Yes, gorilla trekking in Uganda is generally considered. Gorilla Trekking in Uganda is not dangerous because the Ugandan Wildlife Authority has implemented measures to ensure the safety of visitors and gorillas during the gorilla trek. Therefore, safety during gorilla trekking in Uganda is guaranteed as long as the laid out gorilla trekking rules and regulations are followed and the trekking is done with a habituated Gorilla family. Mountain gorillas are by nature not dangerous thus being a few humble creatures any nature lover should expect encountering on Uganda safari.
A mature adult male (silverback gorilla) weighs about 400 pounds and when standing it can reach 6 feet. When you bump into a silverback or even black backs, it is possible for one to get frightened but these are peaceful creatures and can easily be interacted with face-to-face. Tourists should note that through the habituation exercise, these apes get used to human presence before being visited. The process lasts for 2 or more years although some groups can take shorter period a case in point being Bitukura gorilla family.
Important tips to safety and Security during gorilla trekking
Follow the Gorilla Trekking Rules for your own safety and security during gorilla trekking: To avoid irritating Mountain Gorillas, keep a distance of about 7 meters even when they approach you and always stick with your group under the leadership of the park Rangers and Guides.
Follow the instructions of Rangers: All gorilla treks start with the lead of an experienced park guides and trackers. These are not only well-versed with the behaviors of mountain gorillas but also ensure safety of visitors while in the forest. The park ranger guides are fully trained and while on an actual trek, they will be equipped with guns. In case of any intimidating behavior from gorillas for instance (In case they charge at you), the park ranger guide will give instructions that all guests must observe.
Is Gorilla Trekking In Uganda Safe?
Gorilla families per trekkers
All gorilla trekking expeditions are conducted on gorilla families that have undergone full habituation. Each group comprising of 8 visitors is entitled to visit one habituated gorilla group and this is a standard rule whether you are in Uganda, Rwanda or Congo. After long day trek, you will be allowed to watch gorillas face-to-face for only 1 hour and when taking photos, it is recommended that you turn off the flashlight.
How to behave in the presence of mountain gorillas
While you may wish to have direct eye contact with mountain gorillas, it should be brief. When they have charged, avoid direct eye contact as much as you can –and alternatively look down which is a sign of submissiveness.
A safe distance of 8 meters must be observed away from the family of gorillas at all times. This safe measure is intended not only to protect visitors but also gorillas from contracting infectious diseases.
When coughing, please cover your mouth and or nose when sneezing. Failure to do so may mean putting these endangered species at the risk of contracting the infectious diseases. This is why it is advisable that all trekkers visiting gorillas must be free of any illnesses.
Keep your voices low when trekking or even at the time you will be observing gorillas face-to-face.
Mountain gorillas are unique animals thriving only in 3 places: Rwanda, Uganda and Congo. They are among a few threatened or endangered species in the wild as a result of habitat loss, poaching and spread of infectious diseases, etc. About 1063 of these massive apes thrive in the world and trekking them can be done in the 4 National Parks: Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, Mgahinga & Bwindi in Uganda then the Congo Virunga National Park.
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Difference Between Gorilla Trekking and Gorilla Habituation Experiences
What is the difference between ordinary Gorilla Trekking and Gorilla Habituation Experience? The major differences between ordinary gorilla Trekking and Gorilla habituation experience are the cost of the permit and time spent with the Gorillas. An ordinary Gorilla Trekking Permit costs 800USD for Foreigners and 700USD for foreign residents while a gorilla habituation experience permit costs 1500USD for Foreigners and 1000USD for Foreign Residents.
An ordinary gorilla trek lasts for 2 to 6 hours and visitors have 1 hour to spend face-to-face in the presence of a habituated gorilla group While a Gorilla habituation experience lasts a whole full day with a guarantee of 4 hours for close encounter.
In this article, we bring you a detailed comparison between Gorilla Trekking and Gorilla Habituation Experiences.
Where to go for gorilla trekking & habituation?
Gorilla trekking to see mountain gorillas is done across the four Gorilla safari Destinations where these apes only live. That is Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, Virunga National Park Congo, Mgahinga and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. Gorilla habituation experience in Africa is conducted only in one park –Bwindi National Park in Southwestern Uganda.
Gorilla families to visit
During gorilla trekking in Uganda, tourists can visit anyone of the 21 habituated gorilla groups -20 families in Bwindi and only one in Mgahinga NP. Habituation is enjoyable in only one region and one group in Rushaga sector, Southern gorilla safari region in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Park.
Length of the activity
A normal gorilla trek lasts for 2 to 6 hours and visitors have 1 hour to spend face-to-face in the presence of a habituated gorilla group. Gorilla habituation is process of making semi-habituated gorilla groups get used to human presence and day activity involves following gorillas for full day or half day with guarantee of 4 hours for close encounter.
Actual day visit of gorillas
Gorilla
On actual day gorilla trek, a group of tourists can be led by an experienced park ranger guide in Bwindi Impenetrable N/P or respective park you visit for gorilla trekking. Habituation experience is done by researchers, scientists, environmentalists, trackers, doctors and the idea is to take note of daily behavior of mountain gorillas.
Gorilla Permits and Their Rates
Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda are open for reservation at USD 800 per person –foreign nonresidents, USD700 foreign residents and shs.300,000 East African citizens –Ugandans inclusive. Gorilla habituation experience permits for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest are obtainable at USD 1500 –(all foreign nonresidents), USD 1000 for foreign residents and Ugandans plus the rest of East African citizens pay shs. 750,000 per person.
