On the day of gorilla trekking

of gorilla trekking

On the day of gorilla trekking – Gorilla trekking safaris and tours – Gorilla permits.

Travelers from all over the world go to Rwanda and Uganda to gorilla trekking. People go to Uganda to partake in one of the most popular tourist activities in the world, and they come from all over the globe, including the United States, Russia, Britain, Australia, and Europe. In order to get a gorilla permit in Rwanda or Uganda, one must pay either $750 or $650.

Then, with this permission in hand, you may spend an hour in the company of mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable, Mgahinga, or Volcanoes National Parks. Of course, this doesn’t cover the cost of your international flights to Uganda, which may vary depending on your departure country.

This does not include your lodging during your stay in Uganda, ground transportation (which, because to the terrain, requires a four-wheel drive), or internal flights to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (if you would rather not spend eight or nine hours driving there).

So, you’ve made it to one of the lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable or Volcanoes National Park, and tomorrow you’ll be trekking gorillas. We would have thought that a local tour operator in Rwanda or Uganda would have provided you with packing recommendations for your gorilla hike if you had booked via them.

Get to the lodge early enough to have some down time before your trip the next day by getting there early. Getting some rest is crucial since it will provide you tranquility. Get all of your hiking gear ready ahead of time. If you want to avoid a panic in the morning, have your rain gear, gloves, hiking boots, and bug repellents ready the night before. Because of how crucial each thing is, you must not overlook a single one.

of gorilla trekking

You need to know what you’re passionate about. For various reasons, several gorilla families pique the curiosity of certain visitors. The guides from the Uganda Wildlife Authority can better match you with a habituated gorilla family if you let them know what you’re looking for.

For instance, there are a lot of factors that might pique your interest in gorilla families, such as the number of offspring, proximity to the mother, friendliness, and photographability of the family. If you want to get the most out of your walk, knowing this will help you request it. You need to maximize your one hour with the gorillas since that’s all you got.

It is essential that you get up early, have breakfast at the restaurant, and gather all of your necessary equipment. Make sure you have enough water to drink, your packed lunch, and, if you can, some food that will give you energy. You will have the opportunity to request a specific gorilla family at the general gorilla tracking briefing, which will be held at the park headquarters once you are ready to join others.

If you’re not in the best physical shape, it’s recommended that you bring a porter or assistant along. They can carry your belongings, provide encouragement, and make sure you reach your goal of viewing a habituated gorilla family in Rwanda or Uganda.

observing gorillas at a single time

Observing gorillas

Observing gorillas at a single time – Gorilla trekking permits – Gorilla tours and safaris.

size that allows for the simultaneous observation of gorillas. The exact number wasn’t set in stone, but it was based on Bill’s observations of Groups 11 and 13, where the adult gorillas were far more placid when all the tourists kept their distance. Six was also the maximum number of guests he thought the guides could safely manage without disturbing the gorillas.

Each guest will get a memorable experience thanks to the small group size. Seeing gorillas up close was too invasive for the visitors who had paid thousands of dollars and traveled hundreds of miles to accomplish it. On the other hand, ORTPN was hesitant to set any boundaries. Part of it was driven by greed and stupidity, but it also represented a genuine need for more financial influence in politics. Monsieur Weber, you said that the gorillas may be a source of income. Okay, then, let’s become rich.

Bill overheard the low rumble of two Volkswagen vehicles making their way up the last ascent to Visoke’s base on a December morning in 1979. The only way to know who may turn up each morning was via this aural early warning system. Bill was unprepared for the thirteen visitors that stepped out of the vans, even though there were three overnight campers already planned to go. The two vehicles indicated a likely overflow.

They were all part of an Air France team that had arranged to see gorillas, bought the tickets, and leased the cars. The next day, Bill attempted to convince half of the gang to go back, but they were determined to remain together. Bill was left with little choice but to comply with Benda Lema’s latest directive not to refuse anybody. He gathered the sixteen guests together and ordered them to remain silent, remain in formation, and obey his every command.

Observing gorillas at a single time

Big Nemeye led the way, Bill occupied the center of the caravan, and two porters were in the back as they started off. Not far from where they had left Group 11 the previous day, within half an hour, Nemeye discovered new route from that morning. According to Bill, the gorillas often followed the footprints of the visitors who had departed, which would sometimes make it easier for them to find their way back the next morning.

Observing gorillas

He wished it marked a positive sign. However, the shortcut that day went directly up the mountain. The group of twenty people gradually spread out over the next fifteen minutes as fatigue and high altitude pushed the last survivors to the back. Bill halted the gathering many times to emphasize the importance of maintaining silence and unity.

The gorillas continued to climb Visoke’s eastern side at a steady pace. A mother and her two young gorillas emerged from the shade of a Hagenia tree, some twenty yards distant, as the group of gorillas drew closer to the forest canopy. As he attempted to identify the gorillas, Bill took the lead and collected five or six people around him.

Observing gorillas at a single time

The Frenchman who had fallen into a little gully and was surrounded by nettles was the one who cried out. He felt dissatisfied. The silverback that let out a single wraaagh in reaction to the Frenchman’s profanities was also not. Bill found himself faced with an unsavory array of choices as the other gorillas scampered away. He would have left the gorillas alone and gone home if he had been with Nemeye or anybody else.

However, visitors muddied the waters. They were ready to continue after renting cars, paying fees, and hiking a great distance. Even though things were tough, most people had handled themselves admirably. Gathered around Nemeye and the porters, Bill ordered the company to sit quietly and wait for him to go forward. After the gorillas had across a gully where they could be seen unimpeded, he would signal for the rest of the troop to come closer. The gorillas would end the game if they displayed any symptoms of panic or flight. Bill went out on his own, and everyone nodded.

Tourists came to see the gorillas.

Tourists came to see the gorillas - Gorilla tours and safaris - Gorilla permits.

Tourists came to see the gorillas – Gorilla tours and safaris – Gorilla permits.

With an increasing number of visitors, the gorillas’ attire—or lack thereof—continued to be a delightful source of amusement. Some tourists allegedly felt they could brave the thick underbrush with only an umbrella, while one out of five showed there completely unprepared for the rain. Underneath their rain gear, few travelers wore sweaters or vests to stave against the cold.

Despite our cautions to tour brokers, guests failed to comprehend the cold and wetness of the Equator at ten thousand feet during the rainy sea-son, and there were no guidebooks to Rwanda’s high mountain areas back then. A group of ladies dressed in short skirts and matching shoes with two-inch heels made an appearance.

Despite the nettles and muck, a small group of courageous men and women continued their trek in sandals. Rain gear was mostly worn by individuals who favored brighter colors, such as orange and yellow, which seemed to entice the younger gorillas. This was also true of the wide range of visitors’ looks. According to Bill, the introduction of the white apes meant that the gorillas could now be entertained every day.

Tourists came to see the gorillas

Thank you! The term was constantly yelled out, and guests always got the gist of it. Unfortunately, we discovered the hard way that the bamboo zone had much larger concentrations of driving ants than Karisoke’s higher elevations. They would attack immediately if we stumbled across their bivouacs, which happened many times a week.

While smaller worker ants stayed in formation, soldier ants with enormous heads, measuring half an inch in length, would swarm over any foreign object, their sharp teeth prepared to sting. What’s worse is that they would frequently wait to bite until they had climbed up our legs or fallen into our shirts after we touched an infested branch.

Tourists came to see the gorillas - Gorilla tours and safaris - Gorilla permits.

As a consequence, the siafu strip came to be: quickly removing clothing to either brush off the ants or unhook them if they were biting, in order to prevent further harm to the body’s most delicate areas. Wearing fewer clothes might be advantageous at times.

Tourists came to see the gorillas

In order to form bonds with each other, tourists were not required to undress. The common experience of interacting with a group of wild mountain gorillas was enough. As the sun went down, guests sat around the fire with a mug of hot tea and shared tales about the gorillas. After making their way through the muck and across logs, several stated they felt like a gorilla when they reached the group. My thoughts would then go to other memories of their hike in the Virunga forest.

