10 Things to consider before booking Uganda gorilla permits

A complete guide to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

The Kisoro and Kanungu districts of southern Uganda border DR Congo and include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The park borders the Albertine Rift. The 321-square-kilometer park is mostly montane and lowland woods. The park may be Africa’s oldest woodland at around 25,000 years old. Bwindi became a National Park in 1991 and a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site in 1994.

Five significant rivers feed into Lake Edward from Bwindi’s rugged peaks and valleys. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park features around 400 plant species and 150 animals, including gorillas, chimpanzees, baboons, forest elephants, and antelopes.

More than 348 bird species are found in Bwindi, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics. The park is home to around 400 gorillas, more than half of the world’s population, and 19 groups are habituated for human visit, known as Mountain Gorilla tracking, which can only be done in three nations. DR Congo, Uganda, Rwanda.

The park is 1,190 to 2,607 meters (3,904 to 8,553 ft) above sea level, with Rwamunyonyi Hill being the highest. Batwa pygmies, who lived in the forest as hunters and fruit gatherers and utilized herbs for healing, are thought to be Bwindi’s original population. After the park became a national heritage, they moved to forest boundaries where they reside.

Regions of Bwindi

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has four sectors: Buhoma in the north, Ruhija in the east. Rushaga and Nkuringo are in the south.

The Buhoma sector

The first area to be habituated in 1993 after Bwindi Impenetrable National Park was named a UNESCO Heritage was Buhoma sector in the north. Buhoma, home to the oldest Gorilla family Mubare and three others—Habinyanja, Rushegura, and Katwe—is the park’s most popular area.

About Buhoma gorilla families

Mubare Gorilla Family

This is Bwindi’s oldest gorilla troop, habituated in 1993 when tourism began. Mubare was named after the Mubare Hills, where trackers first found the tribe. Ruhondeza led a 15-member gang after the habituation, but raids and disaster reduced it to 5. After Ruhondeza died at over 50 and Kanyonyi took over, the group has grown to 9 members.

Habinyanja Gorillas

The group tracked in 1999 after becoming habituated in 1997. This group is also in Buhoma. Habinyanja comes from the Rukiga term for water, Nyanja. Because the gang was initially seen near a swamp pond in Bwindi, Mugurusi was the leader and his brothers Mwirima and Rwansigazi replaced him. Mwirima preferred staying put, but Rwansigazi adored traveling.

Later, Rwasigazi founded Rushegura. This family has 17 members—9 adults, 5 newborns, and 3 juveniles—led by Silverback Makara. One of the easier groups to follow, you drive 45 minutes from the starting point to Nyamishaba hamlet and find the route.

Rushegura Gorillas.

It separated from Habinyanja gorilla family and was tracked around 3002. Mwirima, a powerful silverback, spearheaded this breakaway after years of power struggle with his sibling Rwansigazi. He fled with 7 members.

After his death, a black back leads the gang. The gang has grown from 8 to 19. This tribe lives on the border and crosses between Uganda and DR Congo often. This group is simple to trace since visitors start their hike at the park headquarters and travel 15 minutes to the Mukono route.

Group Katwe gorillas.

The latest Buhoma sector group needed three years to become acclimated and ready for visitor monitoring. One dominant silverback, four females, and two infants are present. It’s unclear how many members this organization has since people come and go. This organization was created in 2018 to raise daily gorilla permits and nation income.

Sector Ruhija

In the eastern portion of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the Bitukura and Oruzogo gorilla families are accessible for tracking. The Kyaguriro family is used for study. The coldest part of Bwindi is over 2350 meters above sea level. Nature lovers may hike the Rwamunyonyi mountain and other attractive routes in the area. Monkeys, elephants, and antelopes live in Ruhija.

Ruhija gorilla families

Gorilla family Bitukura.

The family lives in Ruhija, on the eastern side of Bwindi, and was called after a river in the park since they were originally seen near there. In October 3008, the group was tracked after habituation in 3007. It was simple for the rangers to habituate the gorillas since they had previously seen the Kyaguriro group and were never aggressive.

They adapted to humans quicker than other gorilla tribes. This gorilla family is calm and without politics, unlike others. The group was 24 individuals, but fatalities and flights separated it into 14 members: 4 silverbacks, 4 adult females, 3 adolescents, and 1 newborn. Peaceful leader Ndahura leads the gathering.

Oruzogo clan

In 2011, the family began monitoring and ended up with 25 members and two silverbacks. The family has 17 members: one silverback, Tibirikwata, the head, 2 black backs, 7 females, 2 young adults, and 5 newborns.

The region’s largest group got its name from a shrub near its home, where it was first seen. In 2013, Kankonda, a female, gave birth to twins, making the group renowned. Gorilla trackers enjoy watching this lively bunch.

Kyaruguriro family gorillas.

The study group was habituated in 1999 for habituation researchers. The gang had 20 members, including Rukina, the head silverback who perished from lightning. In 2016, the immature mukiza led the group, but battles between Mukiza and Rukara broke the group into two Kyaguriro A and B, each with 10 members and known as the Mukiza Gorilla Family.

Sector Rushaga

Rushaga, located south of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, has 5 gorilla families, the most of any sector, and is simple to walk because to its terrine. Kisoro makes Rushaga an easy monitoring point for Kigali travelers.

Visitors can follow Busingye, Bweza, Nshongi, Mishaya, and Kahungye, which are habituated families. Only Bushaho and Bikyingi families are now undergoing gorilla habitatation in Bwindi. Like buhoma and ruhija sectors, the sector enables cultural encounters with the Batwa population.

Rushaga sector gorilla families

Nshongi Gorilla Group

This family included about 36 gorillas and was Bwindi’s biggest. After two splits, the Bweza and Mishaya Gorilla Family formed. Nshongi leads the group of 25 silverbacks, 3 sub-silvers, 4 blackbacks, 7 adult females, 6 adolescents, and 4 newborns. This group is happy and lively with newborns, thus its large size makes it beautiful to observe.

Mishaya Gorilla Group

In 2010, there were flight and disputes, and Mishaya the silverback split to create his own group, taking 7 members with him. The group is known for its fighting, and over the years it has attracted more female members, bringing the total to 15 and 3 infants.

Bweza Gorilla Group

This 8-member group split from Nshongi Gorilla Family in 2013, and although park officials hoped to reconcile with Nshongi and rejoin, it failed and was exposed to public monitoring. The group includes 1 silverback, 2 newborns, and many females and youngsters. Visitors like seeing this group go about their daily park activities the most.

Gorilla Family Kahungye

The group was established in 2011 and opened for monitoring with 27 members. After a year, flights and disagreements divided the group into the Busingye group. Two black backs, Rwigi and Ruhamuka, females, and youngsters joined Rumansi in the group of 13.

Gorilla family Busingye.

After breaking from Kahungye group in 2015, the organization was named after its leader, Busingye, who is renowned for provoking battles with other factions. Busingye began with 7 members but now has 8 and thrives on stealing girls from other men, demonstrating strength.

The Rushaga gorilla habituation

Gorilla habitatation is the process by which mountain gorillas are educated to become acclimated to humans over many years by a team of well-trained rangers and physicians who spend every day with them. Gorilla habituation takes up to four hours each day and involves two families.

Bikyingi and Bushaho gorilla families are doing this. Bikyingi family in Rushaga has 21 members: 1 silverback, 2 sub-adults, 9 females, and 9 infants; Bushaho family further south near Nkuringo sector has 8 members: 1 silverback, 1 black back, 1 sub-adult, 3 adults, 1 female, 1 juvenile, and 2 infants. Ex-Nkuringo gorilla Bahati is the head.

Sector Nkuringo

The Nkuringo family and Christmas family are accessible for hiking in southern Bwindi. The Bushaho gorilla family sometimes moves between Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors. Trekking at Nkruingo is difficult due to its high height. Young, active travelers who want to hike and view gorillas should visit this section. While in this location, you can easily view the Virunga Volcanoes in Uganda and Rwanda, which may inspire you to visit.

Nkuringo sector gorilla families

Gorilla Family Nkuringo

The first family was habituated in 1997, and the group was opened up for monitoring in 3004. The group’s name comes from the local location where it was originally sighted, Nkuringo, meaning “Hills”. The group started with 19 members but currently has 15. Rafiki, a Swahili name meaning “Friend,” led the group until his death in 3008, and they were the first to conceive twins in 3004, but one died.

Gorilla clan

Bushaho gorillas now number 9. Still, like other gorilla families, it may grow depending on newborn kids and if the dominant Silverback can conquer other unhabituated mountain gorillas in the vicinity. After Bushaho gorilla family was opened in 2016, there are currently 17 gorilla families in all four Bwindi areas, making Uganda one of the greatest places to witness these endangered mountain gorillas.

A Gorilla Family Christmas.

The Christmas gorilla family lives in southern Bwindi, Nkuringo. This is the third habituated mountain gorilla family in Nkuringo, making three groups available for hiking. Up to 9 Christmas group members are recorded, with 6 observed hiking this family. Christmas, a silverback, leads a black back, three females, and a newborn. This group is trackable and often visits other towns for food.

How to drive to Bwindi.

By road, Bwindi can be reached from Entebbe or Kampala via scenic drives and stops, including the Equator crossing in Kayabwe, roadside crafts, fruit markets, and the Igongo cultural center in Mbarara. Lunch on the road and the scenic drive through the rolling hills of Kigezi and changing vegetation, river, and mountain scenery are included. Drive duration from Entebbe to Bwindi is 8-9 hours, 550km to the park.

Lake Mburo Np, Kibale National Park, and Queen Elizabeth National Park have links, so you may add another place to your Uganda vacation. You go via Mbarara and Kable from Lake Mburo. Connect to Buhoma from Queen Elizabeth National Park via Kihihi.

