Diving into the realm of gorilla trekking, our focus is now directed towards the mesmerizing Rushaga region within the southern enclave of Bwindi Forest. This article delves into the merits of embarking on a mountain gorilla trekking adventure in this unique corner of Uganda. The resurgence of Rushaga’s popularity among tourists is no surprise, given the region’s captivating allure. Boasting an impressive array of seven habituated gorilla families available for trekking, Rushaga emerges as a frontrunner with the highest number of such families in Bwindi Forest compared to other regions.
What sets Rushaga apart as a premier gorilla trekking destination? The answer lies in its abundance. With a remarkable seven fully habituated gorilla families to choose from, obtaining gorilla permits is a relatively assured endeavor. To ensure a seamless experience, we recommend securing these coveted permits at least three months prior to your intended trekking date. A unique advantage of Rushaga is the potential for double trekking, allowing you to interchange gorilla families for an enriched encounter, a distinct allure making Rushaga the ultimate destination for your gorilla trek.
The accommodation offerings in Rushaga cater to both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking mid-range options. Locally owned lodges like Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Camp, and Gorilla Safari Lodge provide not only reasonable prices but also contribute to the local community. These lodges also afford the convenience of being within walking distance from the gorilla trekking starting point, ensuring your days commence with ease.
For those seeking an extended rendezvous with mountain gorillas, Rushaga presents the opportunity of the Gorilla Habituation Experience. Pioneered by Uganda Wildlife Authority, this program offers an in-depth encounter as you witness the process of gorilla habituation to human presence. At a cost of $1500 per person per trek, this unique experience allows you to spend four immersive hours with these incredible creatures. Timing begins when you encounter the fresh trails of the gorillas, granting you an unparalleled insight into their world.
The proximity of Rushaga to Kigali, Rwanda, positions it as a prime destination for those seeking an alternative to the higher gorilla permit fees in Volcanoes National Park. With Rwanda’s permits at $1500 per person per trek, more travelers are opting to land in Kigali and venture into Uganda, where permits are priced at USD800 per person per trek. The journey from Kigali to Rushaga takes a mere 4-5 hours by road. To optimize your experience, we recommend lodging near the trekking region the night before to ensure a seamless and convenient start to your day.
The allure of Rushaga is accentuated by its availability of gorilla permits. With a total of seven habituated gorilla families and an additional semi-habituated family open for the gorilla habituation experience, a total of 56 permits are issued daily. These permits are priced at USD800 per person per trek for foreign non-residents and USD700 per person per trek for foreign residents. Rest assured, our dedicated team can secure a gorilla permit for Rushaga on your preferred date, allowing you to embark on this captivating adventure.
At Trek Africa Expeditions, we orchestrate transformative gorilla trekking experiences in Rushaga. Whether you’re arriving from Kigali or Entebbe/Kampala, we seamlessly coordinate your journey, securing permits, arranging transportation, and providing affordable accommodation. Contact us to delve into the details of embarking on a gorilla trekking adventure in the captivating Rushaga sector, where nature’s wonders and human ingenuity intertwine.