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

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

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

 

Things to Do in Rwanda While Safari Gorilla Trekking

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

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

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

 

How Much Does a Rwandan Gorilla Permit Cost?

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

Rwandan chimpanzee hiking

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

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

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

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

 

How much does a Rwandan chimpanzee permit cost?

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

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

 

How to Purchase a Rwandan Chimpanzee Trekking Permit

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

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

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

 

Nyungwe National Park Canopy Walk

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

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

 

Trekking with Golden Monkeys in Volcanoes National Park

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

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

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

A list of popular Rwanda safari activities and things to do

How much do licenses for Rwandan Golden Monkeys cost?

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

 

What The Golden Monkey Permit For Rwanda Covers

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

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

 

Rwandan cultural experience

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

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

See Rwanda’s Genocide Memorials.

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

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

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

 

Rwandan Birdwatching

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

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

 

Tour of Kigali City

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

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

 

Go to the grave of Dian Fossey.

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

How Secure Is Rwanda for Safari Travel in Africa?

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

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

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

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

 

How much does a safari in Rwanda cost?

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

The duration of the safari vacation in Rwanda

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

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

 

The number of passengers on the Rwanda safari

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

How many activities are included in the safari package for Rwanda

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

 

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

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

 

When to arrange a safari in Rwanda

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

 

What Are The Requirements For A Safari in Rwanda?

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

Given that Rwanda is a tropical nation, use sunscreen.

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

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

A first aid bag including emergency drugs.

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

A safari hat

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

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

Advantage of trekking gorillas twice.

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

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

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

Benefits of going on two gorilla treks in Rwanda or Uganda

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

When Is It Best To Reserve Permits For Gorilla Trekking?

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

 

Can I get a refund for my gorilla permit?

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

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

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

 

How Much Time Does It Take to Trek with Gorillas?

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

How much gorilla permits cost

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

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

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

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

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

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

Locations for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda and Uganda

Volcanoes National Park

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

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

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

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

 

In Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

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

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

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

 

How old can you be to go gorilla trekking?

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

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

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

 

What are the Gorilla Trekking Dos and Don’ts?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to spend more hours with mountain gorillas in Uganda.

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

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

What is Safari Gorilla Trekking?

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

How Much Does a Ugandan Gorilla Trekking Permit Cost?

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

Others buy permits for gorilla habituation.

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

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

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

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

How Should Gorilla Habituation Be Prepared?

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

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

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

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

How much do gorilla habitat permits cost in Uganda?

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

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

Where in Uganda Can I Perform Gorilla Habituation?

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

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

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

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

Although you may schedule a gorilla trekking or gorilla habituation safari at any time of year, most tourists prefer to obtain their gorilla permits at least six months to a year in advance.How to spend more hours with mountain gorillas in Uganda.

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

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

How to Travel by Road to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

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

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

Kabale, Kampala, Kanungu, and Buhoma

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

Nkuringo to Kabale to Kampala

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

By Air

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

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

Do Mountain Gorillas Pose a Threat?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Numerous Other Primates

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

Community Walks in the Area

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

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

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

A stroll in nature

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

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

Things to Bring for Ugandan Gorilla Trekking

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

 

What Does the Price of a Gorilla Permit Include?

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

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

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

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

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

 

What a Gorilla Trekking Permit Does Not Include

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

 

Can my Gorilla Trekking Permit be rescheduled?

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

Time of Reservation for the Gorilla Trek

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

 

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda

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

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

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

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

 

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

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

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

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

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

 

How to Travel by Road to Gorilla Trekking Locations

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

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

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

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

 

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

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

 

Volcanoes National Park

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

 

By Air

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

What Are The Elderly’s Guidelines For Gorilla Trekking?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why you should make gorilla trekking the last activity on your Uganda or Rwanda safari.

A ideal vacation is going gorilla trekking in Africa, either in Rwanda or Uganda. You may choose how you want your gorilla tracking safari to be organized, but a professional safari consultant can help you create the ideal schedule that works with the dates of your vacation.

Depending on your itinerary, you may do gorilla trekking at the beginning or finish of your Uganda safari vacation, although many people choose to do it near the conclusion. With this arrangement, you may enjoy your gorilla trekking safari without worrying about how you’re going to get there.

Volcanoes National Park, one of the tree habitats of the world’s only mountain gorillas, is the location for gorilla trekking in Rwanda. There are now 15 mountain gorilla families in Rwanda that are accessible to tourists. Among them are the families of Karisimbi, Amahoro, Susa, and Sabyinyo, among others.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park are home to Uganda’s gorilla families. Currently, 19 gorilla families are accessible to tourists, while two more are utilized for gorilla habituation adventures.

Because of the following, it is preferable to schedule the gorilla trekking excursion toward the end of an African safari if you want to include it.

 

Trekking with gorillas is exhausting.

The quest to find the mountain gorillas may wear you out if you go gorilla trekking. You could be too exhausted to continue if you have to go to another location.

Because of the region’s volcanic activity, the mountain gorilla locations have a jagged landscape with several highlands.

The mountain gorillas enjoy eating and relaxing in the highlands of parks such as Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. The Karisimbi, Gahinga, Bisoke, Sabyinyo, and Muhabura mountains are all located in this park. Additionally, Mgahinga National Park is situated on the southern slopes of three mountains: Gahinga, Muhavura, and Sabyinyo.