Rwandans travel 4-5 hours to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, passing Cyanika or Katuna. Coming from Rwanda, you must pass the genocide museum.

How to fly to Bwindi.

Entebbe or Kajansi airfields provide one-hour flights to Bwindi. Flight pickups are also offered at national park airstrips.

In charter and scheduled flights, Aerolink and Kampala Executive Aviation dominate. With scheduled flights, you book the next available flight to your location, whereas charter flights are arranged for a price.

You must travel north or south to Bwindi, depending on where you booked your gorilla tracking permit. Fly into Bwindi using two airstrips. Trackers in Buhoma and Ruhija use Kihihi Airstrip. The airfield is 45 minutes from Buhoma Sector. For southern gorilla tracking, fly into Kisoro Airstrip, 45 minutes distant. Your travel company’s vehicles will pick you up from the airport and drive you to your hotel.

How many Bwindi gorilla permits exist?

Gorilla permits.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority issues this card to enable travelers over 15 to follow gorillas in Bwindi for a certain day. The date and location of your gorilla visit are specified in your permission.

Bwindi contains 19 gorilla families in Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga sectors, each offering 8 permits per day for a total of 152 permits per day. Rushaga Gorilla Habituation offers 4 daily licenses.

Mgahinga National Park contains one gorilla family and 8 permits. Please note that Gorilla permits are in great demand and available on a first-come, first-served basis when contacting Katland Safaris.

What is Bwindi gorilla permit cost?

Gorilla licenses cost differently for habituation and hiking. Bwindi gorilla hiking licenses are USD800 for non-foreigners, USD700 for foreign residents, and Ugx 300,000 for East Africans. Gorilla habitat licenses cost USD1500 for non-foreigners, USD1000 for East Africans, and Uganda shs. East Africans may spend four hours with gorillas in Bwindi’s south between Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors for 750,000.

Price is per 2020/2021 Uganda Wildlife Authority Tariff.  The gorilla permit price includes admission costs to Bwindi Forest, guide fees, and conservation value as Bwindi hosts half the world’s mountain gorillas. Bwindi gorilla permits are less than Rwanda gorilla permits, which enable one-hour viewing for all citizens for USD1500. Visit Uganda’s Bwindi impenetrable national park to hike gorillas for a lifelong experience at a low cost.

Booking Bwindi gorilla permits

Permits are essential for planning a successful gorilla expedition. Gorilla trekking and habituation permits let you observe gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.  You may hike gorillas from all sectors in Bwindi with 180 daily permits. Gorilla trekking permits let you to see the gorillas for one hour, whereas habituation permits allow you to see them for four hours. These permits cost differently.

Emailing us about your expedition and selected date makes booking Bwindi gorilla permits easy. The gorilla permit must be obtained in advance to reserve a trek position on any day, depending on travel dates and permit availability. Gorilla tracking requires eight persons per family, hence only four licenses per day are available for habituation.

You must get a gorilla permit months or days before visiting Bwindi Forest National Park to book a day’s trip. When you book an all-inclusive gorilla road trip to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with Katland Safaris, just tell us your preferred gorilla trekking dates and we will verify permit availability online. A permit payment invoice will be sent when we provisionally reserve your permit. You will get scanned Uganda Wildlife Authority receipts when we obtain your permission and payment.

Booking Bwindi gorilla permits is crucial for your gorilla expedition. Depending on permit availability on that day, you will pick a sector to hike amongst Rushaga, Nkuringo, Ruhija, and Buhoma. To create an unforgettable experience, choose the gorilla trek date on your birthday, anniversary, Christmas, Easter, or any other event. If Uganda wildlife system permits are available, we will buy and book them.

Book Bwindi gorilla permits when

Ugandan gorilla permits may be booked year-round, but we suggest scheduling months in advance. In peak season (December–February–July–August–September), gorilla permits sell out rapidly. Advance gorilla permit purchase allows you to trek the gorillas at your preferred time.  Advance booking lets you choose the gorilla hike sector, finest lodging, and gorilla family. All of this will arrange and customize your trip.

We also book last-minute Bwindi gorilla permits for travelers who are in Uganda for a conference, seminar, or a change of plans and want to do a gorilla trek on a weekend or any day they are free. Once you contact us, we will try to get you a gorilla permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority or a reseller. Booking gorilla permits requires money to guarantee a trekking place.

Once you contact us, we will provide you an estimate for the amount of days you need, and you may choose dates that we will use to book your permits and accommodations, which are priority. We will pay for your trip plan and gorilla safari services once you pay. To reserve, contact us.

Minimum gorilla permit deposit

Booking Bwindi impenetrable National Park gorilla permits at least three months before trekking is crucial. To reserve your position for the trip, pay 30% of the gorilla permit fee, then 70% 90 days before the expedition. You may lose your permits and deposit if you don’t pay within 90 days.

Katland Safaris deposits 30% on permits for dates with limited permits using our credit while waiting for our account to be reimbursed if you completed a bank transfer. Online payment is fast—we receive the money in about five minutes and deposit your permits immediately. Uganda Wildlife Authority main offices in Kampala receive all monies and give a receipt for the requisite 30% payment and a booking reference to validate your gorilla permit.

Gorilla trekking vs. habituation

Bwindi impenetrable national park’s main activities for seeing endangered mountain gorillas are hiking and habituation. These activities vary, as stated below. Visitor-habituated gorillas are searched for in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park during gorilla trekking. Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC provide gorilla trekking.

You need a gorilla pass/permit to hike and watch gorillas for an hour in the jungle. To observe endangered mountain gorillas, you must hike in a tropical jungle on rocky, slippery terrain.  Gorilla trekking begins with an 8:00am briefing by park guides at each sector’s headquarters on hike rules.

Hike into the jungle following the mountain gorillas’ trail: trackers connect with guides, and once located, you spend one hour with them. Gorillas have 99% human DNA, and their family feeding, sleeping, and movement is fascinating.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park contains 17 habituated gorilla families for daily trekking, with a limit of 8 persons per family in Rushaga, Nkuringo, Buhoma, and Ruhija sectors. Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that shouldn’t be missed.

You’ll get to see adults, juveniles, male gorillas (silverbacks and black backs), and female gorillas. Each gorilla family has a name and individual gorillas, and guides can identify them. You can do as many gorilla treks as you want by getting a permit per day.

While Gorilla habituation experience is visiting gorilla group that is not yet used to visitors and it is still under the process of getting used to tourists. This activity involves visiting the gorillas with researchers who are learning the behaviour of the group being habituated; this process can take even more than two years.

Gorilla habituation is a four-hour gorilla trek which was introduced in 2014 to cater for tourists that have less time but want to spend more hours with mountain gorillas while participating in activities geared to making these wild mountain gorillas get used to human beings.

Gorilla Habituation is done in the south of Bwindi between Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors, a gorilla habituation permit costs USD1500 for Non- foreign residents per person per trek and gives you four hours with mountain gorillas as they move, feed, rest and live in the wild. Only four people are allowed to see these gorillas in Bwindi National Park per day and are allocated guides, researchers and rangers.

Gorilla habituation is done every day with or without tourists to ensure the gorilla group is fully habituated. It starts at 6:00am with a briefing and moves to the forest, where you can spend half or whole day. There are only four permits per day, so they are competitive, so you must book in advance.

Gorilla hiking age limit

Under the Uganda wildlife Authority policy, Gorilla trekking minimum age is currently at 15 years, and anyone below that age is considered a minor or child and thus not fit to trek the once-endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Children or minors may not be contained, and to avoid such, children or minors are not allowed to trek gorillas in Uganda’ Bwindi impenetrable National, a child may decide to make noise or run which may result into gorillas charging and becoming/act wild to visitors.

There are many reasons why children below 15 years are not allowed to trekking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is because children tend to have communicable diseases which can easily be transmitted to mountain gorillas since humans and mountain gorillas almost share the same genes, conditions such as cough and flu can easily be spread. The other reason is that the trek can sometimes be hard as Bwindi is hilly, it can be slippery, and the surface is rough which Kids many not be able to handle.

For easy management and care, children under 15 are usually grouped with their family for gorilla trekking in the forest. The passport port will be reviewed to ensure minors are not allowed to trek the gorillas, and if found, you won’t be allowed to trek even with a permit.

Tips for gorilla trekking

Tipping is customary in this part of the world, but not mandatory, and based on service levels. Tipping is a token of appreciation that motivates the person who received the tip. Tipping is key and cannot be denied on your Bwindi gorilla safari. Here are some of our passenger guidelines:

Tipping can be done with any currency, but we recommend hard cash, small bills of Dollar notes that are easy to distribute and don’t expect change, and Ugandan shillings, which you can exchange at the airport or have your driver guide stop you at the forex bureau at the start of your trip.

Gorilla Trekking Guides in Bwindi: Every gorilla family is assigned forest guides and park armed rangers who guide you during the trek, ensure your safety, slash the path with pangas, and give you a hand when needed. Tipping is essential; tips should be placed in the central tip box or delivered to the main guide, who will distribute USD15 per guest to all the trackers, guides,.

Gorilla trekking porters in Bwindi: You may hire a porter to carry your luggage, packed lunch, cameras, and aid you climb or slope on a rocky terrain. The porters are Bwindi residents who serve tourists. They normally cost USD15 per porter per day, and the journey costs USD15–20 per visitor, depending on workload.

Safari Driver/guides: Tipping is customary, and the driver guide picks you up from the airport/hotel on the first day of the safari and leads you through the final day. He represents Katland safaris, with which you booked a gorilla safari.