About gorillas in Uganda
Uganda is a complete gorilla safari destination with multiple habituated gorilla groups, inhabiting over half of all the world’s 1063 mountain gorillas. In Uganda, only mountain gorillas live here and they survive in 2 parks: Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest N/Park. There are five regions/sectors where tourists can track and explore about Uganda’s mountain gorillas and include Rushaga, Ruhija, Buhoma and Nkuringo sectors in Bwindi NP; Ntebeko for tourists visiting Mgahinga National Park.
When best to visit Uganda for gorilla tours?
Uganda is an all year round gorilla trekking and gorilla habituation destination, thanks to its ideal weather conditions. However, two dry seasons are the best for visitors to have the most of the gorilla trek or habituation. The first and longest dry spell starts from June, July, August to September and the second phase begins from December, January to February.
The remaining months of the year are wetter/rainy months/low season. They start from March, April, May and October to November of every year.
What to carry for gorilla trip in Uganda
Among the many important things to consider packing for your gorilla trip include waterproof hiking boots, camera with extra batteries, light but waterproof daypack, long sleeved shirt, rain coat/jacket, trousers, safari hat, energy giving snacks, enough bottled water, and others.
Accommodation options
The available gorilla safari lodges in Uganda include budget, midrange/standard and luxury. Top lodges to book for overnight stay on Gorilla Safari Discovery include Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge, Buhoma Lodge, Mahogany Springs Lodge, Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Silverback Lodge, Ruhija Safari Lodge, Gift of Nature Lodge and more.
How to reach there
All the two gorilla tour parks (Bwindi & Mgahinga) in Uganda are found in the far Southwestern part of the country. Getting to the two parks to see mountain gorillas is possible on road or air. Driving time is estimated to last for about 9-10 hours but there are many other sites to be visited en route and include the Equator crossing. By air, fly from Entebbe airport to Kihihi airstrip (perfect for connecting to Bwindi) or Kisoro airstrip for visitors heading to Mgahinga NP.
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How Long Is The Gorilla Trek in Uganda? How Long is the gorilla trek in Uganda? A gorilla trek in Uganda’s Bwindi and Mgahinga takes between 1 to 6 hours on average. Ultimately how long a gorilla trek in Uganda takes entirely depends on the time the gorillas were last seen and where, visitor fitness levels and nature of habitat. This time includes right from the start of the trekking point, then watching the gorillas and returning back to the meeting point of the National Park.
Once you have decided visiting Uganda or Rwanda to track mountain gorillas, next should be prepare adequately. Areas of interest when preparing for your gorilla trekking expedition should be your fitness level. This primate adventure is all about navigating via the lush tropical forest, steep slopes and at times, you can find yourself in a muddy ground depending on the season. Overcoming all these factors and enjoy round trek requires one to be physically fit.
How difficult is gorilla trekking –Uganda or Rwanda?
Mountain gorillas as their name suggests are few species that spend most of their time in montane areas. Before you come across these apes, it involves some hiking through the altitude range of 1160m to 2607 depending on the location. In Bwindi National Park, the highest point is 2607m and this is for tourists visiting Ruhija sector, the eastern gorilla trekking region.
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park (VNP) rises at altitude range of 2400 to 4507 meters. This is considering the fact that it is situated within the Virunga Region, whose highest point is Karisimbi Volcano (4507m). Whether you choose to visit Uganda or Rwanda, it is always important to be prepared physically to conquer any kind of tough terrain.
How long can it take for you to see mountain gorillas?
A gorilla trek in Uganda or Rwanda is generally unpredictable. At times, you can spend 2 to 6 hours and you come across a family of mountain gorillas. This includes the time you depart from the briefing area, the close encounter and photography with mountain gorillas and when you get back to a briefing area.
What if am physically unwell?
There are options for cases such as persons with disabilities. First, when planning a Gorilla safari, you must communicate to your tour operator on the ground (Engabi Tours and Travel) about your fitness level. If you fall under category of persons with disabilities, we can go further and book sedan chairs that can used to carry you throughout the gorilla trek. There will be a team of energetic porters who will be hired to carry the sedan chairs.
To better enjoy your Gorilla trekking safari, we recommend that you plan your trip around the dry season. During this season, hiking through the terrains of Bwindi National Park, Mgahinga NP or Volcanoes National Park in search for gorillas is a bit easier because the ground can be drier. Low rainfall amount is received during this period and this is usually around June, July, August to September or you can travel around December, January to anytime around February.
How prepared should you be for your gorilla trekking experience?
You should be reasonably fit enough to conquer the tough terrains in Uganda or Rwanda. First, you should give yourself time to practice to make your body acclimatized to the terrains or better still, travel early and exercise in the hilly areas in Kampala.
On actual gorilla trekking Tour, you should consider carrying enough energy giving snacks, and bottled drinking water. Additional items include waterproof hiking boots, walking stick for support, gardening gloves, waterproof daypack, and others.
Depending on your level of fitness but in case you are badly off; don’t forget to communicate to our team early. This can enable us communicate to the park official of your status and he or she can assign a gorilla family that is a bit easier to track.
What is the Current Gorilla Trekking Uganda Minimum Age?
Under the Uganda wildlife Authority policy, the current Gorilla trekking Uganda Minimum age is 15 years and anyone below that age is considered a minor. Anyone in the age bracket of 15 Years and above and at their better health status can be allowed to track one habituated gorilla family in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park. This Gorilla trekking minimum age applies to the rest of the mountain gorilla destinations: D.R. Congo and Rwanda.
Gorilla Trekking is the most sought for primate adventure when it comes to all safaris in Uganda. This unique wildlife activity is only enjoyable in Africa offering nature enthusiasts a lifetime opportunity to get up close and personal with the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Besides Uganda, these large apes also survive in Rwanda and D.R. Congo. As a standard gorilla trekking rules, there is a set age limit/minimum age that is acceptable of anyone interested in engaging in this experience.
