Proclaimed “The Pearl of Africa”, it offers unimaginable wildlife encounters, not to leave its gorilla trekking adventures. The Uganda gorilla trekking safari provides an unforgettable experience that allows visitors to see these magnificent animals in their natural habitat, one of the world’s most sought-after Great Apes.
The country’s population of mountain gorillas is in two national parks, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park which are situated in the southwestern part of the country.
Here are some vital things to know about gorilla trekking in Uganda:
Gorilla trekking permits
Gorilla trekking in Uganda requires purchasing a permit well in advance at least 3months before. The permit allows one to spend one hour with the gorillas, and it costs $700 for foreign non-residents, $600 for foreign residents, and UGX 250,000 for East African citizens. The permit price includes park entry fees, a guide, and park rangers. For every Gorilla family, tracking is limited to a maximum of 8 visitors in one group per day.
Physical fitness and health requirements
Trekking the Gorillasin Uganda requires a certain level of physical fitness. The trek can be challenging and takes up to usually 6-8 hours or even more, depending on the location and movements of the gorilla group you’re assigned and other factors such a pace of the visitors, conditions of the forest among others. One must be able to hike through dense forests and uneven terrain. It is advisable to undertake some physical training before the trek.
Be in good health before embarking on a gorilla trek. Anyone with a contagious disease, like flu or cold, may not participate. A pre-trek medical check-up is advisable to disclose any pre-existing medical conditions which may hinder you from trekking.
When to go?
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is possible all throughout the year. However, the best time would be during the dry bout, from June to September and December to February. During this season, the terrain is less muddy and slippery to trek through the forest. The rainy season (March to May and October to November) makes trekking more challenging. It can make the gorillas harder to spot since they tend to move to lower elevations.
What to wear and pack?
For convenience during your Uganda Gorilla trekking experience, itrequires some particular clothing and equipment i.e., long waterproof pants, and long-sleeved shirts are vital. The terrain can be slippery, sturdy hiking boots with good traction are necessary. Carry a rain jacket, hat, insect repellant and sunscreen, as the weather can be unpredictable.
It is vital to pack light, porters are available at the park headquarters to help carry equipment incase of heavy packs but at a fee. A backpack helps to keep water, snacks, a camera, and other essentials.
Gorilla groups and tracking
Uganda has 21Gorilla groups, 20 located in Bwindi Impenetrable’s four sectors; 5 in Buhoma, 4 in Ruhija, 8 Rushaga and 3 in Nkuringo sector while 1 is in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
The gorilla trek begins early morning with a briefing at the park headquarters. You will be assigned a family to track in any of the sectors as indicated on your tracking permit. The briefing covers essential information about the gorilla trekking etiquette, such as safety rules and regulations.
Gorilla conservation
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a tourist activity and a conservation effort.
The proceeds from the gorilla trekking permit go towards conservation efforts for
Habitat protection
Anti-poaching patrols
Community development projects.
By booking a gorilla trekking tour, you support conservation efforts ensure the survival of mountain gorillas.
Do you dream of seeing Mountain gorillas in their natural habitat? Make your dream a reality by booking our well-planned Uganda Gorilla trekking safari programs! We can help you craft gorilla trekking only program or couple with lots of other experiences like culture, charity or volunteering among others.
If you want to learn more about luxury Gorilla trekking in Rwanda or Uganda, contact us to get the best help! Our experts can provide the best information about booking Uganda or Rwanda Gorilla trekking tours.