Organizing Gorilla Tracking Safari in Uganda

Ultimate Guide to Organizing Gorilla Tracking Safari in Uganda – Plan Your Unforgettable Holiday Now and Secure Gorilla Permits in Advance

Are you in the process of organizing a gorilla tracking safari to Uganda, or are you contemplating the thrilling adventure of gorilla tracking in this captivating African nation? This comprehensive blog post is tailored to provide essential insights for travelers yearning to trek the Mountain Gorillas nestled in the heart of Africa’s tropical rainforest. Trek Africa Expeditions stands ready to guide you through every detail, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable Gorilla trekking experience in Uganda.

The Majestic Mountain Gorillas:

Recognized as one of the world’s most endangered apes, the Mountain Gorillas boast a mere population of approximately 1080 in the wild. Nearly half of this global population resides in the lush confines of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda. Standing in close proximity to these remarkable creatures evokes a spine-tingling feeling, creating a lifetime experience that words can scarcely capture.

Where Can I Trek the Mountain Gorillas?

For many travelers, Mountain Gorilla trekking is the pinnacle of their Ugandan adventure. In Uganda, the captivating trek can be experienced in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi Impenetrable, Africa’s oldest tropical rainforest, showcases picturesque ridges, steep valleys, and cascading waterfalls.

Prepare yourself for challenging yet exhilarating hikes on steep and slippery trails. Both national parks collectively safeguard an estimated 550 Mountain Gorillas, including 19 habituated Gorilla families available for tracking. Bwindi Forest features four trekking trailheads: Buhoma in the North, Ruhija in the East, Nkuringo and Rushaga in the South. While Ruhija is the most accessible trekking location, Rushaga boasts the largest number of Gorilla families. Mgahinga, with only one Gorilla family, is less frequented, occasionally venturing across the border to Rwanda. In such cases, replacement tickets for Bwindi Forest are provided.

Best Time for Gorilla Tracking:

Uganda’s favorable climate makes it an appealing year-round destination, with an average temperature of around 26 degrees Celsius. The rainy seasons span from March to May and October to November, featuring light downpours around November to December. The conventional dry periods are from December to February and June to August. Even during the rainy season, travel is minimally hindered, as the rains are typically heavy but short-lived, followed by sunshine.

Optimal months for Gorilla trekking are December to late February and June to September, albeit during peak season. Despite the parks not feeling overcrowded, reserving Gorilla permits and accommodations well in advance is imperative. Bwindi’s humid climate, owing to its montane rainforest setting, necessitates preparation for steep and muddy hikes.

Securing Gorilla Trekking Permits:

For travelers planning to visit Gorillas or Chimpanzees, reserving permits well in advance is strongly advised. The Uganda Wildlife Authority headquarters in Kampala issues permits upon full cash payment (no pre-booking). Gorilla permits cost USD800 per person per trek, and Chimpanzee permits cost USD200 per person per trek.

Trek Africa Expeditions is well-equipped to arrange Gorilla and Chimpanzee permits for you when you book one of our all-inclusive packages. To facilitate this, we require full names corresponding with your passport, nationality, date of birth, passport number for all trackers, preferred starting location and date, and a secondary date in case the preferred date is fully booked. After proof of payment is provided, we procure the permits on your behalf. It’s important to note that the Uganda Wildlife Authority does not have a refund policy for cancellations or date changes. The minimum age for Gorilla tracking is 15 years.

What to Expect on Your Gorilla Trekking Day:

Anticipation builds as you rise early, prepare, have breakfast, and ensure you arrive at the trekking location by 7:45 AM. The journey, depending on your accommodation, may involve an off-road drive or a walkable distance. The Uganda Wildlife Authority guide initiates proceedings, with each group comprising a maximum of 8 tourists and an armed staff member for safety. Porters are available for those desiring assistance with their bags, providing a source of income for local men and women.

The hike commences at 8:30 AM, varying in duration from 30 minutes to three-quarters of the day, depending on the Gorillas’ location from the previous day. Once the rangers locate the Gorillas, you are granted one hour to observe and photograph the Gorilla family. This hour begins when the entire group convenes, allowing a unhurried experience. To preserve the Gorillas‘ wild nature, the Uganda Wildlife Authority ensures they are devoid of human presence for 23 hours a day.

Practical Tips for Your Gorilla Trekking Day:

1. Attire:
   • Wear long-sleeved clothes to protect against scratches and insect bites while navigating thick bush.
   • Opt for good walking/hiking shoes suitable for slippery slopes.
   • Consider gloves for a secure grip on twigs and trees.
2. What to Pack:
   • In your bag, include a waterproof jacket/poncho, insect repellent, sunscreen, ample water (2L), and food for the trek.
   • If it has rained, grab a walking stick at the beginning of the tracking.
3. Photography Tips:
   • Capture appealing close-ups, focusing on hands, feet, or faces.
   • Dedicate some time to simply watch the Gorillas without taking pictures, immersing yourself in the moment.

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime by organizing your gorilla tracking safari in Uganda with Trek Africa Expeditions. Maximize your experience and create lasting memories amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Plan your holiday now and secure your gorilla permits in advance for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa’s natural wonders.