that are accessible to tourists. Amahoro, Karisimbi, Umbano, Kwitonda, Susa, Agashya, and other gorilla families are among them.

Volcanoes National Park is made up of three unique volcanoes: Mountain Gahinga, Mountain Muhabura, Mountain Bisoke, Mountain Karisimbi, and Mountain Sabyinyo.

With over 300 bird species identified, this area is also a Rwandan birdwatcher’s paradise. Because many birds, including endemics of the Albertine Rift, thrive in this region, ornithologists continue to record new species.

Olive baboons, blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and other primates may be found in this park.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda

Bwindi, which meaning impenetrable in the local dialect, is a fitting twofold descriptor for this park. There are now 18 gorilla families in the park that are accessible to tourists, albeit reservations are made based on the region. The Buhoma, Rushaga, Nkuringo, and Ruhija regions make up the four sections that make up Bwindi’s impenetrable national park.

This park’s vegetation, which is made up of tangled vegetation that hangs over peaks and plateaus, has developed throughout time. This dense forest cover is home to more than 300 tree species. Numerous primates, including olive baboons, chimpanzees, red-tailed monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, L’hoest’s, black and white colobus, and others, find a pleasant home there.

The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to more than 350 bird species, is a must for feeding in Uganda. The Western Green Tinkerbird, Red-faced Woodland, Rwenzori Batis, Collared Apalis, and other species may be observed.

Make sure you are aware of the region where your gorilla permit is scheduled before making any reservations for lodging in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

At around 33.7 square kilometers, this is the mountain gorillas’ smallest home. The park is located in Uganda’s far southwest. The Nyakagezi gorilla family is the only gorilla family currently found in this park. But in the past, this family was highly migratory, frequently crossing into Rwanda.

This woodland is home to a variety of different primates, such as olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, black and white colobus, and blue monkeys.

Mountain Muhavura, Mountain Gahinga, and Mountain Sabyinyo are the three unique volcanoes to which you may go on a day’s climbing safari.

More than 115 bird species may be seen at Mgahinga National Park, which is a haven for avid birdwatchers. Ornithologists claim that despite the park’s low visitor volume, its birding list is continuously growing.

How to Travel by Road to Gorilla Trekking Locations

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

It takes around eight to nine hours to get from Kampala to Kabale, Kanungu, and Buhoma. About 414 kilometers separate Kampala from Kabale, whereas 150 kilometers separate Kanungu and Kanyantorogo.

The shortest route is from Kampala via Ntungamo to Rukungiri to Kihihi to Buhoma; the trip from Kampala to Rukungiri is around 390 kilometers, and the last 32 kilometers are to Buhoma.

The travel from Kampala to Kabale to Nkuringo is around 414 kilometers long, with a further 105 kilometers heading to Nkuringo.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

It is approximately 540 kilometers from Kampala to Kabale to Kisoro, 414 kilometers from Kampala to Kabale, and then another 80 kilometers. Lastly, continue 14 kilometers from Kisoro to Ntebeko, the headquarters of Mgahinga National Park.

Volcanoes National Park

It takes around three hours to get from Kigali Airport to Musaze in Volcanoes National Park.

By Air

If you visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, daily flights depart from Entebbe Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to Kihihi Airstrip.

If you are traveling to Mgahinga National Park, even planes depart from Entebbe Airport or Kajjansi Airport to Kisoro Airport.

Kigali Airport is the departure point for charter flights to Volcanoes National Park.

You may schedule a charter flight from Entebbe Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip even in Uganda.

When Can I Reserve An Elderly Person’s Gorilla Trekking Safari?

Although it is possible to go gorilla trekking at any time of year, most people choose to go during the dry season, which runs from June to September or December to January.

Rainfall is known to occur unexpectedly and at any time in the woods of the Virunga region, however it is less often during the dry season. As a result, during the dry season, the humidity in this location is lower, and the mountain gorillas and other forest inhabitants are more active.

The routes are not covered by overgrown vegetation, and the trails are drier. The dry season is the ideal time of year to get better pictures of mountain gorillas. Due to the increased demand for gorilla trekking experiences globally, this season is also very expensive.

There are benefits to the off-peak months of March through May and November as well, particularly for individuals on a tight budget because service costs can occasionally be lower.

If you want to go on an exclusive experience, your chances are better during the off-peak period because even the off-peak period typically has less individuals making reservations for gorilla trekking.

What Are The Elderly’s Guidelines For Gorilla Trekking?

In the event that you contract a contagious illness such as the flu, cough, COVID-19, or another, offer to stay behind.

When you encounter the mountain gorillas, keep an approximate distance of 8 meters. This is one way to keep them from contracting diseases from people.

To prevent the mountain gorillas from stealing anything from you, if you want to eat or smoke, stay at least 300 meters away from them.

It is prohibited to litter in the forest because it changes the environment in which mountain gorillas reside.

Once you find the mountain gorillas, you are only permitted to spend an hour with them. They are habituated before the mountain gorillas just during this period.

Ask the ranger guide to dig a hole for you that is at least 30 cm deep and bury everything completely buried if you want to relax.

Flash photography should be avoided during gorilla trekking since it might frighten the mountain gorillas.

When looking for the mountain gorillas in the bush, try to speak quietly. This is a result of their heightened sensitivity to novel events occurring in their immediate environment.