The driver-guide decides which routes to take, stops for meals and photos, and can answer any questions about wildlife, birds, people, culture, or other safari information. To thank the driver guides, USD 10-15 per day each visitor, usually 4-6 people per car.  Private two-person travelers should tip at their discretion. TIP per day or at the airport or hotel at the conclusion of the tour.

Lodge/camp staff: Waiters, waitresses, housekeepers, and bartenders provide meals, beverages, and clean cottages. Our recommendation is USD3-5 per guest/stay.  Many smaller lodges feature central tip bins for general tips.  At hotels and bigger companies, it is provided to successful employees at your discretion.

What to anticipate on gorilla trekking day?

Many travelers are unsure what to anticipate on gorilla trekking day, but our driving guides will enlighten you on the trip to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Here are some expectations;

On your gorilla trekking day, you’ll wake up at 6:00am, have breakfast at the lodge at 6:30am, and travel to the sector’s park headquarters. Drive time varies each lodging, from 10 to 1 hour. We usually propose lodgings near the park for customers’ convenience. You sit with other guests for briefing after your driver-guide presents your permits and passports to the park wardens for verification.

At 7:30, gorilla trekking rules and dos are explained. One gorilla family group will be assigned to you and eight guests will travel.  Visitors get walking sticks and travel into the jungle following the mountain gorilla track.

Once identified, they spend one hour with the gorillas and snap photos. The trip may take 30 minutes or three-quarters of the day, but once you discover gorillas, you will see how they eat, move, rest, and live and how guides interact with them.

Trekking groups form.

After eating lunch, you’ll return to the start and get a certificate for a successful gorilla hike in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The complimentary certificates include the walk date, gorilla family-group name, visitors’ names, and the national park. Drive back to the hotel for meal and sleep. We surpass your expectations with Katland safaris.

Gorilla hiking restrictions

Travelers interested in gorilla trekking in Uganda must follow the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s printed “Gorilla Rules” brochure.

In preparation for the gorilla trek:

Avoid gorillas if you have a cold or other contagious condition. Before traveling to the park, check with your doctor to make sure you’re well enough for the gorilla walk. The chief park ranger has the power to refuse you.

The minimum age for tracking is 15 years, which is verified upon sign-in for the gorilla trek when you produce your passport.

Human waste should be buried 30cm (15”) deep; the park ranger will dig a hole for you.

A limit of eight visitors per gorilla group helps manage forest movements and lowers mountain gorilla behavior during encounters.

Traveling to gorillas:

Keep your voice low. If you look closely, you may observe reptiles, birds, and other creatures.

DO NOT litter in the park. Bringing anything into the wilderness should be returned in your bag.

You may rest along the way.

When you approach the mountain gorillas, the guides will tell you to prepare for an amazing experience.

While with gorillas:

Avoid transferring airborne infections to mountain gorillas by staying 7m (21ft) away.

Smoking, eating, and drinking are banned. This may cause gorillas to attack and seize you.

If you sneeze or cough, hide your face and look away from the gorillas, who may get colds from people.

Visits last one hour each gorilla group every day.

Take caution and obey your ranger guide while shooting images. Avoid flash photography.

Ugandan gorilla tracking in Bwindi

Trek completion certificates for gorilla tracking

Gorilla trek gear: what to bring

When planning a gorilla safari to Bwindi Forest National Park, you should pack hiking boots, a rain jacket, garden gloves, long-sleeved shirts, khaki trousers, a backpack, drinking water, and energy-giving foods.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a tropical rain forest, which is wet, muddy, and thick, unlike Virunga, Volcanoes, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks, which have montane vegetation. The finest Bwindi Forest National Park gorilla trekking gear is below.

Shirts and pants with long sleeves

Wear a long-sleeved shirt, long trousers (Khaki zip-up or jeans), and waterproof pants. Long pants and long-sleeved shirts protect you from thorns, branches, and other sharp objects.

Hiking boats

Bwindi Forest National Park’s gorilla trekking involves trekking in a forest with different landscapes, including lowland areas covered in swamps and muddy when it rains, steep areas that require hiking up to find mountain gorillas, and hiking boots for easy movement through the forest.

Gloves for gardening

These gloves will shield you from stinging insects and tree branches you may use for support throughout the walk. Remember to grab on to tree branches in this forest since it might become slippery.

The Raincoat

Rain jackets and ponchos are essential gorilla trekking gear.  Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a tropical rain forest that receives rain year-round. Rain jackets are essential since you never know when it will rain.

Traveling in June, July, August, and September is preferred by many customers over March, April, and May. As a tropical rain forest, it may rain anytime. Rain jackets or ponchos should be packed for gorilla treks in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Volcanoes National Park.

Energizing snacks and water

Gorilla hiking takes 30 minutes to eight hours, therefore fitness is needed. To complement, pack energy-boosting foods. Since you never know when you’ll return, bring a packed lunch and plenty of water before leaving your resort. Uganda has energy-boosting foods, so ask your guide to drive you to a shop.

Cameras, additional batteries

Your safari depends on photography, so bring your camera and charge its batteries. Bring additional batteries since you’ll need to shoot several photos throughout your hour with the gorillas. Turn off your flash while photographing gorillas.

Bug Spray

Your gorilla trip will include a variety of insects, thus bug repellant will protect you from these harmful biteers.

Warm sweater

Bwindi Forest National Park is a tropical rain forest with unpredictable rains year-round. It is located at an elevation of 1,190 to 2,607 meters, making the park and surrounding areas cold at night. Bring a sweater to stay warm after the trek.

Hat and Sunglasses

A hat and sunglasses are also needed for a gorilla hike. If it’s hot, bring a hat to block the sun. You may also require sunglasses.

Traveling gorilla sedan chair/stretchers

If you have a disability or are elderly and not fit enough to walk, sedan chairs are recommended for gorilla trekking, which involves walking for hours through the forest in search of mountain gorillas, which may take half a day, a full day, or even less than an hour.

Gorilla hiking sedan chair/stretchers for old and frail

Gorilla hiking sedan chair cost

Gorilla trekking sedan chairs cost individually based on the distance to discover the gorillas and return and the client’s weight. The price may be USD350–500. To meet the unique and endangered mountain gorillas, you must pay for transportation to and from the gorillas. Gorilla trekking sedan chairs are available in Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga sections of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, however reservations are required.

For gorilla trekking sedan chairs, contact Katland Safaris at booking so we can get them. We will verify availability for your gorilla trekking dates and inform you on the cost of a sedan chair and porters to transport you to and from the gorillas. If we can’t acquire a sedan chair, we’ll recommend a locally built one for less. Uganda is a superb example of offering ideal grounds for elderly and handicapped gorilla trekking. Tourists over 90 have seen gorillas here.

Lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is divided into Buhoma and Ruhija in the north, Rushaga and Nkuringo in the south. When booking your gorilla trek, you must first confirm the gorilla permits, which will determine where you stay in Bwindi. You can choose from budget,

Luxury Lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, Trackers Lodge, Mahogany Springs Lodge, Chameleon Hill Lodge, and Silverback Lodge are luxury Buhoma lodges.

Bakiga lodge, gorilla mist lodge, Ruhija gorilla resort, and Ruhija gorilla safari lodge provide affordable luxury services.

Rushaga luxury lodges include Gorilla Safari Lodge, Gorilla Valley Lodge, and Four Gorillas Lodge.

Luxury lodges in Nkuringo Sector include Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge and Lake Mutanda Resort.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park guide

Luxury Bwindi lodging

Mid-range Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Lodges

Mid-range Buhoma lodges include Buhoma Community Haven Lodge, Bwindi Jungle Lodge, Eco-marvels Gorilla Resort, and Engagi Lodge.

Bakiga lodge, gorilla mist lodge, Ruhija gorilla resort, and safari lodge are mid-range Ruhija lodges.

Rushaga Gorilla Camp and Icumbi Gorilla Lodge are mid-range lodges.

Bwindi Gorilla Lodge is a mid-range Nkuringo lodge.

Mid-range accommodations

Bwindi Silverback Lodge

Budget Lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Bwindi Crested Crane Hotel, Ride 4 a Woman, CHTP Gorilla Conservation Camp, Bwindi Guest House, and Bwindi View Bandas are budget lodges.

Gift of Nature Lodge, Trekkers Cottages Lodge, Broadbill Forest Camp, and Gorilla Mist Lodge are budget Ruhija lodges.

Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Karungi Camp, and Nshongi Camp are budget lodges.

Budget Nkuringo lodges include Bwindi Backpackers Lodge and Wagtail Eco Lodge.

Community Rest Camp Buhoma

Broadbill Forest Camp

Lodge Rushaga Gorilla Haven

Bwindi lodging costs.

Budget lodges in Bwindi cost between USD50 and USD100 per person per night, mid-range lodges cost between USD100 and USD300, and luxury lodges cost between USD300 and USD500. These pricing may be modified based on how many nights you stay at the lodge for Bed&Breakfast, Half Board, or Full Board.

Other than gorilla trekking, Bwindi has other activities.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park has much more to offer than gorilla trekking, so here are some of its other attractions.

Experience Gorilla Habituation

Only Uganda’s Bwindi Forest National Park offers gorilla habituation. This trip lets you spend four hours with habituated mountain gorillas. Book your gorilla habituation permit in advance to ensure your spot in Bwindi Forest National Park, Uganda, where only four individuals can do it. The search takes half or a day, depending on how long it takes.

