Category: Travel Blog

What are the best regions or sectors of Bwindi for gorilla trekking

Sectors of Bwindi for gorilla trekking

Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is separated into four administrative regions, or sectors. The 327 square kilometers that make up Bwindi Park are covered by forest. The Buhoma area in the north, the Ruhija area in the east, and the Nkuringo area and the Rushaga area in the south make up the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s division of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Although permits are booked based on the locality, gorilla families are found in all of these areas. Previously, travelers and tour companies favored obtaining gorilla permits for the Buhoma region. This is because a variety of lodge amenities were offered, and this is the primary administration. Nowadays, you may choose from a variety of lodge options in every area.

It can be difficult to choose the finest gorilla trekking location in Bwindi’s impenetrable National Park because each has unique characteristics. Every traveler has a different idea of what they want to see when they go gorilla trekking, and this is shown in various places. For instance, some people would like to witness a large family of gorillas, others babies, the most active family, another region with many birds, the largest dominant silverback, and so on.

You may not be able to choose which gorilla family you are assigned to, particularly during the busiest time of year when demand for gorilla trekking is at its highest. However, following a briefing during this time, you can choose a gorilla family based on factors including age and physical health.

Take a safari in each of these locations to get your own opinion on which is the finest place to go gorilla trekking. Similar to determining which gorilla family is the easiest to journey to, this is a challenging topic to answer because a family that feeds closer to the beginning site might move into the deeper reaches of the jungle during nesting season. The current state of affairs in the forest determines this.

Which Gorilla Families Are Found in Each Area?| Sectors of Bwindi for gorilla trekking

Bwindi Forest’s Buhoma Area
The Rushegura, Mubare, and Habinyanja families are the three gorilla families that are exposed to tourists in this, Uganda’s oldest gorilla trekking area.

Situated in the northern sections of the forest, this is the primary administrative region for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Bwindi Forest’s Ruhija region
This is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park’s top birdwatching spot, particularly if you hike to Mubwindi Swamp. Regretfully, the region’s road system is subpar, and navigating the slick roads requires a 4×4 wheel drive.

The Bitukura and Oruzogo families are among the gorilla families present.

Area of Bwindi Forest in Rushaga
The Rushaga region is located in the southern section of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. There are more than eight gorilla families that tourists can reserve.

The following families are susceptible to gorilla habituation: the Nshongi, Mishaya, Busingye, Kahungye, Bweza, Bikingi, Mucunguzi, and Rwigi families.

The Nkuringo region
Despite being a large family and the first to become accustomed to the southern sector, the Nkuringo area is located in the southern portion of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. In 3004, the Nkuringo gorilla family—which consisted of roughly 19 members—opened for tourism. The Bushaho and Christmas families are two other gorilla families in this region.

How to Reserve a Gorilla Trekking Permit in a Specific Location | Sectors of Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking

It takes time and effort to decide the area you want to pick up your gorilla permit from. Unless you are lucky enough to be able to request a specific place in advance, each gorilla permit is booked in random locations. If you buy your permission six months before the trekking date, this might be feasible, but you will need to have a specific cause for making this special request.

You need to know how many people you want to travel with and which date you would like to go gorilla trekking. The purpose of this is to eliminate the possibility of repeatedly hunting for gorilla permits.

Our safari consultant verifies availability according to the date when you send us an inquiry. One of the fortunate businesses in Uganda with access to the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s list of gorilla permit availability is Katland Safaris. As a registered business, we can check the status of gorilla permit availability at any moment.

To prevent last-minute anxiety while applying for a gorilla permit, we suggest our guests buy their permits as soon as possible, if there are any available.

A certain number of gorilla permits are made available for public reservation each day. The public is granted up to eight gorilla permits per family. This is the only cap on the number of gorilla permits available for daily tourist reservations, notwithstanding the overwhelming demand.

Following a gorilla walk, we ask for personal information such as your full name as listed on your passport, country, birthdate, and passport expiration date. According to the Uganda Wildlife Authority, these are used for documentation purposes, and certain information is included on the certificate of accomplishment.

How to Get to Every Gorilla Trekking Area in the Buhoma Area of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park | Sectors of Bwindi for gorilla trekking

The gorilla trekking headquarters are located here. The majority of paths lead to the Buhoma area because it is located in the impenetrable National Park area of Bwindi. The following are a few routes to the Buhoma area:

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

This is the fastest way to get from Kampala to Rukungiri, which is about 390 kilometers away, and then to Buhoma, which is about 82 kilometers away.

Kabale, Kampala, Kanungu, and Buhoma

The 414-kilometer travel from Kampala to Kabale takes five to six hours. After there, it takes more than four to five hours to travel the remaining 150 kilometers to Kanungu and Kanyantorogo. You have to drive a four-by-four.

Queen Elizabeth National Park to Buhoma via Kihihi

Those who reserve a Uganda Safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park travel this route. The travel from the Mweya Peninsula is roughly 160 kilometers, and the distance from the Ishasha sector to the Buhoma area is 64 kilometers.

Nkuringo Region,K abale to Nkuringo to Kampala

The drive is roughly 414 kilometers from Kampala to Kabale, and then another 105 kilometers to the Nkuringo region in the southern region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Before continuing to Nkuringo, you could want to spend the night at Kisoro, which is roughly 80 kilometers from Kabale.

It takes about an hour and a half to drive from the Nkuringo area to Kisoro town, which is about 35 kilometers away.

Area of Ruhijah: Kampala to Kabale to Ruhija

You will require a four-wheel drive vehicle because this route is one of the worst in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

It takes roughly 5 to 6 hours to travel 414 kilometers from Kampala to Kabale, then another 2 to 3 hours to go 44 kilometers on a Murram road.

When Is It Best To Reserve A Permit For Gorilla Trekking? Although gorilla trekking at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is available year-round, some visitors prefer to make reservations during the dry months of June through September and December through January.

The chimps, birds, butterflies, monkeys, and other forest inhabitants are at their most active during this season, and the mountain gorillas are in a good mood. The forest is crisscrossed by a dense network of rivers, which may not flood the routes. This area’s water catchment point is Bwindi Forest.

This season is also the busiest for other Uganda safari activities, including chimpanzee trekking, wildlife drives, and launch trips. The best time to combine gorilla trekking in Bwindi is during the dry season.

Some travelers also favor the wet season, which is often the low gorilla trekking season, for the following reasons:

Since there aren’t many visitors in the park, there won’t be many people preventing you from taking the greatest pictures if you’re a professional gorilla photographer.

During the rainy season, when fewer reservations are made for these lodges and other amenities, there is a greater chance of receiving a cheaper rate on things like lodging.

A Gorilla Trekking Safari to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: How Much Does It Cost?

The uniform price for a luxury, midrange, or low-cost gorilla trekking safari is the same as long as you have a gorilla permit. The following are other variables to take into account when determining the cost of the gorilla trekking tour:

The number of individuals who pay for a gorilla trekking tour

The cost of a gorilla trekking safari decreases as the number of paying passengers increases. Some expenses, such as gas, driver’s guide fees, and car rental, can be split. These expenses are also shared when you embark on an organized gorilla trekking expedition. You are only compensated for the gross cost of your gorilla trekking expedition if you go alone.

The gorilla trekking safari’s timing

Due to the strong demand for these services during this time, gorilla trekking is typically most expensive during the peak season. The same services are used for other activities, including chimpanzee trekking and wildlife drives.

The duration of the gorilla trekking safari in days

The gross cost of the safari increases with the number of days spent on the gorilla trekking excursion. Since most service providers charge by the day, the more days you spend on safari, the more expensive it will be.

A gorilla safari can be combined with a variety of other activities.

The cost of the safari increases with the number of activities you add to gorilla trekking. The cost of the safari increases with the number of activities; each activity has a separate price.

How secure is it to go gorilla trekking in the impenetrable national park of Bwindi? | Sectors of Bwindi for gorilla trekking

Because rangers are on hand to safeguard both visitors and forest inhabitants, gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is safe. To maintain peace and order in this area, the ranger guides work in tandem with other Ugandan security services.

Additionally, you must exercise caution for your safety by

entering the woodland accompanied by a ranger guide. The presence of humans must be adapted to by many forest inhabitants. An armed ranger to guide the way for all activities would be ideal.
When on a gorilla trekking safari, avoid illegal activities like drug trading because you could be arrested if caught.
You could draw the wrong individuals to you if you count large amounts of money in public. They might even set up an ambush to steal your money, both foreign and local.
Wearing valuable jewelry could attract burglars, so keep them at bay or, if the lodge has a safe, ask the manager to store it for you. On the day of departure, don’t forget to request them.
When going gorilla trekking, bring only the necessary luggage so you don’t lose any or have too little room in the car to fit them all.
If you go gorilla trekking with kids, keep an eye on them. While gorilla trekking requires participants to be at least 15 years old, in Uganda, a youngster is considered an adult when they are 18 years of age or older. Although they might be destroyed by unknown individuals, a few signposts in the Bwindi area allow you to follow them. The communication network itself could be improved.
Remain near the gorilla trekking group that you have been assigned to go with. This will keep you from getting lost in the woods. The ranger guide stays with the rest of the party but follows the trekker who is moving the slowest.
If you need to get in better shape for the gorilla hike, hire a porter to carry your stuff. If the mountain gorilla family is distant from the beginning point, you can become really tired.
Bring the appropriate gorilla trekking equipment, such as a first aid kit, safari boots, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, garden gloves, and other items that will last you a long time in the bush.

What to do before gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda

The most popular safari activity in Rwanda and Uganda is gorilla trekking, but you can mix it with other activities to make a fantastic itinerary. To create a seamless itinerary without going back, you need a knowledgeable and skilled tour operator.

Things to See in Uganda Before Trekking with Gorillas.

Ugandan game drives
Murchison Falls National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Kidepo Valley National Park are among the national game parks in Uganda. Therefore, you might run into early risers on an early morning game drive as they leave their nightly hangouts.

Lions, leopards, cape buffaloes, waterbucks, bushbucks, cheetahs, jackals, wild cats, oribi, impalas, giraffes, zebras, and more are among the creatures you might be able to view.

Some of these species are well known to live, especially in National Parks; therefore, you might not see them all in one game park.

Each of these game parks has park fees that must be paid throughout your 24-hour visit. Therefore, if you have a difficult time in the park, it would be ideal to have a ranger guide accompany you as you enter the forest. When on a game drive, especially in national parks where carnivores are common, never attempt to exit the vehicle. This is because you must discover their possible hiding place.

Trekking chimpanzees
In national parks such as Kibale National Park, Kaniyo Abides Forest, Kyambura Gorge, Kalinzu Forest, Ngamba Chimpanzee Sanctuary, and others, chimpanzees can be found in Uganda, a primate refuge. With almost 96% human DNA, chimpanzees are the closest relatives of humans. They reside in groups ruled by an alpha male, whose authority is confirmed by other members of the group.

To enjoy the presence of these monkeys at any of the locations, you will need to obtain a chimpanzee trekking permit. Two sessions are held: morning and afternoon sessions. Each troupe of visitors is only permitted to see six chimpanzees.

Chimpanzee trekking is only open to those who are at least 15 years old. This is because a youngster under this age may find it difficult to understand the time it may take to find the chimpanzees, which is still being determined.

Chimpanzees are extremely sensitive creatures, especially when there are intruders nearby; therefore, please follow all trekking guidelines to prevent upsetting them.

Trips of Launch
Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park are two of Uganda’s most well-known national parks for hosting launch expeditions.

You sail the River Nile to the point where it squeezes around a tiny bend that is roughly 6 meters wide to burst out fiercely and create a foggy look during the launch excursion at Murchison Falls National Park. Numerous wild creatures, including giraffes, cape buffaloes, reedbuck, hartebeest, and others, can be seen along the banks, slaking their thirst. Many riverine birds use the banks as a nice place to halt, while the water is home to hippos and serried crocodiles.

The highlight of this park is the Kazinga Channel launch cruise, where you can see a variety of untamed creatures that enjoy drinking off the shoreline. Along the Kazinga Channel’s shore, the freebies attract a variety of native and foreign species. Lions, hyenas, waterbucks, bushbucks, topis, and other wild creatures also drink from these showers to relieve their thirst.

On a clear day, nothing compares to taking a boat journey to see the ice-capped Rwenzori Mountains.

Depending on the arrangements made by the safari adviser, you can do this either before or after gorilla trekking.

