Your complete Gorilla Safari Planner for 2024- 2025 in Uganda
Here is how to Plan your Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda – Step- by Step Advice
Planning a Gorilla Safari in Uganda – The Number One Mountain Gorilla Testing
How to Plan your Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda – Planning a Gorilla Safari in Uganda –Step-Step Advice: Planning Your Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda, the affordable Mountain Gorilla Country in Africa: If you’re planning a Gorilla Trekking Safari can feel overwhelming, and many people make costly mistakes along the way. To avoid this, it’s essential to have someone experienced to guide you through the process.
When planning your worry-free Gorilla Safari, choose a tour operator who understands the ins and outs of Gorilla Tourism. Look for an Association of Uganda Tour Operators member, as they are licensed and accredited by the Uganda Tourism Board. Most permits are allocated to these operators by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. (Only licensed Uganda Tourism Board Tour Operators can obtain Gorilla Permits from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, the issuing permit government agency.
Think of planning a Gorilla Safari like solving a puzzle; every piece must fit perfectly. You need to coordinate permits for the correct dates, arrival and departure, hotel accommodations, and transportation to the park. It’s also essential to match the location of your Gorilla lodge with the trekking starting point.
We highly recommend working with a professional with over 16 years of experience as a Gorilla Tour Operator. Often, using a tour operator does not increase the overall cost of your Safari; in fact, it can save you money by avoiding common pitfalls you might not be aware of.
At Kabiza Wilderness Safaris, we’ll work with you to customize your safSafari to fit your safSafarid preferences. Our motto is “Hakuna Matata”—No Worries, and that’s precisely what we aim to provide. Let us take care of the planning so you can focus on the adventure ahead!
How to Plan your Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda – Step- by Step Advice
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Which Country is best for my Gorilla Safari?
How to plan your Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda: You can track Mountain Gorillas in three countries: High-end Rwanda, Insecure DR Congo, and safe and affordable Uganda. Uganda has become the Premier Gorilla Trekking Destination in Africa. Look at Uganda’s advantages of encountering the Gentle Giants of the Forest.
The Uganda Gorilla Trekking Advantages that you can enjoy:
- $75 Gorilla Permit Price: A gorilla Safari in Uganda costs half the price in neighboring Rwanda without compromising the
quality of the experience.
- Gorilla Safaris at Half the Price or Less: A Gorilla Trekking Safari that includes midrange Luxury Lodging will usually be half the price or less of the same SafariSafari costs in ySafarihigh-end Rwanda.
- More Gorilla Permits: Uganda has half of the endangered Mountain Gorillas and more Habituated (used to Humans) Gorilla Families, meaning Uganda has the most available permits for Gorilla Trekking.
- Safe, Secure, Guerrilla-Free Trekking: Uganda is the only Mountain Gorilla Destination with no guerrilla acuities in the last twenty years. Uganda is safe for Gorilla Trekkers.
- Spend More Time with the Gorillas: On a Gorilla Habituation Experience Safari, you spend up to four hours with a Gorilla Family with only four participants. The Permit Cost is $1,500.
- Two Parks with Different Habitats where you can Track Gorillas: You can choose to track Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla Park. Many decide to follow the Gentle Giants in both Parks. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is made of ridges and valleys, while Mgahinga Gorilla Park trekking takes place on the sides of the Virunga Volcanoes.
- A more excellent Choice of Lodges: There is a broader variety of Gorilla Lodges to choose from in Uganda than in either Rwanda or Uganda.
- Beyond Gorilla Trekking Uganda offers more: Extend your Gorilla Trekking Safari by adding on Chimpanzee Trekking, Wildlife and Game viewing, Rhino Trekking on Foot, and Golden Monkey Trekking: Volcano Climbing, Rwenzori Mountain Climbing, and the best White-Water Rafting on the Nile.
- Private Gorilla Trekking: You and your family or friends can embark on a private trek without any other participants but you, the rangers, and porters at a fraction of what it costs you in Rwanda.