However, there can be some exceptions where those below the acceptable age limit can be allowed to trek to see the massive mountain gorillas in the wild. The circumstances leading to this will be explained later on.
Why minimum age limit?
There are many reasons why age limit for gorilla trekking is set at 15. First, it is believed if you are 15, such persons fall under the category of children. Such persons may not be in position to deal with the negative reactions, especially when mountain gorillas get irritated/charges at visitors. Mountain gorillas like other species are naturally calm and gentile animals, except when disturbed that they can be aggressive.
When a gorilla charges, children may not handle the situation and they can be forced to scream thus irritating these apes further or they can be tempted to run away and gorillas can follow them thinking otherwise. The only way to handle such situations is being submissive. While tracking gorillas, your park guide will often inform you on how you should behave when interacting with these creatures in the wild. Unlike children, grown up persons above 15 years can control emotions even if the gorillas charges.
Mature visitors are also less likely to get carried away as children can. They can easily observe the park guide’s instructions and generally the briefed gorilla trekking rules/guidelines. The gorilla trekking rules include among many no littering the park, maintaining a distance of 8 meters away from a family of mountain gorillas, no touching gorillas, no use of flashlight cameras and more.
Persons below 15 years may not also be mentally mature for gorilla trekking. For mature travelers, once they have decided to undertake Gorilla Safari Tour, they already know what they going for. Often children go for safaris just to accompany their parents. The excitement won’t be like that of the adults. Besides, to track mountain gorillas from start till the end requires certain level physical fitness and determination since it all involves walking through the vegetation and steep slopes.
Gorilla Trekking Uganda
Children usually carry communicable diseases such as flu and cough. These can be contracted by mountain gorillas considering the fact that they share up to 95% of their DNA with humans.
Under What Circumstances Can Child Track Gorillas?
There is an exception where persons below 15 can be allowed to track mountain gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda. First, if there is proof that he or she is making his or her 15th birthday. But exception applies to visitors on gorilla safaris in Bwindi National Park in Uganda. But he or she should be physically fit to complete the entire gorilla trekking journey.
To be allowed to participate in gorilla trekking, the parents must provide evidence/proof that the child is making 15th birthday. The current photos and copy of passports must be provided.
What can one Do if the Child is Completely Young?
The fact that gorilla trekking Uganda age limit stands at 15 years doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t travel with children. There are plenty of options for children too to engage in while adults take on the thrilling gorilla trek. The available options include guided nature walks, visiting local schools, cultural visits/walks and more.
Where To Go To Trek Gorillas in Uganda?
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is only carried out in 2 places and includes Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These protected areas are located in Southwestern Uganda and accessing them takes 8-9 hours. They protect up to about half of the remaining 1063 mountain gorilla population with about 21 habituated gorilla groups.
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Is Gorilla Trekking From Nairobi Possible? Planning a Gorilla trekking tour from Nairobi Kenya is possible and it involves you flying from either Jomo Kenyatta International Airport Kenya or Masai Mara to either Entebbe International Airport or Kigali International Airport depending on which country you intend to visit for gorilla watching and from there you can connect to Bwindi or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park Uganda or Volcanoes National park Rwanda to enjoy gorilla trekking experience.
Kenya is East Africa’s top big 5 game safari destination. A huge concentration of the big five game survive in the spectacular wilderness areas in the magical Kenya. Tourists on Kenya safaris can combine big game tours with wildebeest migration experience in the Maasai Mara National Reserve and proceed to Uganda to get up close with endangered mountain gorillas. Travelers can also combine Kenya wildlife safaris or wildebeest migration experience with Rwanda gorilla tours. Interestingly, these are all East Africa Community member states. With our scheduled fly in gorilla safaris, you can easily set off from Nairobi/Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Entebbe or Kigali Airport.
Where to go for gorilla trekking in Uganda?
In Uganda, there are only 2 places to travel to track mountain gorillas and they include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The 2 African safari parks are situated in Southwestern Uganda, and getting there by road takes 8-10 hours’ drive. Trekking anyone of Uganda’s gorilla families requires you to present a valid gorilla permit, obtainable by only persons above 15 years.
From Nairobi, you can book your gorilla Safari permitfor Bwindi or Mgahinga through us at USD 800 per person per trek if you are visiting as a foreign non-resident while East African citizen pay UGX 300,000 and foreign residents pay USD 700. The cost of gorilla trekking is worth –first, you will be getting up close and personal with endangered mountain gorillas in the wild, a rare encounter that is strictly done only in the 3 African countries.
The cost of the trek is worth because the largest portion of fee collection from gorilla trekking is used to support variety of conservation efforts intended to ensure survival of mountain gorillas in the wild.
Getting to Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park from Nairobi
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are Uganda’s two mountain gorilla protected areas. They are lying in Southwestern Uganda, and from Nairobi, you can travel by air using major flight service providers such as Uganda Airlines, Rwanda Air or Air Tanzania, land in at the Entebbe Airport. From Entebbe Airport (EBB) to Bwindi or Mgahinga –you can take a flight, the fastest means to get there for your gorilla vacation. The airstrips nearby Mgahinga/Bwindi –Kigezi region are: Kisoro airstrip and Kihihi airstrip.
By road, it is possible for tourists to also drive by road from Entebbe or Kampala through Masaka-Mbarara to Bwindi/Mgahinga on a 10 Hours road drive or from Kigali to Bwindi on a 4 Hours road drive. Road transportation to Mgahinga or Bwindi comes with abundant opportunities to explore and experience Uganda including making stopovers at the Equator crossing, visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park to get up close with the tree climbing lions, tour Lake Mburo National Park home to a huge profusion of zebras, impalas, elands and other wildlife.