Ugandan birdwatching
Being home to more than 1000 bird species—more than all of Europe combined—Uganda is one of Africa’s top birding attractions. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mabamba Swamp, Botanical Gardens, Lutembe Beach, Mpanga Forest, and Musambwa Island are among the top birdwatching locations in Uganda. Additionally, certain birds, including endemics of the Albertine Rift, are found in Uganda that are listed on the IUCN Red List.

Ostriches, shoebills, Shelley’s Crimsonwing, Handsome Francolin, Yellow-backed and smaller Masked Canary, Papyrus Gonolek, Black Bee-eaters, Red-capped Lark, and more are among the birds you might see in Uganda.

Approximately 350 bird species have been identified, even in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The Ruhija area, particularly in the Mubwindi wetland, is the best place to go bird watching in Bwindi. In addition to being a gorilla trekking destination in Bwindi, the Ruhija area is home to families like the Butukura and Oruzoga families.

Rafting in white water in Uganda
It’s exciting to go white water rafting on the Nile, but you don’t need any prior experience. On the ground, knowledgeable guides walk you through every step of the white water rafting adventure at River Nile Itanda Falls.

When white water rafting, you can choose where you want to stop because there are many tide levels you can experience. On the Nile, you can also go kayaking or tubing.

See the Nile River’s Source
The only source of the River Nile is Uganda, where in Jinja, the water from Lake Victoria violently splits apart from the River Nile. To get to the location of this mythical divide, you must rent a boat. The drama below is incredible.

Mountaineerin.g You may walk in several highlands in Uganda, such as Mountain Rwenzori, which takes roughly seven days to return to. You can hike for a day on mountains like Mountain Muhavura, Mountain Gahinga, Mountain Sabyinyo, and others. Because they are aware of how much is in the forest or on the mountain, you must accompany a ranger guide.

Trekking with Golden Monkeys
Due to its restricted population, Uganda is fortunate to have golden monkeys in Mgahinga National Park. They are endearing primates with larger bodies than typical monkeys. Despite being accustomed, they are quite active and have brown hair on their lower back. They coexist with various primates, including red-tailed monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, black and white colobus, and blue monkeys.

Center for Uganda Wildlife Education (UWEC)
The former Entebbe Zoo is now the Uganda Wildlife Education Center, where animals are housed in exhibits. They are housed in conditions akin to those seen in the wild. Nearly every wild animal found in the woods may be summed up by these creatures.

At the Uganda Wildlife Education Center, you can walk with a guide or on your own. Lions, chimpanzees, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, various monkeys, and other creatures might be seen by you.

Things to Do in Rwanda Before Game Drives and Gorilla Trekking
Rwanda’s only game park is Akagera National Park. In the morning, you can go on a game drive around this park. Elephants, cape buffaloes, giraffes, waterbucks, and bushbucks are among the creatures you might encounter.

You have to pay park fees that cover your stay in the park for the entire day.

Rwandan Chimpanzee Trekking
Chimpanzees are found only in Rwanda’s Nyungwe National Park. As a result, chimpanzee trekking permits for Rwanda must be reserved. Other primates, including red-tailed monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, black and white colobus, and blue monkeys, call this place home.

Tour of Kigali City
To see the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Museum, Market Place, and other sites, you can plan a city trip to Kigali. The stringent regulations enforced by the Rwandan government have made Kigali City one of the cleanest cities in Africa.

Boat Cruise
You can take a boat tour on Lake Ihema within Akagera National Park. You take in the breathtaking views and refreshing lake breeze. This lake’s banks are home to a variety of birds, which avid birdwatchers may appreciate.

Go to the grave of Dian Fossey.
Hiking the final steps of renowned primatologist Dian Fossey leads you to the location where her bones were interred. She advocated for the predicament of the mountain gorillas, who faced extinction. She is among the factors that contribute to their continued existence and size. She defended the mountain gorillas until she died in 1985, and her bones were interred with theirs.

Trekking with Golden Monkeys in Rwanda
One of the rare places where golden monkeys can be found is Rwanda. They reside in groups that are governed by an alpha male. To see the golden monkeys, you need to buy a golden monkey trekking permit.

Rwandan Birdwatching
Many birds can be found in Rwanda, particularly in Akagera National Park and Volcanoes National Park. Ornithologists can identify several of these birds, including endemics of the Albertine Rift. To support your time in Rwanda, it would be ideal to have a well-planned schedule and several days.

Rwandan mountaineering
You can set up a mountaineering safari on several of Rwanda’s mountains, such as Mountain Muhabura, Mountain Gahinga, Mountain Sabyinyo, Mountain Karisimbi, and Mountain Bisoke, if you want to see how fit you are.

Expect to travel via winding roads as you travel to various locations because Rwanda is a country of a thousand hills.

To what extent are Rwanda and Uganda safe for an African safari?
Because rangers collaborate with each nation’s security agencies to ensure the safety of visitors and their surroundings, safaris in Uganda and Rwanda are safe.

Additionally, you must consider personal security, such as
You can attract the wrong people if you don’t count a lot of money in public.
Avoiding street food since it can lead to food sickness.
Steer clear of carrying valuables that could draw unwanted attention, such as jewelry.
Only travel into the park or forest with a ranger guide to accompany you, as you might not know how to get around if you drive alone or risk being attacked by creatures in the wild.
How to Reserve Safaris in Rwanda and Uganda
Depending on what you want to see, African safaris that pass through Rwanda and Uganda can be booked.

When you contact us, you may let our safari consultant know what you would like to see in both countries so they can create a fantastic itinerary that suits your schedule and price range.

Since there is fierce rivalry for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits, which are restricted, reservations must be made well in advance.

Important activities like gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park or Bwindi Impenetrable National Park must be included in the Uganda Rwanda Adventure Tour itinerary.

Game drives and chimpanzee trekking may be included, but you must take into account the number of days and time allotted for your safari vacation in Africa.

Make sure to reserve lodging for these locations well in advance so that you have a variety of choices when making last-minute reservations.

Observe the regulations governing activities in these parks to avoid being bounced or being permitted to engage in sensitive activities, like as chimpanzee or gorilla trekking, among others. While tourists can reserve these activities, the preservation of wild creatures comes first.

Things to Bring to Rwanda and Uganda Safaris

Apply insect repellent to stave off stinging insects that could injure you.
Safari footwear that shields your feet from jagged items in the wild.
A camera to capture images of various activities in the bush
A pair of binoculars for a better view of distant sights.
Toiletries in case they are not provided by your accommodation.
Wearing pajamas at night when it gets so cold
Breakfast is too early to last until lunch, therefore there are energy bits to eat during the activitiesWarmersrs that can keep you warm, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon.
Because Rwanda and Uganda are tropical nations where sunburns are possible, wear sunscreen.

Facts about gorilla habituation experience permits in Uganda

Facts about Gorilla Habituation

The method by which a gorilla trekking family is formed is known as gorilla habituation. To accustom a semi-habituated gorilla family to human presence without changing their character, a group of researchers and habituation experts will accompany them into the bush as part of the gorilla trekking experience.

The only place to experience gorilla habituation at the moment is Uganda. Two gorilla families are available for gorilla habituation in the southern regions of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Additionally, the Rushaga and Nkuringo gorilla trekking sites are located in this southern section of Bwindi’s impenetrable national park.

Gorilla Habituation Experience: What Is It? | Facts about gorilla Habituation

You may watch a family of semi-habituated gorillas as they become accustomed to human presence without changing their natural behavior in the gorilla habituation experience. You also get to go with a group of habituators and researchers.

To be eligible for this activity, it would be ideal to have a current gorilla habituation permit.

What is a permit for gorilla habituation?

The Uganda Wildlife Authority issues gorilla habituation permits, which are cards that let people help a semi-habituated gorilla family become accustomed to people. Because gorilla habituation licenses are in high demand and each family is only allowed four permits per day, it is preferable to buy them in advance.

How much do gorilla habituation permits cost? | Facts about gorilla Habituation

For foreign nonresidents, gorilla habituation permits cost $1500 per person per trek; for foreign residents, they cost $1000; and for East African residents, they cost 750000shs.

Four hours with the mountain gorillas, a certificate upon habituation, park entrance fees for the day, ranger guide fees, security, gorilla conservation assistance, and local community support are all included in the purchase of the gorilla habituation permit.

The price of the gorilla habituation permit does not include the following: energy bits, a packed lunch, porter fees, TIPPING, and much more.

Is there a refund for the gorilla habituation permit?

Making a reservation for a gorilla habituation safari is like winning the lotto; not going is like not winning the ticket.

If you are eligible under the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s refund policy, you can request a refund for your gorilla habituation permit. Notify the Uganda Wildlife Authority or the booking agent in advance if you anticipate being unable to attend gorilla habituation on the scheduled date.

If you are still eligible for a refund, you will be given instructions on what to do next. Because money must pass through bureaucracy before it can be reclaimed, some patience is required.

Can the permits for the gorilla habitat be rescheduled? | Facts about Gorilla Habituation

If you contact the Uganda Wildlife Authority, you can reschedule the gorilla habituation permit.

Send a letter to the Uganda Wildlife Authority asking for a new date for your gorilla habituation permit.

Your gorilla habituation permit is shifted to a requested date upon approval, just in case there is still a spot available.

Uganda permits two reschedulings for the same free gorilla habituation permit; however, the executive director must give his or her approval for the third time. Additionally, a 25% premium is added to the overall cost of the gorilla habituation permit.

How Secure Is the Habituation Adventure for Gorillas? | Facts about gorilla Habituation

Despite being a wilderness safari, gorilla habituation is safe. A ranger guide with a machete to remove some creepers and clear the path when needed, escorts each group of gorillas during habituation.

The security management of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park collaborates with other Ugandan security organizations to uphold law and order both inside and outside the park.

You need to be mindful of your own safety by avoiding consuming street food that could upset your stomach. You can be excluded from gorilla habituation as a result of this.

Ask your driver’s guide for assistance if you want to sample the local cuisine. The safest food points are known to the guide.

Enter the forest only with a ranger guide accompanying you. This is because there are wild animals in the forest that are not accustomed to people and could endanger you. Even to keep from getting lost in a jungle as big as Bwindi.

What Takes Place During an Adventure in Gorilla Habituation? | Facts about gorilla Habituation

You bring your gorilla habituation supplies, such as sanitizer and at least two clean masks, to the ranger station in the early morning. Since the return time is uncertain, don’t forget to pack a lunch.

Together with a group of habituators and researchers, the park warden and ranger guides walk you through the guidelines for gorilla habituation. You take pauses along the road, and if you have energy food, you can refuel without leaving any trash in the forest.

You clean your safari boots and follow the trail to the location where the mountain gorillas were spotted the day before, accompanied by a group of researchers and a habituation guide. The mountain gorillas might be just starting to eat breakfast or leaving their nesting place.

When you find the mountain gorillas, what do you do?

The researchers and rangers must create a vibe surrounding the mountain gorillas before they approach them. When in their immediate area, the wild mountain gorillas are vulnerable to outsiders. You must wait for the situation to settle down before you can enter the gorilla family in the event of a conflict.

You are expected to observe, take notes, and attempt to establish a relationship with the mountain gorillas in accordance with the gorilla habituation principles throughout your time with the gorilla family. To avoid coming across as suspicious, you must show loyalty to the dominating silverback when he displays his majestic authority over the gorilla family.

One of the gorillas’ natural tendencies is to hide, so expect them to do so occasionally. They are not yet accustomed to being around people. Follow the researchers’ instructions and habituation when this occurs, as they may already be aware of how to handle it. On advice, only push your way to the area where the mountain gorillas have fled.

Try to maintain a distance of roughly 8 meters from the mountain gorillas as a norm for gorilla habituation. They silently retreat as they get closer. As a way to preserve memories for later use, take pictures throughout the habituation hours.

You are permitted to spend four hours with the mountain gorillas before gradually leaving to rest at your resort.

During habituation, how dangerous are mountain gorillas?

The mountain gorillas are not aggressive, despite being partially acclimated during our adventure. Rather, despite their intimidating stature and physique, mountain gorillas are quiet and reserved.

Avoid looking directly into the mountain gorillas’ brown, sunken eyes, as this could make them suspect you. The silverback may give the order for the other members of the family to withdraw into the deeper woodland ends if he notices something strange about the strangers nearby.

The mountain gorillas may become enraged or start a stampede in the jungle if you provoke them.

The mountain gorillas can pull grass around themselves, bang their chests, hoot, walk on one foot, and do a lot more when they’re upset.

No visitor has ever been attacked by a mountain gorilla in the history of gorilla habituation.

What Is The Gorilla Habituation Adventure’s History?

