Combine the Wildebeest Migration with Gorilla Trekking
Are you dreaming of an African safari that combines the thrill of witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration with an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure? With Trek Africa Expeditions, we can help you plan the perfect combo of gorilla trekking in Uganda and a safari in Tanzania.
Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Gorilla trekking is a must-do activity when visiting Uganda. You’ll have the unique opportunity to trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, both located in the southwestern part of the country. Uganda is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining endangered mountain gorillas—the only other countries that share these magnificent creatures are Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (Virunga National Park).
The Great Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania
One of the most iconic wildlife events in Africa is the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeests and thousands of zebras journey from the southern Serengeti plains in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya and back, following the seasonal rains in search of fresh grazing grounds. The migration spans an epic 3,000 kilometers, making it one of the greatest wildlife spectacles in the world.
The best time to witness this natural phenomenon is during the dry season, typically between June and October, when herds are on the move in search of water and food.
How to Combine the Wildebeest Migration and Gorilla Trekking
There are several ways to combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with a safari in Tanzania. You can either start your adventure with gorilla trekking in Uganda and then fly to Tanzania for a safari, or vice versa. Flights between Uganda and Tanzania are operated by airlines such as Kenya Airways, RwandAir, Uganda Airlines, and Airlink.
Can I Drive from Tanzania to Uganda or Vice Versa?
Yes, it is possible to drive between Uganda and Tanzania. The best route for this road trip is through the Mutukula border between Tanzania and Uganda. The drive offers stunning views, and Trek Africa Expeditions can help guide you through the process, providing support every step of the way.
Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: Sectors and Prices
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is done in four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga. Each sector is home to different habituated mountain gorilla families, and Rushaga is particularly popular for having multiple families. If you choose to trek in Buhoma or Ruhija, both are located near Queen Elizabeth National Park, making it easy to combine game viewing with your gorilla trekking experience.
The cost of a gorilla permit in Uganda is:
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USD 800 for foreign non-residents
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USD 700 for East African residents
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USD 80 for East African citizens
With your permit, you can spend one hour with the gorillas once located during your trek, a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
How to Book Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
To secure your gorilla trekking adventure, you must book your gorilla permit in advance. You can purchase permits directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) at their offices in Kampala (for visitors flying into Entebbe) or Kisoro (for those arriving through Kigali).
Trek Africa Expeditions offers seamless assistance in booking your permits. Once you confirm your travel dates, simply contact us via email or WhatsApp. We will tentatively reserve the permits for you, send an invoice, and once the payment is received, we will secure the permits for you and send you scanned copies for your records.
When is the Best Time to Experience the Wildebeest Migration and Gorilla Trekking?
The ideal time to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration and go gorilla trekking is during the drier months of the year—January, February, and June to early September. These months offer more favorable weather conditions, making it easier to travel to the parks. The vegetation is less dense, which allows for clearer views of the gorillas and better overall trekking conditions.
What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?
Wondering what to wear for your gorilla trekking adventure? Here’s a handy guide on the essential clothing and gear to pack:
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Long-sleeve sweater: The forest can get chilly, so be prepared for cooler temperatures.
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Two pairs of long trousers: Protect your legs from the undergrowth and insects.
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Waterproof hiking boots: The terrain can be muddy and slippery, so sturdy, waterproof boots are essential.
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Hat and sunglasses: Depending on the weather, these may be helpful for sun protection.
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Camera and extra batteries: You’ll want to capture the moments, so ensure you have a good camera with fully charged batteries (remember to turn off your flash).
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Binoculars: These are perfect for birdwatching in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and spotting other primates.
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Gardening gloves: These are useful for holding onto branches and trees while navigating the forest.
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Raincoat: Since Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a rainforest, rain can be unpredictable. A raincoat will keep you dry.
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Mosquito repellent: The forest is home to various insects, so applying repellent is a must.
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Sunscreen: Though optional, sunscreen is helpful to protect against sunburns during sunny spells.
Avoid wearing bright colors as they can scare the gorillas. Also, stay away from black or blue, as these colors attract Tsetse flies. Neutral tones are the best choice for your trek.
Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park offers several accommodation options, with lodges located near both the northern and southern sectors of the park:
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Southern Sector (Rushaga and Nkuringo):
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Rushaga Gorilla Camp
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Gorilla Valley Lodge
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Northern Sector (Buhoma and Ruhija):
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Ride 4 a Woman
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Trekkers Tavern Cottages
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Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge
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Broadbill Tented Camp
All these lodges are conveniently located near the starting points of gorilla trekking and gorilla habituation experiences.
Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Wildebeest Migration and Gorilla Trekking Safari?
At Trek Africa Expeditions, we design tailor-made safaris to give you an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re interested in combining gorilla trekking in Uganda with the Great Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania, or planning separate safari experiences, we’ve got you covered.
As a trusted local tour operator in Uganda, we pride ourselves on delivering excellent customer service. Our team of professional tour consultants is always ready to respond to your queries within 20 minutes, ensuring you get the best advice and support. We also offer knowledgeable safari guides, tailored to your language preferences.
With Trek Africa Expeditions, you can rest assured that all your services will be booked in advance, ensuring a smooth, hassle-free trip.
Contact us today to start planning your wildebeest migration and gorilla trekking safari!
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