Visiting Uganda For Mountain Gorilla Trekking Safari Experience : Uganda is the place to go if you want an incredible gorilla trekking safari experience! Visitors can experience gorilla trekking in Uganda to get up close and personal with these amazing creatures in their natural environment. It should come as no surprise that gorilla trekking is one of the most popular activities in Uganda, which is home to half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas. Although gorilla trekking is possible throughout the year in Uganda, the dry season (December to February and June to September) is the ideal time to go.
As you’ll be hiking through dense jungle at high altitude, gorilla trekking in Uganda requires some planning and preparation. But once you finally get to see a gorilla, we promise it will all be worth it! If you’re interested in gorilla trekking in Uganda, speak with a reliable Uganda tour operator such as Achieve Global safaris who can assist you in making travel arrangements.
WHERE CAN I TRACK GORILLAS IN UGANDA?
There are two locations in Uganda where gorilla tracking is possible. The most visited location in the southwest of the nation’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. More than half of the mountain gorillas in the world live in this park. The south of Uganda’s Mgahinga National Park is another location where gorilla tracking is possible. Mountain gorillas live in small numbers in the park. The most effective mode of transportation to the gorilla trekking locations in Uganda is by air. Road travel is the most effective way to reach Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. From Kampala, the trip takes about eight hours. From Entebbe International Airport, you can also fly domestically to Kihihi Airport. The trip from Kampala is estimated to take eight hours. The park entrance can also be reached by domestic flight from Entebbe to Kisoro, followed by a private car transfer.
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is a life-changing experience if you’re fortunate enough to get a permit. It’s amazing to be able to observe gorillas up close in their natural habitat because they are such calm, gentle animals.
The Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo treks are the four primary gorilla trekking routes in Bwindi. The most well-known and convenient route is Buhoma, while the most difficult is Nkuringo. Whichever path you take, you’re guaranteed to have a fantastic time. Just remember to bring your camera so you can record every moment! Here are some things you should be aware of if you plan to go gorilla trekking in Bwindi:
They can be scheduled through your tour operator or the Uganda Wildlife Authority. At elevations up to 3000 meters, you can find forests and gorillas. Finally, keep in mind that going in search of gorillas is an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It’s crucial to respect the gorillas and their habitat and adhere to your guide’s instructions.
Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga
Mgahinga is the place to go if you want an incredible gorilla trekking experience! The Mgahinga Gorilla Park is home to some of Rwanda’s most breathtaking scenery. In Mgahinga, there are three main gorilla trekking routes, each of which offers a distinctive experience. The Nyakagezi Mgahinga Trail, the first route, is the shortest and simplest of the three trails. It’s ideal for people who want to get close to gorillas but don’t want to put a lot of time into trekking. It takes about six hours to complete the second route, known as the Amahoro Route, which is a little more difficult. The Umubano Route, the third and last route, is the hardest and takes the longest to complete of the three. For those who like a challenge and want to see gorillas in their natural environment, this trail is ideal.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GO?
The months of December through February and Late May to October are the ideal ones to go gorilla trekking in Uganda. This time of year is dry and cool, which makes hiking through the forests easier. It is challenging to locate gorillas during the wet conditions of the rainy season, which lasts from March to May. The rainy season makes it more difficult to locate mountain gorillas because they are more likely to be at lower elevations. The months of December through February are the ideal ones to go gorilla trekking in Uganda. This time of year is dry and cool, which makes hiking through the forests easier. This time of year makes it easier to locate mountain gorillas because they are more likely to be found at higher elevations.
SECURING A GORILLA PERMIT
The first step in planning your trip is to obtain a gorilla permit, but that is just the start. There are many factors to take into account when organizing a trip to see gorillas, but with a little preparation and research, you can be sure to have an unforgettable experience. The Uganda Wildlife Authority is where you can submit an application for a gorilla trekking permit. You can apply for a permit online, and the process is fairly straightforward. After submitting your application for a permit, you must pay the fee and wait while your permit is processed. The cost of a ranger guide who will go on your trek with you is included in the permit price. The cost of lodging or transportation to and from the park is not included in the permit price.
HOW DIFFICULT IS GORILLA TREKKING?
It can be mentally and physically taxing to go gorilla trekking. The hikes can be demanding and exhausting, and the high altitude can make breathing difficult. You should also be ready for a run-in with a wild animal. Though they are usually calm, gorillas are still wild animals and can be dangerous.
Additionally, you ought to be ready for the possibility of seeing some unsettling sights. It’s possible to see sick or injured animals because the gorillas live in close quarters. Additionally, you ought to be ready for the possibility of seeing some unsettling sights. Although the experience can be taxing, it is also a fantastic chance to get up close and personal with these amazing animals. You will probably have an once-in-a-lifetime experience because the gorillas are friendly and inquisitive.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
Several necessities must be brought with you on your gorilla trekking trip. You must bring your passport and visa first. Your gorilla permit, which you can obtain from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, is another item you’ll need to bring. A copy of your yellow fever vaccination record must also be brought. All visitors to Uganda must have the certificate, which you must show at the airport when you arrive.
Additionally, you’ll need to bring some essential camping supplies. You should be prepared for an overnight camping trip because the hike to see the gorillas can be long and physically demanding. Bring a sleeping bag, a tent, and a mosquito net. Additionally, make sure to pack a daypack with some snacks and water. A first aid kit will be carried by the ranger guide, but you should still bring your own supplies. In conclusion, going gorilla trekking in Uganda is a wonderful experience, but you should be ready.