The rest is history. In 2014, the Uganda Wildlife Authority began a gorilla habituation adventure. As a result, visitors were able to spend more time with the mountain gorillas and felt honored to have contributed to the creation of a gorilla trekking family. Gorilla habituation offers you more time, but you can still go gorilla trekking more than once.

A select few have the chance to accompany a group of researchers as they observe and record information on the mountain gorillas for four hours.

Being the first firm to book guests for a gorilla habitat safari in Uganda, we at Katland Safari take great pride in being the first to create history.

What is the duration of the Gorilla Habituation Adventure?

Depending on the conditions in the forest, gorilla habituation takes different amounts of time.

Depending on where the mountain gorillas spend the day, you could occasionally find them two hours after the walk begins or later.

The gorillas may go into hiding if they quarrel with members of their own family or with another gorilla family, which would make it more difficult to find them.

For a while, mountain gorillas feed in a specific location. After their food supply runs out, they relocate; it could take some time to determine where the habituated gorilla family has gone.

Even the speed at which individuals do gorilla habituation is important. It takes longer for gorillas to get habituated when they move very slowly.

Your progress in the forest may be slowed down by slick pathways and damp ground during the intense rainy seasons.

With all of this in mind, you experience a mixture of intense thrill and anxiety when you first see the mountain gorillas. Before you find the mountain gorillas, you might need to recall everything you have been through.

Because mountain gorillas are free primates simply living their lives, gorilla habituation requires some time.

Is It Hard to Habituate Gorillas?

Because the Virunga region is primarily volcanic in topography, hikers should anticipate traversing slopes and plateaus where mountain gorillas might spend the day.

You must be reasonably fit, or rent a sedan chair if you are physically incapable.

Wearing the appropriate safari boots that can handle muddy terrain and slick slopes will help you survive a gorilla habituation experience. Ask for a walking stick to provide additional support while you search for the mountain gorillas.

Just before you embark on your journey, you can hire a porter to carry your gorilla habituation equipment. You may walk about freely and snap the greatest pictures with less interruption thanks to this.

During a gorilla habitat adventure, who is a porter?

A porter pushes you to finish the trip when you’re exhausted and carries your gorilla trekking equipment in the woods.

What Role Does a Porter Play in Gorilla Habituation?

To keep you energized while you search for the mountain gorillas, the porter helps carry your gorilla habituation equipment.

Because porters are locals, hiring one directly supports the conservation effort to save mountain gorillas. In addition to examining the forest supply, they make some money as porters, which they utilize to fund their everyday needs.

WHAT ARE THE GORILLA HABITUATION ADVENTURE DO’S?

The environment of the forest where mountain gorilla food grows is altered when trash, especially non-biodegradable trash like plastic wraps, is dumped in the wilderness.
It is not permissible to spit on the ground or foliage since this contaminates the food that the mountain gorillas eat.
When you find the mountain gorillas, stay around 8 meters away from them. They are quite prone to infections from people.
Due to the forest elements surrounding this activity, gorilla habituation is only permitted for those who are at least 15 years old. The many hours of gorilla habituation may be too much for a child younger than this. A toddler might find it difficult to tolerate the damp conditions, even on the ground.
If you want to eat or drink, stay at least 300 meters away from the mountain gorillas. This keeps them from snatching up human food. Since they are untamed creatures, they have to look for nourishment.
You only get four hours to see the mountain gorillas before you leave them to go about their daily lives.
COVID-19 volunteers stay behind when they have a contagious illness, such as a cough, to avoid infecting the extremely vulnerable mountain gorillas.
Because the mountain gorillas are vulnerable to strangers, it is prohibited to provoke them.
To avoid frightening the mountain gorillas during gorilla habituation, never use flash photography.
During gorilla habituation, avoid dispersing as the mountain gorillas can perceive an ambush.
As a precaution following the COVID-19 outbreak, use a mask before you approach mountain gorillas.

Which countries in Africa have mountain gorillas, and why

Countries in Africa with mountain gorillas

Only three African countries—Uganda, Rwanda, and D.R. Congo—are home to mountain gorillas, one of the continent’s rarest primates. You must obtain a gorilla trekking or habituation permit from the relevant authorities to observe the mountain gorillas.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority is tasked with overseeing mountain gorilla operations in Uganda. The Rwanda Development Board, on the other hand, oversees all mountain gorilla operations in Rwanda.

According to the census conducted by the team led by American primatologist Diane Fossey, the mountain gorillas were in danger of going extinct by the 1980s. There were roughly 300 mountain gorillas at the time, according to the census statistics. Conservation became the top priority once they were included in the list of critically endangered primates.

A new census estimates that there are currently around 1000 mountain gorillas in the world. This is ascribed to the attention to detail of both domestic and foreign mountain gorilla conservation teams.

Where to Look for Mountain Africa’s Gorillas: Uganda | Countries in Africa with mountain gorillas 
Impenetrable National Park in Bwindi
This park is located in Uganda’s southwest. It was designated a World Heritage Site in 1994 after being gazetted as a National Park in 1992. About 327 square kilometers of the park are covered in tangled vegetation that has grown over time. Because of local volcanic activity, the landscape of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is jagged.

This forest’s tangled vegetation covers steep, draughty hills, slick lowlands, and profoundly fractured terrain. The Bwindi Forest’s vegetation is thought to have existed for more than 30,000 years. It is thought that this wild woodland contains about 300 species of trees.

The abundant wildlife of this natural forest includes more than ten species of primates, such as mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, blue monkeys, grey-checked mangabeys, red-tailed monkeys, olive baboons, L’Hoests, and others.

51 reptiles, 88 months, and over 310 butterfly species are among the various forest inhabitants. With over 350 bird species identified, Bwindi is a top birding location in Uganda, and the list is constantly growing. Approximately 23 of the 24 species known to exist in Uganda can be found in this park due to the endemics of the Albertine Rift.

Locations for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi| Countries in Africa with mountain gorillas 

There are four gorilla trekking locations in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Rushaga, Buhoma, Ruhija, and Nkuringo. Due to its size, this national park was separated into sections for ease of management.

Gorilla families have been made available for reservations in each of these locations. The Uganda Wildlife Authority currently has 18 gorilla families on its roster of fully habituated gorillas.

Booking Accommodations for Gorilla Trekking in the Impenetrable National Park in Bwindi
To avoid having to get up early to attend the briefing, you should reserve gorilla trekking lodgings near the locations where your permit is reserved.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers several lodging options, including.

Silverback Lodge, Mahogany Spring, Trekker’s Tarven, Buhoma Lodge, Engage Lodge, Gorilla Safari Lodge, Gorilla Forest Camp, Bwindi View Bandas, and Cameleon Hill Lodge, among others.

Park in Mgahinga Nationa Parkl
At roughly 33.7 square kilometers, this is Uganda’s smallest national park. Although there are many primates in this park, the mountain gorillas are the most remarkable. The Nyakagezi family is the only habituated gorilla family in this park as of now. Despite its reputation for wandering into Rwanda, this family of gorillas has been residing in Uganda for a long time.

In addition to the mountain gorillas, this park is home to a variety of other primates, including black and white colobus, grey-cheeked mangabey, olive baboons, golden, blue, and red-tailed monkeys.

Three unique volcanoes—Mountain Muhavura, Mountain Gahinga, and Mountain Sabyinyo—form the backdrop to its breathtaking views. You can experience a variety of vegetation zones, including Montane woodland, a bamboo zone, a Montane forest, and an Ericaceous zone, by hiking these mountains for a day.

You can obtain a 360-degree view of Rwanda, Uganda, and the DRC border even if you trek to the summit of Sabyinyo Mountain.

There are over 115 bird species in Mgahinga National Park, some of which are peculiar to the Albertine Rift, making it a fantastic place to go bird watching in Uganda. The Malachite Sunbird, White-tailed Blue Flycatcher, Alpine Chat, Kivu Ground Thrush, Rwenzori Turaco, and other species are among those you might see.

The number of families who trek with gorillas in Mgahinga National Park
There is currently only one habituated gorilla family in Mgahinga National Park, but they used to be more migratory. This family of gorillas is known as the Nyakagezi. At first, the sale of gorilla licenses for this park was based on the mountain gorillas’ availability.

Due to the mountain gorillas’ consistent presence in Mgahinga National Park, gorilla permits can now be reserved at any time.

Because it receives fewer visitors, this park is considered to be one of Uganda’s virgin parks. However, there are many stunning landscapes that.

You can observe when hiking atop one of the park’s mountains.

Which lodgings to reserve for a gorilla trek?k Although there aren’t many places to stay in Uganda’s Mahinga National Park, you may alternatively spend the night in Kisoro town, which is around 14 kilometers away and takes about 30 minutes to travel there.

One of the lodges that you can reserve is Gahinga Lodge.

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda | Countries in Africa with mountain gorillas 

Rwanda’s only mountain gorilla habitat is Volcanoes National Park. Five volcanoes—Mountain Gahinga, Mountain Sabyinyo, Mountain Karisimbi, Mountain Muhabura, and Mountain Bisoke—back the park, which is located in Northwestern Rwanda. Regretfully, this park only has 15 gorilla families available for tourists to see.

This park is also home to a variety of other primates, such as blue monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, red-tailed monkeys, olive baboons, golden monkeys, and others.

The remains of the fallen mountain gorilla hero can also be found by hiking the Dian Fossey trail. She contributes to the continued existence of mountain gorillas. To inform the world about their existence and conservation methods, she battled for them until the end of her life. Her findings form the basis of modern mountain gorilla study.

Volcanoes National Park is the best place to go birdwatching in Rwanda. Approximately 300 bird species, including endemics of the Albertine Rift, can be found in the Park. Shelley’s Crimsonwing, Kivu Ground Thrush, Malachite Sunbird, Dusky Turtle Dove, Rwenzori Turaco, and other birds are among those you might be able to recognize.

Booking Lodging for Volcanoes National Park Gorilla Trekking
Volcanoes National Park offers a variety of lodging options, including luxury, mid-range, and budget options.

Accommodations for the Rwandan gorilla trekking safari include: | Countries in Africa with mountain gorillas 

Among these are Hotel La Palme, Kinigi Guest House, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, and Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge. Another option is to spend the night in Kigali, which is roughly two and a half hours away from Volcanoes National Park. To drive to the briefing location, you must get up quite early.

D.R., Virunga National Park, Congo

The only place in D.R. Congo where mountain gorillas can be found is here. The total size of the park is 7800 square kilometers. This park is home to the Munyaga, Humba, Mpuwa, Lulengo, and six other gorilla families.

Why Do Mountain Gorillas Exist in Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo?
One of the refugia forested areas that survived the ice age that struck Africa between 1300 and 1800 years ago is the Virunga region. A variety of plants and animals found refuge in this area, including the mountain gorillas, which are thought to be among the survivors.

Due to their natural vegetarianism, mountain gorillas may consume more than 70 pounds of leaves each day to sustain their massive bodies both during the day and at night. Bamboo, soft stems, leaves, fruits, tubers, and much more are mountain gorilla delicacies. Once they take over a territory, they eat there together as a family until the food source is interrupted. The dominant silverback is then required to find and protect a new feeding area for the family.

If you are assigned to this family, you must follow the mountain gorillas because they tend to climb up the slopes in search of food.

Only the Virunga region, which includes Volcanoes National Park, Mgahinga National Park, Bwindi National Park, and Virunga National Park, is thought to be home to mountain gorillas.

When Is the Best Time to Reserve an African Gorilla Trekking Safari?

Because mountain gorillas live in families and rarely relocate without cause, you can always find them in the jungle when you travel to Africa. However, because the gorillas are more active during the dry season, some tourists prefer to schedule their gorilla trekking excursions during that time.

Other forest inhabitants, such as birds, butterflies, and monkeys, are also more active.

Because of the frequent rains, the forest’s trails are typically muddy and slick, yet the ground receives very little sunlight. The forest receives less rainfall during the drier months, which lowers the trees’ humidity. Within their course, even the rivers flow.

You are less concerned about water pouring into your camera when you are taking pictures during the dry season.

There are fewer customers during the wet season, which is also the off-peak months of March through May; therefore, there is a greater potential of being unprepared for an exclusive gorilla trekking experience.

The low season is the most comfortable if you have a tight budget because there is a greater chance of finding service providers offering reduced rates.

The low season is the best time to go gorilla trekking if you want to have as little disruption as possible because fewer people will be going with you. Seeing the mountain gorillas without anyone to block your view is a fascinating experience.

Which among Rwanda, D.R. Congo, and Uganda is the best place in Africa to go gorilla trekking?
Meeting the mountain gorillas is an experience that cannot be compared to anything else. The mountain gorillas’ immense size makes you feel powerful. The chills run through your body. Some claim that when they were in front of the enormous mountain gorillas, they forgot about anything they might have gone through.