Aromas of greenery and freshly rained dirt. Odorous like the silverback’s fur. The flavor of uncultivated celery, the symphony of invisible beings. Hunting dexterity and the excitement of finding nests in the dark. Knowing the gorillas were in the area when you found warm feces was a sign. The pure delight of playing in muck and mire as a youngster. Climbing and sliding is physically demanding. Not even ants or nettles may hurt.

As Bill had never seen in East Africa, visitors to the Virungas were escorted in zebra-striped minibuses and guarded Land Rovers through the jungle and past animals. Gorilla tourism was a whole new kind of adventure, one that tested one’s physical, sensory, and emotional limits. Even though the phrase “ecotourism” didn’t come out until later in the decade, the appeal of trekking into the Virungas rainforest and interacting with native creatures in their natural habitat was apparent as early as 1979.

Even while Bill enjoyed visitors, he preferred it when they didn’t stay the night at Visoke’s headquarters. The mountains, with their noises and silences, were something he enjoyed being alone with. At 8,800 feet, you may feel your senses sharpen and your mind clear thanks to the combination of cool air and pure air. The mind would sometimes dwell on insurmountable obstacles, while the senses would be consumed by persistent knee pain. But Bill valued the luxury of leisure to contemplate without outside interruptions.

The consistent number of visitors was good news for the MGp. Both in and around the park, in the neighboring town of Ruhengeri, local job opportunities were expanding. Several local eateries and the ancient Hotel Muhavura were refurbished to accommodate travelers as they entered and left the town.

The park service’s fight against the MINAGRI cattle project, which was now on hold but not dead, received political backing and greater funds from an increasing number of international visitors. After spending the day with Group 11, several resident expatriate visitors became vocal champions for gorilla conservation in their subsequent positions as government advisers, technical assistants, and other similar positions. Among the many, they stood out.

those with special access.

However, there was a drawback to greater visiting as well. Bill had advocated for restrictions on the daily influx of visitors, claiming that a group of six would be ideal.

The Gorilla habituation process.

The Gorilla habituation process - Gorilla habituation safaris - Gorilla permits.

The Gorilla habituation process – Gorilla habituation safaris – Gorilla permits.

The process of habituation has barely progressed 10 weeks. Alternatively, we may have decided that eight guests was too many to accommodate at once. They were powerful figures. The porters could tell these individuals were important because they arrived with many loads to transport into the jungle, one of which was a cooler stocked with alcohol.

A few Germans had forgotten to bring rain gear to the rain forest, thus things quickly became worse as a little rain started to fall. Then, as the path of the gorillas became obscured by a dense bamboo forest, Bill instructed the tour guides to remain in one place until he and the agents of the trip clarified the situation. A particularly annoying agent’s ear-piercing call soon filled the woodland as they sipped their first beers: Just go for it! Hey there, monkey! There you are, Gorilla!

The morale of Bill plummeted. Were these agents a taste of the impending doom he had warned travelers about? At long last, the party did get to see the gorillas, but Bill came away with something fresh: reservations about tourism. Meanwhile, Amy was a thousand miles away, so she couldn’t empathize with his concerns or revive his hopes.

The Gorilla habituation process.

A reassuring presence were the gorillas from Group 11. Over time, they let more of their personalities and self shine through. The silverback was still referred to as Stilgar out of respect for Craig Sholley. Names given to the other gorillas in Kinyarwanda or Swahili, two African languages, were chosen to highlight the unique character, habits, and characteristics of each animal.

The Gorilla habituation process - Gorilla habituation safaris - Gorilla permits.
Like Ndume, which means “male” and was given to the second silverback that emerged, some were really unremarkable. The disfigured fingers that almost crippled one adult female’s left hand earned her the nickname “the hand” (Mkono). Kosa, a younger woman, was also likely a victim of a trap because of her “missing” hand. Her continual “noisy” vocalizations are what gave Kalele her moniker.

And when it became apparent what was bothering this young mother, she called her daughter Sababu, which means “the reason.” The eldest child, Furaha, meaning “joy,” was known for his boundless energy and enthusiasm for play, while Nshuti was his closest confidante and companion. Tano was the last of the baby gorillas to be named, indicating that she was “fifth” in line. With a sense of accomplishment, the guides gave suitable African names to the majority of the gorillas they saw.

Complex and intriguing interactions with Group 11 members were developing. At one point, Bill and Nemeye were joined by two youthful Frenchfraus. Bill opted to wait above until the gorillas emerged into greater visibility because, on that particular day, they were alone at the base of a small crater. You could see people emerge from the grassy meadow in the crater from a great vantage point on a fallen Hagenia tree. The Stilgar

never showed up, but the other mountain gorillas seemed perfectly at ease. Then, as Bill and the two ladies were perched on the log, taking in the sight below, two enormous black hands suddenly sprung up and smacked the trunk just in front of them. With his massive head only a few feet away from their faces, Stilgar raised himself to look over the log.

Thankfully, Srilgar paid little attention to Bill’s involuntary cough grunt, a fairly hostile vocalization. Instead, he studied the monkeys in front of him for what seemed like an eternity. Once the silverback’s reconnaissance job was complete, he lowered his enormous frame and quietly withdrew. Both ladies were on the ground as Bill turned around to see them. One of them was crying. The other one was clearly enjoying themselves and was grinning widely.

Updated list of gorilla families and permits available in the Nkuringo region.

Updated list of gorilla families and permits available in the Nkuringo region.

Updated list of gorilla families and permits available in the Nkuringo region.

Revised listings of gorilla families and accessible permits in Bwindi’s Nkuringo area. Gorilla safaris in the southern portion of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park have long history with Nkuringo. Comprising 19 individuals and one dominant silverback, the Nkuringo gorilla family was released to public viewing in 3004. The most of the gorilla families in this region are Nkuringo family breakaways.

Currently consisting of three gorilla trekking families—the Nkuringo gorilla family, the Christmas gorilla family, and the Muhozi gorilla family—the Nkuringo area boasts Currently accessible for public booking in the Nkuringo region, 24 gorilla permits are opened daily; more will be added while the habituation process is still under progress. Researchers observe a wild gorilla family under the Gorilla Public Project to adapt them to human presence without changing their character.

One area for gorilla habituation experience is also the southern section of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The gorilla habituation experience is an expedition wherein a maximum of four visitors accompany a team of researchers and habituation to follow the semi-habituated gorilla family and spend four hours among them. Though they still exhibit unusual behavior as scurrying into hiding, shying away, and hooting, do as advised by the ranger guide and research to finish the whole experience.

Under Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the four gorilla safari areas— Rushaga in the south, Buhoma in the North, and Ruhija in the East—include Nkuringo region.

As the process of gorilla habituation develops, the count of gorilla families in the Nkuringo region may fluctuate sometimes.

The gorilla families of the Nkuringo section of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

gorilla family Nkuringo
Christmas Goracle Family
Family of Muhoza Gorillas
Two gorilla habituation experience families are also accessible from the Nkuringo region. Every day public booking is accessible for four permits per gorilla habituation family.

Booking Gorilla Permits For the Nkuringo Area of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Choose a date for the gorilla safari and the required permit count. This lets one avoid returning to investigate availability of gorilla permits. Tell them from the beginning that you would want Nkuringo’s gorilla permits.

Our safari adviser investigates gorilla permit availability from the Uganda Wildlife Authority list when you book with Katland safaris. Among the few businesses registered to be allowed to access the gorilla permission list is ours.

After learning that gorilla permits are available, we advise customers to get their permits right away as their status changes anytime without notice. Since few gorilla permits are offered to the public every day, they are exclusively booked with payment. Gorilla trekking is possible with eight licenses for each gorilla family.

We need certain personal information to be entered on the gorilla permit card: your complete name as shown on the passport, date of birth, nationality, and passport expiry date. These serve for identifying and statistical needs.

A Gorilla Trekking permit for the Nkuringo section of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park costs what?

For international nonresidents, the gorilla trekking permit is $800; for foreign residents, it costs $700; and for East Africans, it runs 300 000shs. Only the Uganda Wildlife Authority is in business selling and controlling mountain gorilla licenses. Still, you may also arrange the permission via a trip operator such as Katland Safaris.

