Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda takes you to witness the profound connection between humanity and the majestic Mountain Gorillas as you journey through the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or the Virungas. These great apes, exclusive to Uganda, are among the world’s last remaining gentle giants, with only half of the global population residing here.

With just 1070 Mountain Gorillas left in the world, the urgency to protect them is paramount.Scientifically known as Gorilla beringei beringei, the Mountain Gorilla is a subspecies of the eastern gorilla, standing at an average height of 4-6 feet and weighing between 300-485 pounds. Endemic to the montane and bamboo forests of Central and East Africa, they inhabit the volcanic mountain slopes, ranging from altitudes of 2,200 to 4,300 meters above sea level. Classified as endangered by the IUCN Red List, their survival depends on conservation efforts.Thriving in the harshest environments, Mountain Gorillas can be found in protected areas spanning the central eastern Virunga ranges and the 331 square kilometers of the Bwindi Impenetrable Rainforest National Park. These incredible creatures can be encountered in Uganda’s Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks.

98% HUMAN DNA

50% Are Left in Uganda

Gorillas are Herbivores

What to Expect on the Uganda Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Are you eagerly anticipating your upcoming Uganda gorilla trekking tour? Let Dagiz Travel guide you through the wonders and excitement that await you in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. As you embark on this extraordinary journey, here’s what you can expect on our Uganda gorilla trekking tours.

Expert Guidance: Our knowledgeable guides ensure your safety and provide insights on gorillas and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Up-Close Gorilla Encounters: Witness the majestic gorillas in their natural habitat and observe their playful interactions.
Pristine Beauty: Trek through dense rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a breathtaking backdrop for your adventure.

Gorilla Trekking Safari Offers

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda is an outdoor activity where tourists are allowed to see mountain gorillas for one hour after purchasing a gorilla permit in Uganda. On every East African Safari traveller’s bucket list is gorilla trekking in the tropical jungles of Uganda. Encounter Africa has been in the forefront of creating unforgettable memories of seeing the mountain gorilla in the last decade and we celebrate this achievement by continuing to take our travelers through thick, misty, wet and impenetrable jungles and Volcanoes to spend those memorable 60 minutes with the mighty giant cousin and his family. We specialize in preparing gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda. Check our blog for first hand information on gorilla permits prices and availability, which gorilla family you should track, when is the best time to visit mountain gorillas, what to pack, how to get there and what should be the best choice of accommodation.

What is included with the gorilla permit?

Dagiz Travel can only guarantee if one has secured a gorilla permit for Volcanoes National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga. Your gorilla permit grants you the unique opportunity to spend one hour with mountain gorillas in the breathtaking surroundings of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda), Mgahinga, or Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda). The permit cost includes entry fees for the respective parks, giving you access to the gorillas’ natural habitat. Additionally, the services of experienced National Park guides and rangers, who will accompany you through the forest and enhance your gorilla trekking experience, are also part of the package. To ensure a seamless adventure, Dagiz Travel will take care of securing your permits well in advance, ensuring a hassle-free and unforgettable encounter with these magnificent creatures.

What are the chances of seeing a mountain gorilla?

We are delighted to assure you that the likelihood of encountering gorillas in either Bwindi National Park or Volcanoes National Park is an impressive 98%. It’s common for some tourists to consider booking multiple gorilla treks, fearing they might miss out on seeing gorillas during the first trek and hoping for better luck on subsequent treks. The reality is that Gorilla Trekking in Uganda specifically in Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Volcanoes is well-organized. Every day, an advanced team of trackers sets out early to locate the gorilla groups.

How To Get A Gorilla Trekking Permit In Uganda

Each gorilla permit in Uganda costs US $700. Previously, in April, May, and November, permits were available for US $450, but this pricing is no longer valid.

On any given day, approximately 72 people venture into Bwindi to observe gorillas, with only 8 individuals permitted to visit a single gorilla family. It’s highly recommended to book your gorilla permit through a safari agent to avoid the common mistake of booking a gorilla family that is far from your chosen accommodation. The routes to Bwindi and its various regions can be challenging, given its remote location. Attempting to organize a gorilla trek independently to save costs may result in higher expenses. Safari guides are trained to assist you in navigating these complexities effectively.

Navigating the dense forest thickets of both Bwindi and Mgahinga demands careful consideration of your attire. Being located near the equator means you must be prepared for rain regardless of the time of year. While shielding yourself from the elements is crucial, maintaining comfort during the 2-6 hour trek is equally important, necessitating lightweight and breathable clothing.