The emotions individuals have after seeing mountain gorillas and learning about the differences between the three habitat countries are also influenced by other variables.

The variation in gorilla trekking permit prices

Gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda presently cost $1500 per person each trek, while those in Uganda cost $800 per person per trek, and those in DRC cost $450.

There are 19 gorilla trekking families in Uganda that are accessible to tourists, 15 in Rwanda, and six in DRC as of right now.

It takes around three hours to drive from Kigali Airport to Volcanoes National Park, and eight to nine hours to drive from Entebbe Airport to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park. Therefore, depending on your origin, it can take you two days to get to Virunga National Park and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

There are plenty of opportunities in Uganda to combine gorilla trekking with other activities, such as wildlife drives, nature walks, chimpanzee trekking, and exploring the Nile River. However, Rwanda offers few gorilla trekking choices, such as game drives, chimpanzee trekking, and visits to Kigali city.

For mountain gorilla hiking, Rwanda boasts a well-equipped briefing site, whereas Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo have mediocre setups.

Rwanda can complete gorilla trekking in two days, but Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo require at least three days.

What Are Uganda’s Gorilla Trekking Regulations?

Offer to stay behind if you contract an infectious disease such as cholera, the flu, or a cough.
It is not permitted to spit on the ground.
Once you’ve found them, stay around 8 meters away from the mountain gorillas.
Gorilla trekking is restricted to kids who are at least 15 years old.
It is mandatory to wear a mask before encountering the mountain gorillas.
If you must smoke or feed the mountain gorillas, keep a minimum of 300 meters away from them.
You are only permitted to spend an hour with the mountain gorillas.

Why is the gorilla trekking experience in Uganda and Rwanda for one hour

Gorilla trekking experience in Uganda.

Because mountain gorillas are accustomed to being around people for that short period of time, gorilla trekking is only possible for an hour at a time. The process of acclimating wild mountain gorillas to human presence is known as “gorilla habituation.”

Gorilla trekking: What is it? | Gorilla trekking experience in Uganda

Tracing a fully habituated mountain gorilla family and spending just one hour with them is known as gorilla trekking.

19 gorilla families in Uganda are accessible to tourists and reside in Mgahinga and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks. Both parks are situated in the typically volcanic southwest region of Uganda. Reservations for these gorilla families are made based on their geographic location. There are four regions in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:

The northern region of Buhoma
The eastern region of Ruhijah
The southern region of Rushaga
The region of Nkuringo
Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwest of Rwanda, is home to 15 gorilla families that are currently accessible to tourists. Families that undertake gorilla trekking in Rwanda include the Amahoro, Karisimbi, Susa, Ugyende, Bwenge, and Sabyinyo families, among others.

Since mountain gorillas are among the world’s endangered primates, conservation efforts must take precedence over all other activities. Primatologist Dian Fossey conducted a census in the 1980s and found that there were roughly 300 mountain gorillas in existence at that time. Conservation of mountain gorillas began after they were designated as one of the most endangered primates.

One approach to raise money for this admirable yet enjoyable activity was to offer gorilla trekking permits to donate to the gorilla conservation fund. Despite all of this, conservation remained the primary concern, and as a result, the mountain gorillas were conditioned to spend only an hour with people.

Emphasize the One-Hour Gorilla Trekking Duration | Gorilla trekking experience in Uganda.

Mountain gorillas were accustomed to spending only an hour with people.
For the sake of conserving mountain gorillas
To provide room for conception and to let the mountain gorillas eat
Allow time for your return after your gorilla trek.
To lessen the possibility of infecting the mountain gorillas
Reduced the likelihood of upsetting the mountain gorillas
Mountain gorillas were accustomed to spending only an hour with people.

In the process of gorilla habituation, wild mountain gorillas are gradually acclimated to human presence by allowing them to tolerate people for an hour. Despite their calm demeanor, mountain gorillas are extremely sensitive.

They might not fight you, but if they think anything strange about the group of gorilla trekkers in front of them is strange, they might hide in the bushes. To reduce such odds, one hour was recommended.

You are supposed to observe the mountain gorillas and snap as many pictures as you can to preserve the memory of your encounter with them during that hour. Since they are timid primates, try not to look them in the eyes.

For the sake of conserving mountain gorillas

Only an hour is acceptable for mountain gorillas during gorilla trekking since they are primates that must be preserved in their native habitat and not become overly accustomed to human presence. All plans must move on with conservation because the mountain gorilla conservation program has required a significant amount of time and money.

The mountain gorillas rely on greenery as their primary food source; therefore, if you spend too much time in the forest, you risk overtrampling the vegetation. This food must be protected and should not be trampled underfoot.

To provide food for the mountain gorillas

Because they are typically vegetarians, mountain gorillas eat leaves all day long to maintain their enormous body size at night. The weight of a mature mountain gorilla can reach up to 300 pounds. Although bamboo is a delicacy for mountain gorillas, they also consume soft stems, fruits, tubers, leaves, and other materials.

To lessen the possibility of spreading diseases to the mountain gorillas, it is recommended that you avoid spitting on the plants when engaging in gorilla trekking or gorilla habituation.

The mountain gorillas may pause feeding during gorilla trekking to pay attention to their guests. They may appear to be going about their own business, but they are actually keeping a close eye on everything, particularly the Dominant Silverback, who is tasked with defending the sovereignty of his gorilla family.

By spending an hour observing the mountain gorillas, you can shorten the amount of time they spend feeding or relaxing.

To Make Room for the Conception of Mountain Gorillas

Gorilla hiking interferes with conception since you are in the way of the mountain gorillas. The mountain gorilla conservation community celebrates more when more babies are born.

The infants of that era are given names during the annual Kwita Izina gorilla naming ritual in Rwanda. Only when the mountain gorillas are allowed time to focus on conceiving will this be possible.

According to a census conducted in the 1980s, there were only about 300 mountain gorillas in the world; today, it is estimated that over 1000 of them reside there. Giving the mountain gorillas time to conceive in a secure setting is credited with this accomplishment.

After gorilla trekking, allow time to return.

It’s still unclear when mountain gorillas can be found during gorilla trekking. However, a lot of things depend on it, such as how close their food is, what to do if they fight with another gorilla family, the weather that day, and much more.

The location of the mountain gorillas may be delayed as a result of such situations. It is predicted that it will take two to three-quarters of the day to find the mountain gorillas. Depending on where the mountain gorillas are feeding, you may even climb up steep slopes at times. You have to walk back afterward since these are very taxing. It’s important to return before you become too fatigued if your gorilla family is far away.

To lessen the possibility of infecting the mountain gorillas

If you spend too much time with the mountain gorillas, you might begin to engage with them instead. During this encounter, you might infect these extremely fragile primates with a sickness. About 96% of human DNA is found in mountain gorillas.

Additionally, they can contract germs from people, which could cause them to die in large numbers. It has taken a long time to conserve mountain gorillas; therefore, ruining them now would be counterproductive.

If you are aware that you have a contagious illness, such as the flu, cholera, coronavirus, cough, etc., you are encouraged to volunteer to stay behind even before going gorilla trekking. Additionally, as a precaution for all primate trekking excursions following the Covid-19 pandemic, bring at least two clean masks to use while gorilla trekking.

Reduced the likelihood of upsetting the mountain gorillas

To avoid upsetting the mountain gorillas, you must strictly adhere to the instructions given during the briefing. They are extremely sensitive primates, particularly when there are intruders around. As a result, avoid disturbing their tranquility, touching their babies, picking up objects in front of them, encircling them, making needless motions, and much more.

The likelihood of breaking any of the aforementioned rules increases with the length of time you spend with them. This is another justification for setting a one-hour restriction on time spent with the mountain gorillas. To temporarily grab their interest and then allow them to resume their regular activities.

How to Reserve a Permit for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda and Uganda

Decide how many gorilla permits you want to reserve for the day and the date you want to go on the gorilla trekking safari.

Our safari adviser verifies availability from the Rwanda Development Board listing or the Uganda Wildlife Authority when you contact Katland Safaris. One of the few registered businesses with access to the gorilla permit daily status list is ours.

We encourage all of our clients to buy their gorilla permits as soon as possible, in case there are any available for the time you choose. This is because anyone else can always buy them off.

Gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda and Uganda are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The only way to express interest in going on this African safari is to purchase a gorilla permit, which is booked in advance.

We need your full passport name, nationality, birthdate, passport expiration date, and other personal information to issue Uganda gorilla trekking cards. Some of this information is filled out on your certificate of completion of your trek, and these are utilized for record-keeping.

How Much Does a Gorilla Permit Cost in Rwanda and Uganda? | Gorilla trekking experience in Uganda

For foreign nonresidents, the cost of a Rwanda gorilla trekking permit is $1500 per person per trek; for foreign residents, it is $500; and for East African residents, it is $300.

The current cost of a Uganda gorilla trekking permit is 300000 shs for East African citizens, $700 for foreign residents, and $800 for foreign nonresidents.

Park fees are included in the price of a gorilla trekking permit.

You must pay park entrance fees before you can access any national park. This is utilized to help with park upkeep and wildlife conservation. The price of the gorilla permit includes this charge.

Gorilla Medicine

If the mountain gorillas sustain serious injuries, assistance is required. Even though they are wild creatures, the gorilla doctors may intervene to treat them when they are ill. Even though they are supposed to get medical care in the environment, this can occasionally be challenging. As a result, mountain gorillas receive regular medical examinations from gorilla doctors. You might need to raise some cash from the sale of the gorilla permits to pay for all of this.

Fees for ranger guides

A ranger guide can accompany any trekker as they enter the forest. Professional ranger guides have gained expertise about mountain gorillas and other forest inhabitants via their experience.

They typically impart this knowledge to visitors, fostering trust in the lives of mountain gorillas. Many people would like to share their unique experience and knowledge with the world by posting about their gorilla trekking experiences.

By monitoring radio communications with security at headquarters, the rangers also ensure the trekker’s safety. They can readily inform the appropriate parties if they need to back up.

Support from the Local Community

Because people are occasionally the victims of these animals, the local community must be active in the conservation of mountain gorillas. As a result, the town receives a portion of the yearly revenue from the sale of gorilla permits. This helps them manage their projects, such as establishing water sources and maintaining roads.

Encourage the Safety of Gorilla Trekking Locations

You need to make sure you’re safe because gorilla trekking takes place in the outdoors. Rwanda and Uganda are safe places to go gorilla trekking, nevertheless. To maintain peace and order in certain areas, the rangers collaborate with other security personnel.

Items of a personal nature are not included in the price of a gorilla trekking permit.

Since breakfast is eaten so early to sustain you during the entire journey, you are expected to pack your own lunch, as the gorilla permit fee does not include any snacks, drinking water, or a packed lunch.

Absence of safari gear

To help you find the mountain gorillas, it would be ideal to have your gorilla trekking equipment with you. Packing rain gear, safari clothes, boots, and other items would be ideal.

Costs of lodging

The price of the gorilla permit does not include the cost of lodging. The price varies based on your desired spending limit.

Porter

Before beginning the hike, you must hire a porter if you require one.

Tipping

You might want to give your ranger guide a tip when you get back from gorilla trekking. The price of the gorilla permit does not include this.

Do Ugandans trek Mountain gorillas in Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks?. Gorilla Trekking Trip to Uganda 

Mountain gorillas in Bwindi

Indeed, gorilla trekking is practiced by locals in Uganda and other East African countries to preserve the mountain gorillas’ and their habitat’s sustainable existence. The purpose of this action is to raise awareness among the villagers about mountain gorillas and the value of protecting their delicate forest habitat.

Human involvement was one of the factors that caused the mountain gorilla population to decline to roughly 25o by the 1980s, as reported by the Dian Fossey team at the time. The mountain gorillas are the subject of local mythology, and these animals have been characterized as dangerous in these stories.

The people, particularly the whites (Muzungu), knew that going to see mountain gorillas was a foreign activity when gorilla habituation and hiking began.

Because the fees were in dollars, which most Ugandans needed assistance understanding, many have long avoided going on gorilla trekking safaris. To promote domestic travel, the Uganda Wildlife Authority currently includes the price of gorilla permits for citizens of East Africa in its tariffs.

How much does it cost for Ugandans to get a gorilla trekking permit?
Residents of East Africa must pay 250,000 shs per person per hike for a gorilla permit.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority or an authorized tour operator, such as Katland Safaris, is the two place where you may get your gorilla permit.