Since these mountain gorillas frequently visit all of these highlands, you should be somewhat fit if you have a reservation to travel with mountain gorilla families near them. You could be too exhausted after the hike to do anything else, not even the next day. This is one of the reasons you should go gorilla trekking in the latter part of your safari schedule.

 

The experience is thrilling.

One of the attractions of every trip in Africa is gorilla trekking. By going gorilla trekking last, you reserve the best for last. The time you spend with the mountain gorillas is mysterious. Knowing that you are only a few meters away from the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas is a breathtaking experience.

Other African safari locations might not experience this thrilling occasion. When most people watch movies or cartoons about mountain gorillas, they see them as violent, but meeting them in person and seeing how calm and timid they are is a unique experience. Before you head back home, you may schedule an exhilarating gorilla walk.

In the event that there are no permits available for the day you have selected, you will need to change your plans.

We check the Uganda Wildlife Authority or Rwanda Development Board listing for availability when you choose a day to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda or Uganda and then contact Katland  Safari.

An option would be to change the itinerary chosen to accommodate gorilla trekking permits if this date is not available. If it is toward the conclusion of the safari, we will work with you to organize your gorilla trekking experience.

 

The locations of destinations for gorilla trekking

Both Mgahinga National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are situated in the southwest of Uganda, following all other parks in the western region. Lake Mburo National Park, Kibale National Park, Semuliki National Park, and Queen Elizabeth National Park are a few of the parks in western Uganda. These all precede the two gorilla trekking sites in Uganda.

These national parks can serve as rest stops on the lengthy trip from Entebbe Airport or Kampala City to Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park, which takes around eight to nine hours. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is around 530 kilometers away from Entebbe Airport or Kampala city, whereas Mgahinga National Park is roughly 540 kilometers away.Why you should make gorilla trekking the last activity on your Uganda or Rwanda safari.

Instead of driving from Nyungwe National Park chimpanzee habitat, which is approximately five hours from Kigali Airport, you can do gorilla trekking last and then head to the airport later if you’d like. Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is located in the Northwestern Part and is roughly three hours from the airport.

 

After gorilla trekking, it is simple to get from Uganda to Rwanda.

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga National Park is the ideal way to end a Uganda safari that passes via Rwanda. Game drives in Uganda may be done in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale National Park, or Murchison Falls National Park. Gorilla trekking might be the last activity.

Including border crossing formalities, the travel from the Gorilla trekking site in Uganda to Kigali Airport takes around six to seven hours.

 

How Much Does a Rwandan or Ugandan Gorilla Trekking Safari Cost?

The primary cost-cutting measure for all budgets, whether they are luxury, moderate, or low, is the price of gorilla permits.

The cost of a gorilla permit in Rwanda is presently $1500 per trekper.

The current cost of a Uganda gorilla permit is $800 per person per trek.

The following are additional components of the Rwandan or Ugandan gorilla trekking safari:

 

When to Make a Reservation for the Gorilla Trekking Safari

Other services are in great demand when you schedule your gorilla safari during the busiest time of year. The great demand for services abroad is the reason for this high cost. In Rwanda and Uganda, this is also the busiest time of year for safaris.

Booking during the off-peak months of March through May or November increases your chances of receiving a discount from lodging, car rental, and other service providers.

 

The number of individuals that pay to go gorilla trekking

The cost per participant for the gorilla trekking expedition decreases as more individuals sign up. This is due to the fact that you may split expenses like as petrol, car rental, driver’s guide fees, and other expenses. You are responsible for paying for all safari costs as a lone traveler on a gorilla trekking safari.

 

The duration of the gorilla trekking expedition in days

The gross cost of your safari in Rwanda or Uganda increases with the number of days you spend there. This is due to the fact that the majority of service providers charge on a daily basis.  Because of this, the gross cost might be significant.

 

The price range you decide on for your safari in Rwanda or Uganda

Luxury, mid-range, and budget packages are available for the Rwandan gorilla safari and Ugandan gorilla safaris. A package’s price increases with the number of inclusions and decreases with the number of exclusions.

 

The Extra Activities in Addition to Gorilla Trekking

The cost of a safari increases when gorilla trekking is combined with additional activities like game drives, chimpanzee trekking, birdwatching, white water rafting, mountaineering, and more. The organizations that oversee their operations charge each of these activities separately.

 

Things Not to Do on a Safari for Gorilla Trekking

Since plants and dirt are food for mountain gorillas, avoid spitting on them. It’s possible that you may infect the mountain gorillas.

Volunteer to stay behind if you have an infectious sickness, such as cholera, the flu, or cough, to avoid infecting the mountain gorillas, who are particularly vulnerable to these illnesses. Their DNA is almost 96% that of humans.

It’s illegal to dampen trash in the wild because it might change the environment where mountain gorillas forage. Since they are naturally vegetarians, they might never have enough food to sustain their bodies day and night if it doesn’t develop.

Avoid sneezing or coughing in public since this might expose the mountain gorillas to your germs. The mountain gorillas may die in large numbers as a result of these deadly illnesses. Cough or sneeze in a handkerchief or elbow away from the mountain gorillas to avoid such situations.

Since it is unknown how long it may take to find the mountain gorillas, children under the age of fifteen are not permitted to undertake gorilla trekking. You must have a certain degree of fitness because the terrain might be treacherous at times. A youngster younger than this might not be able to do this.