Within the cost of gorilla treking permits are the park admission costs, security, government tax, one hour with the mountain gorillas, local community assistance, mountain gorilla conservation, ranger guide fees, and others.

Exclusions from the gorilla trekking permit include porter hiring, lodging, transportation to the safari location, and others.

How expensive is the experience in gorilla habituation?

Gorilla habituation experience now costs $1500 for international nonresidents, $1000 for foreign residents, and 750000shs for East Africans. Open for public booking are four gorilla licenses from the two gorilla families.

Updated list of gorilla families and permits available in the Nkuringo region.

Including and excluding in the expense of gorilla habituation experience
Four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family, ranger guide fees, mountain gorilla conservation, security, park entrance fees on trekking day, local community support, government tax, certificate after the gorilla safari, and others define the cost of a gorilla habituation experience permit.

Exclusions of gorilla habituation experience allow gratuities, food, transportation, and other personal expenditures including charges.

When should one schedule a gorilla safari to the Nkuringo area?

Although the Nkuringo region is suitable for gorilla safaris any time, the dry season is the most sought after. The mountain gorillas are in great spirits; other forest dwellers are also more easily seen. Though Bwindi forest gets erratic precipitation, the dry season offers more moderate possibilities of getting unexpected showers. Usually lasting June, July, August, September, December, and January is the dry season.

Uganda safaris’ peak season is here, hence demand for gorilla permits is excessive and chances of discovering availability are low as the seasons draw to end. To be on the safe side, we advise customers to buy these gorilla permits ahead—at least six months to a year ahead.

Demand for gorilla permits is lower during the rainy season, hence there is more likelihood of last-minute discovering of them. Usually spanning March, April, May, and November, the rainy season also marks the low season of travel. If your gorilla safari budget is restricted, you may take advantage of the low season as lower logistics might be possible. Sometimes the service providers break even with lower rates.

For gorilla walk in the Nkuringo region, what lodging do you arrange?

Budget, mid-range, and luxury facilities define the Nkuringo area’s accommodations. Apart from the lodging in the Nkuringo region, you might spend overnight at the Rushaga area. Confirming the gorilla permit will help you to schedule lodging for the gorilla safari at the ideal moment. This is so because, as the season becomes stronger, there are very few choices for lodging for the gorilla safari.

To avoid having to travel in the dark from another location to catch up with a briefing in the Nkuringo region, arrange lodging either within or near the Nkuringo area. Obstacles such blocked roads, slick roads, and logs falling across the road are very likely to arise on the route. Should you be late for the briefing, you can be kicked off the gorilla walk.

Nkuringo lodging includes Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, Bwindi Backpacker’s Camp, Nshongi Camp, Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge, Clouds Lodge.

How to get the To Nkuringo section of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

From Kampala or Entebbe Airport, you may reach the Nkuringo district via Road from Kabale. This hilly location features twisting roads, hence you require a 4×4 wheel drive car in excellent shape and a skilled and experienced driver guide.

approximately 414 kilometers separate Kampala or Entebbe from Kabale to Nkuringo region, and it links to Nkuringo for approximately 105 kilometers. About 80 kilometers from Kabale and 35 kilometers from the Nkuringo region, Kisoro is also a place for overnight stays.

Every day, Air Daily domestic flights from Kajjansi or Entebbe airport go for Kisoro airstrip. The Kisoro airfield is about one hour and fifteen minutes from the Nkuringo region, so you require a transfer car.

Kajjansi Airstrip or Entebbe Airport allows charter aircraft for a more personalized gorilla safari experience. An advance clearance requires a reservation.

During gorilla treking in the Nkuringo region, are mountain gorillas aggressive?

Mountain gorillas lack aggression. Usually timid, they prefer to hide when disturbed. Looking at the mountain gorillas, their big bodies give one an alarming impression. A fully developed male gorilla may weigh about three hundred kg, whereas the female would weigh approximately half this amount. Their dark brown sunken eyes, black fur covers their body, and they walk by knuckle fashion.

Though they are quiet, the mountain gorillas do not inspire patience as they may charge. Agitated, the mountain gorillas hoot, pound their chests hard, walk on one foot, and so much more drama occurs. When you see such behavior, go carefully but wait for the ranger guide to determine the underlying reason.

The mountain gorillas sometimes engage in family strife; other times, it is an assault by another gorilla family. Use the directions the ranger guide provides to finish the whole period you are spending with these monkeys.

When is the Nkuringo area gorilla trekking return time?

While some visitors have returned after two-hour gorilla treks, others have spent over three-quarters of their day in the woods. The period of discovering the mountain gorillas depends on elements in the forest such as the closeness of the mountain gorilla feeding place, daily temperature, in case the gorilla family is adventurous, the speed of other visitors, and others.

You have four hours during gorilla habituation experience and one hour with the mountain gorillas for gorilla trekking once you locate them. The time to spend with the mountain gorillas is limited for conservation purposes as human activity disturbs their everyday existence.

One hour later, gently leave the gorilla family so as not to seem suspicious before the already wary mountain gorillas.

Before you discover the mountain gorillas and risk becoming bored, let your thoughts open to other fascinating aspects of the forest. With possibilities of witnessing over 10 monkey species, more than 350 bird species, 88 butterfly species, 51 reptiles, and so much more, Bwindi forest is a biosphere reserve At various points, you could find chances to take in the breathtaking view of the thick Bwindi forest canopy.

What rules apply for gorilla safaris in the Nkuringo region?

Once you see mountain gorillas, keep around eight meters away from them. This is to avoid giving these very sensitive to infectious illnesses such flu, cough, COVID-19, and others possibilities of spreading an infection to them.

Offer to remain behind if you have an infectious illness so as not to transmit it on the endangered mountain gorillas.
Eat or drink at least 300 meters away from the mountain gorillas if you like before they arrive. Wild creatures like them have to find their own food.

Gorilla safaris have an age restriction of fifteen years and beyond. This is so because the geography of the mountain gorillas is difficult and sometimes you must trek to discover them.
Enter the jungle with an accompanied ranger guide only.

While the mountain gorillas are totally acclimated to human presence, other forest residents are not and might endanger you alone.
Ask the ranger guide to dig a hole at least 30 cm deep and hide far beyond recognition when you have to defecate.

Keep close to the mountain gorillas; crowding them might lead to ambushed feelings.
Since the mountain gorillas are wild creatures used to human presence, kindly avoid trying to incite them. They still act in strange ways.
Using a flash-less camera can help you n

ot frighten the mountain gorillas while photographing. Unfamiliar events in their presence might cause them great fear.
Keep your voice quiet when following the mountain gorillas to avoid frightening other forest residents and other animals. This may be fascinating to include into your nature picture collection.

Never trash in the outdoors as it changes the environment of the forest mountain gorillas inhabit.
See our safari advisors to arrange your gorilla trekking safari to Njuringo.

Updated List Of Gorilla Families And Permits Available In Buhoma Region

Updated List Of Gorilla Families And Permits Available In Buhoma Region.

Updated List Of Gorilla Families And Permits Available In Buhoma Region.

Revised list of gorilla families and permits accessible in Buhoma, Bwindi. Apart from the busiest gorilla safari location in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the Buhoma region has some of the pioneer gorilla families from the park. Five gorilla families open to public booking today in the northern section of Bwindi Impenetrable National, the Buhoma region. Note that while the habituation process is still under progress for probable younger children, the count of gorilla families in the Buhoma region may vary.

Among the first gorilla trekking families sent to public visitation in Uganda, the Mubare gorilla family became open for tourism in 1993. 1998 saw the opening of the Habyinyanja gorilla family for gorilla treking. In 3002 Rushegura was also available to the general public. Though they are currently under observation, there are yet more possible gorilla families that could be accessible to the general people.

Given its special past, many visitors originally asked for gorilla permits for Buhoma before other regions. This changed, although, when the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park was split into four areas. Apart from the Buhoma region, additional gorilla safari sites in Bwindi are Ruhija in the east and Rushaga and Nkuringo in the south.

