Gorilla Trekking Tours from Angola

Gorilla Trekking Tours from Angola

Are you based in Angola or Luanda, the capital of Angola, intrigued by the prospect of visiting mountain gorillas? In this piece about Gorilla trekking tours from Angola, Trek Africa Expeditions highlights the prime destination for gorilla trekking in Africa, starting your journey from Angola. Gorilla Trekking in Africa offers a rare and unforgettable experience, drawing numerous travelers despite the challenges and expenses involved. Witnessing gorillas in their natural habitat in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo is a pinnacle wildlife encounter for any safari enthusiast.

Gorilla Trekking entails navigating through forests, rugged terrain, dense vegetation, and sometimes crossing rivers and swamps in search of gorillas. This demanding activity requires a reasonable level of fitness. However, the reward is a captivating hour spent observing gorillas in their natural environment. For those seeking extended time with the gorillas, the Gorilla Habituation experience in Bwindi Forest allows for a four-hour encounter.

Best Places to See Wild Gorillas in Africa?

Gorilla Trekking in Africa is primarily conducted in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo, home to the remaining mountain gorillas. These countries boast national parks such as Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in Congo. Additionally, Congo offers an opportunity to see Lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Beiga National Park. Securing a gorilla permit is essential for trekking in any of these parks, and it’s advisable to book well in advance, especially for peak seasons from June to September.

Cost and Obtaining Gorilla permits in Uganda

Gorilla permits in Uganda are priced at USD800 per person per trek for foreign nonresidents, USD700 for foreign residents, and $70 for East African Citizens. This fee grants access to encounter mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for one hour. Uganda offers 17 habituated gorilla family groups, with 16 in Bwindi and 1 in Mgahinga, totaling 136 available permits daily. Additionally, Uganda provides the Gorilla Habituation experience, allowing for a more extended interaction at $1500 per person. Permits can be obtained directly from Uganda Wildlife Authority or through tour operators like Trek Africa Expeditions.

Cost and Obtaining Gorilla Permits in Rwanda

In Rwanda, Gorilla permits cost $1500 per person per trek for foreign nonresidents, $500 for foreign residents, and $200 for East African Citizens. Volcanoes National Park, home to 12 gorilla families, offers 96 permits daily. Booking permits can be done directly through Rwanda Development Board or tour operators like Trek Africa Expeditions.

Cost and Obtaining Gorilla Permits in DR Congo

Gorilla tracking in DR Congo is conducted in Virunga National Park for Mountain Gorillas and Kahuzi Beiga National Park for Lowland gorillas. Virunga National Park permits are priced at $400 per person per trek during the high season and $200 during the low season. Kahuzi Beiga National Park charges $400 for foreign nonresidents, $200 for East Africa Residents, and $20 for national residents. Permits can be secured through Virunga National Park or tour operators like Trek Africa Expeditions.

Please note that the gorilla permit price excludes accommodation, air tickets, ground transport, meals, and other expenses. It’s essential to clarify the inclusions with your tour operator when booking.

Uganda is a premier destination for gorilla trekking in Africa, offering safety for travelers and affordability compared to Rwanda and Congo.

Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking in Africa

The minimum age for Gorilla Trekking is 15 years, with a maximum of 85 years, depending on fitness levels. Elderly individuals can participate with the aid of sedan chair carriers, which are available in Bwindi forest at a cost ranging from $400 to $500.

Gorilla Permit Cancellation Policies in Africa

Gorilla permits are non-refundable, and cancellations made within 0 to 8 days before the trek do not qualify for refunds. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, cancellation policies have been relaxed in recent months, allowing for rescheduling of treks.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking Tours

Gorilla trekking is feasible year-round, with optimal conditions during the drier months from January to February and June to early September. These periods offer easier travel and better visibility due to reduced vegetation.

Packing List for Gorilla Trekking Tours from Angola

For gorilla tracking, essential items include insect repellent, a flashlight, wet wipes, a water bottle, camera equipment, comfortable walking shoes, gardening gloves, a hat, sunscreen, a rain jacket, a sweater, swimwear, and binoculars.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Gorilla Trekking Tours from Angola

Trek Africa Expeditions facilitates gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo, offering various safari packages tailored to different budgets. With a reputation for excellent service and customer satisfaction, Trek Africa Expeditions ensures a memorable gorilla tour, supported by a team of dedicated tour consultants. Contact us for more details about Gorilla trekking tours from Angola.