Avoid eating or smoking within 300 meters of mountain gorillas as this might lead to them stealing your food. Being untamed creatures, mountain gorillas have to forage for their own sustenance. Wild animals must rely on nature rather than people to survive.

Flash photography should not be used when photographing mountain gorillas since they are typically frightened of strange things.

Fecal excrement should never be left completely exposed because mountain gorillas and forest residents may exhume it and spread pathogens.

Since vegetation is the sole meal that mountain gorillas eat throughout their lives, avoid spitting on it. Even the dirt doesn’t need to be contaminated. Due to their innate vegetarianism, mountain gorillas rely on greenery for sustenance.

To keep the mountain gorillas from contracting any infectious diseases you may have, keep a distance of around 8 meters from them.

Spend just one hour with the mountain gorillas. They are accustomed to being around others for that brief period of time before being left alone to do their daily tasks.

Which Nation Is Ideal for Safari Gorilla Trekking?

You may simply learn about the differences between gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda by going on a safari.

However, realize that you are in front of the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas while you stand there watching them relax. Additionally, you could forget the difficulties you faced in getting ready or traveling to go gorilla trekking.

 

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda differs in the following ways:

A gorilla permit for Rwanda costs $1500 per person per trip, but a gorilla permit for Uganda costs $800 per person every trek.

It takes around three hours to go from Kigali Airport to Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, and eight to nine hours to travel to Bwindi and Mgahinga National Park, the gorilla trekking sites in Uganda.

About 15 gorilla families are available for tourists in Rwanda, compared to roughly 19 in Uganda.

While the travel from Entebbe Airport to Volcanoes National Park may take more than 15 hours, gorilla trekking in Uganda is available via Rwanda, which is around a 6–7 hour drive.

Compared to the Ugandan side, the Rwandan gorilla trekking briefing point is more organized.

There are additional options for combining gorilla trekking with other activities in Uganda, such as visiting the Nile River’s source, trekking with chimpanzees, birdwatching, wildlife drives, launch expeditions, white water rafting, and more. There are less opportunities in Rwanda to combine gorilla trekking with other activities, such as chimpanzee trekking, wildlife drives, cultural excursions, and city tours of Kigali.

Planning A Successful Wildebeest Migration In Tanzania and Kenya,

organizing ahead is essential when organizing an Africa safari, and Tanzania and Kenya’s wildebeest migration tours are no exception. The commencement date of the major migration is yet unknown, although it is expected to occur between June and September.

High lodging costs, traffic jams in Masai Mara National Reserve and Serengeti National Park, noise, and other issues are typical during the peak season of the Great Migration in Tanzania and Kenya. Seeing vast herds of untamed animals traveling in a certain direction is the high point of each East African safari.

In a nutshell, the big migration in Africa may begin in Tanzania in June, when grass in the Southern Serengeti National Park is at its most sparse. Thousands of newborns are born throughout the first several months of March through May, adding to the already large population of ungulates. Grass is harder to find as they age.

Due to the need for pasture, zebras begin to migrate north, followed by gazelles, wildebeests, and other ungulates. Predators such as lions, hyenas, cheetahs, jackals, and others begin salivating for their next feast.

All arrangements begin with a preliminary estimate of the number of people you want to travel with during the big wildebeest migration. To ensure that everyone involved plans, it is advisable to do this at least six months in advance. Travelers make reservations and plans for large migrations in Tanzania or Kenya a year or two in ahead, then continue to modify their plans based on the terms and conditions established or the current situation.

Knowing the number of guests makes it easier to make reservations for lodging, choose the right car to rent, determine how many safari guides are needed, and much more. All of this planning is done to make sure you have a good time and get the most out of your safari in Africa. A group’s last-minute preparations might lead to miscalculations, make the journey tedious, and increase costs.

Reserve lodging in advance for the Great Wildebeest Migration.

With so many people visiting Masai Mara and Serengeti National Park each year, finding a place to stay at the busiest time of the big wildebeest season is a challenge. Safari lodging in these two Tanzanian and Kenyan parks is quite expensive during this time.

Crowds of people still travel to Kenya and Tanzania to witness the annual wildebeest migration, despite the exorbitant expense of lodging. The most spectacular part is when the animal masses cross the Mara River into Kenya.

As predators like lions and crocodiles discover and seize the exhausted travelers for food, every animal is on a survival-for-the-fittest diet. June through September is the ideal season to see animal drama if you’re interested in it. You might be able to catch predators when they are being pursued by prey. Although it is uncommon, this is also conceivable.

In Masai Mara National Park and Serengeti National Park, there are several lodging options ranging from luxury to mid-range to low-cost.

Apply for a visa and follow the necessary travel advice for Kenya.

Travelers from nations that demand visa applications must submit them ahead of time in order to enter Kenya. To ensure you receive the appropriate advice, ask your travel agent about these specifics. It takes a lot of time to complete the Kenya visa application at immigration upon arrival, particularly if you had a lengthy journey. In order to relax or make it to your domestic transfer flight, you need to get inside the transfer car as soon as possible.

Combine Other East African Safaris With Great Migration

You get the most out of your African vacation when you combine Great Migration with other East African safaris. Some of the world’s rarest animals may be found in East Africa.