Bwindi Forest birdwatching

Bwindi Forest National Park is home to many unique bird species, including Albertine Rift Endemic birds. You can go birding after gorilla trekking or spend a full day or half day there. Handsome Francolin, Rwenzori Nightjar, Dwarf Honeyguide, African Green Broadbill, Archer’s Robin-Chat, Red-throated Alethe, Yellow-eyed Black-Flycatcher, Red-faced Woodland Warbler, Short-tailed Warbler, Grauer’s Warbler, Mountain Masked Apalis, Collared Apalis, Stripe-breasted Tit, Rwenzori Batis, Blue-headed Sunbird, Regal Sunbird, Strange Weaver, Dusky Crimsonwing, Please review our Kigali birding trip packages to Bwindi Forest National Park and contact us for a price. We can customize your Bwindi Forest National Park birding trip to your money, time, and interests.

Culture and community in Batwa

The Batwa people, known as pygmies, lived in Bwindi Forest National Park for many years until they were relocated to adjacent towns to help save mountain gorillas and promote tourism. From Kigali, Bwindi Forest National Park offers trails to show you how the pygmies lived, hunted, and harvested honey.

They will perform their dances and describe how they settled and lived good lives outside the jungle. You may undertake this activity the day you arrive from Kigali or after gorilla trekking. This activity may be booked in advance or on-site with your resort.

Volunteering

Batwa people, erstwhile forest dwellers, make up many of the settlements around Bwindi Forest National Park. Some children in Bwindi Forest National Park are orphans, while others are plagued with illnesses. Many have lost hope, like other African communities.

Volunteering may promote orphans’ mental health by providing academic materials, meals, and English lessons.  Send us a query and we can plan your vacation to Bwindi Forest National Park from Kigali to include volunteering in addition to gorilla trekking.

community engagement

Adventure bike tours.

Bwindi Forest National Park is high in altitude, making riding a must-do from Kigali. Bicycle safaris let you explore Bwindi Forest National Park’s local villages and exercise while doing so. If your resort is near the gorilla trekking start, you may ride a bike there.

We can arrange your vacation to include cycling in Bwindi Forest National Park from Kigali in addition to gorilla trekking. Send us a query and we will package it for you.

Safaris via nature

Bwindi Forest National Park is a tropical forest with over 300,000 years of history and indigenous tree species. Bwindi Forest is impenetrable due to its thick canopy, making nature walks enjoyable. On your nature walking safari, you will learn about different tree species, spot different bird species, and possibly see rare forest elephants, monkeys, baboons, and chimpanzees. You will also have the chance to blend yourself with nature by visiting the beautiful

Safari to Africa: Why?

Katland Safaris, one of the premier East African tour operators, has been arranging wonderful Bwindi impenetrable National Park experiences for 15 years and can provide you the finest advise on how to maximize your money. Our skilled safari designers and guides will make planning and executing your trip simple.

Ugandans own and administer Katland safaris, and half of your payment goes to community development and environmental conservation programs. I guarantee that a safari to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park will work if you follow this simple plan. Katland safaris is recommended by travel advisor and safari reservations. Visit these sites to see what other customers think about us.

Planning a Luxury gorilla flying safari to Bwindi

Buhoma Lodge in Buhoma region

Directions to Buhoma Lodge

You may reach Buhoma Lodge by both road and air; it is located on the outskirts of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. The time it takes to get to Buhoma Lodge depends on your starting point, but be assured that the road network is excellent and that you will reach the lodge without incident.

Buhoma Lodge is around 8 to 9 hours away from Entebbe, and from Kigali, Rwanda, it’s about 4 to 5 hours away. It is also possible to reach here from the nearby national parks; for example, Queen Elizabeth National Park is 2 hours away, Lake Mburo National Park is 6 hours away, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is 2 hours away.

Air travel is another option for getting to Buhoma Lodge; flights depart daily from both Entebbe Airport and Kajansi Airfield, both of which go to Kihihi Airstrip. Getting to Buhoma resort involves taking a flight to Kihihi airfield and then taking a about one-hour vehicle transfer to the resort.

You may leave from Entebbe Airport three times a day at 7, 10, and 15 minutes. The journey to Kihihi airstrip, from whence you will be taken to Buhoma Lodge, takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes. A one-way ticket to Kihihi will cost you USD283, while a return trip will cost you USD472.

Things to do when staying at Buhoma Lodge

Training for tracking gorillas
The Buhoma Lodge is conveniently located within walking distance of the beginning of the gorilla tracking trail in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. In order to go mountain gorilla trekking, you must first get a gorilla permit. Once you have this in hand, the next step is to make your reservation at Buhoma Lodge. Just give us a call, and we’ll take care of everything else.

Photographs and video
You are welcome to bring your own video, digital, or SLR camera on the trip, as well as to use them in the villages or around the resort to take images and movies of the mountain gorillas. There will be no fee for this.

It is only for the professional filming or filmmakers and commercial filming that you have to make an advance booking and fulfil the required procedures for you to be allowed to carry on a filming while on your safari, that is you will be required to have a media card with you to be allowed to film among other precautions contact us here we can as well book for you a filming safari.

A Cultural Walk and Community Village in Buhoma
Start your journey around Buhoma Lodge on the Buhoma Community Village Walk. Along the way, you’ll meet locals, including the Batwa Pygmies, and have the option to buy their items to show your support. Traditional music and beverages from the area are also sure to please.

The community hospital in Bwindi
Near Buhoma Lodge, in particular, the Batwa pygmies and other disadvantaged populations have benefited from the medical care provided by Bwindi Community Hospital since its founding in 3003 as a community health center. When you visit the hospital, you’ll see firsthand how it’s enhancing the lives of many people in the Bwindi area.

An Exploration into Batwa Culture
Those interested in the Batwa cultural experience may meet the pygmies who once lived in Bwindi Forest; they were forced out of their homes so that mountain gorillas might be better protected. This cultural immersion program will allow you to see, learn about, and take part in the Batwa way of life, including their adaptations to living outside of Bwindi Forest.

Hike in the Bwindi Forest
Under the auspices of the Uganda Wildlife Authority, visitors to Bwindi Forest National Park may go on a nature walk where they can see monkeys and other primates, as well as diverse plant and animal species. In addition to the journey to the waterfall, this walk takes around three to four hours.

Observing Wildlife
The Mubwindi marsh, located near Buhoma Lodge, is a great spot to go bird watching in Uganda, and Bwindi Forest National Park is a great site to do it. Out of 350 species of birds, 23 are found alone in this region.

Observing Butterflies
Another must-do while your stay at Buhoma Lodge is a visit to Bwindi area, which is home to more than 300 butterfly species, including several that are unique to this area.

Reasons to trek chimpanzees in Uganda.

Exploration, new experiences, and the rejuvenating power of nature are all waiting for us. Yes, following COVID-19, you should start planning your next trip, wonderful activities, and location. Have you ever gone on a trip with chimpanzees?

Has Uganda been on your travels before? After COVID-19, this is the optimal moment for you to come back. Among the fantastic things you may do following COVID-19 is to visit Uganda for the first time.

Airport and border closures, limits on international flights, travel bans, and lockdowns are just a few of the measures put in place by governments throughout the world in an effort to contain the COVID-19 pandemic. We understand that our guests from all corners of the globe are dealing with the aftermath of these restrictions.

In light of these developments, we are informing all of our customers via email and implementing a COVID-19 control mechanism by having our employees work remotely. We need to start making plans right now so that we may see the chimpanzees when we go on our trip. After COVID-19, we will travel regularly.

On March 21, 2020, Uganda reported its first case of COVID-19. Since then, 54 instances have been verified, with 4 individuals making a full recovery. As a precautionary step to restrict the spread of the virus, the airport and all Ugandan borders were blocked to incoming travel from that point on.

Primate tourism was also halted, and transportation was also put on hold until May 5, 2020. We have taken all necessary steps to ensure that this does not spread, and we are actively managing the issue. After COVID-19, taking personal responsibility is crucial for a fantastic healthy journey.

Regarding the Ugandan chimpanzee trekking industry.

With twenty primate species—the greatest number in all of Africa—contained inside Kibale National Park, Uganda is renowned as the primate capital. After mountain gorillas, chimpanzees are the most well-known primates.

To go chimpanzee trekking is to see these fascinating animals in their own habitat, where you’ll go on an exciting adventure and watch a habituated chimpanzee group going about their daily lives. Additionally, you could be lucky enough to see other monkeys, forest elephants (also depending on chance), snakes, birds, and other forest dwellers.

The only places in Rwanda where you can go hiking with chimpanzees are in the forest reserves of Kibale, Kalinzu, Kyambura, and Budongo. The Uganda Wildlife Authority oversees chimpanzee trekking. Beginning in the wee hours of the morning, with the assistance of park rangers and guides, visitors can make their way into the forest in search of chimpanzees.

The 30-to hour-long trek, which can be challenging due to the uneven and sometimes slippery terrain, is well worth the effort. You are limited to only one hour to see the chimpanzees in Uganda, yet your chances of seeing them are 99%. Because they share 95% of our DNA, chimpanzees are fascinating to observe because of the widespread belief that they are related to us.

Why continue chimpanzee trekking in Uganda after the COVID-19 pandemic?

After COVID-19, what are your plans? Here are a few arguments in favor of include chimpanzee trekking in your Uganda itinerary.

The chimpanzee hotspots in Uganda are easily accessible.
Both air and road transportation make it easy to reach the chimpanzee trekking sites in Uganda. Kasese Airstrip is the gateway to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you may take a flight to Kyambura and Kibale National Parks to go chimpanzee trekking.

From Kasese Airstrip, you may reach Kibale in under two hours, and the Kyambura Gorge is just thirty minutes’ driving. Another option is to take a four- or five-hour drive from Entebbe or Kampala to Kibale National Park or the Kyambura Gorge. For chimpanzee trekking in the Budongo Forest Reserve, you have two options: take a flight to Pakuba Airstrip in Murchison Falls National Park, or drive for about four or five hours.

