Gorilla Trekking Adventure from the Buhoma Trailhead in Bwindi
March 24, 2023
Is Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Safe?
March 25, 2023
Starting Gorilla Trekking from Nkuringo Region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
If you are interested in gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Nkuringo Region is another great option to consider. This region is known for its beautiful and hilly tropical forests, where you can experience the rare and endangered mountain gorillas.
With half of the world’s remaining population of mountain gorillas in Uganda, trekking to see these majestic creatures is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The mountain gorillas share 95% of their DNA with humans, making them an incredibly fascinating species to observe in their natural habitat. In Nkuringo Region of Bwindi, the chances of spotting these gentle giants are high, with a 98% success rate for gorilla sightings.
At Trek Africa Expeditions, we offer gorilla trekking packages starting from Nkuringo Region. Our experienced guides will lead you on an unforgettable journey through the beautiful hills and forests, where you will have the opportunity to observe these incredible creatures up close. Contact us to plan your gorilla trekking adventure in Nkuringo Region of Bwindi National Park.
Discovering the Beauty of Nkuringo Gorilla Region in Bwindi
Nkuringo Gorilla Region is a significant sector for gorilla trekking in Uganda, located in the southwestern part of the country and sharing a border with Congo. It is one of the four sectors within Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where visitors can trek and witness the magnificent Mountain Gorillas in their natural habitat. The other sectors include Rushaga, Buhoma, and Ruhija, all offering a similarly incredible experience.
However, Nkuringo Gorilla Region stands out with its lush vegetation and breathtaking views of the Virunga Mountains. This sector is known for its steep and challenging terrain, making the trekking experience more adventurous for the visitors. Moreover, the chance of encountering the gorillas is high, making it a popular destination for gorilla trekking enthusiasts.
If you are planning to embark on a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, consider visiting Nkuringo Gorilla Region. Trek Africa Expeditions can help you arrange your permits, accommodations, and transportation to make your journey as seamless and memorable as possible.
Discovering Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Home to Half of the World’s Mountain Gorillas
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in southwestern Uganda bordering the DR Congo, is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site and one of the oldest forests in Africa. The park covers areas in Kisoro and Kanungu districts and is adjacent to the Virunga Conservation Area. With over 400 species of plant life and 120 mammal species, including primates such as gorillas, chimpanzees, baboons, forest elephants, and antelopes, Bwindi is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to more than 500 gorillas, representing over half of the world’s total population. The park was the first place in Uganda where gorilla tourism began, and there are currently 19 habituated gorilla groups available for trekking, providing visitors with the unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Trekking the Majestic Gorillas in Nkuringo Gorilla Region
Nkuringo gorilla region is one of the prime destinations in Uganda for gorilla trekking. Gorilla trekking involves tracking a specific habituated mountain gorilla family, with the help of experienced trackers who use various methods to locate them. The trackers embark on an early morning journey to the forest, using natural means such as clapping and making wild sounds to find the gorillas. Once the gorillas are located, the park guides brief the visitors on the dos and don’ts before commencing the trek. Nkuringo gorilla region offers a 99% chance of spotting the gorillas in their natural habitat, making it an unforgettable experience for any nature lover.
Gorilla Trekking Permits and Families in Nkuringo Sector of Bwindi
Nkuringo sector of Bwindi National Park is home to three habituated gorilla families, making it a popular destination for gorilla trekking in Uganda. Each family is allocated 8 visitors per day, providing ample opportunities to visit the gorillas throughout the year. A total of 24 gorilla permits are available per day, allowing visitors to spend one hour with the gorillas in their natural habitat.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority oversees the protection and conservation of gorillas in Nkuringo, as well as the issuance of gorilla trekking permits for the region. With a permit, visitors can experience the thrill of getting up close and personal with these majestic creatures and learn more about their behaviors, habits, and social structure. Gorilla trekking in Nkuringo sector of Bwindi is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should not be missed.
What are the Costs of Gorilla Trekking Permits in Nkuringo Gorilla Region?
If you’re planning a gorilla trekking trip to Nkuringo gorilla region, you’ll need to secure a gorilla trekking permit beforehand. The permit will allow you to spend one hour with the gorillas once you find them in the forest. The cost of the gorilla trekking permits varies depending on your residency status. For non-foreign residents, the cost is USD800 per person, for foreign residents the cost is USD700 per person, and for East African citizens, the cost is Uganda Shillings 300,000 per person.