Gorilla Trekking Tour
How to book your gorilla trekking tour in Bwindi N/Park or Mgahinga?
Bwindi or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park gorilla safaris can be booked through Engabi Tours and Travel a reliable tour operator on ground. We are specialists in crafting unique gorilla safari packages whether you are interested in tailor-made gorilla tours only or combined with other primate treks, wildlife, birding, cultural tours and other adventures like whitewater rafting. Reach out to team via email: info@gorillasafaridiscovery.com or WhatsApp Text +256 75 7341 593.
Best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda
All gorilla trekking trips to Bwindi or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park Uganda can be done at any time of the year. These parks enjoy tropical kind of climatic conditions; however, the dry season is without doubt the most ideal period. It is when there is less or no rain experienced in the park, meaning easier treks through the tropical forest to see mountain gorillas. This usually happens from June, July, August till September and the shortest dry months run from December to February.
Whether it is a dry season or rainy months, don’t forget packing the right items. Start with waterproof walking or hiking boots, good and waterproof daypack, camera. Safari hat, insect repellents, rain jacket, first aid kit and sunscreen.
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Planning Gorilla trekking tours From South Africa to Uganda or Rwanda involve flying from any of the major Airports in South Africa to either Kigali International Rwanda or Entebbe International Airport Uganda. South Africa is one of the leading destinations on African continent offering myriad of wildlife and wine testing experiences. Combing your South African safaris with gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda is by far the wisest decision one can make.
Where to go to enjoy gorilla trekking?
The renowned and must-visit gorilla trekking destinations in Africa include Uganda and Rwanda. Visiting any of these two countries guarantees you up close with the massive and endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. A trek through African jungles and finally you come a family of these apes is what many describe as a mind-blowing experience and other term it as a lifetime experience.
In Uganda, Engabi Tours and Travel organizes the most memorable gorilla safaris to Bwindi National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. With only 1063 mountain gorillas left in the wild, all half of these large apes survive in Uganda. Besides, Uganda is an affordable destination to explore mountain gorillas with each gorilla permit costing only USD 800 per person per trek.
Crossing to Rwanda, you will be visiting Volcanoes National Park where over 30% mountain gorillas live. Volcanoes NP is found in the Northwestern side of Rwanda and access to it is easier from Kigali or Kabale/Kisoro in Uganda. Considering its proximity to Southwestern Uganda, tourists on Rwanda gorilla safari can cross to Bwindi or Mgahinga to track gorillas. Double gorilla trekking is possible and it is a great chance for visitors to make comparison about the two destinations.
Rwanda gorilla trekking permits per day cost USD 1500 per person. Engabi Tours and Travel is available 24/7 to assist you obtain the Rwanda gorilla permit or Uganda gorilla trekking permit at ease.
Bwindi Mountain Gorilla
How to get there
Traveling from South Africa to Uganda is easier and the easier way for connectivity to Uganda or Rwanda where you be visiting mountain gorillas is by flying into Kigali International Airport Rwanda or Entebbe International Airport Uganda. From Entebbe you may take a small flight connecting to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrip in order to avoid the long hours of driving by road(10hrs)
When to visit Uganda/Rwanda for gorilla trekking from South Africa?
Gorilla trekking is an open adventure to visitor- Rwanda and Uganda enjoy favorable weather and climatic conditions all year-round. But the most ideal time to book or travel for your gorilla trekking experience is during the dry season –that is during the long or short phase. The long dry season is recorded around June, July, August and September while short dry months begin from December, January to February –these are also most popular as peak months of the year.
What you should pack?
A successful gorilla Safari in Uganda /Rwanda involves adequate planning and part of this includes considering what to pack for your adventure. The list of items to carry is endless but here is a must-pack for your memorable gorilla trek: daypack, long-sleeved shirts, trousers, insect repellents, rain jacket, and bottled water, energy giving snacks, valid visas, passports, gorilla permits, a sweater, and others.
How long is a normal gorilla trek?
A normal day trek through Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park/Volcanoes NP Rwanda to get up close and personal with a gorilla family takes between 2 and 6 hours. The length of a gorilla trek with mountain gorilla varies depending visitor speed of walking, nature of habitat and location of these primates in the course of the day. But you will be guaranteed of one hour for photography and closely interacting with mountain gorillas.
Where to stay
All accommodation categories exist in Uganda and Rwanda for gorilla trekking holidaymakers to book for their night stay. The available gorilla safari lodges include Buhoma Lodge, Four Gorillas Lodge, Bweza Gorilla Lodge, Silverback Lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Chameleon Hill Lodge, Mahogany Springs Lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, & Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge,
Mgahinga NP gorilla safari lodges: Mount Gahinga Lodge, Mount Gahinga Rest Camp, Kisoro Traveler’s Rest Camp, Mucha Hotel, Virunga Hotel, Kisoro Tourist Hotel, and others.
Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tours From Arusha Tanzania
Uganda or Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tours Starting from Arusha Tanzania/Kilimanjaro International Airport allow safari lovers to undertake an ultimate African Safari experience that involves walking with great Apes and watching the big 5 game up-close in their natural habitat. After your guided game drives in Tanzania’s Safari parks, you can fly into Kigali or Entebbe to go gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda or Bwindi Impenetrable National Park/Mgahinga National Park Uganda.
The popular destinations to be visited in Tanzania include Kilimanjaro Mountain, Tarangire National Park, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Arusha National Park and Lake Manyara National Park. The main wildlife species to encounter on Tanzania safari include the African bush elephants, cape buffaloes, rhinos, lions, leopards, wildebeest, warthogs, spotted hyenas, waterbucks, klipspringer, cape elands, and huge concentration of bird species.
