Gorilla Trekking Tours | Uganda Safaris and Tours
19 May 2020

11 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari

11 Days Combined Rwanda Uganda Safari-2 Gorilla Treks, Chimps, Wildlife

Get up close with the great apes of Uganda and Rwanda on this 11 Days combined Rwanda Uganda Safari which involves Trekking Gorillas twice in both Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. The 11 Days combined Rwanda Uganda Safari also includes Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest National Park, Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park-Rwanda and Wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

11 Days Combined Rwanda Uganda Safari-2 Gorilla Treks, Chimps, Wildlife
Gorillas in Bwindi

11 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari Itinerary

Day 1 : Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

You will be picked up from either your hotel in Kigali or from the airport by our company representative who will take you on a tour of Kigali city to visit the gisozi genocide site, local markets and later transfer you north-wards to Volcanoes national park in Musanze province. On arrival you will check in to your lodge for overnight and dinner.

 Day 2 : Gorilla Trekking and Ibywacu Cultural Village visit

After an early breakfast, you will embark on your first gorilla trekking in East Africa as you move to the park headquarters for briefing with your packed lunch. The time taken hiking for gorillas highly depends on the location of the gorillas since they are wildlife animals in the jungle. After locating the gorillas you will spend a maximum of one hour with them.

After lunch go for a cultural experience tour at the Ibyiwacu cultural village to learn about the Kinyarwanda culture. Dinner and overnight at your lodge.

 Day 3 : Golden Monkey Tracking

After break fast you will head out to  track the golden monkeys and after you will stay at leisure for the rest of the evening. Dinner and overnight

Day 4 : Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi Uganda

Today wake up at leisure and transfer to Lake Bunyonyi. During the journey, you will encounter beautiful sceneries Uganda and Rwanda have to offer and on arrival you will have lunch and later go for an afternoon boat ride on the lake which will reward you with sights of different birds on the many small islands on the lake. Dinner and overnight your preferred lodge.

 Day 5 : Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Today you will wake up at leisure and relax in your room with beautiful views of Lake Bunyonyi. Later in the afternoon , you will transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable national park to spend a night in the middle of the jungle and on arrival you will check in to your lodge and relax awaiting gorilla trekking the next day.

 Day 6 : Second Gorilla Trekking

After a heavy breakfast, proceed to the park head quarters with your packed lunch for briefing about the dos and donts of gorilla trekking. You will then enter the thick impenetrable forest in search for the rare intriguing giants. After a full hour with them while observing and learning their behavior as you take photos return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 7 : Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

After breakfast, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park arriving in time for lunch. Dinner and overnight at your lodge.

Day 8 : Game drive and afternoon Launch cruise

After breakfast, you will go for the morning game drive in Kasenyi area to search for different wildlife animals missed out in the previous game drive. Later visit the Katwe explosion craters. Here you will spot Kitagata Lake and the enormous Kamengo Crater and this will give you clear view of different wildlife around the Park. In the afternoon, go for the launch cruise along the Kazinga Channel where you will be rewarded with wildlife sights of species like the Hippopotamuses, Waterbucks, Crocodiles and a variety of Water Birds like the black bee- eater, several species of falcons and the raptors. Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge

 Day 9 : Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park

After breakfast, depart Queen Elizabeth National Park for Kibale Forest National Park  the most popular destination for Chimpanzee tracking and also a good habitat for a lot of bird species and other primates. En-route to the Park you will enjoy a game drive that will expose you to different wildlife species such as Elephants, Buffalos, Uganda Kob and if you are lucky, you may also spot the Hyena, Lions, Leopard and perhaps the Giant Forest Hog. On arrival in the afternoon, check in to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

 Day 10: Chimp tracking and Bigodi Swamp walk

After breakfast you will transfer to Kanyachu park headquarters for briefing about the rules and regulations of chimpanzee trekking before you go for your morning Chimpanzee tracking experience. You will penetrate into the forest under the guidance of an armed ranger for the tracking and along the way you may spot other primates and that include Varvet Monkey, L’hoest, Blue Monkey, Red-Tailed Monkey, Grey Cheeked Mangabey, Black And White Colobus Monkey and many more. Return to the lodge for Lunch and later go for the afternoon Bigodi swamp walk to search for different bird species. Dinner and overnight at your lodge.

Day 11 : Transfer to Kampala

After breakfast, you will transfer back to Kampala reaching in time for Lunch and depending on the schedule of your flight, you will be transferred to the Airport to catch your flight back home.

 End of 11 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari

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16 May 2020

Chimpanzee Tracking Uganda Price

Chimpanzee Tracking Uganda Price-Cost of Chimpanzee Permit In Kibale

A Chimpanzee Tracking Permit in Kibale Costs 200$ per person Per day for foreign Nationals doing ordinary chimp trekking and 250$ Per Person Per Day for a Chimp habituation experience. The Average Price of a Chimpanzee Tracking tour in Uganda is 700$ per person sharing in a mid-range accommodation for a 3 day Chimp tracking Tour.

Tourists should note that a total Kibale Chimpanzee tracking Safari price or cost is made up of a number of individual costs including Chimpanzee trekking Uganda permit cost, Chimpanzee tour accommodation cost, transportation cost and Tour operator markup cost if you book through a tour operator or travel agency. Below is an explanation of  the Chimpanzee trekking price or cost determinants in Uganda.