Wear loose-fitting clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty. Due to the possibility of rain and mud, you should also bring a raincoat and wear hiking boots. Binoculars are a smart idea to have on hand as well, so you can get a better view of the gorillas. Bring a camera along as well, but be careful not to startle the gorillas.
WHAT TO WEAR ON A GORILLA TREK
Wearing appropriate clothing is one of the most crucial rules to abide by when going gorilla trekking. To protect your skin from thorns and branches, you must wear long sleeves and pants. Additionally, make sure your footwear is comfortable for hiking with a closed toe. Since the ground may be slick, it’s critical that your footwear has good traction. Wearing a hat or scarf to shield your head from the sun is also crucial. You should dress in light-colored, breathable fabrics because it may be hot outside.
In conclusion, it’s crucial to dress appropriately for gorilla trekking. Your skin will be protected by long sleeves and pants, and you can maintain your balance by wearing closed-toe shoes with good traction. Light-colored, permeable fabrics will keep you cool, and a hat or scarf will shield your head from the sun.
THE RULES AROUND GORILLA TREKKING
At all times, you must abide by the park’s rules. At all times, you must remain with your ranger guide and heed their instructions. The gorillas should always be at least seven meters away from you. Additionally, keep quiet and avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that might startle the gorillas. When taking pictures of the gorillas, flash photography is not permitted. The gorillas must be kept at least seven meters away from you at all times, and you are not permitted to touch them. The gorillas will spend an hour with each group. Before you begin your trek, a ranger will give you a briefing and have you sign a waiver. The waiver is a legal declaration that you are aware of the dangers of gorilla trekking and that you agree not to hold the park’s management liable for any accidents or illnesses you may have.
You might be asked to leave the park, and your permit fee won’t be reimbursed if you violate the park’s rules.
ARE GORILLA SIGHTINGS GUARANTEED?
No, there’s no guarantee that you’ll see a gorilla. The gorillas are savage creatures that roam the forest all day long. The guides will make every effort to locate the gorillas, but given the variety of gorilla families that can be found in national parks, it is unlikely that you will see any of them, so you should be ready to walk for several hours in case you do.
ARE THERE AGE RESTRICTIONS FOR GORILLA TREKKING?
There are indeed minimum and maximum ages for gorilla trekking. The minimum age is 15 years old, and children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
THE MOUNTAIN GORILLA
The mountain gorilla is a subspecies of the eastern gorilla. The mountain gorilla is the largest and most endangered of the three subspecies. The Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda is where mountain gorillas can be found. Mountain gorillas are gentle, timid creatures that are also renowned for their intelligence. About 1,000 mountain gorillas remain in the world, making them an endangered species.
Mountain gorillas primarily consume plant material such as leaves, shoots, and stems. They also consume a small number of termites and ants. Mountain gorillas inhabit forests in the mountains between 2500 and 4000 meters above sea level. Mountain gorillas are extremely social creatures who live in packs of up to 30 individuals.
The group’s leader is the silverback mountain gorilla. The silverback mountain gorilla, who typically measures about twice as big as a female mountain gorilla, is the group’s biggest member. Mountain gorillas are affectionate creatures who have been known to accept humans into their social groups.
Mountain gorillas are a critically endangered species as a result of habitat loss, poaching, and disease. Mountain gorillas are hunted for their meat as well as body parts used in traditional medicine. Forest clearing for agriculture, logging, and mining all contribute to habitat loss. Mountain gorillas are particularly vulnerable to the disease because they are susceptible to human diseases such as influenza and measles.
Mountain gorilla conservation efforts are currently underway. Education programs, anti-poaching patrols, and habitat protection are among the initiatives. Mountain gorillas can also be found in zoos and wildlife refuges. Mountain gorillas are an amazing species that should be protected. We hope that through education and conservation efforts, we can ensure the survival of mountain gorillas for future generations to enjoy.
ACCOMMODATION DURING MOUNTAIN GORILLA TREKKING SAFARI
One accommodation option is to stay in a lodge. For those who don’t mind spending a little bit more and want to be close to the action, this is the best choice. You’ll have access to extra amenities like a pool, bar, and restaurant if you stay in a lodge. Going camping is an additional lodging choice. People who want to cut costs and don’t mind being a little further away from the action should choose this option. You’ll also have access to standard conveniences like restrooms and showers if you camp.
The final lodging choice is to stay in a nearby village. Those who want to learn about authentic African culture and don’t mind being a little further from the action should choose this option. Additionally, staying in a nearby village will give you access to necessities like restrooms and showers. So, which type of lodging would be best for you? Everything depends on your spending limit and the kind of experience you’re looking for. Don’t be afraid to ask your tour guide or lodging provider for more details if you have any.
Accommodation in Bwindi
The closest hotel to the park’s entrance is View Lodge. The 24-room lodge offers breathtaking forest views. There are 12 luxurious cottages at the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Lodge, which is situated right in the middle of the forest. There are 20 thatched-roof cottages at the Lake Mutanda Resort, which is situated on the shores of Lake Mutanda. There are eight opulent suites at the Mahogany Springs Lodge, which is situated on the edge of a forest.
Finally, there are numerous lodging choices close to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. You can pick from a resort on the shores of Lake Mutanda, a lodge with breathtaking views, or a lodge deep within the forest.