Gorilla trekking is a special primate experience and undoubtedly a bucket-list adventure on most of visitors’ travel plans. Specifically, gorilla trekking from Tanzania with Engabi Tours & Travel takes you deep into the jungles of Uganda, Rwanda or Congo to enjoy a close encounter with a family of mountain gorillas.
Setting off from Tanzania to Uganda or Rwanda to see gorillas involves border crossing. You can opt for road transport(Very Hectic) or air travel to connect to your gorilla safari destinations.
Places to visit for Gorilla Trekking Tour From Arusha
From Arusha, Gorilla Trekking can be done in the 3 gorilla safari parks of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi NP Uganda or Volcanoes National Park Rwanda.
21 gorilla groups are available in Uganda alone and each of them can be visited by maximum of eight guests per day. Uganda gorilla families include Mishaya gorilla family, Rushegura, Busingye, Mubare, Oruzongo, Bitukura, Habinyanja family, Nkuringo, Christmas, Katwe, Kyaguriro, Mukiza, Bikingi, Nshongi, Bushaho family groups –these gorilla groups live in Bwindi NP while Nyakagezi remains as the only group in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Bwindi NP alone is comprised of 4 regions where gorilla trekking is done by tourists on Uganda gorilla safari. The four regions include Ruhija, Rushaga, Nkuringo and Buhoma region and Ntebeko sector in Mgahinga National Park makes up the fifth gorilla trekking region in Uganda.
Gorilla permits Cost
Visiting any of Uganda or Rwanda parks to see mountain gorillas requires all guests to have valid gorilla permits. One valid gorilla permit in Uganda is issued at USD 800 per person and this rate is applicable to visitors on gorilla tour to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park while in Rwanda the permit to see gorillas in Volcanoes National Park costs USD 1,500 Per Person. Engabi Tours and Travel will do all your entire trip planning and booking of Gorilla Permits
How To Get To Mgahinga/Bwindi National Park Uganda From Arusha Tanzania
To Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tours from Arusha, we recommend that you fly into Kigali International Airport and embark on a 4 Hours’ road drive to Bwindi or Mgahinga via Katuna or Cyanika border crossings. This helps you to avoid the 10 hours’ road drive from Entebbe or Kampala City or the expensive flight from Entebbe to Kisoro. On the other hand, if you intend to do a Uganda Gorilla Trek Safari combined with Chimpanzees or a visit Murchison Falls National Park we recommend that from Arusha you fly into Entebbe International Airport. You may also opt to take a road drive from Arusha or Western Serengeti through Mwanza and access Uganda through Mutukula border( Travelers should note that this option is very hectic and tiresome)
How To Get To Volcanoes NP Rwanda From Arusha Tanzania
Connecting from Tanzania to Rwanda to track mountain gorillas is possible. Fly from the airport in Tanzania to Kigali International Airport where you can be picked up, transferred to the hotel or drive straight to Volcanoes National Park for a thrilling gorilla trekking experience.
Gorilla Trekking Tours
You may also opt to take a road drive from Arusha or Western Serengeti through Mwanza and access Rwanda through Rusumo border crossing( Travelers should note that this option is very hectic and tiresome)
Volcanoes National Park (VNP) is where Dian Fossey began her research journey on gorillas. This is the oldest African park, created in 1925 and occupies a compact land area of 160 sq.km. This park is dominated by bamboo forest and has a record of 12 habituated gorilla groups including Hirwa, Pablo, Titus, Kwitonda gorilla family, Agashya, Susa A, Bwenge, Umubano, Susa B (Karisimbi), Ugenda and Amahoro.
When is the best time to go gorilla trekking In Uganda or Rwanda?
The most favorable time to experience the best of gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda is during the dry season. The drier months of the year to travel to see gorillas run from June to September (long dry months), and December to February (short drier months of the year).
All the gorilla parks enjoy favorable weather conditions, and it is also possible to arrange a gorilla trip during the wet or rainy season –long rainy months (March to May) and short rainy months (October to November). Regardless of the month or season, we also recommend that you pack the right items for your gorilla trip.
Here is the list of items to bring for your gorilla tour: bottled drinking water, insect repellent, waterproof hiking boots, gardening gloves, good camera, pair of binocular, safari hat, sunscreen, a sweater, gorilla permit, rain jacket and others.
Interesting Facts About A Silverback Gorilla-Strength, Life Span, Location
What is a Silverback Gorilla?
A silverback gorilla is an adult male identifiable by the silver coat on his backs which appears at around 15 years of age. A Silverback Gorilla is famed for displays of aggression and dominance including whooping, charging, chest beating, tree slapping, and less commonly physical duels. A Silverback heads the family with several females (usually related) and young ones.
Silverback Gorilla In Bwindi
Here’s Everything you Need to Know about a Silverback Gorilla
How Strong is Silverback Gorilla?
A Silverback gorilla is incredibly strong and possess immense physical power. As the dominant male of its gorilla group, he is the largest and most powerful individual within his community. An adult silverback gorilla typically weighs between 300 to 400 pounds (136 to 181 kilograms) and his muscular body is built for both mobility and strength.
The strength of a silverback gorilla is awe-inspiring and he is capable of exerting tremendous force, estimated to be around 10 times stronger than an average human. The sheer power of a Silverback Gorilla enables him to perform extraordinary feats such as effortlessly bending and breaking branches, uprooting small trees and even tearing through thick foliage. These impressive displays of strength are often used to establish dominance, defend his group or attract mates.