Chimpanzee Tracking Uganda Price-Cost of Chimpanzee Permit In Kibale
A Baby Chimp in Kibale forest Uganda

Chimpanzee Trekking Permit Cost

A Chimpanzee tracking permit to track Chimpanzees in Kibale forest national park costs 200 USD for a standard chimpanzee trekking and 250 USD for Chimpanzee habituation experience, a chimpanzee tracking permit in Budongo forest costs 80 USD  while in Kyambura Gorge a chimpanzee tracking permit costs 50 USD. The above costs cater for park entry fees, Chimps viewing and services of a ranger guide to take you to the forest and note that they are set by Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Note that the price and cost of a Chimpanzee tracking permit differs from one place to another.

Chimpanzee trekking accommodation cost or price.

The cost of accommodation on a Chimpanzee trekking Uganda safari is another factor considered when getting a total Chimpanzee trekking Uganda safari price or cost. The several Lodges or Guest Houses options around or near by the chimp tracking parks cost from as low as 50 USD to 900 USD per person per night. Frequently used lodges include Rubalika Safari Lodge, Chimpanzee Forest Lodge, Chimpundu Lodge, Kyaninga lodge, Kibale forest camp, Ndali lodge , Primate lodge, Chimp Nest and Kibale safari Lodges among others.

Chimpanzee tracking Uganda Transport cost or price

The other factor that makes up a Kibale Chimpanzee trekking Uganda safari price or cost is the cost of transport to the parks. You might use a public bus which costs less than 10 USD from the capital Kampala or a pre booked safari car which costs between 150 USD to 300 USD per day inclusive of the car driver and fuel.

Other costs that you may incur on a Chimpanzee trekking Uganda safari include tipping and personal related costs like buying art facts and drinks.

CONTACT US for information, inspiration and a price quotation for a Chimpanzee trekking Uganda safari or combined gorillas, Chimpanzees and wildlife Uganda safari, Rwanda safari or Tanzania safari tour.

16 May 2020

Chimpanzee Trekking Uganda Facts

Chimpanzee Trekking Uganda Facts: Must read information about Chimpanzees

Chimpanzee trekking Uganda: Arguably the best destination for chimpanzee trekking in Africa, Uganda is home to over 5700 Chimpanzees in their natural habitat and these can found and tracked in the major National parks of Kibale forest, Kalinzu forest, Budongo forest, Kyambura gorge and Toro-Semliki wildlife reserve. They can also be viewed in zoos and sanctuaries like Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Uganda Wildlife Education Center.

Chimpanzee Trekking Uganda Facts: Must read information about Chimpanzees
Chimpanzee family in Kibale forest

Standard Chimpanzee Trekking Uganda or tracking Vs Chimpanzee Habituation Experience.

Both Standard Chimpanzee trekking or tracking  and Chimpanzee habituation experience are done in Kibale forest National Park and the difference is that with Standard Chimpanzee tracking tourists are allowed to spend one hour with the Chimpanzees after locating them while for the Chimpanzee habituation experience tourists spend the whole day with the Chimpanzees.

Best place to trek or see Chimpanzees in Uganda.

Kibale forest National Park is by far the best place to track chimpanzees in Uganda and East Africa at large. The forest is home to over 1500 chimpanzees and other several species of primates. It has three habituated Chimpanzee communities with one community being set apart for tourists while the other two for researchers.

Among other primate species found in Kibale Forest National Park are the L’Hoests monkey, Red colobus, Mangabeys, bush babys, baboons, Red tailed monkeys and the blue monkeys to mention but a few. Additionally birding and wildlife viewing can be done in Kibale forest and and on these tour one will encounter over 350 bird species in the Bigodi swamp including African grey parrot, hornbills and wildlife like Buffaloes, antelopes, otters, forest hogs and Elephants among others.

 How long is a Chimpanzee trekking Uganda?

During the standard Chimpanzee trekking safari tour, tourists are allowed to spend one with the Chimpanzees after locating them while during the Chimpanzee habituation experience, tourists are allowed to spend a full day with the chimpanzees.

Is there an age limit for Chimpanzee trekking Uganda?

Yes only tourist above 15 years of age can track chimpanzees in Uganda

Best time to track Chimpanzees in Kibale and the chances of seeing Chimpanzees on a Chimpanzee trekking Uganda safari.

The best time to track chimpanzees in Kibale forest National Park is during the rainy season because the mobility of the Chimpanzees is limited and therefore easy to find. Note that during the dry season chimpanzee tend to move deeper into the forests looking for food

Chimpanzee tracking rules and regulations and precautions to take on a Chimpanzee trekking Uganda safari 

  • Carry face Masks
  • Carry hand sanitizers
  • Frequently wash your hands with soap
  • Children aren’t allowed to track chimpanzee.
  • Do not litter the forest while tracking chimpanzee.
  • It is not recommended to track chimpanzee while suffering from flue and diarrhea.
  • Keep a distance of about 8 meters away from the Chimpanzees.
  • Avoid eating near the chimpanzees.
  • Do not talk too loud, make fun of or try to intimidate/provoke chimpanzees.
  • Taking photos using flash is not allowed.
  • Always follow instructions from the forest guides.
  • Try to visit the toilet before heading out for trekking.
  • Do not head out tracking without a guide.
  • Do not Smoke while tracking chimps. 

What to pack for chimpanzee tracking Uganda and Chimpanzee trekking Uganda Packing list and guide

A Chimpanzee trekking Uganda safari requires careful planning for one to have a successful and comfortable Chimpanzee trekking tour. Below is our recommended Chimpanzee trekking Uganda packing list and guide:

  • Suitable and comfortable shoes that can navigate through a muddy terrain and steep areas.
  • Right clothing selection especially long sleeved clothes to protect you from sharp thickets and of course rain jackets during the rainy season.
  • Binoculars to help you capture all the moments in details
  • Insect repellent to avoid mosquitoes and other wild insects bite.
  • Walking stick to help you navigate through the rugged terrain easily and firmly.
  • Processed and packed snack with drinking water to avoid upsets and sickness out of hunger or thirst along the way though this is not so crucial as we provide packed lunch with you to the forest.
  • Good camera and extra batteries to help you take photos of chimpanzees in the dense forests and tall trees.

