Mistakes to avoid when booking a Gorilla Permit

Booking a gorilla permit is an important step in planning your trip to Uganda and Rwanda. The permit is the key to accessing the areas where the gorillas live, and it ensures that you will be guided and protected by authorized personnel. However, obtaining a gorilla permit can be a complex process, involving money and communication with various parties. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, it is important to avoid common mistakes such as not booking your permit far enough in advance, not confirming your permit before your trip, and not planning for any potential changes or disruptions to your plans. By following these guidelines and being prepared, you can ensure that your gorilla trekking experience is truly unforgettable.

Buying the permit for yourself

It is recommended to book a gorilla trekking permit through a trusted tour company, especially if you are planning to visit on your own. Registered tour companies are familiar with the process of obtaining permits and can help you avoid potential pitfalls. Additionally, in the event that you need to change your arrival date or make any other changes to your plans, a registered tour company can help you reschedule your permit without any disruptions. By booking through a trusted tour company, you can ensure that your trip goes smoothly and that you are protected in case of any unexpected encounters.

Don’t book the permit at the last minute

It is important to remember that you are not the only one interested in obtaining a gorilla trekking permit. Many other people are also eager to have this unique and unforgettable experience, especially during the dry season when the weather is more favorable. To ensure that you are able to book a permit on your desired dates, it is recommended to plan ahead and book your permit at least four to six months in advance, or even a year if possible. This will give you ample time to make all the necessary arrangements and prepare for your trip. By booking early, you can avoid disappointment and ensure that you have a smooth and enjoyable experience.  

Avoid using random operators

Booking a gorilla trekking permit through unverified individuals or companies can be risky and may result in disappointment or even legal issues. It is important to only book your permit through reputable and licensed operators to ensure that you receive a valid permit and have a smooth and enjoyable experience. If you prefer to book your permit on your own, you can visit the Uganda Wildlife Authority office and purchase your permit through one of the licensed operators. To verify the legitimacy of an operator, you can also check with the Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) association. By following these guidelines, you can avoid potential problems and ensure that your gorilla trekking experience is memorable and successful.

Never book a wrong flight

Booking the wrong flight can be a major inconvenience and can disrupt your entire trip. To avoid this mistake, it is important to carefully research the airports that serve the region where you will be visiting, and to choose the one that is most convenient for your itinerary. In the case of Uganda, there are several airports that can connect you to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, including Kahili Airport, Kisoro Airport, and Entebbe Airport. Choosing the wrong airport can result in long and difficult journeys to your destination, so it is important to carefully plan your travel and make the right choices. By doing so, you can ensure that your trip goes smoothly and that you have a pleasant and enjoyable experience.

Move with a walking stick and local porter

Gorilla trekking can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience, but it can also be physically demanding. To make the experience more enjoyable and less tiring, it is recommended to carry a walking stick and to hire a local porter to carry your backpack and jacket. This will help you to maintain your balance and stability while climbing the slopes, and it will also reduce the physical burden on you. By hiring a local porter, you will also be supporting the communities that live near the gorilla areas, which can be a rewarding and meaningful way to contribute to their wellbeing. Overall, using a walking stick and hiring a local porter can enhance your gorilla trekking experience and make it more comfortable and enjoyable.

Remember to ask for the  rules and regulations

When planning a gorilla trekking trip, it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations that govern interactions with these wild animals. Mountain gorillas are unpredictable and can behave like any other wild animal, so it is important to be alert and aware at all times. Before entering their habitat, you should be familiar with the rules that are in place to protect both the gorillas and the visitors. Your tour guide and rangers will be able to provide you with detailed information and guidance on these rules, and they can help you to stay safe and avoid any potential hazards. In short, it is essential to follow the rules and maintain a safe distance from the gorillas to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.