Included

Security, a certificate upon completion of the walk, a briefing, an hour with the mountain gorillas, park fees, assistance for the local people, and gorilla conservation are all included in the price of gorilla trekking permits.

Despite being a Ugandan, you must obtain the gorilla permit in advance to avoid being excluded from the limited number of gorilla permits that are required globally. Since June through September and December through January are Uganda’s busiest travel seasons, gorilla trekking permits are in high demand during these times.

Not Included

Transportation to gorilla trekking locations, safari lodging, gratuities, beverages, a packed lunch, and any other personal belongings.

How Can Ugandans Reserve Permits for Gorilla Trekking? – Mountain gorillas in Bwindi.

Decide on the date you want to go gorilla trekking and how many other individuals you want to go with. For information on gorilla trekking permits, get in touch with the Uganda Wildlife Authority or reserve your gorilla permit via a travel operator.

Since we are one of the authorized companies with access to the Uganda Wildlife Authority list, our safari adviser looks for gorilla permit availability when you inquire about it.

We advise our clients to obtain their gorilla permits as soon as possible, provided that there are still enough permits available for the number of persons traveling with them. They are sold on a first-come, first-served basis, regardless of where you are from.

Enter personal information such as your date of birth, nationality, and complete name as it appears on your passport or national identity card.

Can I pay in installments for the Uganda Gorilla Permit? – Mountain gorillas in Bwindi

Although paying in full for your gorilla trekking permit is the best course of action, things might not always go as planned. You have the option to pay 30% and 70% of the total cost of your gorilla permit in installments. The only people who need to top up their gorilla permits 90 days before the trekking date are those who buy them 90 days in advance.

There is a penalty for not topping up the gorilla trekking permit.

Are Ugandans affected by the postponement of the gorilla permit?

While it is the goal of every traveler to keep their scheduled gorilla trekking date, unforeseen events may make future travel impossible. You may, however, reschedule your gorilla permit in accordance with Uganda Wildlife Authority rules.

Methodology

Send a letter to the Uganda Wildlife Authority asking for a new date for your gorilla permit. Provide a sincere explanation for any plan modification, along with supporting documentation.

Your gorilla permit is rescheduled as recommended after approval, although this is contingent upon the gorilla permit’s availability for your revised dates.

Take note

The Uganda Wildlife Authority permits rescheduling gorilla permits during two free hours. However, only the third time was a 25% surcharge approved by the executive director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

As a Ugandan, am I eligible for a reimbursement for my gorilla trekking permit? – Mountain gorillas in Bwindi

Only reports made before the gorilla trekking date are eligible for a refund of the gorilla permit. The gorilla permit’s validity expires on the day it was granted. Refunds are not available for no-shows without supporting documentation that has been reported to the Uganda Wildlife Authority beforehand.

There is a gorilla permit refund procedure enforced by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Because of the bureaucracy involved in getting the money back, it would be better to exercise some patience.

How old can you be to go gorilla trekking?

Children under the age of 15 are not allowed to undertake gorilla trekking because they may not be able to handle the restrictions or the harsh conditions of the jungle, such as trudging on slick slopes, spending a lot of time looking for mountain gorillas, and many other things.

As a Ugandan, when is the best time to reserve a gorilla permit?

The best way to avoid scrambling to get a gorilla permit at the last minute is to book it in advance. To avoid last-minute disappointment, reserve your gorilla permit six months in advance, particularly during the busiest months of June through September and December through January. There are just eight gorilla licenses available for each gorilla family, and they are sought after globally. There are currently two gorilla habituation sites and 19 gorilla families available in Uganda for gorilla trekking.

You can take advantage of the low demand for gorilla trekking in March, April, May, and November if you’re a local Ugandan. Since some run resident costs during the shoulder tourism season, even lodging and other service providers might give discounts.

Are Gorillas in the Mountains Aggressive?

Despite their enormous size and intimidating appearance, mountain gorillas are calm and timid primates in the wild. They have deep brown eyes and black fur covering their bodies. You feel as though they are going to grab you because of the way they move their knuckles.

To avoid appearing suspicious, you must adhere strictly to the gorilla trekking regulations.

When enraged, the mountain gorillas will dive into the jungle, pull grass around themselves, thump their chests, and hoot. However, because they occasionally have family conflicts, this does not imply that they are disturbed by human presence.

When you observe this, the rangers first determine the cause and, if no one is to blame, they inform you of the current expectations. Because you only get an hour to spend with the mountain gorillas, you must strictly adhere to all gorilla trekking rules and restrictions.

How Hard Is Trekking with Gorillas?

Because the gorilla trekking area’s terrain is primarily volcanic, hikers should anticipate traversing hills and plateaus to reach the potential daily habitat of the mountain gorillas. Because of the frequent rains, the trails are occasionally slick and covered in overgrown vegetation.

The extensive network of rivers occasionally overflows, leaving the land damp and muddy. The high forest canopy also reduces the amount of sunlight that can dry out the water from the frequent rains.

Being somewhat fit prevents you from becoming really weary while gorilla trekking and from fainting if you are too tired.

Bring the appropriate gorilla trekking equipment to protect your feet from the jagged jungle floor and to save you from the conditions of the wild.

How Much Time Does Gorilla Trekking Take?

It is unpredictable how long gorilla trekking takes; some visitors arrive in two hours, while others take three-quarters of the day. A conflict with another gorilla family, the proximity of their food, the loss of a family member, or interactions between the family and others can all affect how long it takes to locate the mountain gorillas.

Following the briefing, you are split up into groups of no more than eight tourists; however, each group moves at a different pace. To avoid forgetting anyone in the bush, the ranger guide keeps up with the slowest hiker.

For the duration of your gorilla trekking adventure, you can hire a porter to carry your equipment. They can also encourage you when you’re feeling worn out.

Is it safe to go gorilla trekking?

Because rangers are stationed to escort you—one with a rifle, the other with a machete—if creepers obstruct your path, gorilla trekking is a safe excursion. To maintain peace and order in the national parks, the rangers also work in tandem with other Ugandan security services.

Because various people travel for different reasons, you need to be mindful of your possessions. Enter the forest only with a ranger guide accompanying you. Other animals that live in the forest, such as gigantic forest hogs and forest elephants, might not be prepared to see you, especially if you are unarmed.

Put on the appropriate gorilla trekking clothing so that it will support you during the journey.

As a citizen of Uganda, how much can I spend on a gorilla trekking safari?

Depending on the tour package you select, a gorilla trekking safari can cost different amounts. Budget, midrange, and luxury packages are used to bundle gorilla trekking excursions.

Since the cost of a gorilla permit does not differentiate your package of choice, you must acquire one. Gorilla permits currently cost 150000 shs per person per trip for Ugandans.

When creating gorilla trekking packages, other things to think about are:

Several individuals accompany you on your gorilla walk; the more people you have, the lower the cost per person. Some costs, such as fuel, car rental, and gas, can be split.

The gorilla trekking safari is best booked during the busiest time of year. Most services, including lodging, are expensive and don’t provide any discounts; however, there are occasionally deals at off-peak times.

Number of days spent on a safari and gorilla trekking. The cost of the safari increases with the number of days.

Gorilla trekking can be combined with a variety of other activities. Combining safari activities like game drives, launch trips, chimpanzee hiking, and birding raises the price.

The cost of the gorilla trekking safari pack varies depending on the features and exclusions of each package, so you can pick whether to go in luxury, mid-range, or budget.

What to bring on a safari or gorilla trekking trip – Mountain gorillas in Bwindi

A camera to preserve the memories of this momentous journey.
Breakfast is eaten too early to last the whole day in the bush, so there are energy bits to chew on.
Wearing warm clothing, such as a shawl, fleece, or sweater, is advised because temperatures in this region can drop as low as 7 degrees Celsius.
A pair of binoculars to enhance comprehension of the intriguing distant aspects.
A pair of stockings to secure your clothing and prevent penetrating creepers
Rainproof clothing in case of rain during gorilla trekking
A torch for use when the lights go out at night. Though sunlight is modest enough to persist all night, solar power serves as this region’s primary power source.
A little money in case you want to purchase some mementos.
Safari boots are ideal for hiking and navigating muddy and wet terrain.
Garden gloves are on other rough jungle surfaces, if your palms get caught in stinging nettles.
Water-resistant During gorilla tracking, you can carry your stuff in a backpack.
Carrying a water bottle with you throughout the day will help you stay hydrated.
Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants will help you stay safe from jungle pests like stinging nettles during gorilla trekking.
Apply insect repellent to your skin to ward off stinging insects that could harm you.
Particularly during the intense rainy seasons, pajamas provide warmth on extremely cold evenings.
charger in case the power on your devices runs low
Additional fully charged batteries to switch out whenever one runs low.
A first aid bag including necessary supplies for an emergency.

Reasons why you should visit Mgahinga National Park in Uganda

Mgahinga National Park in Uganda

Mgahinga National Park is the smallest of the ten Ugandan national parks. The park’s total land size is approximately 33.7 square kilometers. Only one gorilla family, the Nyakagezi, is currently accessible to tourists in this national park, which is home to some of the world’s mountain gorillas.

Three unique mountains—Mountain Gahinga, Mountain Muhavura, and Mountain Sabyinyo—cover the backdrop of Mgahinga National Park. The park is located on these mountains’ northern slopes.

Despite being a small park, it is a biosphere reserve with breathtaking scenery that may be seen over an 8-hour return trek to the peak.

The park experiences two distinct weather seasons, namely March through May and November, which is typically damp. In addition to many other things, the dry season typically lasts from June to September and December to January.

Mgahinga National Park: What Should I Do?

Trekking with Gorillas in Mgahinga National Park

One gorilla family, the Nyakagezi, is found in Mgahinga National Park. Previously noted for constantly wandering into Rwanda, this species now resides steadily in Uganda.

A gorilla trekking permit must be purchased from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Currently, each participant must pay $800 for a Uganda gorilla trekking permit at Mgahinga National Park.

Each gorilla family may only have a maximum of eight participants per day for the gorilla trekking excursion.

Make sure your gorilla trekking equipment is ready so you can be comfortable while looking for the mountain gorillas in the wild.

Other extra activities are available in Mgahinga National Park.

How to Reserve Mgahinga National Park Gorilla Permits

There is only one gorilla family available for tourism in this park, Nyakagezi, hence there aren’t many gorilla permits available for reservations. As a conservation measure, no more than eight tourists per family are permitted to undertake gorilla trekking.

You need to know how many permits you are prepared to buy and when you want to go gorilla trekking in Mgahinga National Park.

Our safari adviser looks up availability from the Uganda Wildlife Authority gorilla permit database when you submit an inquiry.

We urge our clients to buy their permits in advance if the results are positive. This is a result of the limited supply and the high demand, particularly during the peak season. The gorilla permits are used on a first-come, first-served basis, but they sell out first.

To add your travel permit data, we need certain personal information from you, such as your full name as it appears on your passport, nationality, birthdate, passport expiration date, and other facts.

How much is the Mgahinga National Park Gorilla Trekking Permit?

For foreign nonresidents, the cost of a Mgahinga Gorilla trekking permit is $800 per person per trek; for foreign residents, it is $700; and for East African citizens, it is 300,000 shs.

Park costs, a mountain gorilla viewing pass, ranger guide fees, the gorilla conservation fund, local community support, and security are all included in the price of a gorilla permit.

Transportation, gratuity, beverages, porter, and any other personal things are not included in the price of the Gorilla permit.

Trekking with Golden Monkeys in Mgahinga National Park

Golden monkeys are safe at Mgahinga National Park. This particular species of monkey has golden brown hair, making it unusual. Golden monkeys are among the most endangered primates in the world since there aren’t many of them remaining.

Trekking with golden monkeys in Mgahinga National Park is a delightful experience. Golden monkeys are lively, fascinating creatures. Under the command of an alpha male, they reside in regiments of roughly 100 people.

To be permitted to take part in this amazing journey, each trekker must obtain a golden monkey’s permit.

Mgahinga National Park birdwatching

Despite being one of Uganda’s less popular birdwatching locations, Mgahinga National Park is home to approximately 115 different species of birds, including endemics of the Albertine Rift.

As further discoveries are made, ornithologists anticipate that the list of birds that call Mgahinga National Park home will grow over time.

Sport birds such as the Malachite Sunbird, Alpine Chat, Dusky Turtle, Rwenzori Turaco, White-tailed Blue flycatcher, beautiful Francolin, and others may be seen along the Gorge walk. This is due to the montane ecosystems that cross Mountain Sabyinyo halfway up.