Make sure you plan lodging for the gorilla trekking safari either within or near the Buhoma region to prevent running afoul of rules trying to catch up with briefing time. The varied landforms separating one region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park from another makes connecting between them difficult; also, the extensive forest cover is difficult to access. Sometimes the usual autumn rains leaves the roads linking the Bwindi districts muddy.

The Gorilla families in the Buhoma region:

Mubare family:

Since the Buhoma region was opened in 1993 and this Uganda safari activity was made available to the public, this gorilla family bears the gorilla trekking legacy of the area. The Mubare family, derived from the Mubare Hills in Kanungu, includes numerous family members whose numbers vary with time as many births and deaths take place. Seeing the Mubare gorilla family is like stepping into Uganda’s gorilla trekking safaris’ past.

With 10 mountain gorilla family members, the Rushegura family—3002—was finally released for public access. The family has evolved; now, over 16 individuals are listed under the Rushegura gorilla family but may increase or shrink depending on the state of the forest.

Families from Habinyanja

The Habinyanja family was the second to be made publicly visited in Uganda in the history of gorilla trekking. Opening this gorilla trekking family, twenty-one members have enrolled with two silverbacks. Birth, splits, grabbing, and much more are occurring in the bush, so the count of the habinyanja gorilla family has been shifting over time.

Muyambi family:

One of the Muyambi gorilla trekking families broke apart from the Mubare gorilla family when one of their silverbacks began his own family.

Updated List Of Gorilla Families And Permits Available In Buhoma Region.

This gorilla family had six members at the time it was first accessible for gorilla trekking, however numbers could vary with time.

familia Katwe

In 2018 public visits to the Katwe gorilla trekking family in the Buhoma region were welcomed. Thanks to the habituation program, this family increased the count of gorilla permits accessible in the Buhoma region. For three years, the Katwe family was under the gorilla habituation.

How would you schedule gorilla families for the Buhoma area?

While family-based booking for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park no longer exists, on trekking day visitors are assigned these gorilla families to walk. There may be eight visitors to every gorilla family maximum.

Suggest this directly when you submit the gorilla safari question, if Buhoma is your favorite gorilla trekking destination. Tell others you intend to schedule the gorilla trip when you search for availability.

While we help our customers to purchase gorilla permits at Katland Safaris, you must offer us the date and amount of gorilla permits you want to book. Participants for gorilla safaris in Uganda must be at least 15 years of age as that is the age restriction. Our tour guide looks for gorilla trekking permits from the Uganda Wildlife Authority list.

If Buhoma gorilla trekking permits are not available, remain open-minded to other choices as the experience is unique and fascinating in all the gorilla trekking sites. Every day Buhoma offers 32 gorilla trekking licenses for public booking.

Once availability is known, get your gorilla permits right away before they run out. Though availability is restricted to a maximum of 8 per gorilla family, demand for gorilla licenses is great globally. This is for conservation purposes; bombards of humans in the forest disturb the mountain gorillas. For the vegetarian mountain gorillas, even the consequences of mass tourism—like trampling on vegetation—may cause food shortage.

Forward to us some personal information to include on the gorilla permits card: your complete name as shown on the passport, date of birth, nationality, and passport expiry date.

Where in the Buhoma region may one find lodging suitable for gorilla trekking?

The Buhoma section of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has the most comprehensive selection of lodging options spanning luxury, mid-range, and cheap. Demand for these facilities rises throughout the peak season, which is June, July, August, September, December, and January, therefore causing shortage.

Among the Buhoma lodging are Gorilla Forest Camp, Marasa Silverback Lodge, Mahogany Springs, Bwindi View Bandas, Gorilla Resort, Buhoma community Campsite, Lake Kitandara Tented Camp, Buhoma Lodge, Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge.

How one arrives to the Buhoma section of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

By road.
Though it may be accessed from many paths, the Buhoma region is in the north section of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:

Driving for around nine to ten hours, Kampala, or Entebbe, to Kabale, Kanungu, And Buhoma is approximately 534 kilometers. You need a 4×4 wheel drive car for easier navigation because the roads are curvy and sometimes dirty.

Known to be the quickest path is Entebbe or Kampala to Ntungamo to Rukungiri to Kihihi to Buhoma. You cover around 472 kilometers on your drive.

About 160 kilometers from Mweya and 60 kilometers from the Ishasha area, Queen Elizabeth National Park spans Kihihi to Buhoma. Entebbe of viewing the tree climbing lions is more open when traveling throughout the Ishasha section of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

From Kigali in Rwanda, pass by Cyanika or Gatuna borders into Kabale, Kanungu, and Buhoma in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Five to six hours make up the trip.

You may get daily domestic flights to Kihihi airstrip from Entebbe Airport or Kajjansi Airfield. Your resort in the Buhoma region needs a transfer car hired. About two hours separate the Kihihi airstrip’s journey from the Buhoma region.

For private gorilla safaris, charter airplane services are available from Kajjansi Airfield or Entebbe Airport. You have to arrange a transfer car as well.

In the Buhoma region, which gorilla family is the easiest to visit?

The easiest gorilla family to hike in the Buhoma region is not clear-cut as mountain gorilla attitudes are always shifting. Their characteristics, the daily weather, the closeness of their food supply, and others all are shaped by the atmosphere of the forest. The ease or length of search for the mountain gorillas depends even on the speed of other visitors.

Given the current conditions in the jungle, the gorilla family nearby the previous day may be the distant the next day.

Though there is plenty to see in this eco-forest park, some patience is needed before seeing the mountain gorillas. You may also have an open mind. Search for additional primates including L’Hoest’s, olive baboons, black and white colobus, vervet monkeys, blue monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabey.

Gorilla treking in Buhoma lasts how long?

The time you find the mountain gorillas, the weather of the days, the speed of other visitors, and others determines the duration of the gorilla trekking safari in the Buhoma region. Only one hour is permitted with the mountain gorillas during gorilla trekking for conservation purposes.

Mountain gorillas’ everyday life is usually disrupted by human presence, hence the time spent with them is kept low.

While some visitors have spent more than three-quarters of the day, others have found the mountain gorillas in one hour; hence, you must be patient to finish the whole experience.

A gorilla safari to the Buhoma region costs what?

While we at Katland Safaris arrange our gorilla safaris based on Luxury, mid-range, and budget, the gorilla permits are the same expense for everybody.

For foreign non-residents, the gorilla trekking permit for the Buhoma region costs $800; for foreign residents, it is $700; and for East Africans, it is 300 000shs.

We take into account the number of persons on the safari, the number of days on the gorilla tour, the tour package you pick, the time of booking the gorilla safari, other activities to mix with the gorilla tour, and others in order to quote other gorilla safari expenses.

Is it possible to postpone the gorilla permits for the Buhoma region?

If you are confident you will be traveling in the future and you cannot honor the day for your scheduled gorilla safari, you may ask to reschedule. Following the steps below will help Uganda Wildlife Authority to approve gorilla permit rescheduling.

Write to the Uganda Wildlife Authority asking that the gorilla permit be brought forward. Explain why you are unable to go on the scheduled gorilla trip. Attach whatever proof you have to backup it.

Approved, your gorilla permit is moved in line with the prevailing availability status.

The gorilla permit to be rescheduled must to be completely paid for and transferred to a date within the year it was booked from.

How safe is Buhoma region gorilla trekking?

Since ranger rangers accompany every gorilla trip in the Buhoma region, it is safe for safaris. Aiming to preserve the mountain gorillas and other forest inhabitants, these skilled and seasoned ranger guides are Every ranger guide carries a defensive item: one has a firearm and another a machete for any kind of emergency.

In should support be required, the ranger guide also carries a radio call to let security on the ground know.

The ranger guide patrol crew gets up early every morning to track where the mountain gorillas could have spent the night or prospective hangout sites for the day. Like other deadly wild creatures like lions, hyenas, and others, they also search for evidence of strange visitors. Should they trace placed snares, the rangers deactivate them.

Before allowing the family to be seen publicly, even the mountain gorillas must get acclimated to human presence. Without changing their nature, this helps ease the hostility between the mountain gorillas and people.