You can perform excellent migration and gorilla trekking in Kenya or Tanzania because they are in the same region as Uganda or Rwanda, which are gorilla trekking locations. Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale or Nyungwe National Park is an alternate activity.

The gorilla trekking permit for Rwanda or Uganda must be reserved in advance. You can explore East African National Parks for a while until the suspected date of the big wildebeest migration approaches, as the exact timing of the event is unclear.

Asking an African tour operator on the ground for assistance

Asking for assistance might help you avoid many of the mistakes you can make when getting ready for the big wildebeest migration in Tanzania or Kenya. It might not be a good idea for a first-time safari visitor to do it yourself (DIY), especially if they are not on the ground.

By planning the Great Wildebeest Migration Safari themselves, one may occasionally hope to save money but wind up overspending or interacting with dishonest people. The vacation is dull if you hire a safari guide who knows nothing or very little about safaris.Planning A Successful Wildebeest Migration In Tanzania and Kenya,

Customers who want to learn more about East African safaris, including the Great Wildebeest Migration, gorilla trekking, birding, and much more, may get free guidance from Katland Safaris.

Ask us anything, and we’ll respond as soon as we can with the appropriate safari updates. Although the internet is a great place to find information on East African safaris, you still need an honest confirmation from someone who is actually there.

Bring the Proper Safari Equipment for Africa’s Great Wildebeest Migration

You may avoid hauling suitcases that could be quite challenging to keep an eye on while your safari by packing light yet appropriately for any vacation. Having too many baggage might also limit the amount of room in the car, especially if you are traveling with others.

Packing and unpacking may occasionally be necessary if you are at a changing room or lodging facility. Going through your baggage repeatedly to find what you want to use while on safari is tiresome.

Without rollers, pack in a duffel bag.

Safari hat that folds up

It’s a wise choice to wear a hut in the outdoors to shield your hair from buzzing insects. You should also cover your head because the tracks are dusty.

Place in cubes.

Packing cubes that you can easily repackage can save time if you need to go through a checkup.

Safari clothing

Bringing convertible safari clothing in eco-friendly hues enhances the experience. On chilly early-morning game drives, you can wear trousers; when it gets too hot, you can switch to shorts. Bring safari clothing that you can wear comfortably on dusty roads, such as khaki and tan.
Repellant for insects
to smear stinging insects over the body and repel them.

A fantastic lens for a camera, especially for photographers and people who want to take amazing pictures of their safari trip.
A first aid pack for unexpected situations when on safari.
Just in case you need it, some hard currency to utilize for transactions or personal expenditures.
A pair of binoculars to see creatures that are far away more clearly.

If you ever get the chance to go outside, you should wear safari boots to protect your feet from creepers or exotic insects. Without an armed ranger guide, this is not advised.
Toiletries in case you have delicate skin or your lodge does not supply these.
If you need some aeration, especially after a hard day in the field, you can change into flip flops.
Wearing sunscreen will protect your skin if you have to stand in the pool in the sun.

To shield your eyes from the scorching heat, use sunglasses.
At the resorts that offer pool service, guests can wear swimming costumes.
Just in case there are bugs at your resort, use insect repellent.
A flashlight for use in the event that solar power runs short.
Consider extending your stay in the park during the Great Wildebeest Migration Safari by a few days.

You should save a few additional days for the great wildebeest migration trip because it is not planned to occur on a specific day or time.

Plan to spend around five days in either the Masai Mara National Reserve or the Serengeti National Park during the peak of the big wildebeest migration. This allows you to witness one of the greatest wonders of the world: the unset migration of vast herds of species.

You may choose the best moment to witness the highlights of the great wildebeest migration by deciding when and what you want to see.

What Time of Year Is Best to Book Africa’s Great Wildebeest Migration?

The Great Wildebeest Migration is a year-round sequence of occurrences. January through March is the busiest time of year for entering into Masai Mara National Reserve, followed by June through September.

To choose the ideal time for your safari, you must be aware of the status of the wild animal journey.

Rain patterns, animal instincts, the urge to survive, and other things all contribute to the great migratory procession. Determining the precise day the voyage is to start is really difficult.

The trajectory of the Great Wildebeest Migration is only a supposition that has been formed throughout time, as previously mentioned. People who like tracking the wildebeest migration typically keep the globe informed.

Some individuals reserve their safari packages at least a year in advance, and they continue to modify them based on the course’s current circumstances.

The best time to reserve a safari, particularly in Serengeti National Park, for people who want to go birdwatching is from January to March. Birdwatching and stunning vistas of sizable herds of untamed animals are available.

What Does a Great Wildebeest Migration Safari Cost?

Pack prices are the same for all budgets, whether you’re booking the big wildebeest migration package to Masai Mara National Reserve or Serengeti National Park.

When calculating the expense of a safari, you also need to take into account the Great Migration in Africa. The number of passengers

Accommodations can be classified as luxurious, mid-range, or economical.

The length of time you anticipate spending on safari, particularly if you want to take part in a variety of activities at the river crossing location. The wildebeest at the Mara River Crossing are in danger of dying because lions, cheetahs, and crocodiles are there to capture them. Sometimes, even the wildebeest are f

ortunate enough to avoid raptors’ traps. Expect this to occur gradually rather than constantly.
Think of other activities you want to incorporate with the big wildebeest migration, such as a trip to Lake Manyara, chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania, beach time, and much more.