CONTACT US for information, inspiration and the best Chimpanzee trekking Uganda Safari.

 

12 May 2020

Best Gorilla Trekking Company Uganda Rwanda

Best Gorilla Trekking Company & Tour Operator Uganda Rwanda

Engabi Tours and Travel is a recommended Gorilla Trekking Company and Tour Operator in Uganda and Rwanda that offers top Gorilla trekking tours to Uganda and Rwanda all year-round ( Check our TripAdvisor Reviews ). We are a reliable Gorilla Trekking company that will help you to organize a safe and affordable gorilla trekking tour in Africa. We also organize tours to Tanzania’s Northern Circuit parks of Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire and Lake Manyara and trips to Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo and Lake Nakuru Parks in Kenya.

We have intimate local knowledge of the accommodation locations and proximity of gorilla families and we know the remote areas very well with our drivers able to negotiate slippery, steep and dirt roads. You can count on us to make all your activity, transportation and accommodations bookings as wells ensuring that you immerse yourself within the local communities and have a secure stay in Africa.

Best Gorilla Trekking Company & Tour Operator Uganda Rwanda
Mum and Baby Gorillas

Key Things You Need To Know About Gorilla Trekking

1. How do you choose a reputable gorilla trekking company?

To get a reputable gorilla trekking company in Uganda or Rwanda, you should look for companies with excellent reviews online especially on TripAdvisor or seek recommendations from friends who have done gorilla trekking and have experience with specific companies.

You should also choose a gorilla trekking company that has been conducting gorilla treks for several years without major safety incidents based on their TripAdvisor reviews and this company should be licensed by Uganda Tourism Board to operate tours and safaris .

2. What questions should You ask when comparing companies?

Ask about their knowledge on Gorilla Trekking( which sector it’s done, maximum group size per day, chances of seeing gorillas, age limit, packing list, how to get to Bwindi etc..), years in business, languages spoken, cancellation/refund policies and lodging options among other things you may deem necessary. Their responses will reveal which operator best fits your needs and expectations.

3.How strenuous are Gorilla treks and how fit must one be?

Gorilla trekking takes place at high altitudes and often requires hiking long distances over rough terrain. One should expect to climb over fallen trees, balance on logs, navigate muddy trails and push through dense bush for up to 8 hours in hot and humid conditions. Above average fitness is recommended and if you have heart/lung issues, please check with your doctor before booking the tour.

3. What types of Gorilla trekking packages do we offer?

We offer gorilla trekking tour packages starting from 1-day gorilla treks to 5 day gorilla trekking packages. We also offer Gorilla trekking packages starting from 5 days that combine gorilla treks with other Uganda or Rwanda Safari activities such as Chimpanzee Tracking, wildlife safaris, golden monkey tracking and mountain climbing adventures among others. Gorilla Trekking packages can also be combined with safari in Tanzania or Kenya.

4. How do you choose the best Gorilla Safari Lodge?

When it comes to accommodation, always look out for lodges located close to park headquarters to avoid an exhausting pre-trek drive. Luxury options exist with hot showers, private decks, views of the misty mountains, and delicious cuisine. Ask operators about Gorilla safari lodge options that align with your budget and needs.

5. How many days should you book for a gorilla tour?

A gorilla trek can be done in 1 day or 2 days but is hectically paced and requires you to be in towns ok Kabale or Kisoro the day before the trekking. Therefore according to experience we think that for a less rushed gorilla tour, you should book starting from 3 day gorilla tour packages and upwards as it allows you immerse yourself in the experience and allows you to do ads-on or even visit the local communities. Plan enough days of your trip to be able to absorb each magical moment and not just check the box seeing gorillas once.

6. What medications are recommended for gorilla trekking?

We recommend taking malaria medication as mosquitos are common and any other  prescription meds plus basic ointments, anti-diarrheal tablets, dehydration powders, and pain/fever reducers like ibuprofen. Asthma inhalers are critical for those prone to breathing issues at high altitude. Having proper inoculations and medications greatly reduces health risks in remote areas.

7. How close can you get to gorillas?

When habituated gorillas are calm, trackers will guide you to slowly approach in single file as close as 7 meters though suddenly charging silverbacks may require hastily retreating. Don’t expect prolonged cuddling interactions. Photographers are sometimes allowed closer for non-flash still shots under guide discretion. But prolonged proximity risks their health.

We think with the above information you are ready to start planning your gorilla tour to Uganda or Rwanda and if you can’t wait for the journey to begin, Chat with us Now on WhatsApp on +256757341593

Please free to check the TripAdvisor reviews from our past clients because we feel they might be of help in your planning of a gorilla trekking tour in Uganda or Rwanda  by understanding in depth the Gorilla Trekking Company you are about to book your trip with.