Entering the forest only with an accompanying ranger guide means that, as a visitor, you have to consider personal security. To prevent getting lost in the forest, keep with the group you are trekking gorillas with.

How demanding is gorilla trekking in the Buhoma Area?

The geography of the Bwindi forest makes gorilla hiking in Buhoma difficult. Several landforms including hills and plateaus covered in rich flora emerged from the volcanic activity in this region.

Visitors have to hike to locate the mountain gorillas when they spend part of their day on the slopes. You need some fitness to do the gorilla hike as this is really exhausting. Choosing the correct gorilla safari clothing helps you avoid injury as the jungle features certain irritating surfaces like stinging nettles.

Cary, some energy snacks to eat on the way to locate the mountain gorillas.

Hiring a porter before beginning the gorilla trip helps you avoid tiredness lugging the safari equipment. A porter is a local resident who holds your stuff while you search for the mountain gorillas. When you are exhausted, the porter may also provide you a push. Hiring the porter for gorilla safaris is quite affordable.

Hiring a porter is one of the primary ways you can help the community on the gorilla safari if you desire to do so.

Get more information by contacting our staff.

How to book Uganda and Rwanda safaris in 2024-2025

How to book Uganda and Rwanda safaris in 2024-2025

How to book Uganda and Rwanda safaris in 2024-2025.

Safaris to Rwanda and Uganda in 2024–2025: how to make reservations. Make a decision on what you want to do during your 2024 or 2025 safari in Uganda and Rwanda, Africa. The most popular things to do in Rwanda and Uganda are gorilla safaris. When making preparations, it is helpful to know how many days you anticipate spending on safari in Rwanda and Uganda.

Uganda is a popular African safari location with many activities. You may take game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, and Kidepo Valley National Park, birdwatching in Uganda is unmatched with over 1000 species, and other Uganda safari activities.

Rwanda safaris include chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park, game drives in Akagera National Park, birdwatching, genocide monuments, Rwandese culture, and a Kigali city trip.

Our tour advisors can help you organize a Uganda and Rwanda safari at Encounter Africa Safaris. They know most Uganda and Rwanda safari locations well, provide accurate information, and are up-to-date on news. Our clients don’t have to organize Uganda and Rwanda safaris. We want Uganda and Rwanda safaris to be unforgettable.

What to do on Uganda Safari 2024–2025

Gorilla safaris in Uganda

Uganda offers gorilla trekking for one hour with a fully habituated family or habituation for four hours with a semi-habituated family. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park provide gorilla safaris in Uganda.

A Uganda Wildlife Authority gorilla trekking or habituation permit is required to visit gorilla safari locations. Encounter Africa Safaris may help you get a gorilla permit, but you must book early, particularly if you want to travel in high season. Uganda has peak tourist in June, July, August, September, December, and January.

High demand for gorilla permits this season causes last-minute shortages.

Uganda grants 156 gorilla hiking and two habituation licenses daily.

Chimpanzee safaris in Uganda

Uganda has greater opportunities to encounter chimpanzees in their native environments, the closest animal relatives. Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park’s Kyambura Gorge, Murchison Falls National Park’s Kaniyo Pabidi Forest, Ngamba Chimpanzee Sanctuary, Kalinzu Forest, and others provide chimpanzee safaris

A chimpanzee safari permit is required to see these creatures. Ugandan chimpanzee safari permit prices vary by location.

Game safaris in Uganda

Uganda has game parks across. Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Lake Mburo, and Kidepo Valley are examples.

Game drives in Uganda are greatest in the morning and afternoon, when you may spot lions, leopards, waterbucks, bushbucks, giraffes, Impalas, Elands, Hyenas, Cheetahs, aardvarks, Jackals, buffaloes, elephants, Uganda kobs, zebras, and others.

Some of Uganda’s wild species are best observed in certain game parks, so ask our safari experts if you want to view them.

Launch and boat rides

Launch trips in Uganda’s National Parks are relaxing. Murchison Falls National Park offers a breathtaking launch excursion to the world’s strongest waterfall. Watch for wild creatures that come to shore to drink while you sail. River Nile electric energy as it squeezes through a 6-meter-wide canyon to burst out forcefully and generate a hazy look is remarkable.

A Kazinga channel launch on the Rift Valley floor rests. Several creatures like to drink, bathe, and rest on the Kazinga channel banks. Local and exotic birds flock to Kazinga waterway banks.

Lake Mburo National Park’s boat tour is a great way to witness aquatic birds, the lake’s beauty, and fisherman throwing their nets. However, the Uganda Wildlife Authority first certifies them.

Golden monkey safaris

Some of the most endangered primates are golden monkeys. Golden monkeys live in Mgahinga National Park, Uganda. They are bigger than other primates and have golden brown hairs on their bottoms. Charming primates to follow, they retain their innate traits when habituated.

Ugandan Birding

Uganda boasts an unmatched bird list with over 1000 species in various settings. To maximize your Uganda birding safari, you need a well-planned schedule and an experienced guide. Encounter Africa Safaris can help you plan a terrific birding trip with our experienced birding guides.

Bwindi, Mabira, Mpanga, Mabamba marsh, Lake Bunyonyi, Musambwa Island, Botanical Gardens Entebbe, Lutembe Beach, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, and others are Uganda birding sites.

Visit the Nile source.

Uganda is Jinja’s sole Nile source. River Nile water significantly splits from Lake Victoria, requiring a boat. As Lake Victoria water is calm and River Nile water is forceful, it is hard to understand what happens underneath that separation.

Nile white-water rafting

White water rafting is available at Jinja and Murchison Falls National Park. No experience is needed since experienced educators will train you quickly. Instructors recommend wearing safety gear and pedaling to stay active. You can stop white water rafting at your comfort level.

How to book Uganda and Rwanda safaris in 2024-2025

Experience Uganda culture

Multicultural Uganda has several tribes. Despite commonalities, most civilizations vary greatly. In central Uganda, Kabaka rules Buganda, a country you may visit. Rwenzururu, Bunyoro, Tooro, and Busoga are all under Omumbere.

You may experience their daily lives and other details that set these Ugandan tribes apart.

Sports fishing in Uganda

Gamble and enjoy sports fishing in Uganda. Get a fishing permit, bring your own gear, and rent a boat with a skipper for a day or half a day. Sports fishing in Uganda may provide large Nile perch, tilapia, catfish, lungfish, and others.

Uganda Mountaineering Adventure

You may climb Mountain Rwenzori’s snowcapped summit Magheritah for days. Returning may take seven days or more. Hiking and overnighting at stopovers lets you see spectacular sights.

The most popular excursion trekking in Uganda’s highlands is the 8-hour return hike on Mountain Muhavura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo. From Mountain Sabyinyo, you can view Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC.

Rwanda Safari Activities 2024–2025: What to Do?

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda

Rwanda’s #1 activity is gorilla trekking. Rwanda only offers gorilla tours in Volcanoes National Park. Rwanda now has 15 gorilla trekking families. Hirwa, Susa, Amahoro, Umubano, Agashya, etc.

The sole Rwanda gorilla permit seller is the Rwanda Developments Board, which limits families to 8 permits. The busiest season in Rwanda is June–September and December–January, so book your gorilla permit in advance. Higher demand for these licenses increases scarcity as peak season approaches.

Rwandan chimpanzee hiking

Rwanda’s sole chimpanzee safari is at Nyungwe National Park. Chimpanzee trekking requires a Rwanda Development Board permission. With Uwinka as its headquarters, Nyungwe National Park offers two chimpanzee safaris. Rwanda has another semi-habituated chimpanzee group in Cyamudondo, near Nyungwe National Park.

Since Cyamudondo is smaller than Nyungwe, chimpanzees are simpler to discover.

Safaris in Rwanda’s Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is recuperating following the 1994 Rwanda genocide. Many animals died or fled.

The park is regenerating, so on a wildlife drive in Akagera National Park, you may observe Uganda kobs, elephants, cape buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, rare lions and leopards, waterbucks, bushbucks, and others.

Lake Ihema boat rides are pleasant and provide spectacular views of Akagera National Park.