The kind of transportation you want to utilize during the big wildebeest migration has a significant impact on the overall cost of your safari. You have the option of taking a regular aircraft or even a charter flight to either Masai Mara National Reserve or Serengeti National Park. When compared to driving on the ground, this is rather expensive. The kind of vehicle you choose for the safari has an impact on the overall cost.

The cost of a safari land cruiser with a porch differs from that of a safari van.
You may gain a deeper understanding of the specifics of this natural wonder by working with a professional safari guide during the annual wildebeest migration.

There are many of drivers who can transport you to the Serengeti National Park or Masai Mara National Reserve, but an informed driver will charge more.
Costing must include for gas or petrol used during wildlife drives in Serengeti National Park or Masai Mara National Reserve. Since various cars use gas in different ways, this needs to be taken into account.

Luxury Safaris To See Wildebeest Migrations In Africa.

Comfort and the greatest views of the whole trip are included with luxury travel for the big wildebeest migration in Africa, even from your lodge’s balcony. Even when sitting by the pool, the majority of upscale or luxury lodging establishments in Masai Mara National Reserve or Serengeti National Park have breathtaking views of the Great Migration.

Even inside the park, the kind of transportation you take to travel to Masai Mara National Reserve or Serengeti National Park adds to the luxury safari package during the peak migration season.

A 4×4 safari land cruiser with a porch or pop-up top is required when choosing to go by road to Masai Mara National Reserve or Serengeti National Park. The land cruiser must be well-maintained both inside and out. Each visitor must have a window seat for a fantastic view, and it must be roomy.

Many domestic airline options are available if you choose to fly in for the Great Wildebeest Migration Safari, but you will need to make reservations in advance in order to obtain flying clearance from the Kenyan or Tanzanian Civil Aviation Authorities.

Super luxury safari packages may be arranged with charter flights or daily organized safaris to the wildlife reserves. You must either pay a premium for extra baggage or adhere to the maximum baggage allowance specified by the airline.

One option worth include in your Africa safari is a hot air balloon ride during the big wildebeest migration in Masai Mara National Reserve or Serengeti National Park. To take in the airborne view of the vast herds of wild animals at the bottom of the vast rift valley, you must abide by the instructions provided by the pilot.

How to Arrange a Luxury Safari Itinerary to Witness Africa’s Great Migrations Travel to Masai Mara National Reserve or Serengeti National Park

You have to reserve flights in advance if you choose the fly-in luxury great wildebeest migration package. Daily domestic flights from Kenya and Tanzania land at the airports near Serengeti National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve. You must make reservations in advance since tickets sell out quickly at the busiest times of the year.

Although charter flight services are offered, all required approvals must be completed beforehand. You must obtain the appropriate government approval and complete all required permissions in advance if you want to charter from your nation to the Masai Mara National Park or the Serengeti National Park.

Due of the rough and dusty roads, a 4×4 safari land cruiser can go by road to Masai Mara National Park or Serengeti National Park.

Luxuriance Drive to Lake Manyara National Park on Day 1 of the Great Wildebeest Migration Itinerary to the Serengeti National Reserve

To start your journey to Lake Manyara National Park, your driver guide will pick you up early in the morning from your overnight accommodation or from Kilimanjaro International Airport. Savor the breathtaking vista of the many landforms that the vast Rift valley’s faulting process produced.

Rich acacia forests, enormous fig trees, mahogany trees, and other plants make up the park’s abundant biodiversity. Numerous primates, including olive baboons, vervet monkeys, blue monkeys, and others, call these places home.

A game drive, particularly around Lake Manyara, may provide you the opportunity to visit a park rich in wildlife, including herds of buffalo, elephants, giraffes, impalas, gazelles, and wildebeest, to name a few.

Lake Manyara and wild animals in the background make this one of the greatest options for anybody searching for a natural setting for a picture session. Dinner and the night at the upscale lodge of your choice

 

Drive to Ngorongoro Crater on Day Two

You will be picked up from your resort by the driver guide to go to Ngorongoro Crater after breakfast. The bottom of this crater spans over 102 square miles, and its walls are nearly 3000 feet high. It is known as Africa’s Noah’s Ark because of the abundance of opportunities to see some of the continent’s rarest wild creatures, such as the Black Rhino and massive elephants with tremendous tusks.

The majority of Tanzania’s proud wild animals and birds congregate in the crater.

There are also additional intriguing characteristics within the crater, such as marshes, flamingo-flocked soda lakes, forest cover, and rivers that draw wild animals, particularly during extreme dry seasons.

Before climbing to unwind at your lodge, take a wildlife drive across the reserve area.

Drive to Serengeti National Park on Day Three

Serengeti means “endless plains” in the local dialect, and the park’s name is fitting. Your driving guide will pick you up from your lodging early in the morning so you can start the lengthy trip to Serengeti National Park.

As you eventually reach Serengeti National Park, you will understand why it was given that name. Gaze out the window for a breathtaking view of the landscapes along the route.

You may immediately see some animals from the steps of your lodge before you check in.

Go to your room and unwind.