In addition to his physical strength, a silverback Gorilla also possess exceptional agility and coordination. His well-developed muscles and robust skeletal structure enable him to climb trees, swing from branches and move swiftly across challenging terrains with remarkable ease.
Is a Silverback Gorilla Aggressive?
Despite his formidable strength, a silverback gorilla is primarily peaceful and non-aggressive creature using his power more for displays and posturing rather than engaging in physical altercations. His strength serves as a symbol of authority and is crucial for survival and social dynamics within his gorilla communities.
What is the Lifespan of Silverbacks in the Wild & Captivity?
A Silverback gorilla can live in the wild for 35 to 40 years. In captivity, they can stay up to 50 years, but should be noted that mountain gorillas live only in the natural habitat.
Why does a Silverback Gorilla charge?
Normally, a hibernating silverback gorilla charges pounding his chest and howling. This could be a sort of play, an attempt to intimidate or merely to warn the group that there is something unique going on or it could simply be the start of an encounter. When the silverback gorilla does this, the nearby adult females, youngsters and babies cuddle together their bellies to the ground and their feet and hands wrapped beneath their bodies. This is done to demonstrate their surrender to the silverback.
How Safe is Silverback Gorilla Trekking?
Silverback gorilla tours are safe and secure –for years, Uganda and Rwanda have proven to be the leading gorilla safari destinations. During the trek to see silverbacks, guests are led by an experienced armed park guide.
How Long Can Silverback Gorilla Tour Take?
In a single day, only one gorilla trek is done across the 4 mountain gorilla parks. A normal trek starts early morning at around 8:00 am and runs for 2 to 6 hours which includes one hour of up close and personal with gorillas.
What does a Silverback Gorillas eat?
A Silverback gorilla Silverback gorilla in general eats mainly plants. These can consist of fruits, shoots and leaves depending on the season (rainy or dry). He also loves termites, ants and certain insects. A Mountain gorilla silverback diet is slightly different as it consists of mainly stems and leaves. He may also feed on fungi, flowers and bark. In general mountain gorillas live a life of plenty because they are exposed to a greater variety of vegetation than the other gorilla sub-species.
How to see a Silverback Gorilla in Africa?
For you to see a silverback gorilla in the wild, you have to prepare to visit Africa and many tour companies including Engabi Tours and Travel offer amazing tours to visit Silverback gorillas in their natural habitat. You must be prepared to acquire a gorilla permit and also plan for other costs of gorilla trekking like transport, accommodation and meals. You might want to read about gorilla trekking for the elderly if you are a senior. The best places to see gorillas are in Bwindi National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Volcanoes National Park, Virunga National Park and Kahuzi-Biega National Park.
Where can I see a Silverback Gorilla in the Wild?
Where are silverback gorillas found? Silverback gorillas are found in the dense forests of East, Central and Western Africa. Lowland gorillas can be sighted in forests and swamps along the Congo river basin. Mountain Gorillas are mostly found in the wider Virunga conservation region and Bwindi Impenetrable forest. In general, if you want to see wild Mountain gorillas live in their natural habitat, you have to visit either Mgahinga National Park in Uganda, Bwindi National Park in Uganda, the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in Congo.
For eastern lowland gorillas, you have to visit Maiko National Park, Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Tayna Gorilla Reserve, the Itombwe Massif and the Usala forest. Western lowland gorillas are more widespread and found in Gabon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola, Central African Republic, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea and Republic of the Congo.
Embark on the adventure of a lifetime and witness the majesty of silverback gorillas in their natural African habitat. Today, visitors to the rainforests of Rwanda, Uganda, and DRC can embark on unforgettable gorilla trekking tours. These multi-day journeys led by experienced local guides offer a unique opportunity to spend a precious hour observing these majestic creatures in their natural environment.
Gorilla Trekking permits are required for gorilla trekking adventures and can be obtained through reputable tour operators like Engabi Tours and Travel in Uganda or Kigali, Rwanda. While the trek can be physically demanding, the reward of witnessing these gentle giants in their lush mountain home is an experience that will stay with you forever. The Gorilla Trekking Package Costs vary depending on the country and operator, so be sure to research and book your permits well in advance.
Engabi Tours and Travel is a tested Gorilla Trekking Company based in Uganda with sales offices in Rwanda and Tanzania and we are highly recommended by our past clients on TripAdvisor. We are available to serve you and get back to you promptly! if you really can’t wait for the journey to Africa to begin, chat with us right now on WhatsApp at +256 757 341 593
Contact us to start Planning your Gorilla Trekking Tour to Uganda or Rwanda
Is Gorilla Trekking Ethical and Good for Conservation?
Gorilla trekking still features as the bucket-list adventure when it comes to safaris to Africa. But what remains uncertain is how ethical is gorilla trekking? Gorilla trekking plays a significant part when it comes to wildlife conservation/protection, particularly mountain gorillas. Whether this Gorilla Trekking is ethical or not remains one area of concern amongst enthusiastic travelers. The fact is that gorilla trekking is ethical!
Comprehensive conservation initiatives have been developed and several protocols implemented not only by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) but also other stakeholders. These are aimed at ensuring that all visits to Uganda gorillas or gorillas in Rwanda are done ethically.
Plight of the mountain gorillas
As of 1960, mountain gorilla population was estimated to be 240 and these massive apes survive only in the 3 African nations: Uganda, Congo and Rwanda. Their plight was heard by the world thanks to Dian Fossey for her conservation initiatives and letting the world know about these apes.
As of 2023, about 1063 endangered mountain gorillas still exist in the wild, thriving in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park & Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda), Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga Park in the D.R. Congo.
