Gorilla trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda, Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a popular and incredible wildlife experience that allows you to get up close and personal with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Uganda is home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, making it one of the best places for this unique adventure. Here’s what you need to know about gorilla trekking in Uganda a moment in life :

Location:

The main destination for gorilla trekking in Uganda is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the southwestern part of the country. Another option is Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in the same region.

Permits:

Gorilla trekking permits are required to visit the gorillas, and they need to be obtained in advance. These permits are in high demand, so it’s advisable to book them several months in advance. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda was $700 per person. However, prices may change, so it’s essential to check with Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) for the most up-to-date information.

Trekking Experience:

Gorilla trekking involves hiking through the dense forests of Bwindi or Mgahinga with the guidance of experienced trackers and guides. The trek can vary in duration and difficulty, depending on the location of the gorilla families on that particular day. Some treks can be relatively easy, while others may be more challenging, requiring several hours of hiking.

Habituated Gorilla Families:

In Uganda, several gorilla families have been habituated to human presence, making it possible for tourists to visit them. These families are accustomed to the presence of humans and provide an excellent opportunity for observation and photography.

Rules and Regulations:

To protect the gorillas and their habitat, there are strict rules and regulations that trekkers must follow. These include maintaining a safe distance from the gorillas (usually around 7 meters), limiting the duration of visits to one hour, and following the guidance of park rangers and guides.

Best Time to Visit:

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is possible year-round, but the dry seasons (June to September and December to February) are considered the best times to visit. During these months, the trails are less muddy and more accessible. However, gorilla trekking is also possible during the rainy season, which has its own unique charm.

Health Considerations:

Visitors are required to be in good health to participate in gorilla trekking, as the terrain can be challenging. It’s also crucial to follow any health and safety guidelines, such as wearing face masks, especially if there are any disease outbreaks like Ebola.

Conservation Impact:

The fees from gorilla trekking permits contribute significantly to the conservation efforts of mountain gorillas and their habitats in Uganda.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to connect with these remarkable creatures in their natural environment while also contributing to their conservation. However, it’s essential to plan and prepare well in advance to ensure a memorable and responsible adventure. Please verify the latest information and requirements with Uganda Wildlife Authority or a reputable tour operator before planning your trip, as regulations and conditions may have changed since my last update in September 2021.

How much is a gorilla permit in Uganda

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is $700 per person for foreign non-residents. For foreign residents in East African Community (EAC) countries, the price was reduced to $600 per person. Ugandan citizens paid a lower rate, which is approximately 250,000 Ugandan Shillings.

However, please note that these permit prices are subject to change, and the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) may adjust them over time. Prices could increase or decrease, and new pricing structures may have been implemented since my last update.

Best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda

The best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry seasons, which offer more favorable trekking conditions. The two primary dry seasons in Uganda are:

June to September:

This is the main dry season and considered one of the best times for gorilla trekking. During these months, the weather is relatively dry, and the trails are less muddy and more accessible. It’s also a popular time for tourists, so it’s advisable to book your gorilla trekking permits and accommodations well in advance.

December to February:

This is another dry season in Uganda and an excellent time for gorilla trekking. The weather is generally pleasant and conducive to hiking. Like the June to September period, it’s a peak tourist season, so early planning is essential.

While the dry seasons are the most popular times for gorilla trekking due to the favorable weat her conditions, it’s important to note that gorilla trekking is possible year-round in Uganda. If you prefer to visit during the wetter months, here are some considerations:

3. March to May: This is the long rainy season in Uganda. While trekking conditions can be more challenging due to rain and muddy trails, this period offers some advantages. The lush vegetation during this time can make for beautiful and photogenic landscapes, and accommodations and permits may be more readily available. Additionally, some lodges offer discounted rates during the rainy season.
4. October to November: This is the shorter rainy season, and while it can also be wet and muddy, it’s not as prolonged as the March to May rainy season. Trekkers may find slightly better conditions compared to the long rainy season, but it’s still considered the shoulder season.

