Combining a Safari in Namibia with Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Combining a Safari in Namibia with Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Are you dreaming of an unforgettable African adventure that combines a safari in Namibia with gorilla trekking in Uganda? This unique travel experience allows you to witness Africa’s incredible wildlife, from the majestic mountain gorillas in the dense forests of Uganda to the breathtaking landscapes and desert-adapted wildlife of Namibia.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan and book this incredible safari combination, with expert assistance from Trek Africa Expeditions.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda – A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

Gorilla trekking is one of the most sought-after wildlife experiences in Africa. Uganda is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, with trekking opportunities in two national parks:

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Located in southwestern Uganda, this UNESCO-listed forest is home to multiple habituated gorilla families.

• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – A smaller but equally rewarding gorilla trekking destination, also home to golden monkeys.

Uganda offers an exceptional gorilla trekking experience with four trekking sectors in Bwindi: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Each sector provides unique encounters, and Rushaga has the most gorilla families available for trekking.

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Cost?

A gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs:

• $800 per person for foreign non-residents

• $700 per person for foreign residents

• $80 per person for East African citizens

This permit allows you to spend a magical one-hour encounter with a gorilla family in their natural habitat.

How to Book Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

To secure your gorilla trekking experience, you must book your permit in advance through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or a trusted safari operator like Trek Africa Expeditions.

• If arriving in Uganda via Entebbe, it’s best to purchase your permit from the UWA headquarters in Kampala.

• If arriving through Kigali, Rwanda, you can get your permit at the UWA branch in Kisoro, just 1-2 hours from Bwindi.

Trek Africa Expeditions makes the process easy by reserving your permits, handling payments, and ensuring you receive confirmation before your trip.

Namibia Safari – Discover Africa’s Most Dramatic Landscapes

Namibia is known for its vast, otherworldly landscapes and diverse wildlife. With just three people per square kilometer, it’s the least densely populated country in Africa, offering a truly remote and serene safari experience.

Some highlights of a safari in Namibia include:

• Etosha National Park – Home to lions, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, and abundant wildlife.

• Sossusvlei & the Namib Desert – Explore the world’s oldest desert, climb the iconic red sand dunes, and visit Deadvlei’s surreal white clay pan.

• Skeleton Coast – A rugged, misty coastline with shipwrecks, seals, and unique desert-adapted wildlife.

• Damaraland – A remote region known for desert elephants, ancient rock art, and dramatic landscapes.

Namibia’s well-maintained roads and diverse ecosystems make it an excellent self-drive or guided safari destination.

How to Combine a Safari in Namibia with Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

There are multiple ways to combine these two amazing experiences:

1. Start with Gorilla Trekking in Uganda, then Fly to Namibia

   • Arrive in Uganda and trek gorillas in Bwindi or Mgahinga.

   • Fly to Namibia via airlines like Kenya Airways, RwandAir, or Airlink, connecting through Nairobi, Kigali, or Johannesburg.

   • Enjoy a classic Namibian safari, exploring its national parks and deserts.

2. Start in Namibia, then Travel to Uganda for Gorilla Trekking

   • Begin with a safari in Namibia, visiting iconic destinations like Etosha and Sossusvlei.

   • Take an international flight to Uganda and trek mountain gorillas before concluding your journey.

Flights between Namibia and Uganda connect through major hubs like Nairobi, Kigali, and Johannesburg, making it easy to combine both experiences.

Best Time for a Safari in Namibia and Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The best time to go on a safari in Namibia and trek gorillas in Uganda is during the dry seasons: January to February and June to early September.

During these months:

• Travel conditions are easier, as roads and trails are drier.

• Wildlife viewing is at its best, as animals gather around water sources in Namibia.

• The vegetation in Uganda is less dense, making it easier to spot gorillas in the forest.

For the best experience, plan your trip around these months to maximize wildlife sightings and enjoy a seamless adventure.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Wondering what to pack for your gorilla trek? Here’s a complete checklist of what to wear and bring for a comfortable and successful trek:

Clothing and Footwear

• A long-sleeved shirt or sweater to keep warm in the chilly morning hours.

• Two pairs of long trousers to protect against scratches and insect bites.

• Waterproof hiking boots for trekking on slippery and uneven trails.

• Neutral-colored clothing to avoid startling the gorillas. Bright colors should be avoided, and black and blue clothing can attract tsetse flies.

Accessories and Essentials

• A hat and sunglasses for sun protection, though optional.

• A rain jacket since the rainforest has unpredictable showers.

• Gardening gloves to help when grabbing onto trees and branches.

• Mosquito repellent to protect against insect bites.

• Sunscreen to prevent sunburn, especially in hot weather.

• Binoculars for spotting birds and other wildlife.

• A camera with extra batteries for capturing moments, with the flash turned off.

Packing the right gear will ensure a comfortable and well-prepared trekking experience.

Best Places to Stay During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Accommodation options near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park vary based on the trekking sector. Here are the best lodges in each area:

Southern Bwindi (Rushaga and Nkuringo Sectors)

• Rushaga Gorilla Camp

• Four Gorillas Lodge

• Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

• Nsongi Camp

• Icumbi Gorilla Safari Lodge

• Gorilla Safari Lodge

• Gorilla Valley Lodge

• Karungi Camp

• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge

• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

• Lake Mutanda Resort

Northern Bwindi (Buhoma and Ruhija Sectors)

• Buhoma Lodge

• Bwindi Lodge

• Buhoma Community Rest Camp

• Ride 4 a Woman

• Trekkers Tavern Cottages

• Agandi Eco Lodge

• Gift of Nature Lodge

• Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge

• Broadbill Tented Camp

These lodges are all located near the trekking start points, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience.

Why Book Your Namibia and Uganda Safari with Trek Africa Expeditions?

Trek Africa Expeditions specializes in crafting customized African safaris, ensuring seamless travel between Uganda and Namibia. Here’s why travelers trust us:

• Expert planning – We handle all logistics, including permits, flights, and accommodations.

• Highly rated service – We are top-rated on TripAdvisor for providing exceptional safari experiences.

• Eco-friendly and community-focused – Our safaris support wildlife conservation and local communities.

• Flexible and tailored itineraries – We design trips to match your budget, schedule, and travel preferences.

Start Planning Your Namibia and Uganda Safari Today

Combining a safari in Namibia with gorilla trekking in Uganda offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Whether you want to explore the dramatic deserts of Namibia or experience intimate encounters with mountain gorillas, we can create the perfect itinerary for you.

Contact Trek Africa Expeditions today to start planning your dream African safari!