How ethical is gorilla tracking
The first gorilla family was opened to tourists to track in 1993 in Buhoma sector in Bwindi that is Mubare. Today, Bwindi alone contains up to 20 habituated gorilla groups which are distributed in the 4 sectors/regions: Ruhija, Nkuringo, Rushaga and Buhoma. In Rwanda, 12 gorilla families have been fully habituated including the Susa A, Agashya while in the D.R. Congo, Virunga NP has 8 habituated gorilla groups.
Mountain gorillas are endangered species, and tracking to see them requires you to obtain a valid gorilla permit. You can obtain a gorilla permit through a reliable tour operator in Uganda, Rwanda or Congo. A valid gorilla permit in Uganda is available for purchase at USD 800, USD 1500 in Rwanda and in the D.R. Congo.
The gorilla permit issued to visitors allows you to enjoy a close encounter with a family of mountain gorillas in the wild. Part of the revenue collection from gorilla permits/gorilla safaris is used directly to support different conservation efforts aimed at saving the lives of these apes.
Gorilla Trekking
The set prices for gorilla permits play a significant part in reducing visitor numbers and as a result, it helps promote conservation of these large apes. Of recent, concerned nature lovers have become very conscious of the ethical issues that surround gorilla encounter. When booking gorilla permits, strictly persons above 15 years are considered to be eligible and each gorilla family is visited by a maximum of eight tourists per day.
The set gorilla trekking rules and regulations
While on gorilla trekking, there are set guidelines for every trekker to observe whether it is Rwanda, Uganda or Congo. The gorilla trekking guidelines to be observed are same across the 3 destinations and include;
Always observe a distance of 7 meters away from gorillas so as to reduce any chances of them contracting the infectious human diseases.
In case you aren’t well, you won’t be allowed to visit gorillas.
Do not feed gorillas while on a trek.
Littering the gorilla habitat is highly prohibited.
When gorillas charge at you, look down, this is a sign of submissiveness and avoid direct eye contact.
Use of flashlight cameras isn’t allowed, alternatively, you can turn off the flashlight before you begin taking any pictures.
Do not make loud noise while tracking mountain gorillas.
Threats to mountain gorilla survival in the wild
Longevity of the endangered mountain gorillas still remains a major challenge considering the various threats they encounter in the wild. These include infectious diseases –mountain gorillas share over 95% of their DNA with humans making them very susceptible to infectious human diseases.
Poaching has proven to be major threat not only to mountain gorillas but also other wildlife in Africa. These large apes are poached for a number of reasons, including need for their body parts for traditional medicine trade.
Habitat loss –mountain gorillas confine within the natural tropical rainforest-dominated areas in Africa. These protected areas have been encroached by nearby communities. The increase in human population comes with increased need for land for settlement and farming.
Contact usfor Information and Inspiration about Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda
Affordable Small Group Gorilla Tours Uganda & Rwanda(Tailor-Made)
Do you intend to go on a a small Group Gorilla Trekking vacation with your family or friends or work mates, contact us for exceptional tailor made Small Group Gorilla Tours to Uganda or Rwanda. We craft private small group Gorilla Tours for families, friends, workmates and couples and these tours will offer you the perfect balance between spending time on your own and group activities.
The amazing bit about taking on small group tours as a family or friends is that they are cost-friendly thus offering all travelers a chance to get up close and personal with a family of endangered mountain gorillas. On a small group gorilla trekking tour, visitors share the costs especially on transportation and accommodation. Our Private small group gorilla tours are available in varying rates and we take you to the finest gorilla trekking destinations in Uganda, and Rwanda.
A normal group gorilla trekking tour can comprise of 3 to 8 Persons and traveling in a group such as this guarantees ultimate comfort on a road trip.
A Group of Tourists Watching Gorillas in Bwindi
Why book a small group Gorilla Tour with Engabi Tours & Travel?
Engabi takes full responsibility to organize your memorable gorilla tour right from first step of booking gorilla permits till the end.
We can secure gorilla permits on visitors behalf without them traveling to Uganda or Rwanda and go through the stressful process.
Our experience. For long, Engabi Tours and Travel has proven to be the best company to deal with when it comes to group gorilla travel. We have all it takes to have a well-organized group gorilla trip in Uganda, Rwanda or Congo given our experience in the tourism industry.
Creativity –with experienced and knowledgeable team, we craft something unique that guarantees our clients lasting memories. Our team is well-versed with the destinations to see mountain gorillas, accommodation, routes to destinations and when best you can travel to enjoy your group gorilla tour, etc.
How much are the gorilla tour permits?
Whether you are traveling as an individual or a group, visiting a habituated gorilla group in Uganda or Rwanda requires you to have a valid gorilla permit. If you are visiting Uganda to see mountain gorillas, gorilla permits are available for booking at USD 800 per person. A gorilla trekking permit for Rwanda costs USD 1500 per person per single gorilla trek while the D.R. Congo gorilla permits can be purchased at USD 450 per person.
When to book small group gorilla tours?
The best time of the year to travel or book your small group gorilla tour is during the dry season or months of the year. Each year, there are 2 dry season phases that offer excellent gorilla trekking experiences that is from June, July, August to September and December, January to February.
We recommend dry season for your small group gorilla tours because it is during this period when the parks receive the least or no rainfall. However, it is a peak season and it means, you should obtain your gorilla permit early enough. Avoid last minute booking for gorilla permits given the high demand- secure your permit at least 2 to 6 months before you travel to track gorillas.
Obtaining Uganda/Rwanda/Congo gorilla permits is what grants you opportunity to visit mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. You get a chance to be assigned to a habituated gorilla group in a destination you booked the permit.
Where to go for small group gorilla tours?