In Mgahinga National Park, mountaineering

Any one of the three mountains in Mgahinga National Park is suitable for a day of mountain climbing, with a return trip taking eight hours. Ascending to the summit of Mount Sabyinyo offers a more comprehensive 360-degree perspective of the border between Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

To reach the fertile marsh in the crater at the summit of Mountain Gahinga, hikers must pass through a bamboo forest. It’s thrilling to climb Mount Muhavura since it offers views of the Rift Valley, Lake Edward, the Rwenzori Mountains, the five Virunga Volcanoes, and other breathtaking vegetation.

Mgahinga National Park’s nature hikes

Other monkeys, such as the black and white colobus, grey-cheeked mangabey, red-tailed monkeys, olive baboons, and others, have a unique home in Mgahinga National Park.

Because the forest contains invasive species that could be harmful, you need to hire a ranger guide. Keep an eye out for birds, butterflies, massive natural trees, and much more.

Garama Cave Walk and Batwa Trail

This is managed locally by the Batwa pygmies, who were forced out of the forest for conservation purposes. This cultural experience transports you back to the Batwa people’s prehistoric existence, when their survival depended on the forest.

Near the park’s northern boundary, you can hike to the Garama cave beneath the plateau. The distance between this cave and Ntebeko, the park headquarters, is roughly three kilometers.

The Garama cave was once located in a forest, but it is now exposed due to human development. The Batwa raiders used here as a refuge after raiding the farmlands of Bafumbira. Meetings in the council chamber were also held there.

Currently, at the conclusion of this distinctive cultural trek, this cave serves as an ambient location for Batwa performances.

How Does Mgahinga National Park’s Vegetation Look?

Mgahinga National Park’s flora is made up of distinctive species because the park is mountainous. In order to protect it from encroachers, the lower zone is composed of grass and brush. First comes the montane woodland, followed by the bamboo zone, the montane forest, and lastly the Ericaceous zone, which is home to enormous tree heathers.

Accessing Mgahinga National Park

The southwest region of Uganda is home to Mgahinga National Park, which is accessible by air or road.

By Road

It takes roughly 540 kilometers to drive from Kampala to Mgahinga National Park. You travel around 414 kilometers from Kampala or Entebbe to Kabale, and then you continue on torturous roads for another 80 kilometers to Kisoro.

The major headquarters of Mgahinga National Park, Ntebeko, is 14 kilometers away from Kisoro town.

By Air

Daily domestic flights from Kajjansi or Entebbe Airport provide access to Mgahinga National Park. Too the airport in Kisoro. This flight schedule is carried out based on demand.

Additionally, you can charter from Kajjansi Airstrip, Kisoro Airstrip, or Entebbe Airport.

Make sure you rent a transfer car so you can get from the airport to Ntebeko or your lodging.

What lodging options are available for Mgahinga National Park?
Limited lodging options are available within and outside of Mgahinga National Park; in contrast, Kisoro town offers a greater selection of lodging options.

Among these are Majambere Iwachu, Kisoro Tourist Hotel, Mgahinga Gorilla Triangle, Gahinga Lodge, and Community Camp.

What Is The Cost Of A Safari In Uganda For Mgahinga National Park?

The price of your Uganda safari to Mgahinga National Park depends on the package you choose; however, all packages must include a gorilla or golden monkey permit if you need to reserve one.

The Uganda Safari to Mgahinga National Park is determined by several factors, including:

The number of participants in the gorilla trek

The cost per person of gorilla trekking decreases as more individuals sign up. You must pay for every expense included in this safari if you are traveling alone.

Number of activities in addition to gorilla trekking; the more activities that are part of a safari to Mgahinga National Park, the more expensive the safari will be.

The best time to plan a Uganda Safari to Mgahinga National Park is during peak season, when service costs are highest, but during off-peak months, discounts may be available.

The cost of a safari in Mgahinga National Park increases with the number of days you wish to spend there. The majority of the services are paid for daily.

How long does it take to hike gorillas or golden monkeys in Mgahinga National Park?

It is unknown how long it takes to find the golden monkeys or mountain gorillas in Mgahinga National Park. Depending on the circumstances, it could take you anywhere from two hours to more.

As a family, mountain gorillas feed from a specific area for a set amount of time, then move to a new feeding ground when the food supply runs out. This tells you a lot about where to find them.

If a conflict breaks out amongst members of the gorilla family or with another family, the losers might have to look for a new location. This could make it take longer to locate the mountain gorillas.

The predominant weather patterns during the intense rainy seasons might result in extremely slick terrain and muddy paths. This could cause the trekking experience for golden monkeys or gorillas to be delayed.

Finding the mountain gorillas or golden monkeys may take longer if you are paired with really sluggish hikers.

Is Mgahinga National Park Safe for Safari in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, birdwatching, and many other activities are safe in Mgahinga National Park.

The protection of this forest and its inhabitants is a top priority for the ranger guides and wardens of Mgahinga National Park.

To keep the peace in this Virunga region, they collaborate with other Rwandan and Ugandan security forces.

Additionally, you should be very mindful of your own safety by never entering Mgahinga forest without a ranger guide with you.

During any activity in the Mgahinga forest, stay close to your hiking group to avoid getting lost in the jungle.

When visiting Mgahinga Forest, bring your hiking equipment to avoid being bothered if you need to stroll through the forest. Don’t forget to employ a porter to help you go forward and carry part of your equipment. Giving back to the community can be done directly in this way.

What Should I Know Before Entering Mgahinga National Park?

When walking in Mgahinga National Park, refrain from spitting on the ground or any vegetation. Monkeys and mountain gorillas are among the forest inhabitants that consume it.
When strolling in Mgahinga National Park, speak quietly. This is so that you don’t disturb the people who live in the forest.
Since wild animals rely on the forest for survival, they should not be fed. They shouldn’t be dependent on human supply.
When strolling in the Mgahinga forest, use a clean mask. This is to keep vulnerable primates, such as mountain gorillas, from contracting any infectious diseases. Disposing of trash in the forest changes the ecosystem, which is home to mountain gorillas and other forest inhabitants.
When you find a mountain gorilla, you are only permitted to spend an hour with them because they are accustomed to being in front of people for that long.
Due to the time it takes to find the mountain gorillas, only trekkers who are at least 15 years old are permitted to go gorilla trekking in Mgahinga National Park. The topography of the forest is steep as well, making it difficult to get there, particularly if you are not physically fit.
It is prohibited to provoke mountain gorillas and other forest inhabitants since doing so could upset them and start a stampede.
To lessen the possibility of infecting the mountain gorillas of Mgahinga National Park, a clean mask should be worn before they are a mast.
For additional information, get in touch with us.

List of gorilla habituation lodges in Rushaga and Nkuringo

Gorilla habituation lodges

Following a family of semi-habituated gorillas to acquaint them with human presence without changing the natural environment is known as a “gorilla habituation adventure.” The southern region of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is where gorillas get habituated.

To reduce the likelihood of having to get up early for a briefing, reservations for the gorilla habituation safari must be made in the southern portion of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Staying at a resort that fits your budget can help you experience the finest gorilla habituation vacation and prevent any hassles at check-out. Accommodations in the southern section of Bwindi’s impenetrable national park are categorized as luxury, mid-range, and cheap. There are two regions in this southern region of Bwindi: the Rushaga area and the Nkuringo area.

Clouds Lodge is one of the lodging options in the Rushaga and Nkuringo regions. | Gorilla habituation lodges

In the southern section of the Bwindi forest sits this ultra-luxurious lodge. Well-ventilated ensuite rooms are available at this lodge. Every room is comfortable, and the balcony offers a fantastic view of the forest canopy. Mountain gorillas are among the creatures that may occasionally visit you.

Clouds Lodge features a well-stocked restaurant and bar, as well as a lovely atmosphere that combines modern and regional architecture.

Throughout your stay, you can count on a personal battler to handle all of your room service needs. After that, you simply relax and lie back.

Gorilla Lodge at Nkuringo | Gorilla habituation lodges

This opulent lodge is located on Nteko Ridge with a view of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. At the moment, Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge features a restaurant, a well-stocked bar, and fifteen independent rooms. The rooms are divided into three categories: villas, cottages, and terrace rooms.

Gorilla Hills Eco Lodge | Gorilla habituation lodges

Situated in Kisoro, this lodge offers a restaurant and bar, lovely gardens, free wifi, and tranquil views of the surroundings.

Rushaga Gorilla Lodge | Gorilla habituation lodges

Each accommodation at this lodge is tastefully designed to ensure that you have a great night in the jungle, and it overlooks the stunning Bwindi forest.

Rushaga Gorilla Safari Lodge

With eight ensuite units to date, this opulent establishment offers a view of the Bwindi forest. Each self-contained room has its own balcony and veranda. You can follow the Nshongi gorilla family from the resort. The two gorilla families available for acclimatization adventure are near Rushaga Gorilla Safari Camp.

After a tiring gorilla trekking safari, guests can wind down and chill at the lodge’s well-stocked restaurant, lounge, and bar.

Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Great views of the Bwindi forest canopy may be seen from this mid-range lodge. The lodge has a café, a minibar, and wifi. Every room has a balcony where you can enjoy the forest’s activities. Rushaga Gate is roughly a minute’s drive from the lodge.

Gorilla Haven Lodge in Rushaga

This low-cost lodge is located in Kisoro’s Ryarutagara. The lodge offers a variety of lodging options, some with communal amenities and others with private spaces.

Camp Nshongi

This low-cost establishment is located outside of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Four traditional Bandas with double beds and private bathrooms are available at the site.

Back Packers Lodge in Bwindi | Gorilla habituation lodges

This low-cost facility is located outside the inaccessible national park of Bwindi. The establishment consists of self-contained rooms, cottages, and non-self-contained rooms with communal restrooms and toilets.

How to Reserve Permits for Gorilla Habituation

Decide on the quantity of gorilla licenses and the timing for gorilla habituation. Two gorilla families are presently available for habituation in Bwindi; the public is only granted up to four permits per day.

When you contact us, our safari adviser looks through the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s list of gorilla habitat permits that are available.

Due to their limited supply and strong demand, we ask all of our clients to apply for habituation permits in advance, without payment, if they are still available. Permits for gorilla habituation are restricted to four visitors for conservation purposes.

Send your personal information so that your gorilla habituation card can be produced. Names as listed on the passport, nationality, birthdate, and passport expiration date are a few of the required details.

What is the cost of a permit for the gorilla habitat?
For foreign nonresidents, the gorilla habituation permit costs $1500 per person; for foreign residents, it costs $1000; and for East African residents, it costs 750000shs.

Included and excluded in the gorilla habituation permit costs are

A gorilla habituation ticket costs four hours of gorilla viewing, park entrance fees, ranger guide fees, security, and support for gorilla conservation and the local community.

The gorilla trekking permit excludes porters, beverages, tips, transportation, and any other personal belongings.

Is it possible to purchase a gorilla habitat permit in installments?

Yes, you can pay for the gorilla habituation permit in 30% and 70% installments, but you have to do so ninety days before the habituation date. The greatest way to demonstrate your dedication to seeing a mountain gorilla is to pay for your gorilla habituation permit in full, although occasionally this is unavoidable.

According to the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s payment policy, don’t forget to top up 90 days before the habituation date or risk losing the remaining amount.

Is it possible to reschedule a gorilla habitat permit?

You can reschedule for a later date if you are unable to go on the gorilla habituation safari on the day you have reserved.

To postpone your gorilla habituation permit, you must submit a request to the Uganda Wildlife Authority. If you have a backup plan for rescheduling your gorilla habituation permit, include it with your request.

If available, the gorilla permit is rescheduled after your approval. You can reschedule the same gorilla habituation permit twice. The third occurrence requires a 25% cost increase for the executive director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority to step in.

Does the Cost of Gorilla Habituation Make Sense?

The cost of the gorilla habituation permit is high, but it is well worth it. One of the most sought-after activities in the world is getting closer to the last remaining mountain gorillas in the world.

By the 1980s, when around 300 mountain gorillas were counted during the census, the endangered species was on the verge of extinction, and you are in favor of their survival.

It’s moving to see how most attendees of gorilla habituation leave the forest with an inexplicable sense of connectedness.

Employing porters to move your possessions at a reasonable price helps the neighborhood indirectly. They finance their children’s tuition and maintain their own lives with the money they earn.

Twenty percent of the proceeds from the gorilla safari activities are donated to the local community each year to help with projects like road upkeep, school establishment, and water source construction.

Families of Gorillas in the Rushaga Area

Approximately eight gorilla families are currently accessible to tourists in the Rushaga area: the Bweza, Kahungye, Busingye, Nshongi, Mishaya, Mucunguzi, Bitukura, and Rwigi groups.