Trek Africa Expeditions can help you secure the permits for your preferred date. Simply contact us with your planned trek and desired dates, and we’ll check availability of permits on the online system for Uganda Wildlife Authority. If permits are available, we’ll send you an invoice for payment. Once we receive payment, we’ll book and secure your permits from Uganda Wildlife Authority and send you a copy of the receipt with booking ID to confirm your trek.
Discover Easy Ways to Access the Breathtaking Nkuringo Region in Bwindi for Your Gorilla Trekking Safari
Getting to Nkuringo gorilla region for your gorilla trekking safari is a breeze. There are several options available to suit your preferences and budget. If you prefer air travel, you can fly from Entebbe International Airport/Kajjansi Airstrip to Kisoro Airstrip and then drive to your booked lodge. Aerolink Uganda is highly recommended as it has daily flights to Bwindi and the flight takes about an hour to Kisoro.
Alternatively, you can embark on a scenic road trip from Kampala/Entebbe to Bwindi which takes about 8-9 hours. This option is highly enjoyable as you get to make stops at various interesting places like the Equator, Igongo Cultural Museum in Mbarara, and see different plantations and landscapes.
For those coming from Kigali in Rwanda, we offer road trip gorilla safaris to Nkuringo. The journey starts from the airport or hotel in Kigali city and then drives to Uganda via the genocide memorial, and later proceeds into Uganda through the Katuna border. You will have stops to take photographs and enjoy viewpoints like the Lake Bunyonyi Viewpoint and Twin Lakes Viewpoint, and stop for lunch in Kabale. The drive from Kigali takes about 4-5 hours, which is shorter compared to the 8-9 hours from Entebbe/Kampala to Bwindi. Whatever your choice, we have all options available for your convenience to reach the Nkuringo region of Bwindi for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience.
Best Accommodations in Nkuringo Gorilla Region for Gorilla Trekking
If you’re planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Nkuringo, Bwindi, finding the right place to stay is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Luckily, there are several options available for all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best accommodations in Nkuringo gorilla region:
- Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge: This lodge offers budget and midrange accommodation options, making it a great choice for travelers who want to save money without sacrificing comfort. The lodge has spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a bar, and it’s located only a short distance from the gorilla trekking starting point.
- Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge: For those seeking luxury accommodations, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge is the perfect choice. The lodge boasts stunning views of the Virunga Mountains, elegant rooms with fireplaces, and exceptional service. It’s located within walking distance of the gorilla trekking starting point.
- Four Gorillas Lodge: This new lodge is located in Rushaga sector, which is close to Nkuringo and just about a one-hour drive to the park headquarters. It offers affordable rooms with great views of the forest, and guests can enjoy delicious meals and a variety of activities, such as guided nature walks and cultural visits.
No matter which accommodation you choose, be sure to book in advance, especially during the high season when availability can be limited. With the right lodging, you’ll be well-rested and ready for your once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience in Nkuringo.
Trek Africa Expeditions: Your Trusted Tour Operator for Sustainable and Memorable Tours in East Africa
Trek Africa Expeditions is a locally owned and run tour operator with its head office located in Entebbe, Uganda. Our primary goal is to provide our clients with life-changing experiences while promoting sustainable tourism in East Africa. We specialize in creating bespoke tours and holidays that are tailored to your needs and preferences. We are members of AUTO (Association of Uganda Tour Operators) and are registered by UTB (Uganda Tourism Board), ensuring that we meet all the required standards and regulations.
Our team comprises experienced and knowledgeable travel consultants who are passionate about providing you with the best possible service. We have a good working relationship with Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), making it easy for us to secure gorilla trekking permits and organize gorilla safaris that start from the Nkuringo region in Bwindi.
At Trek Africa Expeditions, we pride ourselves on providing sustainable tourism experiences that benefit both our clients and the local communities. We work with local guides and accommodations that prioritize eco-friendliness and community involvement, ensuring that your trip leaves a positive impact on the areas you visit.
Our reputation speaks for itself, with high ratings and positive reviews on TripAdvisor and Safari Bookings. Whether you’re planning a gorilla trekking expedition, a cultural tour, or a wildlife safari, we have the expertise and experience to make your dream trip a reality. Contact Trek Africa Expeditions today to start planning your unforgettable adventure in Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Kenya, or Tanzania.
