Gorilla trekking during the high season in Uganda and Rwanda is an incredible experience, but it comes with its challenges. The high season, which typically falls between June and September, is the peak time for gorilla safaris when the weather is dry and attracts numerous travelers to the region. As a result, popular places to stay, gorilla permits, and transportation options are in high demand and often booked months in advance.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable gorilla trekking holiday during the high season, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes that can negatively impact the overall experience. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your gorilla trekking adventure:
Last-minute booking during the high season is highly discouraged as securing gorilla permits becomes increasingly challenging. With only about 200 permits available daily in both Rwanda and Uganda, the demand for permits far exceeds the supply. Many travelers book their permits up to two years in advance to secure their preferred travel dates during the high season. To avoid disappointment and ensure availability, it is recommended to start planning and booking your trip six to twelve months early.
Additionally, booking early is crucial for finding suitable accommodation and securing transportation options. Accommodations can fill up quickly during the high season, so it’s essential to make reservations well in advance to get the best options.
When booking a gorilla permit for the high season, your tour operator will provide you with available dates within your travel range. One common mistake is booking accommodations before securing the permit date, which may lead to adjustments and complications later. Instead, allow your tour operator enough time (at least a week) to find permits that align with your travel dates. Provide them with a comfortable date range for your travel, and once you have the gorilla permits secured, you can proceed with booking accommodations and making travel arrangements.
Traveling during the high season offers favorable weather conditions for gorilla trekking, making it the preferred time for many travelers. The dry season, which typically occurs from June to August and December to February, ensures that trekking trails are less muddy and more accessible. In contrast, the wet season from March to May, October, and November can bring heavy rainfall, making travel and gorilla trekking more challenging.
Gorilla trekking holidays during the high season can be relatively expensive due to increased demand. While some tour operators may offer cheaper quotations, it is essential to be cautious about compromising on quality for cost. Choose a licensed and experienced travel company to ensure a well-organized and enjoyable experience. Verify the credibility of the tour operator with the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) to ensure you are dealing with a trustworthy company.
For a seamless and memorable gorilla trekking experience during the high season, consider booking your trip with Trek Africa Expeditions. With over a decade of experience in planning high-season gorilla safaris in Uganda and Rwanda, Trek Africa Expeditions has successfully organized numerous trips each year. They can help you secure gorilla permits, arrange accommodations, and plan all the necessary logistics for your journey.
To begin planning your high-season gorilla trekking holiday, reach out to Trek Africa Expeditions at info@trekafricatours.com. Their team of experts will guide you through the planning process, ensuring you have a remarkable and unforgettable primate adventure.