Kindly CONTACT US for information, inspiration or price quotation for some suggested Gorilla trekking Uganda and Rwanda Itineraries

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11 May 2020

Park entrance fees to Uganda National Parks

The Uganda parks entrance fees and visitor Conservation tariffs 2020-2022

Uganda National parks entrance fees are mandatory payments included in the cost of a Uganda safari that are set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). Recently the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) released a new conservation tariff guide for 2020-2022 and In the new UWA tariff guide there are major changes such as the increase of gorilla trekking permit fees in Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga National parks from 600 USD to 700 USD for FNR and from 500 USD to 600 USD for FR and the increase of Chimpanzee tracking permit fees in Kibale National park from 150 USD to 200 USD for FNR and from 100 USD to 150 USD for FR. The park entrance fees to other parks like Queen Elizabeth National park, Murchison falls National Park, Lake Mburo National park and Kidepo valley National park among others remained unchanged.

Updated Uganda visitor tariffs guide and park entrance fees 2020-2022.

 

ACTIVITY CURRENT RATES NEW RATES EFFECTIVE JULY 2020
ACTIVITY FNR(USD) FR(USD) EAC(UGX) FNR(USD) FR(USD) EAC(UGX)
Gorilla trekking 600 500 40,000 700 600 250,000
Golden Monkey tracking 90 80 40,000 100 90 60,000
Chimpanzee trekking 150 100 100,000 200 150 150,000
Chimpanzee Habituation experience 200 200 150,000 250 250 150,000
Gorilla filming 4200 for group of 5 40% of the Activity
Commercial filming fees 630 630 630,000 40%  of the activity
Small boat trip in Lake Mburo National Park 20 20 20,000 30 30 30,000
Rwenzori Mountain trekking on UWA trails N/A N/A N/A 50 50 50,000
KVNP Hiking of Lonyili summit trail N/A N/A N/A 50 40 50,000
Sempaya hot springs access fees 15 15 10,000 Only park entrance fees required
Park entrance fees QENP,MFNP,LMNP & KVNP 40 30 20,000 40 30 20,000
Park entrance fees to category B parks 35 25 15,000 35 25 15,000
Entrance fees to category C reserves 10 5 2,500 10 5 2,500

Apart from the above listed rates, Uganda Wildlife Authority has other tariffs that  are charged in parks and these include corporate entrance fees, annual entrance fees, multiple, aircraft landing fees and several others.  Read the UWA Tariff Guide 2020-2022 for detailed entrance and activities fees on a Uganda Safari.

Note that according to Uganda Wildlife Authority, the conservation tariffs or park entrance fees are categorized under different levels of A, B and C and that entrance fees for  gorilla, Chimpanzee and Golden Monkey trekking parks are already incorporated in the trekking permits fees.

Check out our recommended Uganda safari packages.

3 days Gorilla trekking safari

3 days Murchison falls national park safari

3 Days Queen Elizabeth National park safaris

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Contact us for an inspiration, information or a Price quotation for a Uganda safari tour

 

 

08 May 2020

Uganda vs Rwanda: Which is Better for Gorilla Trekking?

 

Uganda vs Rwanda: Which is Better for Gorilla Trekking?

Which is better for Gorilla Trekking between Uganda Vs Rwanda? Choosing between Uganda and Rwanda for gorilla trekking depends on your travel style and preferences as each destination offers exceptional mountain gorilla viewing. But the fact is that there is no big difference between Gorilla Trekking Uganda Vs Rwanda when it comes to the experience obtained at the end of a gorilla trek since you have 99% chances of seeing the gorillas whichever country you visit for Gorilla trekking between Uganda and Rwanda. 

The key difference is that Rwanda Mountain Gorillas stay in mainly bamboo as the main vegetation hence being easily accessible while Uganda mountain gorillas stay in the thick rain forest . The other notable  difference between Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Vs Rwanda is that Gorilla trekking in Uganda is cheaper than gorilla trekking in Rwanda because one can do two gorilla treks in Uganda for less than the price of one Gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda.

Therefore if you are wondering whether to visit gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda or comparing Gorilla trekking Uganda vs Rwanda /Gorilla safari in Uganda or Rwanda, the answer is the experience you get is the same whether you trek gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda though it is worth to note that a Uganda gorilla permit is more affordable (at 800$ Per Person ) than a Rwanda Gorilla Permit(at 1500$ Per Person ). Notable to know is also the fact that Gorillas in Rwanda are easily accessible especially for older guests or travelers who are less active compared to Uganda gorillas irrespective of Volcanoes National park-Rwanda being at a higher altitude. On the other hand for travelers with high levels of fitness, gorilla trekking Uganda is the recommendable option because it tends to involve more hiking and longer trek sessions.

Below we tell you how the two countries compare in relation to gorilla trekking experiences to help you decide which the right choice is for you.

Gorilla Trekking Uganda Vs Rwanda: Which is better for Gorilla Trekking?
Gorilla Family

Comparing Gorilla Trekking Experience in Uganda Vs Rwanda

We can’t select what is best for you but we have listed factors and compared the two countries to help you chose which one of the gorilla trekking destinations is your best choice and will give you a better Gorilla trekking experience between Gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda.

1. Ease of trekking and the entire Gorilla trekking experience of gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda

Gorilla trekking is such a strenuous activity which means that not anyone can undertake it as most people tend to think. The good news is that both countries have gorilla chairs which can be used by some travelers with mobility issues but want to trek the gorillas. From feedback from our previous clients we have noted that Rwanda gorillas are easily accessible especially for older guests or travelers who are less active compared to Uganda gorillas irrespective of Volcanoes National park being at a higher altitude. On the other hand for travelers with high levels of fitness, trekking the Uganda Gorillas is the recommendable option because it tends to involve more hiking and longer trek sessions. Whether you trek gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda, we think it’s wise to prepare well for you your gorilla trekking safari by discussing all gorilla trekking guidelines with you travel expert so that you don’t be surprised when already in the wild forests.

