How to access Gorilla trekking National Parks in Uganda
Budget Mid-Range or Luxury Tanzania Safaris
The best way to see the primates and the big 5 animals in Africa is to Combine Chimp and Gorilla trekking in Uganda with Masai Mara Safari. Embark on the ultimate African adventure by combining two incredible wildlife experiences chimpanzee and gorilla trekking in Uganda with a safari in the Masai Mara in Kenya to see the Big 5 animals and the Great Wildebeest Migration. Here’s a suggested itinerary to Combine Chimp and Gorilla trekking in Uganda with Masai Mara:
Day 1-3: Arrival in Uganda – Entebbe to Kibale Forest
- Arrive at Entebbe International Airport and transfer to Kibale Forest National Park.
- Spend the next two days trekking through the lush forests of Kibale in search of chimpanzees. Witness these incredible primates in their natural habitat, observing their behavior and interactions.
Day 4-6: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Travel to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to almost half of the world’s mountain gorilla population.
- Over the next three days, embark on gorilla trekking expeditions deep into the forest. Encounter these majestic creatures up close and witness their awe-inspiring presence in the wild.
Day 7-8: Transfer to Masai Mara, Kenya
- Fly from Uganda to Nairobi, Kenya, and then take a connecting flight to the Masai Mara.
- Upon arrival, begin your safari adventure in one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife reserves.
- Spend the next two days exploring the vast savannah plains of the Masai Mara, home to an abundance of wildlife including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros). Witness thrilling wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes.
Day 9-10: Masai Mara Safari Continued
- Continue your safari experience, venturing deeper into the Masai Mara to discover its diverse ecosystems and iconic wildlife.
- Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives, guided by experienced rangers who will share their knowledge of the region’s flora and fauna.
Day 11: Departure
- After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for your flight back to Nairobi.
- Depending on your departure time, you may have the opportunity to explore Nairobi or relax at a day room before your onward journey.
This combined itinerary offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife in their natural habitats, from the dense forests of Uganda to the vast plains of the Masai Mara. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the African wilderness and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Cost and Getting Gorilla Permits in Uganda
The Gorilla permit in Uganda Costs $800 Per person per trek for the foreign nonresidents, $700 Per person for residents, $500 Rest of Africa and 300,000 Uganda shillings for East African Citizens (Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi and South Sudan), this gives you an opportunity to spend one hour encounter with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Uganda has over 20 habituated gorilla family groups found in Bwindi and Mgahinga. Gorilla trekking in Uganda also gives you an option to spend more time with the mountain gorillas through Gorilla habituation experience which is only done in Bwindi Forest, a gorilla habituation permit costs $1500 per person giving you an opportunity to spend 4 hours encounter with the semi habituated mountain gorillas under the guidance of trackers and researchers as opposed to one hour for the normal trekking. Getting gorilla permits in Uganda can be done directly by booking them through Uganda Wildlife Authority or through a trusted tour operator in Uganda like Eco Adventure Safaris.
What is the age limit for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi?
The minimum age limit for Gorilla Trekking is 12 years and the maximum age depends on your fitness levels. Gorilla trekking for elders is now made possible especially in Bwindi Forest through provision of sedan chair carriers, these chairs are used to carry those who feel unfit and are unable to walk into the forest at the time of their trek, you will be carried by potters to and from the forest during your trek, hiring the sedan chair can done in advance or at the day of the trek and price ranges from 400-500 dollars.
What is the best time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?
Uganda Gorilla Trekking from Kigali in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park or Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is done throughout the year and the best time to do a gorilla trekking in Africa is during the drier months of January, February, June to early September, this is makes it easier to travel to the park and gives a clear view of gorillas given the vegetation cover is not too much high grown.
What to pack for Uganda Gorilla Trekking?
During gorilla tracking you will need a comfortable, hard wearing, pair of walking shoes or boots. Conditions are generally very muddy in the forest when it is raining. There are uphill sections which may be quite steep and strenuous. It is also advisable to wear a long sleeve cotton shirt and lightweight long trousers to protect yourself from the undergrowth, stinging nettles and biting ants. Suggested Items to pack for Gorilla trekking;
• Insect Repellent
• Torch/Flashlight – and Spare Batteries
• Wet Wipes
• Water Bottle
• Camera, lenses etc
• Comfortable walking/hiking boots & socks
• Gardening gloves for gorilla tracking
• Sandals/strops/walking shoes
• Hat and Sunscreen
• Rain Jacket
• Sweater/fleece
• Swimwear
• Binoculars (game/bird watching)
Why Combine Chimp and Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with Masai Mara Through Eco Adventure Safaris.
Eco Adventure Safaris will help you book your Uganda Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park contact us and we advise you on the booking process. We also have different gorilla trekking safari packages ranging from budget, and mid-range to luxury options that we can book for you including the gorilla permits. Feel free to check out our trip advisor reviews and read from a community of happy satisfied clients. With us, you can be rest assured of a memorable Uganda safari holiday. We are devoted to providing excellent service and customer satisfaction. Our team of excellent tour consultants is always willing to help answer all your safari questions. We guarantee you a great gorilla tour in Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo with us.