You will need a licensed Uganda Tourism Board Licensed Tour Operator for your Gorilla Safari!
Why must you use a licensed and accredited Ugandan tour operator by the Uganda Tourism Board? They are the only ones authorized to sell Gorilla Permits to International Tourists and East African expatriates. Uganda Wildlife Authority asks Tourists to verify that the Uganda Tourism Board licenses the Tour Operator.
Countless Tour Operators are offering Gorilla Tours in Uganda. Still, a smaller number are duly accredited and licensed by the Uganda Tourism Board and Association of Uganda Tour Operators members, such as Kabiza Wilderness Safaris.
””””’ I suggest that you plan Your Gorilla Encounter in Uganda! If you’re planning an unforgettable gorilla encounter in Uganda, consider us for your Gorilla, chimpanzee, and big game safari. We’ll ensure you have the necessary permits for your adventure. Since 2008, we’ve offered ” Hakuna Matata”—worry-free Safaris with Gorilla Permits.
With 15 years of experience, we specialize in crafting full-service mid-range and luxury Gorilla Safaris in Mgahinga Gorilla Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
We know Uganda inside and out; we live and work here. Obtaining Gorilla Permits from the Uganda Wildlife Authority is one of our specialties, and we understand the process thoroughly.
We are a proud member nation of Uganda Tour Operators and a member ended by the Uganda Tourism Board (License UTB/TT/82445).
Let us take the hassle out of planning your safaSafari to help youSafarige up-close encounters with a Gorilla family.
We would love to assist you in planning your complete Gorilla Safari this year or next. Please use the form below to contact us.
Kabiza Wilderness Safaris is a licensed Uganda Tourism Board Tour Operator and an official Safeles agent for Gorilla, Gorilla Habitat Permit, and Chimpanzee Tracking Permits in UWA-administrated areas such as Kibale Forest and elsewhere.
When is the Best Time of Year for a Gorilla Trekking Safari?
Gorilla Tracking takes place in Uganda all year long. There are two rainy seasons, during which the trails become pretty muddy. One must realize that it does not rain all day during the rainy seasons; it will often rain during the night and early morning hours, and the Sun will still come out most days.
Month by Month – High Seasons are the Dry Seasons of the Year
The busiest seasons for gorilla trekking are mid-June to September. October is the shoulder transition month, moving toward the rainy season, with fewer tourists in September and October.
The other High-and Dry Season is from mid-December to March; March is the transition or shoulder season month.
Low Seasons – Rainy Seasons of the Year
April to mid-June is part of the rainy season. Luxury Lodges lower their rates during those times, but dates vary Lodge by Lodge. The benefits for some are fewer people, and the Savannah parks begin to bloom afresh.
November into mid-December is the other rainy season in Uganda. Rainy Season in Uganda does not mean monsoon-like weather. Most rain falls at night, and the Sun still comes out, but the trails are muddy.
Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking takes place in Rainforests. There, it can rain anytime. However, most rain falls at night or early pre-dawn morning hours. Read more about UgUganda’s Best Time of the Year for a Gorilla Trekking Safari here.
What do you want to see and do on your Gorilla Safari?
Here are some of the Things to do and see in addition to Gorilla Trekking
- Chimpanzee Trekking: Kibale Forest, Kalinzu Forest, Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth Park, Semliki Park. The best park for Chimpanzee Trekking is in Kibale Forest, where 12 other primates reside.
- Nocturnal walk in Kibale Rainforest: An out-of-the-ordinary experience where you encounter the rainforest creatures of the night.
- Golden Monkey Trekking: The golden monkey is a beautiful, endangered species that lives in the Bamboo Forest of the Virunga Volcanoes in Mgahinga Gorilla Park.
- Savannah Wildlife: Kidepo Valley Park, Murchison Falls Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, Semliki Park, Kabwoya and Pan Upe Wildlife Reserves, Lake Mburo Park.