2. Gorilla trekking permit Price or Budget  for Gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda

From 2017 the Rwandan government through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB)  made the decision to increase the cost of a gorilla permit from 750 USD  per trek to 1,500 USD which meant that only the most affluent and financially well to do visitors would trek the Rwanda famous gorillas. On the other hand Uganda through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has fixed its Gorilla trekking permit price at 800 USD .Therefore given the fact that one can do two gorilla treks in Uganda for less than the price of one Gorillas trekking permit in Rwanda, it makes sense for budget-conscious travelers to consider trekking gorillas in Uganda instead of Rwanda.

3. Ease of accessibility to the gorillas in Uganda and  Rwanda

For travelers with limited travel time especially business travelers, accessibility is crucial while choosing which country to do gorilla trekking. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Bwindi impenetrable national park or Mgahinga national park are all easily accessible from Kigali with just 3-4 hours of road drive from Kigali City. However Rwanda’s Volcanoes national park is more accessible compared to Bwindi Impenetrable National park since the Rwanda gorillas are reached via a well-maintained tarmac road with an option of flying in by helicopter compared to Uganda gorillas which are reached through dirt roads in a tricky hilly terrain.

4. Accommodation or Where to stay in Uganda or Rwanda

When it comes to where to stay or accommodation, both Rwanda and Uganda have some better options though Rwanda is seeing an increase in the number of more luxurious but affordable lodges being set up. These include the recently built One&Only’s Gorilla’s Nest lodge, Bisate lodge, Sabyinyo lodge, Volcanoes Virunga lodge and Singita Kwitonda lodge among others. Therefore for travelers looking for luxury Gorilla trekking safari we think Rwanda gorillas are a better option. On the other hand Uganda which is known for lower priced accommodation options but with some luxury options with spectacular views and exclusivity such as Clouds mountains lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla forest camp, Volcanoes Bwindi and Four Gorillas Lodge is a better option for travelers looking for peace and relaxation while on a gorilla trekking safari.

5. Additional Safari experiences apart from Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda:

Each of the two countries has a lot to offer apart from gorilla trekking from wildlife viewing in major national park, adventure tours on major lakes and rivers, Chimpanzee trekking safaris to Cultural tours. However from client’s feedback, Uganda has much more to see and do compared to Rwanda even with the development of Akagera National Park and the reintroduction of the big five which is a big prospect.

Uganda is therefore a better option for travelers looking for a diverse experience with plentiful wildlife. For example if a traveler wants to spot elephants, hippos, crocs and birds on a cruise down the River Nile in Murchison Falls National Park, track tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park or track the chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park, Uganda has plenty to offer!

At Engabi tours and Travel, we recommend a combined gorilla trekking safari in one of the two countries with a wildlife viewing safari in Northern Tanzania parks of Ngorongoro, Serengeti and Tarangire or Lake Manyara with extensions to Zanzibar islands beaches. Note that Rwanda and Uganda have direct flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport in Arusha Tanzania the safari capital.

Kindly CONTACT US for an inspiration, information or price Quotation for a gorilla safari or a combined East African Safari.

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CONTACT US  for Price Quotation or information and inspiration

03 May 2020

Uganda,Rwanda Tanzania Gorilla trekking and Wildlife Safaris Coronavirus Updates and Travel Advice

Gorilla trekking and wildlife safari tour Coronavirus (Covid-19)  Updates ,Travel advice safety measures,Frequently Asked Questions and Precautions to guide you on a safari in Uganda,Rwanda ,Tanzania and Congo.

The spread of Coronavirus (Covid-19) has once again tested our ability to recover and every traveler needs no reminder on what a hard time we are all facing as we are stuck in our homes trying to practices social distancing. The world is more like a small tiny box but at the same the same world is not going anywhere.

At Engabi Tours and Travel we would like to take this opportunity to extend our thoughts to all travelers who have been affected and to remind them that the most energizing thing is that we know this situation will pass and those of us who love adventure and safari in Uganda, Rwanda and Tanzania will once again get onto the planes and travel again. It might be later this year or early 2021 but the fact is it will come and once again we will come face to face with Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National park and Volcanoes National park, we will witness the great Migration in the Serengeti and most importantly we will once again get up close with Africa’s famous animals in their natural habitat and experience the hospitality of East Africans towards strangers.

As safari travelers around the world are practicing social distancing measures, there is a need to protect the wildlife we all await to see after the lock down and most importantly the endangered mountain gorillas from getting infected with the deadly Coronavirus and as a result gorilla and wildlife national parks in Rwanda, Uganda and Tanzania have been temporarily closed for gorilla trekking and other tourism activities. We will keep you updated on any new developments concerning Gorilla trekking and wildlife safari tours  in Uganda, Rwanda and Tanzania.

 Coronavirus  (Covid-19) frequently Asked Questions to guide on your next gorilla trekking and wildife safari to Rwanda,Tanzania,Uganda and Congo

What is Novel Coronavirus?

A novel coronavirus is a new coronavirus that has never been identified before. Its cause is different from the coronaviruses that commonly circulate among humans and cause mild cold. The COVID-19 virus spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose when an infected person coughs or sneezes

According to Center for Disease Control and prevention (CDC), a diagnosis with coronavirus 229E, NL63, OC43, or HKU1 is not the same as a COVID-19 diagnosis. Patients with COVID-19 will be evaluated and cared for differently than patients with common coronavirus diagnosis.

According to World Health Organization (WHO), COVID-19 affects different people in different ways. Most infected people will develop mild to moderate illness and recover without hospitalization.

