The allure of Gorilla Tracking in Uganda beckons from the heart of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, promising an exceptional journey into the natural habitat of the Mountain Gorillas. This experience stands as the pinnacle of Ugandan itineraries, offering the opportunity to intimately encounter these majestic creatures in their native surroundings. Often referred to as Gorilla trekking, this adventure involves navigating the hilly and mountainous terrains that the Gorillas call home. The flexibility of Grilla tracking in Uganda is remarkable, allowing the adventure to commence from either Entebbe/Kampala or Kigali, both providing equally captivating Gorilla encounters. Opting for the Kigali route presents the advantage of a shorter journey, as the drive spans approximately 4-5 hours to reach the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
In the realm of Gorilla tracking, the choice between Gorilla habituation permits and Gorilla tracking permits is paramount. A Gorilla habituation permit, priced at USD1500 per person per trek, permits an extensive four-hour interaction with the Gorillas. The time begins to tick the moment fresh indicators like broken branches, droppings, and footprints of the Gorillas are spotted. During this period, you’re privy to enlightening talks from the trackers and rangers, adding depth to your experience. On the other hand, a Gorilla tracking permit comes at USD800 per person per trek, granting a single hour in the presence of the Gorillas once they’re encountered in their natural environment. Note that from 1st July 2020, the price of gorilla permits will be increased to USD800 per person per trek.
The duration required for Gorilla trekking in Uganda hinges on your starting point. Embarking from Kampala/Entebbe necessitates a minimum of 3 days, factoring in the 8-9 hour drive time, transfers, and the actual day of Gorilla tracking. Opting for the Kigali route streamlines the journey to a 2-day Gorilla tour, with one day dedicated to transfers closer to the National Park and the subsequent day for the exhilarating Gorilla trekking experience. It’s essential to consider late-night flight options (around 11:00 pm) for a 2-day Gorilla trek from Kigali, as the return time from the forest is variable due to the unpredictable movement patterns of wild Gorillas.
The choice between commencing your journey from either side carries unique advantages. Launching from Kigali offers a dual blessing – a chance to traverse two countries and enjoy shorter travel times. This option suits those on tight schedules. On the other hand, embarking from Uganda offers a magical experience encompassing the scenic 8-9 hour drive. The route incorporates stops at the Equator crossing for photographic moments and visits to cultural centers and museums, offering a holistic experience even before encountering the Gorillas.
One frequently posed question pertains to the ideal time for Gorilla tracking in Uganda. The activity is available year-round, spanning from January to December, with Gorilla permits accessible throughout. While some travelers might hesitate to journey during the rainy months of March, April, May, and November (considered the low season), these periods offer distinct advantages. The lower visitor influx provides ample space for photography, in-depth interactions with rangers and trackers, and heightened attention within smaller groups. Conversely, the high season months, spanning the rest of the year, witness a surge in Gorilla tracking enthusiasts flocking to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Trek Africa Expeditions caters to diverse preferences with a range of exceptional safari packages. From the 3-Day Gorilla Tracking from Kigali to the 2-Day Gorilla Trekking from Kigali and the captivating 3-Day Gorilla Habituation Experience, these offerings promise an enthralling Gorilla tracking adventure.
Booking Gorilla tracking and Gorilla habituation permits in Uganda is a year-round affair, contingent on availability at the time of reservation. Our dedicated team is poised to assist in securing your desired dates. Upon confirmation, the Gorilla permit requires payment, after which we provide you with scanned copies. It’s noteworthy that Gorilla tracking permits are exclusively sold at the Uganda Wildlife Headquarters in Kampala.
With Trek Africa Expeditions as your trusted partner, unlocking the world of Uganda and Rwanda safaris becomes a seamless and extraordinary experience.