What to Wear during Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The key is to cover your skin to shield against forest critters, especially fire ants, and thorny vegetation, while ensuring you remain dry and comfortable. Here’s a list of essential clothing:

1. Sturdy, waterproof trekking shoes or boots for reliable traction.
2. Lightweight waterproof trekking pants or trousers.
3. Long socks to pull over your pants/trousers, providing added protection. Waterproof gaiters offer enhanced defense.
4. Waterproof jacket, raincoat, or windbreaker to repel rain and wind.
5. Long-sleeve trekking T-shirt, preferably made from moisture-wicking fabric like Dri-FIT.
6. Gardening or outdoor gloves to safeguard against thorns and facilitate maneuvering through challenging terrain.
7. Consider carrying rehydration salts to replenish electrolytes, as dehydration can occur during extended treks despite provided water.

By outfitting yourself with these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the rugged terrain and unpredictable weather conditions of Uganda’s gorilla trekking destinations.

Walking sticks are provided for you.

Choosing the best safari lodge or accommodation will depend on how much you can afford. Some lodges charge as high as, $2500 while the budget ones can pocket as low as $ 50 for a double room. Its all about the facilities, location, food, services and so much more.

Most of the lodges near Bwindi are situated in the Buhoma region. From your accommodation base in Buhoma, you can access both the Buhoma routes and the Ruhija routes for gorilla trekking in Uganda.

Throughout the years, simpler establishments like Engagi Lodge and Haven Lodge have garnered loyal followings. For those seeking mid-range options, Mahogany Springs and Buhoma Lodge are renowned favorites, offering reliable amenities and services. For a more upscale experience, Gorilla Forest Camp and Bwindi Volcanoes Lodge stand out as two of the finest options available, providing exceptional comfort and luxury amidst the wilderness of Bwindi.

Currently, there is only one tourist lodge available in Mgahinga, the luxurious Mount Gahinga Lodge. As a sister property to Volcanoes Bwindi and Kyambura Gorge, this lodge offers a stylish and comfortable option for travelers. Situated just a few hundred meters from the park gate, it boasts lovely gardens that bring the wildlife right to your doorstep. Whether you’re seeking relaxation after a day of trekking or simply wish to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Mgahinga, Mount Gahinga Lodge provides an exceptional retreat.

Where To Stay on a gorilla trekking tour

Due to sharing 98% of our genes, gorillas are susceptible to airborne diseases like flu, making COVID-19 a significant threat to their survival. To protect gorillas during treks:

1. Maintain a distance of at least 7 meters from the gorillas.
2. Only individuals aged 15 years or older are permitted to participate in gorilla treks.
3. Limit your observation time to one hour.
4. Wearing masks is mandatory to minimize the risk of transmission.
5. Avoid sneezing or coughing near the gorillas.
6. Practice regular hand sanitization and adhere to other standard operating procedures (SOP) guidelines to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and other potential diseases.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Is A Gorilla trek In Uganda?

Mountain gorilla trekking can take from 20 minutes to quarters of the day. This depends on several factors that include mountain gorilla movements, where the gorilla stayed the previous night and the mood of the gorillas. It may also depend on the group since the guides/rangers move following the slowest person in the group. Gorilla walking safaris is happy to provide all relevant advice on gorilla trekking.

What Is The Age Limit For Trekking Mountain Gorillas?

How Many People per gorilla Trek?

When is the best time to trek gorillas in Uganda?

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Gorilla habituation Introduction.

In July 2014, The Uganda wildlife Authority introduced a Gorilla habituation experience, giving paying participants a chance to partake in this activity with the Gorilla doctors, researchers, porters and Rangers. A fee of $1500 was attached to the experience while spending maximum 4 hours following and monitoring the Gorilla Family unlike the1 hours viewing Gorilla tracking experience. Gorilla Habituation starts as early as 6am when the gorillas start their day activities.Gorilla habituation Experience is apparently done in Rushaga sector where 2 groups are being monitored for human presence. Bikingi & Bushaho are the two families currently being monitored and being habituated. Because of the dangers and high adrenaline involved in the gorilla habituation experience, the price tag has been doubled to USD 1500.

What is Gorilla Habituation Experience?

Gorilla Habituation experience is a slow process where wild mountain gorilla get used to the presence of human. Gorilla habituation is a gradual process of preparing a family of wild mountain gorilla for human presence in the forest. This is a gradual process done keeping distance and reduce as time goes by, A period that takes roughly 5 years so the wild Gorillas are accustomed to human presence. This is done with the help of Rangers, porters, Gorilla Doctors and researchers following the gorilla family daily so they can get accustomed to their presence.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi alone is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Finding these beasts in the dense forest is no easy task, and gorilla treks here can last 7 hours or more.

However, those who persevere are rewarded with an exceptional experience. Getting up close to these animals in the wild is arguable the most impressive wildlife encounter in the world.

Bwindi impenetrable forest park is not just about the gorillas. Visitors can also visit the Batwa pygmy community, take forest walks, spot birds and view other primates like Chimpanzees. Talking about chimpanzees, Bwindi is one of the few national parks in the world where mountain gorillas and chimpanzee live together. The chimps may be sighted while tracking the gorillas.