Below are the most common symptoms:

Fever.

Dry cough.

Tiredness.

Less common symptoms:

Aches and pains.

Sore throat.

Diarrhea.

Conjunctivitis.

Headache.

Loss of taste or smell.

A rash on skin, or discolorations of fingers or toes.

Serious symptoms:

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.

Chest pain or pressure.

Loss of speech or movement.

 Can the Coronavirus be spread through food eaten on a Gorilla trekking and Wildlife safari?

Coronaviruses are generally thought to be spread from person to person through respiratory droplets. Currently according to CDC, there is no evidence to support transmission of COVID-19 associated with food although you should ensure that you always wash your hands before you eat and throughout the day use a tissue to cover sneezing and wash your hands after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing, or going to the bathroom.

In general, because of poor survivability of these coronaviruses on surfaces there is likely very low risk of spread from food products or packaging.

 What temperatures can kill the Coronavirus?

Generally coronaviruses survive for shorter periods at higher temperatures and higher humidity than in cooler or dryer environments. However, there is no direct data for Covid-19.

Can Mosquitoes Spread Coronavirus?

At this time, according to CDC there is no data to suggest that this new coronavirus or other similar coronaviruses are spread by mosquitoes. The main way that COVID-19 spreads is from person to person. See How Coronavirus Spreads for more information.

Can Gorillas and wild animals cause the spread of Coronavirus?

Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that wildlife might be a source of infection for people in the world. The first case of a wild animal testing positive for the virus in the United States was a tiger with a respiratory illness at a zoo in New York City. However, this tiger was in a captive zoo environment, and public health officials believe the tiger became sick after being exposed to a zoo employee who was infected and spreading the virus.

In Africa, no wild animal has tested positive for the virus and in order to protect wildlife in Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda, different measures have been put in place including closure of national parks to travelers until further notice.

In addition, in Rwanda and Uganda there are gorilla trekking rules that ensure safety of the gorillas and tourists and eventually help to minimize the spread of diseases if any.

You can also take the following steps to prevent getting sick from wildlife on you Gorilla trekking and wildlife safari in Uganda, Rwanda and Tanzania.

Safety measures and precautions to take on your next Gorilla trekking safari in Uganda and Rwanda .
  • Keep away from wildlife.
  • Carry face masks
  • Carry hand sanitizers
  • Do not feed wildlife or touch wildlife droppings.
  • Always wash your hands
  • Do not approach or touch a sick or dead animal
  • Always follow guidelines given to you by your safari guide. .
  • Keep a distance of seven meters’ away from the gorillas to avoid close contact
  • Avoid direct contact with gorillas. This makes them scared and uncomfortable
  • Do not trek gorillas while sick. Any traveler with any sign of cold, and flu is not allowed to trek gorillas
  • Keep your voices low. Do not make noise while with the gorillas
  • Do not use flashlight cameras
  • Keep within your group (Do not move alone in the jungle)
  • Keep calm when gorillas charge at you, step back and move away slowly
  • Do not litter in the park, Leave only the footsteps
  • Do not touch the gorillas
How can I stay informed about COVID-19 on a Gorilla trekking and Wildlife Safari in Uganda, Rwanda and Tanzania?

When planning for a gorilla trekking and wildlife safari in Uganda, Rwanda and Tanzania make sure you search for travel advisories and guidelines and always stick to the facts. Trusted sources of information for Africa travel advisories should be government websites, including the following:

Uganda Ministry of Health

Uganda Wildlife Authority

Rwanda Development Board

Rwanda Biomedical Centre

Tanzania Ministry of Tourism

Tanzania Ministry of Healthy

World Health Organization

U.S. Department of State

Canada: Travel Advice and Advisories

United Kingdom: Foreign Travel Advice

Is it safe to go on a Gorilla trekking and Wildlife safari tour in Uganda, Tanzania or Rwanda?

Going for a gorillas trekking and wildlife safari in Uganda, Rwanda or Tanzania is considered to be low risk due to the fact that you are unlikely to spend much time in overcrowded cities and you are more likely to be outdoors in wide open spaces where the virus has less chance of direct contact.

On the other hand, the virus is not resistant to fevers so combined with the warm climate of Africa, the likelihood of combating the virus with these factors in play is higher the reason we recommend that before you go on or book a gorilla trekking and Wildlife safari with Engabi Tours and Travel, ensure to check the Global Health and Travel Advisories for your intended destination

What should I do when I finally get back on a plane to go for a gorilla trekking safari?

Ensure that you travel with hand sanitizer, wipe your hands regularly and try not to consume open foods while in the plane. Wear a mask at all time and wipe all surfaces, glasses and even fruit before contact. On your arrival in your safari destination always follow the guidelines set by public health officials and government and above all always listen to your safari guide.

Our hope is that you will soon start travelling and Engabi Tours and Travel is ready to book your Uganda, Rwanda and Tanzania Gorilla trekking and wildlife safari tours for the remaining Months of the year or for the year 2021

We stand with you and the rest of the world in the battle against an invisible enemy and should you need an African safari inspiration,information or any Covid-19 updates Contact us and we will be happy to respond .

In the meantime, keep dreaming, keep planning,stay safe and Book your safari now to Travel in 2021.

25 Apr 2020

Uganda Safari Cost

Uganda Safari Cost-How Much Does A Safari in Uganda Cost?