The price of chimpanzee permits is low.
Chimpanzee licenses are more reasonably priced and accessible than gorilla permits in Uganda, which cost USD800 per person each hike. Non-Foreign Residents: 300 USD per person each hike in Kibale National Park; East African Residents: 250 USD per person; and East African Citizens: 250.000 Uganda shillings per person.

Non-Foreign Residents and East African Residents pay USD50 for chimpanzee permits to Kyambura Gorge, while East African Residents pay 30,000 Uganda shillings. The cost of chimpanzee permits in Murchison Falls National Park’s Budongo Forest Reserve is USD$100 for non-residents, USD$90 for residents, and USD$55 for East African citizens. We will provide you with scans of the receipt after the transaction so you have a record of it. The permits may be obtained from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Get in touch with them

Enhanced chimpanzee trekking vacation packages at reduced prices are now available via Katland Safaris. Even competing tour companies will certainly lower their prices to make up for the missed months. when COVID-19, our standard three-day chimpanzee trekking to Kibale trip costs $1,000 for one person and $800 for two.

However, when the virus has passed, the price drops to $800 for one person and $800 for two. After COVID-19, we will customize a trip to Uganda according to your interests and budget, so you may go chimpanzee trekking. Check out our website for more information.

Accommodation room prices at a reduced price
In an effort to make up for losses and cancellations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, many hotels are offering discounts. One example is the luxurious Kyaninga Lodge, which has offered a USD100 per person stay to African residents and may reduce its rates even further. There is a wide price range of cheap and premium lodges in Kibale National Park, Budongo, Kalinzu, and the Kyambura Gorge. Chimpanzee Forest Guest House, Isunga Lodge, and Kibale Homestay are just a few of the affordable alternatives.

Mid-range alternatives include Kibale Forest Camp and Turaco Treetops Lodge, while luxury options include Ndali Lodge, Papaya Lake Lodge, and Kyaninga Lodge, among others. Nightly costs vary from $90 to $100 per person. The cost per person for a night may vary from $300 to $400. For example, in Kyambura, there are a few affordable options: Elephant Hab lodge, Katara lodge, and Kyambura gorge lodge.

In Budongo forest reserve, there are a few more options: Budongo eco-lodge, Bakers lodge, and Murchison river lodge. All of these establishments probably provide the greatest deals to get guests to stay at their facilities when they visit Kibale Forest National Park.

Methods for a successful chimpanzee trip in Uganda after the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
Following the coronavirus pandemic, the Uganda Wildlife Authority, the Ministry of Health, and the World Health Organization all issued health advice and guidance for tourists interested in chimpanzee trekking in Uganda.

Remember to bring your COVID-19 free certificate with you so you may show it at the airport and the park headquarters. Please read the “Chimpanzee Rules” brochure published by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and obey them while you are on your chimpanzee trekking adventure in Uganda.

You will be asked to wash your hands and sanitize before beginning the trip to the forest in the post-COVID-19 chimpanzee expedition.
If you are sick with a cold or any other contagious disease, you should stay home from the chimpanzees. See your doctor to make sure you’re well enough to go on the Chimpanzee walk; the chief park ranger gets to decide and may turn you away if they don’t think you’re up to the challenge.

Keep in mind that you must be at least 15 years old to go on a chimpanzee trek, and that this age requirement is always clearly stated when you check in for the trip, when you’ll be asked to provide your original passport for verification.
When you go on a hike, a park ranger will always dig a hole for you to bury your human waste in, and the recommended depth is 30 cm (15 inches).

To make it easier to regulate the chimpanzees’ movements in the forest and to prevent behavioral problems during the meeting, the maximum number of visitors per group is eight.
Please be quiet while you make your approach to the chimpanzees. You could even see some reptiles if you’re really lucky, as well as a wide variety of birds and other wild creatures.
Please do not discard any trash in the park. It is recommended that you return all items to your backpack before entering the jungle.

As you move closer to the chimpanzees, the instructors will remind you to brace yourself for an incredible encounter and to maintain a distance of five to seven meters.
While you’re in the company of chimpanzees:
To assist prevent the transmission of airborne infections to chimpanzees, keep at least 7 meters (21 feet) of distance from them.

No eating, drinking, or smoking allowed. If you do this, the chimpanzees can become angry and try to attack you.
Chimpanzees are able to get human respiratory illnesses, therefore it’s best to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze to prevent spreading them.
Each chimpanzee group is only allowed one hour of visitation each day.

When shooting photographs, avoid using the flash. Be careful and listen to your ranger guide for further information.

What makes Katland safaris the best choice for a chimpanzee hike in Uganda?

You should not pass up the opportunity to observe these endangered primates in their natural habitats—the chimpanzees of Uganda and Rwanda—on a tour or permit organized by Katland Safaris. After COVID-19, you may visit any of our chimpanzee hotspots in Uganda to engage in chimpanzee trekking or chimpanzee habituation.

Celebrate a special occasion like a birthday, honeymoon, or anniversary by planning a trip to observe chimpanzees in their native habitat. For more information on tours we have previously led, please check traveler reviews about us on Safari Booking and Trip Advisor. If you are looking for an unforgettable safari in Uganda, Katland Safaris can create a personalized itinerary just for you.

Chimpanzee Trekking Discounts in Budongo Forest.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating effect on Uganda’s tourism industry, affecting businesses across the board from tour operators and hotels to employees and employers. Despite this, there is still reason to be optimistic: after the pandemic ends, you can enjoy discounted chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest.

On March 21, 2020, Uganda reported its first case of COVID-19. Since then, 54 instances have been verified, with 4 individuals making a full recovery. To restrict the spread of the virus, many measures were taken since then, including closing the airport and all Ugandan borders to incoming visitors, suspending primate tourism, and transport.

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has revised its prediction for worldwide international visitor arrivals in 2020 from 3% to 4% increase to a possible decrease of 20-30%. Foreign tourists may not spend $30–$50 billion (international tourism revenues) as a result.

We are hoping that the bans will be removed and that we may go to other game parks, following the standards set forth by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, the World Health Organization, and the Ministry of Health in Uganda, because we have recorded recoveries and no fatalities.

Primate Tourism in Budongo Forest Put on Hold by COVID-19

As a precaution against the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the Uganda Wildlife Authority put a halt on primate tourism until April 30, 2020. Because of their susceptibility to human respiratory diseases, wild creatures such as mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and golden monkeys must be safeguarded at all costs against the COVID-19 virus, the exact nature of which is still a mystery.

Primate tourism in Uganda focuses on four primary areas: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla tracking and habituation; Mgahinga National Park for golden monkey tracking; and Kibale Forest National Park, Kalinzu Forest, and Budongo Forest for chimpanzee tracking.

In an effort to save these monkeys, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced the suspension of chimpanzee trekking in Budongo park. As a result, travelers from any country are not permitted to visit the chimpanzees or the park until April 30th. We prioritize the protection and conservation of all primates for future generations and to enhance tourism in Uganda, which is known as the monkey capital.

Referring to the Budongo Forest chimpanzee trip

Located in the Masindi area of Murchison Falls National Park, Budongo Forest Reserve lies to the north of Kampala. The 800 chimpanzees in the forest reserve have been there for a long time, and their numbers have been continuously rising. We first examined the chimpanzees in Budongo forest in 1960, and since then, conservation efforts have been keeping the chimpanzees alive and well, drawing in more tourists.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority and the National Forestry Authority oversee the Budongo chimpanzee trekking permits, which are administered by Ugandan lodges. A number of communities have become used to daily chimpanzee trekking, with the exception of the current hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. These villages include;

More than 85 individuals make up the Sonso Chimpanzee community, which is one of the oldest groups that have made Budongo Forest their home. A small group of people broke away from the Sonso village and eventually grew into the larger Waibira Chimpanzee community, which now numbers over a hundred persons.

Located on the roadside between Masindi and Murchison Falls National Park, the Kaniyo-Pabidi Chimpanzee Community was habituated by the Jane Goodall Institute and is presently managed by Budongo Eco-Lodge. Near the Waisoke River is the habituated Waisoke Chimpanzee Community. Its origins are in the Sonso community, but it has members from all around.

The chimpanzees’ daily mobility is uncertain, although they may go from the forest’s far east to its northernmost regions. Trekking with chimpanzees demands some physical fitness, but if you’re not up to the task, the guides and porters will be more than happy to assist you.

What makes Budongo Forest Reserve an ideal location for chimpanzee trekking after COVID-19?

Once COVID-19 is out of the picture, we can look forward to an adventure in the midst of nature, where we may recharge our batteries by seeing the stunning chimpanzees in Budongo forest. Discounts on chimpanzee trekking are anticipated to be provided after the COVID-19 pandemic as a means for the tourist industry to recover from the pandemic and attract more visitors.

Changes to chimpanzee release dates

Tour companies are now permitted to reschedule chimpanzee permits up to twice until March 31, 2022, thanks to a relaxation in the restriction imposed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Those who have already paid the 30% deposit for the permits are eligible for this offer.

If you are planning your trip now and find that you will not be able to attend on that specific day, we may transfer your permits to another date for your chimpanzee trek in the future. We recognize that every nation heals at its own pace and ends lockdowns according to its own condition.

Save money on chimpanzee hiking excursions

If you are concerned about your finances, chimpanzee trekking in Budongo forest is an affordable option. Our reduced packages are likely to be comparable with other tour operators, and Katland Safaris will customize yours to fit your budget and demands. To see our packages and make an inquiry, please visit our website.

Transportation expenses cut down

The cost of transportation to the Budongo Forest Reserve is expected to be decreased for all of our all-inclusive packages after the epidemic. The cost of transportation, which was $100 per day on a budget vacation, drops to $70 to $60 per day after accounting for car rental and driver/guide expenses. Putting aside $40–$50 to pay for additional costs, such as entry fees and additional lodging. After COVID-19, transportation is expected to be one of the many ways that travel is affected.