- Hot Air Balloon Safari: At dawn in Murchison Falls Park, UgUganda’s largest and most popular Savannah Park. A traditional Sparkling Wine Bush Breakfast follows the Hot Air Balloon Safari. Plan your Safari in Uganda for 2023
- Hiking—Climbing: Mgahinga Gorilla Park Volcanoes, Bwindi Impenetrable in and near Queen Elizabeth Forest, the Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon, including the Foothills, Mount Elgon, Kidepo Valley, Lake Mburo Park, Semliki Park, and Kibale Forest.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Locations in Uganda: Uganda without the Crowds
- Authentic Africa: It can still be found in Uganda, in places like Kidepo Valley Park, as it was 50 years ago.
- Nile Adrenaline Pumping Adventures in Jinja: White Water Rafting, Kayaking, mild to wild.
- Birding: Uganda is the best destination for birders in Africa.
- Cultural Encounters in Uganda include Time with the Batwa, Karimojong, and Ik Peoples.
- Relax and Chill out: At the end of the SafariSafarid, a few days at the Tropical Sandy Beach Ssese Islands, Bulago IsIsland’s Pineapple Beach resort is perfect for relaxing.
How many Days will I need for my Gorilla Safari?
The number of days depends on the activities that you choose. A 3-day Gorilla Trekking Safari is like dipping your toes into a swimming pool and calling it swimming. Ten days or longer allows you to immerse yourself in Safari Life and offers various activities and places.
Below are some examples of Gorilla Safaris for you to consider. All safaris are changeable to your liking.
- 3-Day Gorilla Trekking or Habituation Safari: The minimum Time for a Gorilla Trekking or Habitat Experience Safari is three days.
- 5-DAy Gorilla Wildlife Safari: The Safari includes Gorilla Trekking and wildlife, including the Tree Climbing Lions of Ishasha.
- 5 Day Gorilla – Chimpanzee Trekking Safari: Trek Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Chimpanzees in Kibale Forest.
- 8-Day Gorilla Trekking – Hiking – Dugout Canoeing – Volcano Climbing Safari: Trek Gorillas in the Buhoma region of Bwindi Forest. Hike through the forest to the southern area. There you trek gorillas again. Hike to Lake Mutanda. Climb a Volcano in Mgahinga Gorilla Park.
- 8-Day Gorilla Trekking – Wildlife – Chimpanzee Trekking Safari: Gorilla Trekking or Habituation Experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
- 12-Day Gorilla—Chimpanzee Wildlife Safari: This Safari includes trekking with Gorillas and Chimpanzees, Queen Elizabeth Park, Murchison Falls Park, and Rhino Trekking.
- 14-Day Gorilla—Chimpanzee Wildlife—White Water Rafting on the Nile: The Safari includes Gorilla—chimpanzee TrGorilla Queen Elizabeth Park, Murchison Falls Park, Rhino Trekking, and Jinja on the Nile with White Water Rafting.
- 20-Day Gorilla—Chimpanzee—Wildlife Safari —Jinja on the Nile—Mount Elgon-Sipi Falls—and the remote Kidepo Valley Park: This Safari covers most of Uganda.
The above-suggested Safari types gave you the days to incorporate various activities into your Safari. For more oSafariinge Gorillas, go here; for Luxury Gorilla Safaris, click here.
The Activities and Parks you choose determine the number of Days you need for your Safari. You can also give us the number of days, and we will design a suitable safari for you. Additionally, the kind of accommodation you want further determines the cost of the Safari. When you check out Safariius, let us know if you like midrange, luxury, or exclusive Hhotelsand Llodges.
What Should I wear tracking Gorillas?
Here is practical advice about what to wear while Gorilla Trekking in Uganda. Often, Trekkers are not dressed right for the occasion, which can spoil your day, and your focus might not be on the Gorillas but personal discomfort and misery. Wearing suitable clothing and footwear is about protection.
Packing for your Gorilla Safari – including Gorilla Wear and Gear
- Daypack: Preferably a waterproof daypack, you can use it as a carry-on flying to Uganda. Pack all essentials inside the
daypack.