A Uganda Safari Cost on average starts from 2900$ Per Person Sharing per day for a one Week Safari Tour in Uganda and the cost is inclusive of Accommodation, Transportation Cost, Activities, En-route Meals and Mark up by the Tour Operator. A 3 Days Uganda Safari cost starts from $800 Per Person sharing. The price of a 3 days Uganda safari is inclusive of activities, transfers and accommodation among other associated costs. A Uganda Safari Cost tends to go higher when your package includes gorillas and chimpanzees trekking due to the high price of trekking permits

 

Uganda Safari Cost-How Much Does A Safari in Uganda Cost?
Tree Climbing Lion in Ishasha

Uganda Safari Cost Determinants

  • The activities a traveler wants to take part in
  • The number of people traveling
  • The desired accommodation or budget of the traveler
  • The number of days the tourists would like to spend on a Uganda safari holiday
  • The Season of Uganda Safari trip
  • Other personal unique things a tourist may need on their Uganda safari tour in Africa
  • The Uganda safari company used for planning the Uganda safari tour.

It is important to note that the more the number of travelers the cheaper the Uganda safari cost or the price of a safari holiday in Uganda since there will be cost sharing in the cost of accommodation, transportation and some activities. Peak Seasons or dry seasons see a Uganda safari cost go high compared to the low season. This is because there are many people traveling to Africa for a Uganda safari tour and prices of accommodations tend to be high.

Contact Engabi Tours and Travel to organize for you the best Uganda Safari tour or the best Uganda Gorilla trekking vacation holiday at an affordable  price . We will organize for you a safari holiday in Uganda customized to your Uganda Safari Budget and expectations.

Our Uganda Safari Tour packages  will take you Gorilla viewing in Bwindi,  wildlife viewing in Murchison falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park and Lake Mburo National park, Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale national park and finally we can combine the Uganda Safari with a Tanzania  safari or Zanzibar Beach holiday tour to relax

Why go on a Uganda Safari Holiday?

A Safari Holiday in Uganda  is not common or known to many Safari travelers to an Africa Safari and as a result very few safari lovers and travelers have not been on a Uganda Safari holiday in Africa though the country is blessed with a variety of wildlife species and more famously the Mountain Gorillas. Those who have been on a Gorilla trek safari in Uganda will tell you that Uganda is one of the few Africa Gorilla safari destinations that is blessed with fascinating scenery, crater lakes, Mountains, variety of wildlife species and above all the endangered Mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. You want to trek Gorillas, Chimpanzees and Golden Monkeys in their natural habitat, view wildlife’s “Big 5” or do adventure activities like mountain hiking and White water rafting! All this can be done on your Uganda safari tour  in Africa.

CONTACT US  for an all inclusive Price quotation for Uganda Safari tour  in Africa

Below are suggested Uganda Safari Tour Itineraries you may find interesting:

3 Days Uganda Gorilla Safari

3 days Rwanda Gorilla tour

3 Days Murchison falls National Park Safari

3 Days Queen Elizabeth National park Safari

12 Days Uganda Safari

5 Days Uganda Safari

7 days Rwanda safari

9 Days Uganda Safari and Ssese Islands Beach Holiday tour

11 days Gorilla trekking Uganda and Rwanda tour

 

24 Apr 2020

Tanzania Safari Companies

Tanzania Safari Companies-Best Safari Guides in Tanzania (With Reviews)

Among the many Tanzania safari companies, Engabi Tours and Travel Ltd ranks high among the best Tanzania safari companies/tour operators with top safari offers to Serengeti National Park and Northern Tanzania safari circuit. We offer top and affordable Tanzania Safari Packages to different Tanzania safari destinations combined with Gorilla Tours.

Choosing a Tanzania safari company from the variety of Tanzania safari companies and ensuring that the tour operator you choose delivers the highest quality Tanzania safari experience is the most crucial part of the planning process and can be overwhelming since there are thousands of Tanzania safari tour operators and safari companies in the market. One therefore needs to make an informed, safe and affordable choice to have a successful experience since it’s the tour operator or safari company and its staff that you rely on to create an experience that meets your expectations and fulfills your dreams.

Tanzania Safari Companies-Best Safari Guides in Tanzania (With Reviews)
Our Travel Consultant at Serengeti National Park

To avoid ruining your Tanzania safari holiday due to different reasons some of which being organizing the safari with a wrong tour operator, below are factors or things to consider when you are planning your Tanzania safari tour and how to choose a tour operator or safari company from the many best Tanzania Safari companies . These factors can also be applied when booking your Uganda Gorilla safari or Rwanda Gorilla tour

How to Choose the right Tanzania Safari Company:

Preferably use a Local Company

It’s always great to use local Tanzania safari tour operators and safari companies since they have first-hand knowledge about the destination however from experience more East African companies can provide a Tanzania safari more especially if you want to combine the Tanzania safari with gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda. Therefore our recommendation is that you can use any East African local tour operator or safari company to book a Tanzania safari as long as they satisfy your budget and experience needs and are legally operating.

Inquire about the resources and reputation of your preferred Tanzania safari company

Having chosen a particular Tanzania safari tour operator and safari company, inquire about their resources in form of the cars they use for safaris and if they have drivers who are knowledgeable experienced Tanzania safari drivers and if they can speak the language that you understand. Above all check if the company is registered with Government Authorities, has a physical address and always avoid companies which request to be paid through Western Union and personal accounts because a legit company should have a company account in the names of the company or payment links like pesa pal or pay pal

Get References from previous clients

To confirm how experienced your preferred Tanzania tour operator and safari company is, always  request for some references in form of previous clients who you can contact and inquire about their experience with the company. A genuine and trust worthy company that is sure about the standards of their services will give you the references immediately or you can also inquire from friends who have traveled to Tanzania. You can also get a glimpse of the companies experience by reading reviews on trip advisor platforms

Consider Quality and Price or Cost

Itineraries will always have varied price quotations from different Tanzania safari tour operators and travel companies from lowest to highest. This gives you a chance to choose an itinerary cost that fits with in your planned budget and Tanzania safari expectations.  However you should make sure that you that the Tanzania safari cost should not compromise the quality of your experience in one way or another. On that note it’s recommendable that you avoid very cheap Safari quotations as they may not guarantee quality service but also don’t go for the highest as it may exaggerated.