Families of Gorillas in the Nkuringo Area
Christmas Family, Nkuringo Family,

How long does it take for gorillas to get habituated in Rushaga or Nkuringo?

Since mountain gorillas are free-ranging creatures who roam the forest without constraints, the best time to locate them is still up in the air. You begin by following the path where the mountain gorillas were last spotted the night before. Usually, it takes a push element to get someone to travel very far from here.

Finding the mountain gorillas may occasionally take two hours or longer, but patience is essential.

Occasionally, the habituated gorilla family may move if there is a dispute within or with another family.

It becomes difficult to locate gorillas because they must go to other feeding grounds when the food supply in the area where they are habituated runs out.

It takes longer to find the mountain gorillas during habituation since the jungle is cold and slick during the intense wet season.

Finding the mountain gorillas takes longer when other habituation is slow. Because of this and the area’s normally mountainous terrain, you must be somewhat fit.

How Secure Is Habituation for Gorillas?

Although semi-habituated mountain gorillas are used for gorilla habituation, the resulting animals are not aggressive. The mountain gorillas are quiet and reserved in their natural habitat. To prevent you from assaulting wild animals, escorting rangers are armed with a rifle and a machete.

To avoid being lost in the woods, you should be mindful of your personal security by staying near the people you are accustomed to. To prevent encountering other untamed forest inhabitants, such as forest elephants, enormous forest hogs, vipers, and others, only enter the forest accompanied by a ranger guide.

Is It Hard to Habituate Gorillas?

The topography of gorilla habitat is often highland due to volcanic activity. However, you may have to hike to see mountain gorillas because they may spend the day on the slopes or deep in the valleys.

Wearing the appropriate gorilla habituation gear that can survive the conditions of the forest is essential.

To avoid muscle tension, stretch your muscles before the gorilla habituation safari.

Gorilla Habituation Safari: How Much Does It Cost?

The price of a gorilla habituation permit is the same for luxury, mid-range, and budget safari options. Some of the following factors are taken into account while determining the overall cost of the safari package:

The more people who sign up for the gorilla habituation safari, the lower the cost per person becomes.

Due to the high cost of all facilities, safari packages are expensive when the gorilla habitat is booked during the busiest time of year. However, there may be lower prices during the off-peak months for services like lodging, car rentals, ranger guide fees, and more.

The variety of other activities, like as game drives, chimpanzee trekking, launch trips, and others, that can be combined with gorilla habituation. The cost of the safari increases with the number of activities related to gorilla trekking.

List of Items to Bring for Gorilla Habituation

Wear a foldable safari hat to protect your hair from flying insects that buzz in the bush.
Wearing garden gloves shields your hands from potentially painful nettles.
In the bush, sunglasses can shield your eyes from flying insects.
Rainproof equipment in case it suddenly starts to rain.
Safari boots are resistant to the slick terrain and damp dirt found in forests.
A bug repellent that can shield you from insects that sting.
A pair of binoculars, in case you want to see distant features more clearly
If you need to make purchases on-site, have extra money to convert into local currency. Pants and a long-sleeved shirt in wilderness-friendly hues like khaki and beige.
A waterproof rucksack to keep your stuff in when you’re out in the wild.
Emergency supplies in a first aid pack that you can use if necessary,
a camera to capture memories of your trip with the gorillas, but avoid using flash. The mountain gorillas, who are afraid of unfamiliar situations, are alarmed by this.
You should pack as little as possible, but with essentials that you can lift if you need help. Use a duffel bag to hold your possessions.
Toiletries in case your skin is sensitive or your lodge does not supply them.
Additional garments to switch into following gorilla habituation
If you have limited time to clean your safari boots after gorilla habituation, you should bring a shoe bag.
Since the majority of lodges rely on solar energy, a torch will provide you with illumination when the lights go out at night.
A pair of stockings to wear inside your clothing to prevent stinging insects from getting inside and harming you.

The Gorilla Habituation Rules

Mountain gorillas should not be fed; therefore, dine at least 300 meters away from them.
It is prohibited to spit on plants because you could infect the mountain gorillas with pathogens.
To prevent spreading germs to the mountain gorillas, keep a distance of approximately 8 meters.
It is prohibited to litter in the forest because it changes the environment in which mountain gorillas live.
When you find mountain gorillas during a gorilla habituation adventure, you are only permitted to spend four hours with them.
Gorilla habituation can only occur in those who are at least 15 years old.
When you find the mountain gorillas, stand around 8 meters away from them. Stealthily back off if they approach.
When gorilla trekking, speak quietly or in a low voice to avoid starting a stampede in the forest.
Take pictures with a flash-less camera that is soundproof.
When gorilla hiking and looking for mountain gorillas, wear a clean mask.
When you find mountain gorillas, avoid encircling them since you might upset them.
Offer to stay behind if you contract a contagious illness.
For additional information, get in touch with us.

Uganda beyond mountain gorillas. What safari activities are there for tourists

Uganda beyond mountain gorillas

Although there are many safari activities available in Uganda, gorilla trekking is the most popular. Game drives, launch trips, chimpanzee trekking, nature walks, Uganda birding, white water rafting, and bungee jumping are just a few of the safari activities offered in Uganda.

The majority of the well-known safari activities in Uganda take place in the country’s national parks. Although some creatures are found in nearly all of Uganda’s ten national parks, each one has its own unique wildlife. The following are a few of the national parks in Uganda: Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Kidepo Valley, Lake Mburo, Bwindi Impenetrable, Semuliki, Mountain Elgon, Kibale, Mgahinga, and Rwenzori.

In Uganda, gorilla trekking takes place in the southwestern regions of Mgahinga National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. To enter any of these national parks, you need to get a gorilla permit.

Additional Safari Activities in Uganda
Safari game drives in Uganda | Uganda beyond mountain gorillas

Visitors can enjoy wild creatures in their natural habitat in several Ugandan wildlife parks. You may take in the breathtaking scenery and the variety of wild animals that spend the day in these parks with the help of an experienced driver, guide, or ranger guide.

Kidepo Valley National Park in the country’s northeast, Lake Mburo National Park in the country’s west, Murchison Falls National Park in the country’s north, and Queen Elizabeth National Park in the country’s west are a few of Uganda’s wildlife parks.

Lions, leopards, herds of elephants, cape buffaloes, waterbucks, oribi, giraffes, warthogs, giant forest hogs, impalas, zebras, hartebeests, cheetahs, aardwolves, and other creatures may be sighted during early morning or late afternoon game drives in these parks.

Some of the aforementioned creatures are unique to certain parks, but not all of them can be seen in all of these parks.

Start excursions on the Uganda Safari | Uganda beyond mountain gorillas

As you get ready for your Uganda safari, you can make reservations in advance for one of two well-known launch tours.

Murchison Falls National Park launch trip | Uganda beyond mountain gorillas

You can visit the world’s and the Nile River’s strongest falls on this launch excursion. A launch boat or private boat takes you out from the dock. Savor the stunning sight of the creatures that adorn the Nile River’s shore. Hartebeest, giraffes, cape buffaloes, serried crocodiles, schools of hippos, a variety of birds, and other creatures may be visible to you. Savor the breathtaking views of the plateaus of the Rift Valley and much more.

The strong River Nile water that flows to the bottom to continue its course increases the likelihood of boat turbulence as you get closer to the falls.

When the falls are in sight, you can observe how forcefully the Victoria Nile water squeezes through a ravine that is six meters wide before exploding with intensity and creating a foggy look. The water from the River Nile joins the remainder of the stream after tumbling down a cliff that is roughly forty-three meters high.

Trekking to the Falls’ Summit

You can trek to the top of the falls, where all the drama begins, to get a better idea of how fierce the River Nile is. As the water of the Nile River acquires power to navigate the small bend, it trips over underlying rocks as it travels over a bed of rocks for around 80 kilometers.

Because of the strong water flow as it strikes the rocks, this exhilarating location might not be suitable for those who are easily frightened.

Kazinga Channel Launch Trip

The stunning launch journey takes place in the Kazinga Channel at the base of the Rift Valley in Queen Elizabeth National Park. From the pier, you cruise while taking in the various wild creatures that like drinking from the canal banks.

While there are public launch trips, the Kazinga channel also offers private launch experiences.

Numerous animals that enjoy visiting the shore may be visible to you, including herds of elephants, cape buffaloes, lions, leopards, waterbucks, bushbucks, warthogs, topis, and others. Numerous birds, especially migrants from other countries, are drawn to this canal.

From the bottom of the rift valley, you might be able to see the snow-capped, glittering summit of Mount Rwenzori. One of the greatest things to do in Queen Elizabeth National Park is the launch voyage on the Kazinga Channel.

Ugandan chimpanzee trekking | Uganda beyond mountain gorillas

One of East Africa’s top locations for chimpanzee trekking is Uganda. Chimpanzee habitats vary throughout the nation and are found in various wooded locations.

Some privately owned chimpanzees may require a trekking permit, while others may not, but you will need to pay a certain amount.

With more than 1500 chimpanzees, Kibale National Park is Uganda’s most well-known chimpanzee trekking refuge. A chimpanzee hiking permit must be purchased from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Chimpanzee trekking permits in Kibale National Park currently cost $300 per person per expedition. Park fees are included in this price.

Another location for chimpanzee trekking is the Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The forest gorge at the base of the Rift Valley level of this park is home to the chimpanzees.

Because it’s so steep, you should expect to hike to the chimps’ location. Wear the appropriate safari shoes to assist you in navigating wet, slick slopes, particularly during the rainy season, which typically lasts from March to May and November.

To enter Kyambura Gorge, you must get a Chimpanzee Trekking Permit, which presently costs $50 and does not include park admission fees.

Murchison Falls National Park’s Kaniyo Pabidi

The distance between Kichubanyombo Gate and this chimpanzee habitat is roughly 8 meters. You get to see some of the mature mahogany trees that Uganda still has when you go chimp trekking in the Kaniyo Pabidi Forest.

Other primates found in the forest include blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, olive baboons, and black and white colobus.

Chimpanzee Sanctuary in Ngamba | Uganda beyond mountain gorillas

Chimpanzees are provided another home here, one of the few places they do so. Chimpanzees that have been rescued, orphaned, or abandoned and are unable to rejoin their native populations in the jungle are housed in this refuge.

Since the Ngamba Chimpanzee Sanctuary is located on Koome Island in Lake Victoria, you must travel there by boat. You have the opportunity to feed the chimpanzees if you arrive at feeding time. It’s incredible to see the drama as the teacher tries to catch a meal.

Uganda Wildlife Education Center

Only a short distance from Entebbe Airport is the former Entebbe Zoo. There are two options for getting to the chimpanzee exhibit: a self-directed stroll or a guided walk.

See the Nile River’s Source

The only place where Lake Victoria water separates from the River Nile water is in Uganda. This location in Jinja is well worth a visit. The dramatic moment when the two split apart raises questions about what might be going on underneath.

Rafting on white water on the Nile River

It’s incredible to beat the Nile’s tides. Professional teachers are available to teach you all the necessary details, so you don’t need any prior expertise.

You can choose where to conclude your white water rafting adventure at Itanda Falls, which is subject to varying tide levels. Make sure you fasten your safety gear and adhere to the directions. Others can engage in tubing, kayaking, and other sports.\

Uganda Safari Birdwatching

With more than 1000 bird species, Uganda is one of Africa’s top birding sites. It is thought that this population is larger than all of Europe.

For the finest experience, you’ll need a well-planned Ugandan birding itinerary and an excellent birding guide.

Bwindi Forest, Mgahinga Forest, Mabamba Swamp, Lutembe Beach, Mpanga Forest, Musambsa Island, and others are among the places in Uganda where birdwatchers can go.

Additionally, the nation is home to foreign bird species that travel from as far away as Europe, particularly during the harsh winter months.

Bungee Jumping on Safari in Uganda

A bungee jumping trip, in which you dangle by the rope from the top of a cliff to touch the River Nile, is a great way to get your heart racing.

You can dismount the rope and board the boat that is waiting to take you from below.

Safari Quad Biking in Uganda

You can ride a quad bike through the villages and along the shore of the River Nile. Savor the refreshing River Nile breeze and the beautiful gardens you see.

Ugandan mountaineering

There are several highland hikes in Uganda that you may do to test your fitness, but you must book in advance to be assigned a ranger guide.

The most notable is Rwenzori Mountain, where a round-trip hike could take more than seven days. To securely reach Margeritah, the snowcapped summit, you must have mountaineering equipment with you.