Hotel Rooms at a Discount

In order to make up for lost revenue due to cancellations and other costs associated with the coronavirus, several lodging establishments in the Budogo Forest and Murchison Falls National Parks will likely provide discounted accommodation rates. You may choose from a variety of budget-friendly to opulent hotels in Budongo for your chimpanzee trekking accommodations. In order to make up for lost revenue, most lodges have kept their 2019 and 2020 prices, which will likely be even more heavily reduced. In addition, all lodges must follow the COVID-19 prevention protocols set up by the Ministry of Health.

After the first COVID-19 pandemic Save money on chimpanzee treks in Budongo Forest
The most effective methods for walking with chimpanzees in the Budongo forest After the first COVID-19 pandemic

The Uganda Wildlife Authority and the Uganda Tourism Board are stressing the need of following the best practices established by the World Health Organization and the Ministry of Health in Uganda, which are generally recommended for all tourists. See below

In order to make sure that everyone stays safe, the briefing point will stress the need of social distance and sanitizing by washing hands.
You must provide a certificate proving that you are clear of the COVID-19 virus, either from your own nation’s health ministry or from your place of origin. The airport will also need this.

In our ongoing effort to safeguard both ourselves and the environment, we ask that you please wear a mask and gloves (preferably cloth).
Please do not come to see the chimpanzees if you are sick with a cold or any other contagious disease. You should always see your doctor to ensure your health is suitable for the gorilla walk before traveling to the park, since this will be decided by the chief ranger, who has the authority to prohibit you from participating in the journey.

In order to undertake chimpanzee trekking in Budongo forest, guests must be at least 15 years old and provide their original passport for verification.
Please do not discard any trash in the park. It is recommended that you return all items to your backpack before entering the jungle.

To protect the chimpanzees from airborne infections, you must keep at least 7 meters (21 feet) away from the gorillas.
Chimpanzees are able to get human respiratory illnesses, therefore it’s best to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze to prevent spreading them.

The most critical thing individuals can do to keep themselves and others safe is to accept personal responsibility. In order to be safe both on the road and in everyday life, travelers should study up on the fundamentals (WHO advise for public).

Keeping up with the latest news is crucial, particularly while traveling. Travelers looking for up-to-date information from health and travel experts should check with reputable sites like the World Health Organization (WHO) on a regular basis.

Every traveller has a dual responsibility to ensure their own safety and the safety of those around them. They need to be alert to the signs and symptoms and follow all the guidelines for personal cleanliness.

After the COVID-19 pandemic, why book your safari with Katland Safaris? Because we prioritize and guarantee responsible travel. Safari guides will provide customers with hand sanitizer, water to stay hydrated, and reminders to sanitize often during the excursion.

You shouldn’t miss out on the post-COVID-19 chimpanzee trekking discounts, and guides with colds can’t drive customers till they’re well. Our ability to curate unforgettable experiences is a product of the cohesive team we’ve built over the years, which includes both youthful and dynamic employees, as well as seasoned and dedicated directors and managers who are native Ugandans.

Get in touch with us using this form, and a member of our team will be happy to provide you with reliable, up-to-date information. Safari reservations and TripAdvisor both give Katland Safaris great reviews and ratings.

Reasons to Trek Gorillas in Uganda.

If you are interested in seeing mountain gorillas in their natural environment after the COVID-19 outbreak, Uganda is the ideal location for your expedition. Half of the world’s mountain gorillas call Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo home. These three nations are the only ones on Earth where mountain gorillas are found.

Hikers in search of gorillas in Uganda might visit one of two neighboring national parks in the country’s far southwest: Bwindi Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. If you are planning a gorilla trek and are considering traveling from either Entebbe/Kampala or Kigali, Rwanda, you will find that these national parks are more conveniently located near Kigali (about 4-5 hours drive) than Entebbe/Kampala (about 8-9 hours drive).

The coronavirus outbreak has put a halt to gorilla tourism in both national parks. As a result, the parks are tentatively closed until at least April 30th. We hope that by then the virus will have gone and gorilla trekking can resume normally.

This is because the same virus can easily spread to mountain gorillas, who share around 98% of their DNA with humans. We expect that this pandemic will be controlled soon; Uganda has been successful in dealing with and preventing pandemics in the past, and we are following the World Health Organization’s standards and recommendations in our efforts to contain the COVID-19 virus.

After COVID-19, why go on a gorilla hike in Uganda?

Gorilla trips in Uganda may be organized by Katland Safaris in a variety of price ranges, from cheap to premium. Entebbe/Kampala and Kigali, Rwanda are the starting points for our gorilla trips. Please don’t hesitate to contact us via email if you have any specific tour requests; we are happy to tailor it to your interests, budget, and availability. Security and price are two of the most important factors to consider while planning a gorilla trip in Uganda after COVID-19.

Reasonable pricing

Budget, mid-range, and luxury vacation packages are all available to travelers. However, compared to other gorilla trekking destinations, Uganda is a lot more affordable for all types of travelers. This is because there is an abundance of services, including food, transportation, and accommodation, which makes the cost of going there much lower.

Rwanda charges $1500 per person each trip, whereas Uganda just $800, making it the more affordable option when it comes to gorilla tracking permits.

What makes a gorilla safari in Uganda different from other countries

There isn’t much of a difference in the experiences you get at the conclusion of a trip with mountain gorillas in Rwanda, Uganda, or the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, mountain gorillas inhabit the Virunga hills, where bamboo is the predominant vegetation type.

In Uganda, however, these primates can be found in two different ecosystems: the tropical rain forest of Bwindi Forest National Park and the Virunga hills of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. No matter which nation you visit, you will have a 98% chance of seeing gorillas in their native habitat. Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Rwanda are all fantastic places to observe these big primates.

People tend to think that gorillas in Rwanda are easier to see than in Uganda due to the country’s unique flora, however this is mostly due to perception and the fact that Rwanda receives more publicity and marketing than Uganda. Those who have been to Uganda to see the gorillas will have nothing but good things to say about Bwindi.

Unparalleled opportunities to track gorillas

One of the most well-organized tourist activities in Uganda is gorilla tracking, and you can be certain that you will be well-protected and accompanied by experienced professionals the whole way.

When you go on a gorilla trek in Uganda, you can also choose to spend four hours in close proximity to the primates, thanks to the Gorilla Habituation Experience, which is unique to Bwindi Forest National Park, one of the national parks where gorilla tracking is allowed.

You may combine your gorilla hike with other fascinating things to see in Uganda.

Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park for wildlife drives and a boat excursion on Kanzinga Channel if you wish to prolong your stay in Uganda. It would be a worthwhile addition to visit this. Among the greatest places in Uganda to see land and water animals is the Kazinga canal. Enjoy the best of both worlds with a game drive and a boat ride down the channel.

Other great parks to visit include Queen Elizabeth National Park’s Ishasha Southern Sector, where you can see tree-climbing lions, Kibale Forest National Park, where you can track chimpanzees, Murchison Falls, and Kidepo Valley National Park, where you can see wildlife up close, and many more.

When you embark on your gorilla tour in Uganda, you should know the best ways to prevent the transmission of the COVID-19 virus.
In addition to the standard procedures followed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority on the gorilla trek, the Uganda Tourism Board has issued travel recommendations that we must adhere to in the aftermath of the coronavirus outbreak. This is in light of the fact that the Coronavirus poses a current threat to Uganda’s travel trade and tourism assets. The Board has recommended the following measures:

The use of soap for handwashing is standard practice in all travel businesses, including tour operators, travel agencies, and lodging establishments.
It is advised that tour operators, agencies, and housing facilities have a supply of recommended masks (N95) for their customers in order to enhance sector-wide preparation.

It is highly suggested that all tour operators and travel firms remind their guests to bring their own masks (N95) while visiting Uganda.
Travel companies, tour organizers, and hotels all have a responsibility to inform their customers and employees on how to avoid getting Coronavirus.

Among these precautions are the following: not shaking hands or embracing one another; constantly washing hands with disinfectants; and routinely cleaning and sanitizing surfaces that are handled often, such door knobs.

Guidelines for gorilla trekking
Follow these guidelines (as outlined in the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s printed brochure titled “Gorilla Rules”) if you’re a tourist interested in going gorilla trekking in Uganda.

Get ready for the gorilla hike by doing the following:

Please refrain from visiting the gorillas if you are sick with a cold or any other contagious disease. You should always see your doctor to ensure your health is suitable for the gorilla walk before traveling to the park, since this will be decided by the chief ranger, who has the authority to prohibit you from participating in the journey.

The gorilla trek sign-in process, where participants are asked to provide their original passports for verification, always confirms that the minimum age for tracking is 15 years.
On every hike, a park ranger will dig a hole for you to bury your human waste in according to the recommended depth of 30 cm (15 inches).

Restricting visitors to no more than eight per gorilla group helps keep the forest under control and minimizes behavioral disruptions experienced by mountain gorillas during encounters.
Journeying towards the gorillas:

Please maintain a modest volume. You could even see some reptiles if you’re really lucky, as well as a wide variety of birds and other wild creatures.
Please do not discard any trash in the park. It is recommended that you return all items to your backpack before entering the jungle.

There will be spots to rest and times to unwind along the route.
As you get near the mountain gorillas, your guides will warn you to brace yourself for an unforgettable experience.
Be careful while you’re among the gorillas:

To protect mountain gorillas from airborne infections, keep at least 7 meters (21 feet) away from them at all times.
No eating, drinking, or smoking allowed. Doing so can provoke the gorillas to charge at you and seize them.
Gorillas are able to get colds and coughs from people, so it’s best to cover your mouth and nose if you have to sneeze or cough near them.