Nyungwe National Park canopy hike.

The Nyungwe National Park suspension bridge walk is gratifying. Only one of its kind in East Africa. You can admire Nyungwe forest’s lush greenery and distinctive topography.

This 90-meter suspension bridge is a memorable walk.

City tour of Kigali

How can you go on safari in Rwanda without seeing Kigali, one of Africa’s cleanest cities? Visitors may see the Kandt home, Blue Beret and Gisozi genocide monuments, St. Famille Church, and more. Visit Kigali and other markets.

Experience Rwandan culture

The Rwandan dances and music are worth seeing. You may see ladies and men dance to hard-hit long drums in Intore with advance notice. Visit Huye’s royal museum to see these dancing movements.

This unusual art, Omigongo cow dung, comes from the Nyakarimbi. Basketry, wood carving, and pottery are some Rwandan crafts.

When should 2024–2025 Uganda and Rwanda safaris be booked?

Safaris in Rwanda and Uganda are best booked when you’re ready since they provide year-round activities. Most animals may be seen in the dry season, making it the favorite. Low vegetation in game parks improves vision, while the deep canopy lets more sunshine into the forest, reducing precipitation.

June, July, August, September, December, and January are peak, dry months, therefore logistical costs are high. This is due to the global demand for Uganda and Rwanda safaris. We recommend planning these safaris in advance and booking gorilla, chimpanzee, and golden monkey safari permits.

March, April, May, and November are the rainy season and have lower prices. Fewer reservations this season mean more options for those on a budget who want an upgrade. Ugandan and Rwandan service companies may give discounts.
Book your Uganda-Rwanda safari with us.

 

Gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda |Which airports do I fly to?

Gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda

Which airports do I fly to see gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda?

Gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda: To see the gorillas in Rwanda or Ugand, which airport should I travel to? Gorilla trekking in Uganda can only be done in two parks—Bwindi Impenetarable National Park in the southwest and Mgahinga National Park in the northwestern.

With 19 habituated gorilla families spread among the four sectors of Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo, Bwindi has the world’s largest mountain gorilla population. One habituated gorilla family welcomes visitors on trekking tours in Mgahinga National Park.

Bwindi and Mgahinga are an adventure to reach by car or air. Road travel is the most common way to reach national parks, taking 9–10 hours. Flying to the national park is simpler, more costly, and shorter for those with less time or who desire a premium gorilla trek safari.

Entebbe International Airport and Kajjansi Airstrip provide daily charter flights to Bwindi, Mgahinga, Kisoro, and Kihihi airstrips. These airstrips are closer to Bwindi and Mgahinga, however, the park headquarters needs a safari vehicle.

Entebbe International airport
Entebbe International airport

International Airport Entebbe | Gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda

Only Entebbe International Airport is utilized by all safari travelers in Uganda. The main entry to Entebbe is where a driver guide will meet you and transport you to Kajjansi for your trip to Bwindi or to Entebbe airport, where your flight will be ready. Be on schedule for your flight to prevent a safari setback.

Kajjansi Airstrip

Uganda’s Kajjansi Airstrip charters flights to Bwindi and Mgahinga for gorilla trekking. It is a few kilometers from Entebbe International Airport on Entebbe Road. This route has heavy traffic, therefore be on early to catch your flight.

Mission Aviation Fellowship owns the 1550-meter Kajjansi airport runway. Bar Aviation, Aerolink, and Fly Uganda fly to Kihihi and Kisoro for flying instruction. Still, they must be scheduled a few days before the hike for good preparation.

Kisoro Airport

You may fly to Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks from Kisoro Airport. Kisoro, in southern Uganda, is minutes from the DRC-Rwanda border. Lake Mutanda, the Virunga Mountains, and gorilla treks make Kisoro a popular tourist destination.

It takes 9–10 hours to drive 500 kilometers from Kampala to Kisoro town via Uganda’s picturesque highways. Because it’s just a four-hour drive from Rwanda (approximately 135km), some visitors prefer flying into Rwanda and then to Uganda.

Kampala, Bwindi, and Mgahinga are easily accessible thanks to Kisoro Airport. Civil Aviation Authority runs Kisoro Airport. It is mostly used by small charter planes that carry visitors to surrounding sites, notably gorilla trekking in southern Bwindi and Mgahinga National Park. Note that the airstrip only handles domestic planes.

Domestic flights from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip reach the airstrip. Kisoro Airstrip, 343 kilometers from Entebbe and 1–2 hours, is excellent for accessing Bwindi and Mgahinga National Park’s Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo sections.

Kihihi Airport
One of the primary airstrips in southern Uganda for gorilla treks in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park is Kihihi. Flying to the airfield on a gorilla safari is pleasant and takes around an hour and 45 minutes. Bwindi, notably the north section of Buhoma, is easiest reached via Kihihi Airstrip. It also opens Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Although tiny, Kihihi is Uganda’s 3rd biggest airfield and operates under the KHX code. Kihihi airfield connects air visitors to Bwindi, where gorillas may be walked. The Civil Aviation Authority manages the airfield, which exclusively accepts domestic aircraft.

Upon arrival in Kihihi, your tour guide will organize a 4×4 to transport you to your lodging facility, which takes around an hour. Kihihi flights are operated by Aerolink Uganda, Bar Aviation Uganda, and Fly Uganda.

Daily Aerolink charters fly from Entebbe International Airport and Kajjansi Airstrip to Kihihi and return. Still, they must be purchased in advance to ensure flight availability on your trip day. Find out the charter plane’s weight and capacity before booking with the carrier.

Flights to Kihihi are available in the morning, afternoon, and late afternoon, and only weather may delay them. This occurs throughout the wet season, March–May, and October–November. Cheaper fares are available for Bwindi flights during the rainy season. Weather and other variables affect the flight schedule to Kihihi.

Departure Arrival

7:00 am 8:45 am

10:15 am 11:25 am

15:00 2:14 pm.

No matter the season, travelers may utilize Kihihi Airstrip. Gorilla trekking is greatest in the dry season, June–September, and December–February.

Kihihi Airstrip is excellent for Buhoma and Kisoro for other hiking areas.

Rwanda
Rwanda is one of the few gorilla trekking sites. The Virunga region’s Volcanoes National Park contains it. The airport to Volcanoes National Park is roughly 2 or 2 and a half hours from Kigali in well-maintained safari vehicles. Volcanoes feature about 400 mountain gorillas and 10 habituated families that hike year-round.

International airport Kigali
The only way to enter Rwanda for gorilla safaris to Volcanoes National Park is via Kigali International Airport. Rwanda Air is one of the most active African airlines, thus you may easily fly to Rwanda from other countries. The Rwandan capital, Kigali, is home to Kigali International Airport, a one-stop shop for gorilla trekking and other safaris.

Kigali International aiport 2024
Kigali International aiport 2024

Airlines that fly to Rwanda include:

KLM
Qatar Airways
Turkish Airlines
South African Airways
Air Canada
Brussels Airlines
Kenya Airways Precision Air
Ethiopia Airways
US Airways
Travel time varies on distance and weather. Volcanoes, Bwindi Impenetrable, and Mgahinga National Parks in Uganda may be reached from Kigali International Airport (KGL). Tourists trekking gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda utilize KGL’s nonstop flights.

After learning about the airports you may travel to visit gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda, you need to know a few gorilla trekking basics to organize your trip.

Gorilla licenses cost money: Without permission, you can’t hike gorillas. Uganda Wildlife Authority and Rwanda Development Board gorilla permits may be purchased directly from the governments or via travel operators.

Rwandan gorilla permits cost $1500 for international non-residents, $500 for other Africans, and $300 for East Africans. Foreign non-residents pay $800, foreign residents $700, and EAC nationals 300,000 UGX for permission in Uganda. Bwindi allows gorilla habituation for $1500 per person.

Since gorilla permits in both nations are in great demand, travelers should reserve them at least six months in advance.