On other days, climbing excursions can be undertaken on mountains such as Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo, among others. You might not need trekking gear.

Sport Fishing on Safari in Uganda

There are both freshwater and saltwater bodies of water in Uganda. In Uganda, freshwater environments are used for the majority of sport fishing adventure safaris. You must obtain a fishing permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority to engage in sport fishing on the Nile, particularly in Murchison Falls National Park.

When Is the Best Time to Reserve Safaris in Uganda?

The majority of visitors choose the dry season, which runs from June to mid-September or December to January, although Uganda safaris are available throughout the year.

In the Ugandan game parks, the grass is lower, and the wildlife vibrancy is at its highest during this time, making visibility better.

There is less humidity in even the parks where you must hike, like as Kibale National Park for chimpanzee trekking, which makes the conditions ideal for chimpanzee trekking.

However, because of competition for services, Uganda safari packages are expensive.

Low tourism also occurs during Uganda Safari’s wet season, which typically runs from March to May. This may be the ideal time of year to make reservations if you want to spend some undisturbed time at various Uganda safari locations, because there are comparatively fewer tourists there.

This grace period is available to everyone with a little Africa Safari budget for Uganda. There may be opportunities to negotiate lower rates with service providers during off-peak hours.

How Much Does a Safari in Uganda Cost?

The price of the Uganda safari is divided into three categories: luxury, mid-range, and budget. You must be aware of how much you plan to spend on this vacation in Africa. You must first obtain a permit if you need to reserve one, such as a chimpanzee trekking permit for Kibale National Park.

Uganda safari quotes are determined by several criteria, including:

The duration of the Uganda Safari

The cost of a Uganda safari increases with the number of days. You must be aware of how long you must spend on safari.

The more people who go on safari in Uganda

The cost of a Uganda safari is reduced per person when more people travel with you, since you split the costs.

When to Make Your Uganda Safari Reservation

Many tourists typically plan Uganda safaris during the busiest times of the year, which are June to mid-September and December to January. Accommodations, car rentals, and other service providers may offer reduced prices during the off-peak period.

To what extent is Uganda a safe place to go on safari?
Except for a few rare acts of terrorism, Uganda has remained quiet for more than 30 years.

The Ugandan ranger guides are extremely watchful of any strangers who might appear suspicious in the parks. To maintain peace and order in the majority of Uganda’s destinations, they work in tandem with other Ugandan security organizations.

Safaris in Uganda are available for free, and you can be confident that you’ll get back home safely. All you have to do is focus on your personal safety. When on safari, you must keep your driver guide informed of your whereabouts.

If you must go on a nature walk in the forest, reserve a ranger guide in advance to ensure that you are safe from any attacks.

For additional information, get in touch with us.

What is the Price of a Rwanda gorilla permit? | The Cost Of Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda.

Price of a Rwanda gorilla permit

Gorilla permits in Rwanda cost $1500 for non-resident foreigners, $500 for residents, and $300 for citizens of East Africa. In Rwanda, gorilla licenses are sold and governed by the Rwanda Development Board. Rwanda’s only mountain gorilla habitat is Volcanoes National Park, which is situated in the northwest of the country.

As a conservation precaution to lessen the consequences of mass tourism, Rwanda presently has 15 gorilla families open for tourism, and only eight gorilla permits are distributed daily per family. Furthermore, because mountain gorillas are inherently vegetarians, a large crowd of visitors may trample the forest’s vegetation.

A Gorilla Permit: What Is It? | Price of a Rwanda gorilla permit.

To visit a habituated gorilla family worldwide, you must get a gorilla permit. To be satisfied when on the ground, you need to get the gorilla permit in advance. Although there is a huge demand for mountain gorillas, the supply is restricted. This results in an annual shortfall that necessitates reservations in advance, particularly during the busiest times of the year.

What Does the Price of a Rwanda Gorilla Permit Include?
The park admission fees

This is a mandatory cost that all safari visitors to Rwanda National Park must pay. The cost of the Rwanda gorilla permit includes the park charge. Park fees are valid for 24 hours, so if you are remaining in the park after gorilla trekking, you might have to pay them.

In addition to providing other park requirements, this charge helps the Rwanda Development Board with conservation funding.

Fee for Ranger Guides

Rangers provide firsthand knowledge about the lives of mountain gorillas and other forest inhabitants while escorting groups of tourists on all gorilla trekking excursions. They spent a great deal of time gathering and analyzing this data.

Give the rangers advice to help them continue to safeguard the mountain gorillas and other forest inhabitants if you think they’re doing a great job. Tipping is merely a sign of appreciation and is not required.

Fund for Gorilla Conservation

Over the years, a lot of work has been done to save mountain gorillas, who deserve it. According to the mountain gorilla census conducted in the 1980s, there were roughly 300 mountain gorillas in the area. According to the most recent mountain gorilla census, there are more than 1000 mountain gorillas worldwide.

The conservation initiative, which involves both domestic and foreign gorilla conservation organizations, is to blame for this. Selling the mountain gorilla licenses is one way to raise the money needed for this effort.

Even though mountain gorillas are wild animals that must seek their own medical care, they occasionally require additional assistance from gorilla doctors. To determine the health status of the mountain gorillas, the gorilla doctors even conduct sporadic health examinations. A portion of this is funded by the Rwandan Gorilla Conservation Fund.

Protection While Trekking with Gorillas

Although gorilla trekking is a safari activity conducted in the jungle, everyone wants to feel safe. As a result, every day in Volcanoes National Park, the Rangers frequently patrol the gorilla families and their habitats. This makes it easier to track down mountain gorillas while gorilla trekking, and it also makes it simple to drive them back into the forest if they venture onto nearby farmlands.

To maintain peace and order in and around Volcanoes National Park, the rangers also work in conjunction with other Rwandan security services.

Even after the Rwandan tragedy in 1994, this gives prospective travelers confidence.

Spending an hour with mountain gorillas

It just takes an hour for mountain gorillas to become accustomed to human presence. You have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness a portion of the mountain gorillas’ everyday routine. You can snap pictures, observe how they live, and bring back memories of your encounter with the mountain gorillas.

During gorilla trekking, you have only an hour to find the mountain gorillas, so you should make the most of every second. As humans’ presence somewhat disturbs the gorillas’ lives, you later quietly leave so that they are left to feed, groom, and attempt to conceive.

What Does the Rwanda Gorilla Permit Cost Not Include?
Transportation to Volcanoes National Park, gratuity, additional days spent there, and other personal matters.

How Do I Get a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Rwanda?
Methodology

Decide on a day and how many people you want to go gorilla trekking with in Rwanda. Depending on your budget, you can trek with double gorillas or more.

Our safari consultant matches availability from the Rwanda Development Board’s gorilla permit listing when you check with them or send us an inquiry.

Since permits are scarce and in high demand, we advise our clients to buy them as quickly as possible, if they are available. Most visitors book their gorilla permits at least six months to a year in advance since they are in high demand during the busiest time of year.

We need your full name as it appears on your passport, along with your nationality, date of birth, and passport expiration date.

Some of these are listed on your certificate upon completion of the journey, and others are utilized for the Rwanda Development Board records.

Is it possible to purchase a Rwanda Gorilla permit in installments?

As long as you purchase the Rwanda gorilla permit 90 days before the trekking date, you can pay for it in installments. 30% of the entire gorilla permit cost may be paid in installments, and 70% of the total gorilla permit cost may be paid in whole.

You risk losing it if you don’t remember to top it up before the ninety days before the trekking date.

Can My Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permit Be Rescheduled? | Price of a Rwanda gorilla permit

It is possible to reschedule the Rwanda gorilla permit in accordance with the Rwanda Development Board’s rescheduling policy.

You send an email with your justifications for wanting to reschedule your gorilla permit to the Rwanda Development Board. Indicate the day you would like to reschedule your permit to go gorilla trekking. If you have any supporting evidence, please attach it.

Your permits have been rescheduled, and there will be a fee if you want to reschedule the same licenses for a different time.

To what extent is Rwandan gorilla trekking challenging?

Expect to hike in Volcanoes National Park because Rwanda is a mountainous country, thus its nickname, “land of a thousand hills.” Five of the six famous volcanoes have valleys and slopes that the mountain gorillas traverse. Mountain Karisimbi, Mountain Sabyinyo, Mountain Gahinga, Mountain Bisoke, and Mountain Muhabura are some of these mountains.

To stay energized before finishing the walk, gorilla trekking requires a certain degree of athleticism. You can extend your muscles a bit more by doing certain exercises instead of spending all your time at the gym.

Breakfast is too early to last the whole time before finding the mountain gorillas, so bring some energy bits to chew on.

Avoid throwing trash into the forest. The nature of the soil where mountain gorilla food is grown will change as a result.

Is it safe to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is safe, as previously said, but make sure you also consider your personal safety.

To maintain peace and order in the Volcanoes area, the ranger guides work in tandem with other Rwandan security services.

During gorilla trekking, you, as a visitor, must also be mindful of your personal safety.

To ensure that you are remembered in the forest, stay near the people you are gorilla trekking with. While staying with the remainder of the group, the ranger guides keep up with the slowest hiker.

Refrain from counting large quantities of money in public, as this will draw the wrong crowd.

When gorilla hiking, keep a close watch on your kids. Gorilla trekking requires participants to be at least 15 years old, but in Rwanda, adults must be at least 18 years old.

How Much Time Does It Take to Gorilla Trek in Rwanda?
Because the Rwandan gorillas roam freely across the forest, it is still difficult to pinpoint the best time to locate them. Being ambulatory primates, they have to look for food. They reside in a specific location and live in families till they finish the food.

Depending on the main elements in the forest, such as the mountain gorillas’ adventurous nature, the proximity of their food, and the possibility of a battle in the woods, the gorilla walk could take two hours or longer.

Gorilla trekking requires a certain amount of patience and an open mind, as does the quest. Other fascinating forest inhabitants in Volcanoes National Park include red-tailed monkeys, golden monkeys, black and white colobus, glittering waterfalls, old trees, and much more.

Which Rwandan Gorilla Family Is the Best for Trekking?
No matter where you go, gorilla trekking or gorilla habituation takes place, the sensation of standing in front of a gorilla family is unparalleled and transformative.

There are currently 15 completely habituated gorilla families in Rwanda that are available for reservations. There are several families of Rwandan gorillas, including the Amahoro, Hirwa, Agasha, Sabyinyo, Muhoza, and Umubano groups.

It can be difficult to choose which gorilla family in Rwanda is best for trekking because each has unique characteristics, so unless you travel to see them all, which is highly costly. Thus, what you want to see will determine which family is better for gorilla trekking.

You might hope to witness a large, dominant silverback, a large family of gorillas, plenty of babies, endearing gorillas, and much more. But rather than being found in a single gorilla family, all of these characteristics are spread throughout several families.

Do mountain gorillas pose a threat?
Mountain gorillas are peaceful primates that live in harmony with their surroundings. With dark fur covering their entire body, sunken brown eyes, and knuckle-to-knuckle movement, their perspective is frightening.

Mountain gorillas are peaceful creatures in nature, and no attacks on tourists have ever been documented during the history of gorilla trekking.

What Are Rwanda’s Gorilla Trekking Regulations?
Because it changes the nature of the forest where mountain gorillas reside, it is prohibited to litter in the forest while gorilla trekking.
Once you find the mountain gorillas, you are only permitted to spend an hour with them. They are allowed to carry on with their regular activities as they are accustomed to spending that amount of time with people.
It is prohibited to eat or smoke before seeing mountain gorillas. To prevent them from being tempted to steal what you are eating, please do this at least 300 meters away from them. Since they are untamed creatures, they have to look for nourishment.
Due to the nature of the gorilla trekking environment, only youngsters aged 15 and over are permitted to participate. Furthermore, due to their mobility, the best time to locate the mountain gorillas is still up in the air.
It is prohibited to spit on the ground or foliage since this could infect mountain gorillas with pathogens. Mountain gorillas are susceptible to human infectious diseases such as cholera, flu, cough, and COVID-19.
Volunteer to remain behind and shield the mountain gorillas from infectious diseases if you have one. It is unknown how widespread this sickness could be and how many mountain gorillas it could kill.
One precaution to stop the COVID-19 virus and other infections from spreading to mountain gorillas is to wear a clean mask before seeing them.
To stop any infection from spreading, keep a minimum of 8 meters between you and the mountain gorillas when you find them.
Because loud noises could frighten the mountain gorillas, they are not allowed in the jungle. They are also vulnerable to strange noises while they are around.
Because the mountain gorillas might hide from the strange light, even flash photography is forbidden.
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