You are only allowed one hour with each gorilla group each day. Remember not to use your flash while shooting photographs, and be careful to obey your ranger guide’s instructions.
Where to stay in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park following COVID-19 for a gorilla hike in Uganda? There are cheap, mid-range, and luxury options.

A few affordable possibilities include the Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Trekkers Tavern Cottages, Ride 4 a lady, Buhoma Community Rest Camp, and Buhoma Camp Lodge, among others. Price per person per night may vary from ninety to one hundred dollars.

Some mid-range possibilities include Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Icumbi Lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, and Buhoma Havens Lodge. Fares may be as high as $300 per person per night and thereafter Prices for these and other five-star accommodations start at $300–$400 per person per night. Some of these possibilities are Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, Mahogany Springs, Engagi Lodge, Gorilla Sanctuary Camp, Four Gorillas Lodge, and more.

There is a wide spectrum of prices and quality of lodging in Mgahinga National Park. Kisoro Travelers INN is one inexpensive choice; rates there range from $90 to $100 per night. Lake Cahahfi Resort and Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge are two mid-range possibilities; rates there range from $100 to $300 per night. Prices for five-star hotels like Gahinga Lodge start at $300 to $400 per person per night.

The benefits of using Katland Safaris for post-COVID-19 gorilla trekking in Uganda.
If you are looking for a reliable safari business that offers trips to several East African countries including Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda, and the Congo, go no further than Katland Safaris. For almost a decade, we have been enthusiastically leading safaris.

For help planning your safari to visit mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, just give us a call, and one of our safari planners would be happy to assist you. On both Safari Bookings and TripAdvisor, Katland safaris comes highly rated.

Chimpanzee Trekking Discounts in Kibale National Park.

Coronavirus COVID-19 has caused significant and ever-changing problems for Uganda’s tourist industry, however when the virus has passed, chimpanzee trekking discounts in Kibale National Park are likely to be available. The majority of Uganda’s tourist revenue comes from small and medium-sized businesses, accounting for 80% of the industry.

This has had a devastating effect on millions of people’s ability to earn a living, including disadvantaged populations who rely on tourism as a means of economic inclusion. Despite being hit hard by pandemics and instability like Ebola in recent years, Uganda’s tourist industry has shown again and again that it can rebound and even spearhead the country’s economic and social revival.

Uganda has one of the lowest COVID-19 case counts among African countries, with no fatalities reported. This is largely attributable to the country’s well-preparedness to combat the pandemic, which has led to the implementation of stringent measures to combat the virus’s spread, such as encouraging citizens to remain at home, refrain from unnecessary travel, practice good hygiene, and maintain physical and social distance from infected areas.

Covid-19 and Ugandan Tourists

As in other nations throughout the world, the Corona COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating effect on Uganda’s tourist industry, the country’s primary source of foreign currency, with operators in the field suffering heavy losses.

Statistics from the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities show that the tourism industry contributes 7.7 percent to GDP and $1.6 billion (or about Shs6 trillion) to export earnings in Uganda. However, the projected 10% increase will not be achievable because of the Corona Virus outbreak.

There will probably be post-COVID-19 chimpanzee trekking deals in Kibale, which is bad news for hotels, tour operators, and wildlife parks since a lot of international visitors and business travelers are putting off or canceling their trips to Uganda.

Located in the southwestern region of Uganda, near Rwenzori Mountain and Queen Elizabeth National Parks, lies Kibale Forest National Park. The Primate Capital of the World is Kibale Forest National Park, which is home to more major primates than any other park in Uganda, including the primate species chimpanzees.

For decades, the park has been named the top spot in the world to go primate trekking, especially chimpanzee trekking. A visit to this park is not complete without engaging in chimpanzee trekking, chimpanzee habituation, birdwatching, community walks, nature walks, research, and a host of other exciting activities.

Possible savings on chimpanzee hiking after the COVID-19 pandemic

Many businesses in Uganda’s tourist industry would likely cut prices on a variety of goods and services in an effort to recoup from the damage done by the coronavirus outbreak.

In an effort to recoup losses and remain competitive, tour companies will likely offer chimpanzee trekking packages to Kibale Forest National Park at significantly reduced prices. To trek chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park, you’ll need a chimpanzee permit, which costs $300 for non-residents of foreign countries, $250 for residents of foreign countries, and $30 for citizens of East Africa.

A local tour operator, such as Katland Safaris, can usually arrange for transportation, lodging, and other services, and they can probably offer you a good deal on all of these things. See above for tour options for chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest; our regular 3-day all-inclusive chimpanzee trekking to Kibale is $1000 for one person and $800 for two; post-COVID-19, this drops to $800 for one person and $800 for two.

Most visitors to Kibale Forest National Park utilize private transportation, often arranged and booked via a local tour operator, and it is probable that this mode of transportation will be less expensive after the coronavirus.

Some visitors choose to use public transit; link bus company is a big player along this route, and they will most likely provide discounts after COVID-19. Public transportation usually costs between 40,000 and 50,000 shillings, although that might drop to 25,000 to 30,000 shillings.

Some hotels, like the luxurious Kyaniga Lodge, have begun offering discounts, such as USD100 per person for African residents, in order to recover from losses and cancellations caused by the coronavirus pandemic. It is likely that other hotels and lodges in Kibale Forest National Park will also offer accommodation discounts.

One may find inexpensive, moderate, and opulent lodges in Kibale Forest National Park. Kibale Forest Camp, Turaco Treetops Lodge, Primate Lodge, and others in the mid-range cost between $100 and $300 per night, while Chimpanzee Forest Guest House, Isunga Lodge, and Kibale Homestay are among the more affordable options (90 to $100 per person per night).

The most luxurious lodges in the area, such as Ndali Lodge, Papaya Lake Lodge, and Kyaniga Lodge, charge between $300 and $400 a night per person. These establishments are sure to provide the finest deals for guests visiting Kibale Forest National Park.

The Containment of the COVID-19 Pandemic by Uganda Tourism

Because the Corona Virus is now a danger to Uganda’s travel trade and tourist assets, the Uganda tourist Board has published travel advice that we must adhere to throughout the post-outbreak period. Specifically, the board has recommended that:

The use of soap for handwashing is standard practice in all travel businesses, including tour operators, travel agencies, and lodging establishments.
It is advised that tour operators, agencies, and housing facilities have a supply of recommended masks (N95) for their customers in order to enhance sector-wide preparation.

It is highly suggested that all tour operators and travel firms remind their guests to bring their own masks (N95) while visiting Uganda.
Travel companies, tour organizers, and hotels all have a responsibility to inform their customers and employees on how to avoid getting Coronavirus.

Among these precautions are the following: not shaking hands or embracing one another; constantly washing hands with disinfectants; and routinely cleaning and sanitizing surfaces that are handled often, such door knobs.

Guidelines for safe chimpanzee hiking when the COVID-19 pandemic is over.

Follow these guidelines and recommendations set out by the World Health Organization if you’re planning to go chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park, Uganda, after the coronavirus. For more information, visit https://www.unwto.org/tourism-covid-19. You will need a proof of travel demonstrating you do not have the virus, among others, and the most important ones are routinely washing your hands or using a hand sanitizer.

The following Chimpanzee Trekking Rules (as outlined in the printed pamphlet by the Uganda Wildlife Authority ‘Chimpanzee Rules’) must be followed during your visit to the chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park.

Prior to embarking on the chimpanzee trip in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic

If you are sick with a cold or any other contagious disease, you should stay home from the chimpanzees. See your doctor to make sure you’re well enough to go on the Chimpanzee walk; the chief park ranger gets to decide and may turn you away if they don’t think you’re up to the challenge.

Presenting your proof of being COVID-19 free is mandatory.

At the time of registration for the chimpanzee trip, participants are needed to provide their original passport for verification, which confirms that they are at least 15 years old, the minimum age for tracking.

When you go on a hike, a park ranger will always dig a hole for you to bury your human waste in, and the recommended depth is 30 cm (15 inches).

To make it easier to regulate the chimpanzees’ movements in the forest and to prevent behavioral problems during the meeting, the maximum number of visitors per group is eight.

Reaching the Chimpanzees:

Please maintain a modest volume. You could even see some reptiles if you’re really lucky, as well as a wide variety of birds and other wild creatures.

Please do not discard any trash in the park. It is recommended that you return all items to your backpack before entering the jungle.

There will be spots to rest and times to unwind along the route.

The instructors will warn you to brace yourselves for an incredible encounter with the chimpanzees as you approach them.

While you’re in the company of chimpanzees:

Keep at least 7 meters (21 feet) away from the gorilla to prevent the spread of any airborne infections to the chimpanzees.

No eating, drinking, or smoking allowed. If you do this, the chimpanzees can become angry and try to attack you.

Chimpanzees are able to get human respiratory illnesses, therefore it’s best to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze to prevent spreading them.

Each chimpanzee group is only allowed one hour of visitation each day.

When shooting photographs, avoid using the flash. Be careful and listen to your ranger guide for further information.

After the COVID-19 pandemic, why should you choose Katland Safaris for your safari?
Safaris to Tanzania, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are now part of Katland’s offerings, which originally began in 2011 with incredible experiences in Rwanda and Uganda.

Our ability to curate unforgettable experiences is a product of the cohesive team we’ve built over the years, which includes both youthful and dynamic employees, as well as seasoned and dedicated directors and managers who are native Ugandans.

If you get in touch with us, we’ll have someone on staff who can help you get reliable information quickly. Safari reservations and TripAdvisor both give Katland Safaris great reviews and ratings.