5 Days Bwindi Gorilla and Murchison Falls Safari
Uganda gorilla trekking Tours | Wildlife Tours | Murchison falls tours | Uganda Short trips

Gorilla trekking restrictions

Uganda and Rwanda have comparable gorilla trekking guidelines that guests must obey. To preserve gorillas, Rwanda and Uganda have minimum trekking ages of 15 and 15. You cannot eat or drink with mountain gorillas, maintain 7 meters between you and them, avoid touching them, make little or no noise, and turn off your camera light before taking images of them. All waste is intended to be disposed of appropriately and not left in the national parks and a maximum of 8 persons are to hike a gorilla family every day.

What to bring for your gorilla trekking safari

Comfort and proper packing are essential for Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trekking. As a jungle, national parks have various terrains, so anticipate anything. For a gorilla safari, take neutral-colored long-sleeved shirts and pants, bug-repellent, and comfortable walking boots. A flashlight with spare batteries, warm socks, a waterproof jacket, sandals, a camera, and all photographic equipment like additional batteries, lenses, tripod, lens cleaners, sunscreen, binoculars, gaiters, gardening gloves, first aid kit, refillable water bottle, snacks, and warm sweater.

When to gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda | Gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda

Gorilla hike safaris in Rwanda are excellent from June to September and December to February because of the nice weather. The dry season is when many people go on gorilla safaris. Gorilla trekking is still possible in March-May and October–November during the rainy season for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind the rain. Rwanda and Uganda provide year-round gorilla safaris.

Why book with us |Gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda

You should book with us because we will help you plan and book a cheap Uganda and Rwanda gorilla safari. You may pick from affordable to premium gorilla safari programs year-round.

Visit our website and contact us for gorilla trekking and flying to Rwanda or Uganda.

What to expect on a Gorilla trek in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga,

What to expect on a gorilla trek in Mgahinga National Park.

The dirt on Mgahinga National Park gorilla travel. Uganda’s smallest national park, Mgahinga, borders two other Virunga parks, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and a DR Congo park. If they follow gorilla trek standards, guests may view one gorilla family daily. The lush rainforest of Mgahinga National Park is home to over 100 bird species, gorillas, golden monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, and other primates.

It takes at least six months to obtain a gorilla permit in Mgahinga to hike with the Nyakagezi family, the only ones permitted in the park, like in Bwindi. Eight permits are provided daily at Mgahinga, and they are in high demand during peak season, the best time to go gorilla trekking. According to tourist categories, gorilla trekking costs 300,000 UGX for Ugandans and other East Africans, $800 for non-resident tourists, and $700 for foreigners.

Guides at Mgahinga National Park’s headquarters advise tourists on the sole gorilla trekking session each day. You might expect the following when gorilla trekking in Mgahinga:

Depending on the family’s location on the day of the trip, you may spend more than five hours trekking with gorillas or less than an hour.
Visitors should bring bug repellant and long-sleeved clothes since the park has many butterflies and insects.

Rainstorms are possible year-round in a tropical rainforest. Even in dry weather, pack a raincoat.
Our gorilla search will take us off the beaten path.
Rainy season paths are muddier.

Visitors to Mgahinga National Park should be in excellent health since gorilla trekking takes a long time and incorporates different terrain.

Gorilla trekking prep

On hiking day, people have great hopes, yet anything may happen in a forest. Just know it will be a fun and memorable day. After breakfast and a briefing at the park headquarters, the trip may start at 7:00 or 8:00 a.m. if allocation is confirmed. For the safety of everyone, tour leaders emphasize gorilla trekking practices.

To identify the gorilla family, rangers and guides communicate during the trip. Once you arrive, you photograph and video the gorilla family for an hour, studying their customs. Never forget to tip porters or guides.

Gorilla Trekking Tours to Ugandas Mgahinga Gorilla National Game Park
Gorilla Trekking Tours to Uganda Mgahinga Gorilla National Game Park

Gorilla hiking rules in Mgahinga Gorilla Park

Gorillas are threatened by poaching by indigenous peoples who live in and around the national park. The Uganda Wildlife Authority has made legislation to preserve them. The following policies help maintain the park and conserve gorilla habitat:

Visitors are 7–10 meters from gorillas. This precaution is used to prevent human-gorilla conflict, which is rare.
Trekking gorillas needs 15 years of age.
Don’t turn on the lights while photographing gorillas—they run away.
Food and alcohol are strictly prohibited around gorillas.
Even though gorillas seldom fight, if one approaches, bend down, lower your head, and slowly retreat. Give up sprinting.

No smoking around gorillas.
To avoid sickening the gorillas, dig a hole and cover it before urinating in Mgahinga.
A gorilla family may walk with eight people each day. This would reduce human-gorilla infections and disruptions to gorilla habits caused by large groups.

To protect the gorillas, it is best to offer to skip the trek if you become sick.
Trekking with gorillas requires quiet, gentle speech and no unexpected movements since they can read body language.
If you need to sneeze or cough, avoid monkeys.
No litter in Mgahinga National Park.

Gorilla trekking packing list | Mgahinga Gorilla Park

Since preparation is crucial to a good safari, what to pack on a Mgahinga gorilla walk should be your first consideration. You should pack minimally and intelligently for a gorilla trip. Some must-haves:

Except in emergencies, don’t carry much clothing. Avoid military camouflage, pack green or brown, blue for tsetse flies, and black for heat. To avoid mosquito bites and tree scratches, wear loose, long-sleeved shirts and jeans. Avoid jeans since they become bulky when wet.

Strong ankle-length hiking boots are essential for the walk. Though they don’t have to be new, they should be tight enough to avoid toe blisters, robust enough to withstand the hike’s slippery trails, and waterproof. The muddy and difficult terrain makes this gorilla walk unsafe in shoes or sandals.

Bring lots of big, soft socks and gaiters since pants are commonly tucked up to keep bugs out. They keep you toasty and nettle-free on cold mornings. We propose adjustable gaiters for wet weather.

Safaris need phones, cameras, and binoculars. A camera, cleaning equipment, binoculars, extra lenses, and batteries are included. It’s encouraged to carry a camera, however experienced guides will help first-timers.

Wear a hat and sunscreen. Bring sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat since it may be hot.

Eco-friendly toilet paper and wipes

Raincoats and bulky sweaters should be added to your wardrobe for chilly nights and wet weather.

Gardening gloves will protect your hands when hiking with gorillas. You may use gardening gloves to climb vines and branches on this trek.

Hiking using a daypack may let you carry all your things without weighing you down. For the trek, bring a refillable water bottle, wet wipes, cameras, binoculars, toilet paper, sunscreen, bug repellent, personal hygiene items, and anything else you need.

Bring any insect repellant that keeps insects away. In case you need to reapply while hiking, pack it.

Bring a first aid kit containing painkillers, bandages, plasters, spirit, iodine, and any other drugs your doctor recommends. Most tour guides carry an emergency first aid kit.

What to expect on a gorilla trek in Mgahinga National Park

More Mgahinga Gorilla Park activities

The main attraction of Mgahinga is gorilla trekking, although safari-goers may also do other activities.

Mgahinga is well known for gorilla trekking, although golden monkey trekking is second. As the inquisitive golden monkeys hunt for food and water, you have a fascinating and amusing experience. Walking with golden monkeys is easier than with mountain gorillas since they live at lower heights. The park’s new golden monkey habitat is open year-round.

Trekking lasts three to six hours, depending on where your golden monkeys are. Players with golden coats, and golden monkeys may be found anywhere on the body. Follow all golden monkey hiking rules. Must have Golden Monkey Trekking Permit. Post-hiking, visitors must spend an hour with the monkeys, stay 7 meters away, and not use flash photography.

While on a gorilla safari in Mgahinga, guests should follow the Batwa track, which is thrilling. To protect the gorillas, the Batwa people—pygmies—were forced out of the national park, but tourists may now meet them. Batwa Path will notify you whether you’ve encountered any forest residents or walked through the forest.

You’ll view exhibits describing the Batwa people’s forest living, hunting excursions, and warriors’ protection and search for food, water, and medicine as you go down the route. Visitors may learn about Batwa culture and lifestyle on the Batwa walk, developed by knowledgeable Batwa people.