There are only 3 countries and 4 national parks in the world where you can get up close and personal with the endangered mountain gorillas in the wild. They include Uganda with 2 gorilla safari parks- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Rwanda with only one Gorilla Park – Volcanoes National Park and Congo with Virunga National Park for you to see mountain gorillas and Kahuzi-Biega National Park for Eastern lowland gorilla trekking.
What is included on small group gorilla tours?
The group gorilla tour package includes valid gorilla permits, accommodation and meals, guide services through your tour, bottled drinking water, transportation, park entrance fees, and others. The tour excludes tips, laundry services, insurance, optional activities, cigarettes and more.
Where to stay
Uganda alone has wide range of accommodation options available for visitor night stay on group gorilla tours. These include budget, midrange and luxury; Mount Gahinga Lodge (Mgahinga Gorilla National Park), Buhoma Lodge, Silverback Lodge, Chameleon Hill Lodge, Rushaga Camp, Gift of Nature Lodge, Gorilla Forest Camp, etc in Bwindi. Volcanoes NP lodges: Virunga Lodge, Singita Lodge, Bisate Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Kinigi Guesthouse, La Palme Hotel, Le Bambou Lodge, and others.
Gorilla Trekking Packages You may Take on as a Group
The 2 Days Uganda Gorilla Tour is a private Gorilla Trekking Safari Uganda excursion perfect for primates lovers with limited time in Africa and staying in Kigali-Rwanda /Kabale/Kisoro. The short 2 Days Uganda Gorilla Tour brings you face to face with the Mountain Gorillas and provides you with best chances of trekking gorillas at an affordable cost
This short 2 Days Rwanda Gorilla Tour explores volcanoes national park located in the Virunga volcanoes a habitat for mountain gorillas and it gives tourists staying in Kigali or Kabale or Musanze or Kisoro Towns a chance to visit Rwanda gorillas with in a short time.
This 3 Days Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Bwindi takes you on a Gorillas encounter to southwest of Uganda on an approximately 9-10 hours drive from Kampala/Entebbe. It is a once- in a life time opportunity to trek mountain gorillas and see beautiful landscapes and wildlife of Bwindi impenetrable forest national park. Alternatively you can avoid the long drive hours by taking a small flight from Entebbe International Airport to Kisoro Airstrip and back or by starting and ending your tour from Kigali-Rwanda
The 3 Day Rwanda Gorilla trekking Safari is an affordable Gorillas and Golden Monkey tracking tour to Volcanoes National Park Rwanda. This popular 3 Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari will explore the primates of Virunga including mountain gorillas, Golden Monkeys as well as an authentic cultural experience.
This Uganda double gorilla trekking safari adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park allows tourists to trek two different habituated gorilla families in two different locations. The 4 Days Uganda double gorilla trekking Safari tour in Bwindi can be in done in Nkuringo and Rushaga Sector or in Buhoma and Ruhija sector based on the travelers preferences and availability of accommodation.
Combine Gorilla Trekking and Mount Sabinyo Hiking in Uganda with our 5 Days Gorillas and Mount Sabinyo Hike tour. This Gorillas and Mount Sabinyo Hiking itinerary takes you to watch Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park from where you will climb Mount Sabinyo and thereafter spend a night by the shores of Lake Bunyonyi where you will also do boat excursion to the different islands of the lake. You may also choose to Hike Mount Gahinga instead of Mount Sabinyo.
The 5 Days Gorillas and Chimpanzee Trekking Uganda Safari is a top Primates excursion to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Kibale Forest National Park two of the World’s major primates parks. The 5 Days ultimate Gorillas and Chimpanzee trekking Safari combines Gorilla trekking experience and Kibale Forest National Park’s Chimpanzee Tracking Experience. The tour begins and ends in Entebbe.
Primates and Wildlife Safari tours give tourists an opportunity to see the best of Uganda Safari inclusive of Gorillas, Chimpanzees and the Big Five animals and this 6 Days Uganda Primates and Wildlife Safari holiday is a fully guided gorilla trekking, Chimpanzee tracking and wildlife safari into western Uganda’s parks of Bwindi, Kibale and Queen Elizabeth national park.
This classic 7 day Uganda Safari is a Gorillas, Chimpanzee trekking and Wildlife Viewing Tour in Africa that takes you to explore top primates and Wildlife destinations in Uganda. The 7 Day Uganda Safari Holiday covers Uganda’s major National parks of Kibale National Park, Bwindi national park and Queen Elizabeth National park. The 7 day Uganda Safari starts from Kampala and ends in Entebbe and explores Africa’s and Uganda’s Safari highlights in one week.
This 7 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimpanzees and Wildlife viewing Safari is a Primates and Game park Rwanda Safari to Rwanda’s best parks of Akagera National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park and Volcanoes National Park. The 7 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimpanzees and Wildlife viewing Safari takes tourists to engage in activities such as Gorilla trekking, Chimpanzee tracking and wildlife safari viewing.
This 8 Days Uganda safari tour is a gorilla trekking, Chimpanzee tracking and wildlife viewing experience that features exploring the wildlife, beautiful landscapes and cultural attractions of Uganda in East Africa. You will conclude your 8 days Uganda safari holiday from a lodge on the shores of Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda’s most beautiful lake.
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.
On this 12 days Uganda Safari Holiday, you will explore Uganda’s major National parks including Bwindi impenetrable forest national park- home to half of world’s mountain gorillas, Mgahinga National Park, Queen Elizabeth national park, kibale forest national park, Murchison falls National Park and Lake Mburo National Park. These include amazing landscapes such as rainforests, Virunga volcanoes and kigezi highlands, rift valley, crater lakes, savannah, River Nile and some much more that you will enjoy nature photography.
CONTACT USfor Tailored Small Group Gorilla Tour Packages and information
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