Day 4: Serengeti National Park’s Great Wildebeest Migration Safari

Eat breakfast in the morning before heading out for a full day of game-watching to greet the migratory wild creatures. Before leaving for the game drive in the morning, remember to take a lunch, some snacks, and drinking water because this is a full-day excursion. Ask the driver guide for water, which is provided free of charge in the safari vehicle at Katland  Safaris.

Watch from the porch or window as large groups of wildebeests, zebras, gazelles, impalas, and others navigate the Mara River while struggling, strangling, and arriving. Because predators may also obtain a meal more easily, this is the river of life and death.

During the great crossing, a lot of things happen at the Mara River, such as Nile crocodiles snatching their share of the migrants and predators losing the fight to prey. Many wild animals lose their lives attempting to cross from Serengeti National Park into Masai Mara National Reserve during that season, making it the bloody river.

Thousands of gazelles, zebra herds, innumerable wildebeests, impalas, and other ungulates are all yours to see. Predators like lions, hyenas, cheetahs, jackals, and others may not be visible to the naked eye.

Go back to your lodge and unwind.

Day 5: Hot air balloon ride or second game drive in Serengeti National Park

Another day of fantastic wildebeest migration viewing and game drive. Remember to bring snacks and a packed lunch. There is so much action on the first day of the Great Wildebeest Migration that it keeps you enthralled. Many things happen quickly and at unexpected times, making it difficult to concentrate on one event at a time.

Carnivores are busy shopping for the day’s food, moms are laboring to carry their babies over the Mara River, and crocodiles are waiting to seize the helpless migrants, among other things.

One alternative to repeating on the ground game drive is to use a hot air balloon. To meet all standards, this layout must be completed beforehand.

The ungulates may be seen from above, providing a broader perspective of the plain. Make an effort to attend the hot air balloon pilot’s briefing. Observe the guidelines for observing the wildebeest migration from the air in order to fully appreciate the event.

Have fun taking at every aspect of the massive wildebeest migration from above. You may observe the Mara River traversing a gap that has been carved from the bottom of the rift valley over time. Admire the captivating green acacia trees encircled by verdant foliage, which serves as food for impalas, gazelles, and wildebeest. Enjoy this breathtaking aerial picture of Africa’s massive wildebeest migration.

 

Fly to Kilimanjaro National Park on Day 6

Date of departure: Fly to Kilimanjaro National Park to catch your flight home following the Serengeti National Park’s spectacular wildebeest migration. To capture the final moments of your visit during the big wildebeest migration, you may also go on the park’s final game drive. You can then make there in time to check in for the domestic flight.

Luxury Safaris To See Wildebeest Migrations In Africa.

What Does Africa’s Luxury Great Migration Safari Cost?

The remaining costs may differ after the Masai Mara National Reserve or Serengeti National Park park fees, which do not differentiate between reservations made on a luxury, mid-range, or budget basis.

The gross cost of a luxury Great Wildebeest Migration Safari is determined by a number of factors, including the type of lodging to be used, the number of safari days, the mode of transportation to be used, the number of passengers, the type of vehicle to be rented for the safari, the time of booking for the Great Migration Safari, and the activities to be included in the Great Migration, to name a few.

If you wish to go away from the packed ground, you may privately add optional activities like the hot air balloon arrangement to the Great Wildebeest Migration fee.

 

When to Arrange Africa’s Magnificent Great Migration Safari

The optimal time to plan Africa’s huge wildebeest migration is a year in advance. Rain patterns are supposed to drive the big wildebeest migration in Africa, but when unexpected weather shifts occur, the forecast gets thrown off.

Wildebeest’s annual epic journey across thousands of kilometers is fueled by their instincts, survival needs, and sense of smell. It can be difficult to determine when Africa’s great wildebeest migration should begin or stop, even when such elements are known.

The great wildebeest migration has been the subject of films from internationally recognized wildlife production firms, and more are in the works, yet none of them can pinpoint the precise moment the movement will begin.

The calving season, which typically lasts from January to March, brings with it an increase in the number of wild animals, which puts pressure on the amount of pasture that is available as they grow.  When they release the desire for new eating grounds, certain animals, particularly zebras, begin their yearly migration.

Stakeholders with an interest in the massive Wildebeest migration by this point begin updating the world on it. Taking into account the infant’s still-shaky legs, the herds of wild creatures begin their trip northward cautiously.

As the amount of pasture devoured by the massive swarms of ungulates decreases, the trip may begin in April or May, once the newborns have grown the strength to migrate.

Because babies have outgrown and developed the strength to move more quickly, the pace is accelerated from June to July. The great wildebeest migration peaks over the remaining months of July, August, and September. When large herds of wildebeest, gazelles, impala, and zebras enter the Masai Mara, Tanzania (Serengeti National Park) loses control of the animals for a few months by October. The calving season begins when the wildebeest return to Serengeti National Park in late November or early December, at which point life resumes as usual.

 

Which Season in Africa Is Ideal for Luxurious Great Wildebeest Migration Safaris?

The greatest time to witness the big wildebeest migration in Masai Mara National Reserve or Serengeti National Park is from June to September.

Every year, the great wildebeest migration begins in Tanzania’s southern Serengeti National Park. Although this fantastic animal migration is not a one-day event, it gains speed over the course of several months.

You may still see the procession from Tanzania, aside from the well-known peak season for the Great Migration. It is anticipated that during specific times during the Great Wildebeest Migration, the herds of pilgrim animals will arrive in specific locations. Each of these destinations offers upscale amenities, such as lodging.