Batwa guides accompany tourists down the Batwa walkway, which opened on June 11, 2011, and attempts to conserve the endangered Batwa culture. Although June–September and December–February are the driest, you may trek the path year-round.

You may witness around 184 bird species at Mginahga National Park year-round. Among the birds in Mgahinga are the cape robin chat, gorgeous francolin, white star robin, and western green tinker bird. Best for birding are March–June and October–November, the rainiest months.

A natural hike in Mgahinga is amazing. Birds, trees, and monkeys may be seen at the national park. Going into nature this way is fantastic.

Mgahinga Wildness Lodging 

Mgahinga hotels are basic/budget, mid-range, or premium. Reservations are advised during July–September’s peak season. Stay at the Mount Gahinga Lodge, Montana Guest House, Virunga Hotel, Kisoro Tourist Hotel, Mucha Hotel, or Community Camping at Mgahinga, an hour away.

Visitors to Mgahinga National Park may enjoy gorilla safaris, learn a lot, and conduct some study. Please contact us for help organizing a gorilla trekking trip to Mgahinga or one of our other year-round sites.

How to plan to see gorillas in Uganda during the winter break

How to plan to see gorillas in Uganda during the winter break.

How to plan to see gorillas in Uganda during the winter break.

See gorillas in Uganda: What better way to spend the world’s most beloved holiday—Christmas—and winter break than with the endangered mountain gorillas in Uganda? We can assist you in planning the ideal safari to Uganda, home to half of the world’s gorilla population.

As long as you have the appropriate knowledge, planning a Uganda winter break gorilla safari is easy. Learn about mountain gorillas, what to anticipate, and the destination country. You must know these things to have a good safari.

Uganda offers two gorilla trek destinations.

Bwindi or Mgahinga. Choose one for your safari. Mgahinga, Nyakagezi, and Bwindi, with 19 habituated gorilla families, are in southern Uganda. Bwindi is perfect for crowd-tolerant gorilla enthusiasts who seek a unique experience. Mgahinga is less crowded.

When to go

Winter break is Uganda’s dry season, and Christmas brings enormous throngs of hikers. Permits sell out quickly, so book safaris and permits early. After choosing dates, contact Encounter to schedule your safari.

Where can I for for gorilla trekking in Uganda during winter break? | See gorillas in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park provide gorilla trekking in Uganda. Both southern Ugandan national parks offer distinct gorilla trekking experiences. Though Bwindi and Mgahinga permit charges are identical, your option depends on your trip intentions.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southern Uganda is the principal gorilla trekking destination in Uganda, with half the world’s gorilla population. Trek Bwindi’s habituated gorilla groups from Nkuringo, Ruhija, Buhoma, and Rushaga. Each area includes distinct gorilla families.

Mgahinga National Park, in Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a famous safari destination because of the Nyakagezi gorilla family. It offers Uganda’s only golden monkey trekking. Mgahinga gorilla hikes are easier than Bwindi Impenetrable National Park ones. Secluded gorilla trekking is ideal for travelers who want fewer people. Mgahinga National Park houses over 10% of the world’s gorillas.

Top destinations for gorilla trekking.
Top destinations for gorilla trekking.

Trekking expectations | See gorillas in Uganda

You may wonder what to anticipate on a Ugandan gorilla safari. The experience depends on the trekker, but it’s a thrilling and great experience everyone should have.

After breakfast, a lead guide will review hiking restrictions at the park headquarters. After the briefing, you’ll be allocated gorilla families in Bwindi by sector (based on booking). If you are unfit, ask for a shorter or gentler hike and cancel if you become ill.

Following group assignment, the trip begins with a guide and porters for those who require them and lasts 2–6 hours, depending on family location. You shouldn’t worry about not seeing the gorillas in Uganda since it’s never occurred.

After finding the gorilla family, you spend an hour with them learning about their human interactions and taking photographs and movies. Return to the headquarters for a certificate of participation after one hour. Anxious gorillas may cut the hour short.

Gorilla permits in Uganda.

Uganda Wildlife Authority and travel operators sell gorilla licenses. Uganda no longer reduces low-season permits, so reserving one at least six months before winter break is best. UWA determines gorilla permit prices according to visitor type, making them lower than Rwanda.

East African natives pay 300,000 ugx for a gorilla permit, while international residents pay $700 and non-residents $800. The Rushaga sector gorilla habituation costs $1500 per person and allows you four hours with the gorilla groups. Permits cost the same wherever you get them.

Contact the tour provider to get a permit, then provide your passport information, name, and birthdate, and pick your winter break trekking days. The tour provider verifies the availability of your preferred dates. After confirmation, you’ll be provided dates and payment instructions.

To prevent scams, understand that no purchase will be performed without full payment. Pay the corporate bank account, not yours. After payment is verified, the permits will be purchased and a copy delivered to you for evidence. If the tour organization arranges the full safari, fees are due three weeks in advance.

Gorilla permits are non-refundable unless you observe no gorillas while unusual hiking.

How to plan to see gorillas in Uganda during the winter break.

Ugandan gorilla trekking rules

Your safari will begin with a list of rules and instructions to follow. It’s crucial to understand and follow Uganda’s gorilla conservation guidelines.

After finding and communicating with gorillas, each party spends an hour with them. Gorilla habituation lets you spend more time with gorillas. After purchase, the gorilla habituation permit cannot be switched to regular gorilla trekking.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority set a 15-year age restriction for gorilla trekking to safeguard primates.
A maximum of 8 trekkers may see a gorilla family each day. Gorillas are highly overwhelmed, thus only 8 people are allowed.
After meeting gorillas, avoid rapid movements and loudness. Gorillas’ stillness and noise may be seen as an assault.
Gorillas cannot be photographed with a flash.
Sick people, particularly those with sickness and cough, cannot journey with others.
If you need to cough or sneeze when among gorillas, turn aside and cover your mouth and nose.
Trekkers must always keep 7 meters from gorillas.

Uganda gorilla trek winter break attire

Without proper attire, walking in a thick forest is difficult. Uganda’s brief dry season in winter requires proper attire for gorilla treks. Comfortable clothes are needed for the endless trip to find the gorillas. Trekking attire is listed below.

Strong, durable hiking boots. These should be ankle-length, waterproof, and durable for muddy treks.
Long-sleeved shirts keep you warm and prevent mosquito bites and scratches.
Dust, dirt, and water may damage the upper legs, hence gaiters are necessary.
Light hiking pants. Walk in the forest with varied bugs and shrubs, so avoid shorts. Also, avoid hiking in jeans.
Trekkers must wear long socks over their pants.
Any additional clothes, undershirts, etc.
Gardening gloves help prevent thorns, tree scrapes, and blisters when hiking over challenging terrain.
A raincoat or windbreaker
Warm jacket.
Winter vacation essentials Safari gorilla trek
You should prepare for any Uganda safari since you don’t want to be under or over-packed. Safari baggage is essential, and so is gorilla trekking gear in Uganda.

Use insect repellant and sunblock.
A camera with additional batteries, lenses, tripod, lens cleaning, and a waterproof bag.
Binoculars
Rehydration salts
Refillable water bottle
A walking stick is available at the start of the hike.
snacks
A flashlight and additional batteries
Waterproof bag
First Aid Kit.

Ugandan gorilla trek accommodations

When arranging a Uganda gorilla trek safari, there are several hotel alternatives for guests. Some basic/budget, mid-range, and luxury accommodations exist in the national park, while others are in adjacent towns. Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Volcanoes Lodge, Haven Lodge, Gorilla Forest Camp, Engagi Lodge, Nkuringo Lodge, and Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge are among the lodgings.

Reaching Ugandan gorilla trek sites

Bwindi and Mgahinga are accessible by road or air. Traveling to national parks by car is the most popular since it’s affordable and fun. The journey to the national parks takes 9–10 hours, including stops at the Equator monument and lunch in Mbarara. After driving the first day, you arrive at the parks late evening for supper and a motel overnight. Although pricey, flying takes one hour and 45 minutes and is the best way to go. Domestic flights from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi to Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrip may be chartered in advance.

Contact our safari advisors immediately to organize your trip.

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