However, the choice of when to go gorilla trekking in Uganda depends on client’s preferences and priorities. If you prioritize weather and trail conditions, the dry seasons are your best bet. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly or less crowded experience, the wetter months may be worth considering. Regardless of the season, gorilla trekking in Uganda is a remarkable and once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers the opportunity to observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

Where to trek gorillas in Uganda

In Uganda, you can go gorilla trekking in two main national parks: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Both of these parks are located in the southwestern part of the country and offer unique gorilla trekking experiences. Check below these informative information about each of these parks:

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park  situated in the southwestern region of Uganda, near the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park can be reached in just about 9-10 hours depending on the road condition. The park is known for habiting the highest number of these endangered mountain gorilla over 500 individuals live only to this park.

Park has over 12 gorilla families ready to track and teyspread across several sectors of the park. Each sector offers a slightly different trekking experience. Some of the popular sectors include Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Trekking Experience: The terrain in Bwindi can be challenging, with steep hills and dense vegetation, but it also provides an opportunity to explore a lush, dense forest habitat. Like in Mgahinga national park, Permits for gorilla trekking can be obtained from the Uganda wildlife Headquarters at a fee of $700/ per person per trekking. so it’s a good idea to plan in advance and select your preferred sector based on your interests and fitness level.

2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park:

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in the same southwestern part of Uganda, and it shares borders with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In terms of size, Mgahinga national park  smaller compared to Bwindi impenetrable national park. It takes about 9-10 hours to reach the park from the capital city Kampala. The park has only one habituated gorilla family which is known as the Nyakagezi group. This family is sometimes found in the park, but they may cross over into neighboring countries, so tracking them can be a bit unpredictable.

Trekking Experience: The terrain in Mgahinga can be less challenging compared to Bwindi, but the presence of the gorillas in the park can vary, so it’s a good idea to check for updates before planning a trek in this park. Gorilla in Mgahinga Permits also  obtained from the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

To go gorilla trekking in Uganda, you need to obtain a gorilla trekking permit, which is essential for tracking the gorillas in both Bwindi and Mgahinga.

When planning your gorilla trekking adventure, consider factors such as the location of the gorilla family you want to track, your fitness level, and your preferred trekking experience, as both Bwindi and Mgahinga offer unique opportunities to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Where to sleep after gorilla trekking in Uganda

After gorilla trekking in Uganda, you can stay in various accommodations near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, depending on which park you visited and the gorilla trekking sector especially in Bwindi impenetrable national park. Here are some options for places to stay:

1. Lodges and Camps near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:

   • Buhoma Lodge: Located in the Buhoma sector of Bwindi, this luxury lodge offers comfortable accommodations in a beautiful forest setting.
   • Mahogany Springs Lodge: Situated near Buhoma, this lodge provides comfortable rooms with scenic views and known for its excellent service.
   • Gorilla Forest Camp: Nestled deep in the forest, this camp offers a luxury experience and is ideal for travelers seeking a high-end stay.
   • Bwindi Lodge: Located in the Buhoma sector, this eco-lodge offers comfortable cottages with stunning views of the forest.
   • Silverback Lodge: Situated in the Buhoma sector, this lodge provides comfortable accommodations with great views of the forest.

2. Lodges and Camps near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park:

   • Mount Gahinga Lodge: This upscale lodge is located near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and offers comfortable accommodations in a stunning setting.
   • Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp: This community-owned camp near Mgahinga offers a more budget-friendly option while supporting local communities.
   • Kisoro Travelers Rest Hotel: Located in the nearby town of Kisoro, this hotel provides comfortable accommodations for travelers visiting Mgahinga.

When booking accommodations after gorilla trekking, consider your budget, preferred level of comfort, and the proximity to the park where you trekked. It’s essential to book your lodging in advance, especially during peak gorilla trekking seasons, as accommodations can fill up quickly.

Additionally, some lodges and hotels in the area may offer additional activities and experiences, such as guided nature walks, cultural visits, and bird watching, allowing you to make the most of your time in the region.