The Grumeti River, Ngorongoro Crater, and other locations are among the stops for the Great Wildebeest Migration. The southern Serengeti National Park’s calving season occurs in February and March, while the year is still young. In April and May, some animals may begin to migrate north.  Infants should develop stronger limbs by June or July so they can move more quickly in August and September.

Because Tanzania no longer has a claim on the big wildebeest migration for a few months, the number of visitors to Masai Mara National Park begins to decline by October.

The big wildebeest migration, particularly in Serengeti National Park, is also comfortable during the low seasons, which run from March to May. Because wildebeest and gazelle crowds are more constant, you may anticipate seeing them eating in specific areas.

You can plainly see and observe wild creatures without being distracted by human masses. Because the grass is thick and ungulates conceal in it, expect to witness less drama between predators and prey.

Budget Safaris To See Wildebeest Migrations In Africa.

The cost of travel during Africa’s great exodus depends on several factors. Budget plans are also feasible because the big migration season is not a one-time event, even though the cost of lodging and other safari amenities soars as it progresses.

Africa’s leaders in wildebeest migration safaris are Kenya and Tanzania. Zebras, gazelles, and other antelopes are part of this elusive voyage; their movements are influenced by pasture supply and rainfall patterns.

Beginning in Southern Serengeti National Park, the wild animal journey continues down the Grumeti River until it reaches Masai Mara National Reserve.

It is feasible to go on a tight budget during the big wildebeest migrations, but the time of your reservation should be taken into account. In Tanzania, the Masai Mara National Reserve and the Serengeti National Park provide a range of lodging options categorized as Up Market (Luxury), Mid-range, and Budget.

The kind of safari package you select is greatly influenced by the mode of transportation you take to reach the Serengeti National Park or Masai Mara National Reserve. You have the option of booking a seat on the domestic daily flights to these locations or chartering.

Road travel is the most popular option, but the kind of vehicle you select greatly affects the overall cost of your safari.

 

How to Arrange a Budget Safari Itinerary to Witness Africa’s Great Migrations Using Road Transportation Masai Mara National Reserve or Serengeti National Park

One of the possibilities for an affordable, fantastic wildebeest migration safari in Kenya is to travel by car to Masai Mara National Reserve.

If you plan to spend the night in Nairobi, you will travel from the city via the southern bypass and then join the Nakuru route on the first day. Stop along the way at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint, which spans more than 8000 kilometers from Africa to the Middle East.

Continue driving to your next destination, which can be Narok town, while taking in the breathtaking scenery of Kenya’s countryside. After a long trip, you can stop here to stretch and rest. During your break, you may browse the many different gift stores in this town. You may buy some mementos to bring home here.

Continue till you reach Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve. After checking into your lodging, unwind.

Since the second day is dedicated to game viewing, bring a lunch in case the Great Migration is still going on.  As you wait in the scorching heat all day observing the arrival of massive herds of wildebeests, zebras, gazelles, and other antelopes, remember to drink plenty of water and bring some food.

Throughout the day, a lot of unexpected things happen at the Mara River. You could see a lion snatching the shaky babies in the pack or a wildebeest just evading the jagged teeth of ravenous Nile crocodiles.

Nobody is ever able to forecast with any degree of accuracy what will occur during the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every now and again, something new occurs that leaves visitors pondering about the unique instincts of wild animals.  Since this is a one-day event, don’t forget to take a lunch break.

The Mara River’s base is difficult for ungulates to traverse since certain areas are deeper and more treacherous than others. The wild creatures who successfully go through are declared the winners.

Drive back to your accommodation to unwind as the day comes to an end.

To really immerse yourself in the experience, it is worthwhile to include the Third Day of the Great Wildebeest Migration Safari in Masai Mara National Reserve in your schedule. There are so many breathtaking, dramatic happenings on the first day of the Great Wildebeest Migration Experience that you will be moving your eyes from one to the next. You might not fully record every safari action.

This is the rationale behind going to the second or even subsequent days of the Great Migration, particularly if you are part of a group that is shooting or taking pictures of animals. Budget Safaris To See Wildebeest Migrations In Africa.

During the massive Wildebeest migration, you may even reserve a hot air balloon. You may see the ungulates at a larger size and from an aerial perspective. The pilot of the hot air balloon gives you an overview of the experience’s regulations. Observe every detail that the ranger guide passes by.

From the summit, you can take in a nearly 360-degree view of the big wildebeest migration, complete with the Mara River’s winding course, the verdant acacia trees, and the lush green foliage covered with many ungulates and scavengers.

Departure time is the fourth day of the Masai Mara, Kenya, big wildebeest migration. Once your lodge has been checked out, you may spend the remaining time on the Great Wildebeest Migration Safari before heading back to Jomo Kenyatta Airport to catch your journey home.

Optional Cultural Visit to Masai

The name Masai Mara is a reference to the Masai. Since the beginning of time, they have continued their traditional cattle-keeping practices. They are the guardians of Masai Mara National Reserve and reside on its outskirts.

The Masai Cultural Walk is an optional activity that you may do after seeing the big wildebeest migration.