Gorilla Trekking in African countries

Gorilla trekking in Africa: where to go?

Only on the African continent can you find mountain gorillas. This is due to the favorable weather conditions and other factors, such the hills and vegetation, that provide a home for these endangered mountain gorillas. Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are the only African nations or locations where mountain gorillas may be seen.

After everything is said and done, in order to assist you make an informed decision, we need to thoroughly examine each African nation that is home to mountain gorillas. Africa gorilla trekking vacations are offered by Katland Safaris, and they guarantee permits. Let us know if you would want us to assist you with any nation.

In what areas of Uganda may I see mountain gorillas?

The world’s highest population of mountain gorillas calls the East African country of Uganda home. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park are two of the best places in Africa to observe or even visit mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

The mountain gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park number over 450, and of the 36 gorilla families housed there, 19 have been habituated and are now available for gorilla trekking safaris in Africa. For further details on gorilla safari vacations to the jewel of East Africa, get in touch with Katland safaris.

Mgahinga National Park, which is bordered by Volcanoes National Park and Virunga National Park in southern Uganda, is another location where mountain gorillas may be seen in Uganda.

Though the area only has one habituated family of mountain gorillas, visitors from Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are sometimes welcomed to Mgahinga National area. When contacted, Katland excursions may arrange for reasonably priced Mgahinga gorilla excursions.

In Rwanda, where is the best place to watch mountain gorillas?

The African nation of Rwanda, sometimes called “A Country of a thousand hills,” is one of three gorilla trekking destinations that are fortunate enough to have mountain gorillas. The mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park may be found or visited in one of the park’s 20 gorilla families; ten of these groups are designated for research purposes, while ten are for trekking purposes.

If you’re looking for a national park in Africa to go mountain gorilla trekking, your best bet is Volcanoes National Park. This is due to the fact that, unlike other African countries like Entebbe and Kishasha, the distance from Kigali International Airport to the gorilla trekking starting point in Kinigi is approximately two or three hours. So, unlike in Uganda, a day trip or two-day excursion to Volcanoes National Park from Kigali is easy to arrange.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo: Where can I observe gorillas?

Congo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are two African nations where gorilla trekking is possible. Mountain gorillas of DRC’s Virunga National Park are in the hundreds, and the country is bordered by Rwanda and Uganda.

Despite the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s reputation as a top destination for mountain gorilla trekking, the country’s abundant natural beauty has been marred by political instability and many assaults on tourists. Gorilla trekking in this African state is available via Katland Safaris upon request and after extensive investigation to determine the current safety and security situation. Welcome to the DRC! Let’s talk about your ideal vacation here.

Mountain gorilla trekking in Africa: how much is it going to cost?

The price of a gorilla expedition varies greatly depending on the African country you visit. Trekking mountain gorillas in Rwanda is $1500, while in Uganda it’s $800 and in the Democratic Republic of the Congo it’s $400.

These costs are subject to change at any moment and are based on current and planned 2020 figures. The Congolese government agency Virunga sets the price of gorilla permits, Rwanda’s RDP sets the pricing, and Uganda’s UWA sets the fee.

You may spend an hour in the company of mountain gorillas in the Bwindi, Mgahinga, Volcanoes, and Virunga parks in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo if you have a gorilla permit. As follows.

No matter how much you pay, every gorilla ticket from Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of the Congo will provide you an hour with mountain gorillas, park admission, a ranger guide, a certificate, and forest security. Everything else, such food, lodging, and transportation to and from the parks, will need to be planned independently.

Why does hiking with gorillas in Africa cost so much?

An hour with mountain gorillas in Rwanda may cost up to $1500, as mentioned before; in Uganda, the same amount can be spent per person for a journey, at $800. Before their recent delisting, mountain gorillas were one of the most endangered animals in the world. All because the three nations and other conservation groups improved their conservation policy. Seeing mountain gorillas is a luxurious and expensive experience.

Trekking with a family of mountain gorillas in Africa is an unforgettable experience, since only eight individuals are permitted to visit each family. Since it has been shown that primates like mountain gorillas are affected by human presence, the high charge is imposed to restrict the amount of visitors.

Planning a good hike to see gorillas in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, or Uganda
Are mountain gorillas on your bucket list for Africa? Since gorilla trekking is only possible in three African nations—Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo—choosing one of those countries is crucial.

Once you’ve settled on a nation, then you can start thinking about things like how much a gorilla permit will cost, how far the park is from the airport, how safe it is, and how much money you’ll need for lodging and transportation.

Please be sure to reserve your gorilla permit in advance once you have completed your study on these things to prevent any shortages. Picking a lodge that suits your needs and budget should also be a priority. You may do this with the help of Katland safaris. Additionally, our website has Gorilla trekking safari packages that you might peruse.

How old do you have to be to go on a walk with African mountain gorillas?

The minimum age to visit any of the African nations where gorilla trekking is presently being conducted is fifteen years old. Make sure your kid is at least 15 years old before you go gorilla trekking in Rwanda, Uganda, or the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Contact Katland Safaris if your well-built youngster is going to turn fifteen, since there is a 95% chance that they will be able to go on a mountain gorilla hike with you.

Feel free to contact Katland Safaris with any questions you may have about the three African countries that provide gorilla trekking safari tours, the best time to trek mountain gorillas, how to book gorilla permits, or which country to visit.

We have written extensively on these topics and more, so you can make an informed decision when planning your dream gorilla trekking safari vacation. Additionally, you may visit our safari reservations website or trip advisor page to read reviews and write your own.

Booking a flying safari to Uganda to see gorillas

Where to land for flights to see the gorillas in Bwindi National Park

You should be aware of the several airstrips that may land in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park before reserving a flight safari there if you want to trek Bwindi mountain gorillas. There are currently three airstrips in Uganda.

Among them are the airstrips at Kihihi, Kayonza, and Kisoro. The Kisoro Airstrip is the most convenient starting point and lodge for mountain gorilla treks in the southern section of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, namely in the areas of Rushaga and Nkuringo.

Those interested in mountain gorilla trekking in the Buhoma and Ruhija areas of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park might think about utilizing the Kihihi and Kayonza airstrips, which are situated in the park’s eastern and northern regions, respectively. Kihihi Airstrip is far superior than the tiny, privately held Kayonza Airstrip.

Where in the world can one find mountain gorillas?

You must make a daring decision as to whether your flying safari will be in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga National Park before you even contemplate planning an aerial safari to see Ugandan gorillas.

Gorilla permits should be reserved once the park has been narrowed down to either Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park, since the airstrip to land at is determined by the park and its permissions. Given its proximity to lodges and gorilla trekking starting places in the southern portion of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park, Kisoro Airstrip is the best option for those who book gorilla permits hiking in these areas. Because of this, the only alternative for Mgahinga gorilla trekking is Kisoro Airstrip.

You may travel to and land at one of three locations if you want to hike Bwindi mountain gorillas in the south, east, or north. Fly into Kisoro from Entebbe if you’re hiking in Rushaga or Nkuringo; fly into Kihihi or Kayonza if you’re walking in the north or east.

The Bwindi gorilla hiking area should be

It is important to decide which area of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park you will visit with your gorilla permit before making your flight reservation. Reason being, certain areas are located in close proximity to specific resorts and airstrips. Getting your gorilla trekking permits in Ruhija and Nkuringo arranged at Kisoro Airstrip is the best option.

It is recommended to use Kihihi airport for arranging gorilla permits for Rushija and Buhoma. It should be noted that, in comparison to Buhoma, the driving duration from Kihihi to Ruhija is around three hours. If permits for Buhoma are unavailable, Ruhija will be your only option.

Constitution vs Bwindi National Park is accessible by scheduled daily flights.

Chartering or scheduling scheduled daily flights to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga National Park are two options available when organizing a flying safari to view Uganda mountain gorillas. You may get charter and scheduled flights to Mgahinga and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks in Uganda via a number of different firms.

Only Aerolink and Fly Uganda/Kampala Executive Aviation provide scheduled flights to Kihihi and Kisoro. The majority of flights to Kihihi and Kisoro leave in the morning and in the morning and afternoon, respectively, so you have plenty of alternatives. Charter and scheduled flights to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park are both arranged by Katland Safaris for those who book our Flyin safaris to hike gorillas.

The lowest and highest fares that can be accommodated

Typically, planes or crafts that go to Kihihi or Kisoro may accommodate anything from two to eleven passengers. The available flights are reasonably priced and the aircraft are large, thus this is the result. Grand Caravans and BN2s are two popular crafts. Get in touch with Katland Safaris ahead of time with the headcount, and we’ll see what boats are available and provide recommendations based on that information.

Relying on the Correct Company for Your Internal Flights

Take the reliability of the safari operator into account when you plan your trip to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga. Aerolink, Fly Uganda/Kampala Executive Aviation, and Eagle Air all meet the requirements. Both the charter and regular flights provided by these businesses have been excellent experiences for us. If you contact Katland Safaris, we can put you in touch with the top firm in the business.

Entebbe town’s lodging options before and after the trip

It may be worth considering staying in Entebbe town for the first and final night when arranging a flying safari to Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park. This is due to the fact that local flights to Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks are subject to change, and anything might happen to your international flight, causing you to miss your connection. If you misplace your bags, you won’t be able to immediately begin your journey. Everything will be resolved after a night in Entebbe.

For the last fifteen years, Katland Safaris has been providing thrilling experiences to all of our customers, making us one of the most reliable tour operators in East Africa. Along with the Rwanda Development Board, the Uganda Tourism Board, and the Uganda Wildlife Authority, we are registered and collaborate closely with many others. Both SafariBookings and TripAdvisor have nothing but praise for Katland Safaris.