What to know before booking a Uganda fly-in Safari to Bwindi

What to know before Booking a Uganda Fly-in Safari to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking

Embarking on a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, especially to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, requires thorough preparation to ensure a seamless and fulfilling experience. Gorilla trekking is a remarkable yet expensive undertaking, necessitating adequate planning. Here are key aspects to know before booking a Uganda fly-in safari to Bwindi:

Mountain Gorilla Permit Price:

The cost of mountain gorilla permits is set at USD800 per person per trek. To secure these permits, it is advisable to book well in advance, preferably six months ahead of your travel dates, as demand for gorilla permits is consistently high. Last-minute arrangements may be possible but are subject to permit availability.

Gorilla Habituation Permit Price:

The cost of a gorilla habituation permit is maintained at USD 1,500. Uganda uniquely offers visitors the opportunity to spend four hours with mountain gorillas still undergoing habituation. This immersive experience goes beyond traditional gorilla trekking, allowing participants to witness the process of habituating these magnificent creatures.

Uganda – The Affordable Gorilla Trekking Destination:

Uganda remains the more competitive and trusted gorilla trekking destination between the Democratic Republic of Congo and itself. With a gorilla permit priced at USD800 per person, Uganda provides a relatively affordable option compared to Rwanda, where permits cost USD 1,500 per person per trek. This affordability makes Uganda an attractive choice for travelers seeking a budget-friendly gorilla trekking experience.

Uganda Boasts the Highest Number of Gorillas:

According to the recent Mountain Gorilla census conducted in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Virunga National Parks, Uganda is home to more than half of the world’s mountain gorilla population. This positions Uganda as the preferred destination for trekking these magnificent creatures.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park Sectors:

Unlike other national parks, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is divided into four major gorilla trekking sectors: Buhoma in the north, Ruhija in the east, and Nkuringo and Rushaga in the south. Each sector features different gorilla families and lodges. Before booking accommodation, it is essential to secure a gorilla permit, which determines your overnight stay based on the allocated region.

Gorilla Permit Allocation by Regions, Not Families:

When booking gorilla permits through the Uganda Wildlife Authority, permits are allocated per region, not specific gorilla families. Only on the actual trekking day do visitors learn which family they will encounter. While preferences can be expressed for a particular family within a region, such requests are not always guaranteed.

Accessibility for Older Persons and People with Disabilities:

There is no maximum age limit for gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks. Even individuals over 100 years old can fulfill their dream of trekking gorillas. While physical fitness is traditionally emphasized, the use of sedan chairs and porters now makes gorilla trekking accessible for people with disabilities. Contact us for detailed information on this.

Advance Booking of Gorilla Permits is Crucial:

Gorilla trekking is highly sought after, prompting the recommendation to book permits well in advance. With permits in high demand, reserving your tour 4-5 months ahead ensures availability and avoids disappointment.

Flight Options to Bwindi and Mgahinga:

For a more convenient option than the 9-10 hour drive from Entebbe to Bwindi or Mgahinga, consider scheduled or chartered flights. Flights from Entebbe International Airport land at Khiri and Kisoro airstrips for Bwindi and Mgahinga, respectively. From there, a 2-3 hour road journey completes the trip.

Access from Kigali, Rwanda:

Driving from Kigali to Bwindi or Mgahinga for gorilla trekking is now a feasible option, offering a 4-5 hour road journey as opposed to the longer drive from Entebbe. Choose to cross the border to Uganda via Chanika or Katuna points and drive to your final destination in Bwindi or Mgahinga.

Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda:

To partake in gorilla trekking in Uganda, individuals need to be 15 years of age or older. An initial age limit is in place, allowing those on the cusp of 15 to participate with proof provided by a birth certificate. For additional details, please reach out to us.

Before embarking on a fly-in safari to Bwindi for gorilla trekking, these considerations will contribute to a well-prepared and memorable experience in the presence of Uganda’s mountain gorillas.