Since the Masai are pastoralists by nature, they maintain livestock in community settings. They reside in Manyattas, which are made of cow dung and mud. Women are responsible for this effort. A man must wrestle his future wife in order to obtain a spouse; if he is defeated, the woman is not his bride. The Masais typically don traditional clothing and perform a traditional leaping dance for guests, which keeps your camera rolling.

They create beautiful crafts and ornaments using beautiful beading. Instead of hunting for wild meat, they utilize the proceeds from the sale of these crafts to buy goods for their own use.

Supporting Masai handicrafts enables them to continue creating more crafts than poaching, which contributes to the ongoing protection of wild animals. If you have some free time, you might assist the artisans in creating beaded pieces.

 

 What Is the Cost of an African Budget Great Migration Safari?

Park admission fees per person are the sole fixed expense for an excellent migration safari in the Serengeti National Park or Masai Mara National Reserve, and they affect all budgets. You must pay the same pack costs whether you select a luxury, midrange, or economy safari package.

Additional factors that contribute to the overall cost of the Great Wildebeest Migration in Africa include the type of lodging, the number of passengers, the mode of transportation, the type of vehicle to be rented for the safari, the time of booking, the number of days of the safari, the activities to be included in the great migration, and others.

 

When to Schedule a Great Migration Safari on a Budget In Africa

It is recommended to plan for the Great Wildebeest Migration in Africa at least a year in advance, if not more. Despite being a year-round activity in Africa, the start of the big migratory season depends on variables such as the pattern of rainfall. One of the world’s eight wonders, this natural phenomenon is difficult to predict when it will begin or cease.

Those who are astute observers often keep the globe informed about the progress of the big wildebeest migration, although all of the recorded times of the year are only conjectures. When the babies are strong enough to migrate, the big migration in Tanzania is often anticipated to begin in April or May, according to watchers.

The reason the animals move a bit more slowly is that babies born during the infantry season, which runs from February to April, still have limbs that are shaky and cannot withstand rapid movement.

 

Which African park offers the best views of the Great Wildebeest Migration?

The Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya and the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, two African national parks that are only divided by the Mara River and other landforms, are the sites of the great migration.

The landscape in both parks during the Great Migration is amazing. The ungulates’ collective choice is truly amazing as they begin their gradual trip from Tanzania’s southern Serengeti National Park. In order to give babies the strength they need to continue with the big entrance into Masai Mara National Reserve, they proceed slowly.

It’s a mystery to track the yearly movement of the big wildebeest migration from beginning to conclusion. Although their numbers are not as vast as those of the wildebeests, zebras are said to be the master key to initiating the great wildebeest migration in Africa.

You must reserve safaris on both sides to form your own opinion in order to get the finest experience of where to see the magnificent wildebeest migration in Kenya or Tanzania.

 

What Time of Year Is Best For Low-Cost Fantastic Wildebeest Migration Safaris In Africa?

As long as the wild animal procession is continuing on, you may reserve affordable, fantastic wildebeest migration safaris in Kenya or Tanzania throughout the year.

In Tanzania, March through May are mating seasons. From April to May, the animals may begin to migrate northwards as the grass becomes scarcer and the daily intake of pasture increases, which causes the fast runner to look for new eating grounds.

The African tourist calendar is divided into two seasons, known as peak and low seasons, each of which has pros and cons.

Since there are often less tourists during the off-peak months of February through May, there are no traffic jams, there are plenty of alternatives for competent driving guides, and there are several lodging options, some of which have reduced nightly rates. But there are fewer wild creatures to see, fewer hungry predators, and a lot more

Peak season, which typically runs from June to September, offers fantastic views of the Great Migration, fully refurbished lodges that are ready for the season, high-quality service since lodges need to make an impression on visitors, and much more.

However, lodging rates are exorbitant during the busiest safari season in Masai Mara National Reserve or Serengeti National Park. This is due to the huge demand from travelers worldwide to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, the busy and loud parks, the dusty paths, and the scarcity of lodging alternatives.

 

Things Not to Do on the Great Migration Safari

 Don’t book your fantastic Wildebeest Migration too late.

Avoid making last-minute reservations for lodging, cars, flights, and other things since they sell out quickly, particularly during the busiest months of June through September. For late reservations, the likelihood of having a wide range of options for such services is reduced. You can wind yourself in a place where you wish you had not stayed. At the conclusion of your safari, accommodations and the quality of information provided by guides play a significant role.

 

Bring the appropriate safari equipment.

Even when you have to go from one facility to another on an African safari, it is more comfortable to pack light and appropriately.

 

Avoid carrying large sums of money or valuable jewelry.

Many people want to stand out when on safari, but you can’t be certain that every visitor is on the same objective as you. Keeping your priceless jewels on display might draw criminals. Even publicly counting large sums of money might make you a target for criminals.

 

Throughout the Great Wildebeest Migration, keep your travel documentation with you at all times.

During this busy time of year, a large number of visitors visit Serengeti National Park or Masai Mara National Reserve. Since your passport is the only means of rapid identification, you must bring it together with additional documentation. Even if they don’t speak your language, anyone can help if you become lost or in difficulty.

 

During the Great Wildebeest Migration, never provide your personal information to strangers.

It is advisable to seek assistance from a competent service provider, such as the police, or from your safari guide. Giving your personal information to a complete stranger might lead to fraudsters looking to take advantage of you. If you must make your own airport transfers, employ taxi drivers that have the airport’s markings on their cars.