- Hiking Boots: Make sure that they have good tread. Boots provide ankle support and help you react to muddy trails. Also, have a good pair of Merino wool socks.
- Long Trouser: They will protect you from nettles and thorns. Tuck the trousers into your socks for added protection from ants.
- Long-Sleeved Shirt: Neutral in color. Again, this is for your comfort and protection.
- Rain Jacket or Poncho: Pack into your daypack. You never know when it will train. You are in an Afro-montane Rainforest.
- Tough Gardening Gloves protect your hands from thorns, nettles, and sharp branches.
- Wide Brimmed Hat: It gives you protection from the Sun.
- Camera Equipment – Binoculars: Ensure extra batteries and storage devices. Put them into Ziploc bags. Binoculars are not needed if you are not a birder.
- Insect Repellent, Sun Lotion, and Sunglasses: We recommend the effective Australian RID Insect Repellent, good sun blocker cream, and sunglasses.
Read more about Gorilla Gear and Wear here. Read more detailed information about packing for a Gorilla Safari here. Here is more information about packing for your Safari that you may find helpful
Gorilla Permits in Uganda
Permits for Gorilla Trekking and the Gorilla Habituation Experience for international Tourists and expats can only be obtained if you use a licensed and accredited Tour Operator with the Uganda Tourism Board. The ordinary Gorilla Trekking Permit is $750, and $1,500 the Gorilla Habituation Permit is $1,500 until June 30, 2026. Expats living in East Africa are at a lower price than East African Residents
Licensed by the Uganda Tourism Board, Operators are authorized sales agents for Uganda Wildlife Authority Gorilla and Gorilla Habituation Experience Permits. Kabize WildernessSafaris is licensed by the Uganda Tourism Board and a member in full standing with the Association of Uganda Tour Operators—AUTO.
Kabiza Wilderness Safaris has created midrange and luxury Gorilla Trekking and Gorilla Habitat Experience Safaris since 208. We are FYKK members of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators—AUTO and are licensed by the Uganda Tourism Board (License UTB/TT/82445). As a licensed tour operator, we have direct access to Uganda Wildlife Authority Gorilla and Gorilla Habitat Permits.
Please note: There are hundreds of tour operators advertising Gorilla Safaris. However, only licensed, accredited, and UTB-approved Tour Operators can access official and legitimate permits, which cost $750 for Gorilla Trekking or $1,500 for the Gorilla Habitat Experience Trek.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority asks you to verify that the tour operator you are dealing with is licensed. Otherwise, you might have regrettable problems while on a Gorilla Safari in Uganda.
Choosing a Gorilla Lodge:
We recommend a mid-range or luxury lodge rather than a budget or shoe-string Lod for a gorilla trekking safari. Let your focus be on the once-in-a-lifetime Gorilla Encounter Experience and not on a club that is not up to your expectations or standards.
You will need a tour operator, such as Kabiza Wilderness Safaris, to book you into the Lodge closest to where you will trek the gorillas. Four trailheads in Bwindi Impenetrable ForestMid-range lodges abound in and near Bwindi Forest around each trailhead. Luxury Lodges are concentrated in the Bhuma area, where gorilla trekking took place in the 1990s.
Luxury lodges and exclusive Lodges are more limited in the Rushaga and Nkuringo in South Bwindi Forest. Mgahinga Gorilla Park has the luxury Mount Gahinga Lodge just at the park entrance. Midrange Lodges are located on Lake Mutanda.
All lodges have on-site security. No security breaches have been reported at Mgahinga Gorilla Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest lodges.
Advice on Booking your Flight to Uganda for your Gorilla Safari:
Try to resist the temptation to book a flight deal to Uganda before you have a good idea of your gorilla safari plans. First, having your safari plans and booking flights is always better, giving you more freedom to pick a gorilla safari that suits you and your budget. Also, having set travel dates (due to flights ) limits your choices, and you could miss fantastic travel deals.
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