Therefore always look at the costs of activities and other related costs in the itinerary compare with the company price quotation as see if it makes an economic sense.

Finally you are ready to book your Tanzania safari and have made a choice of the itinerary you want to use. However ensure to have everything right by communicating your healthy or diet issues, confirm the timing, request for adjustments if you need any and make sure all your other personal issues are catered for. For example inclusions and exclusions among others.

Engabi Tours and Travel Ltd is an East African local safari tour operator and safari company with head offices in Kampala-Uganda and agent offices in Arusha-Tanzania and Kigali-Rwanda.  We organize wildlife viewing tours, Gorilla trekking safari tours, hiking tours and great Migration safari tours to Tanzania, Rwanda and Uganda with extensions to Zanzibar and Mauritius. You can therefore book with us your Tanzania safari or a combined gorilla trek and Tanzania safari.

CONTACT US for an inspiration or information about a Tanzania safari or a combined gorillas ,Tanzania and Zanzibar safari tour

 

19 Apr 2020

Reasons to book a Safari With a Local Tour Operator

5 Reasons to Book a Safari with a local Tour Operator

At Engabi Tours and Travel a local tour Operator in Uganda, we believe that not every trip to Africa requires booking through a local tour operator or travel agent but for many tours and trips, you can save yourself considerable time and effort by booking with a local tour operator company that specializes in travel to your chosen destination.

Many tourists believe that they can save money by booking independently an East African safari tour. However we believe that  while  tour companies certainly add their commission to the overall cost of the trip the discounts they can pass along to their clients through their relationships with properties and ground operators often makes up for it. In addition to the saving of some money, tour operators who specialize in a destination travel use the same lodges and public transport options that you might choose but have the local expertise to know which ones are safe.

Below are our Tested Reasons Why you should use a Local Tour operator

1. It Ensures Personal Safety

Traveling alone to a new destination especially East Africa can be daunting. You are visiting a new place and you don’t know what to expect in terms of language barriers, Visas, Vaccinations, Currencies, food, transport means and above all safety in a form of political instability and natural disaster or diseases which is often a genuine concern. But remember that a good tour operator stays up-to-date with elections, weather hazards, and high crime areas and is always informed. For example a small skirmish in South Western Uganda may not make headline news in the major news outlets but a specialized tour operator will know about it and can redirect your safari to keep you safe.

Therefore when you book your safari with a local tour operator on your East Africa Safari to Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya or Tanzania you are given the peace of mind that you will be taken care of from beginning to end. You are sure you have your accommodation booked, your transportation means sorted and you are not worried about the Weather, instability, crime or the quality of safari roads.

Evidently, there’s a lot that goes into planning a safari, and it is very time consuming to figure it all out on your own the reason you need the care and guidance of a local tour operator who will enhance your overall travel experience and show you the best parts of each destination, help you to navigate any language barriers and give informed recommendations of where to visit during your stay.

2. It Eases Communication and ensures responsible travelling.

While being exposed to new languages is such an amazing part of traveling, it can be challenging when you are attempting to communicate only to be faced with a language barrier which in most cases might lead you into offending the local communities, endangering conservation or even you missing out on some services or activities just because you can’t communicate but act out every question you have. With the services of a tour operator and a dedicated English speaking local tour guide, you will be easily shown around, your surroundings explained deeply and all your questions that you may have will be answered. It makes it fun and much smoother experience to have someone available to assist you throughout your trip.

 3. It Saves Time and Money

Booking an East Africa Safari tour  independently can get expensive without discounts on accommodation, transportation and some activities. It can also be time-consuming when coordinating all of the travel plans, activities and itineraries on your own. However when you book your East Africa Safari  through a tour operator, you get the added benefit of having a one-stop shop, which includes comfortable and discounted accommodations ,Transportation means, and extensive  sightseeing activities with comprehensive itineraries all at a great value.

4.It ensure Stress free East Africa Safari tour Planning

Booking an East Africa Safari tour is exciting but can also be stressful as there are lots of factors to consider and planning it all alone can be exhausting! For a truly relaxing travel experience, we believe using a local tour operator will alleviate the stress of planning a safari tour as the tour operator takes care of all the details for your next East Africa safari tour including internal flights, accommodations, Ground transportation and comprehensive itineraries. All you do is select which East Africa Safari package suits you best and with just a few clicks you are all set.

5.It Ensures Responsible travel and helps to learn new cultures

One of the most exciting parts of going on an East Africa Safari is experiencing and learning about new cultures and we believe a local tour operator can recommend the best local and  immersive experiences if you book with them.

Additionally a local tour operator on your East Africa safari can help and guide you on how to travel responsibly. Booking your East Africa Safari through a local tour operator will ensure that your trip doesn’t have a negative impact on the people, wildlife or landscapes that you encounter along the safari. If you intend to support communities or conservation on your East Africa Safari, an experienced tour operator will be able to help you choose on-the-ground communities and small scale businesses that are locally owned and are environmentally conscious.

Are you interested in learning more about East Africa Safari Packages? Contact us for information and Price quotes

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