Gorilla Trekking Uganda
Gorilla Trekking Uganda : Uganda Gorilla Safaris : Generally, Uganda boasts two Gorilla National Parks; Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a UNESCO world heritage site that was created in 1991 and covers an area of 33.9 square kilometers. The park encompasses three fabulous inactive volcanoes namely Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo however, its altitude ranges from 2,227 to 4,127 meters, and is part of the Nile River watershed area. Above all, the park is home to unique mountain gorillas and around 76 mammal species inhabits the area such as black and white colobus, leopards, elephants, giant forest hog, bush pig, buffalos, bushbucks, black-fronted duiker, and a variety of rodents, bats and small predators. More so, Mgahinga also harbors various Albertine rift’s endemic birds recorded some bird species include; strange weaver, montane nightjar, red-faced woodland, warbler, handsome spurfowl, dusky crimson wing, red-throated alethe, Kivu ground thrush, Rwenzori turaco, Rwenzori batis, Rwenzori double-collared sunbird, Collared Apalis, stripe-breasted tit, blue-headed sunbird, regal sunbird, strange weaver, montane nightjar, red-faced woodland warbler among others.
Besides that, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to the highest population of endangered mountain gorillas in the whole world and harbors over 22 habituated gorilla families, splintered in four gorilla regions; Buhoma, Nkuringo, Rukija, and Rushaga gorilla sectors. Each sector or region boasts perfect accommodation facilities ranging from Luxury, Mid-range, and Budget.
Mgahinga Gorilla National park is also home to mountain gorillas and golden monkey 5species. It is home to two gorilla families and the gorilla trekking experience can be done in Nyakagezi Gorilla Family which lies between the Ntebeko and Muhabura entrance gates.
Gorilla trekking Uganda
In Uganda there are two safari destinations to do gorilla trekking; Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park both located in the southwestern region of Uganda, approximately 8 to 9 hours’ drive. Alternatively, can be accessed by a domestic flight from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrip which lands within 1:30 hours.
Gorilla trekking is an incredible experience that starts early in the morning with a briefing at the park headquarters. After the briefing, you will be allocated by the park rangers to the assigned gorilla family. The activity may take a 2 to 7 hours trek depending on their movements. The moment you find the gorilla group you’re assigned to one hour is given to you to observe, learn about their lifestyle and enjoy memorable photography.
Best time to do gorilla trekking in Uganda safaris
Uganda gorilla trekking safaris are best done in dry seasons when the tracking trails are dry and easy to hike. The best time to do gorilla trekking starts from June, July, August, and September then December, January, and February.
Note; We advise tourists before planning to start your gorilla trekking safari, you need to book your gorilla permits in advance.
The minimum age for trekking in Uganda is 15 years and below that age can’t be allowed to participate.
The maximum number of trackers is 8 people per group.
How much does a gorilla trek in Mgahinga cost?
To trek gorillas in Uganda, you must have gorilla trekking permits which are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. An Uganda gorilla permits cost USD700 per person per day. The price provided includes a guide fee, park entrance fees for the day, and community development contribution but excludes accommodation fees.
How do I book a gorilla trek in Mgahinga?
We recommend visitors book their gorilla permits through a reliable Uganda tour operator who is part of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators ‘’AUTO’’.
We advise you to book your gorilla permits in advance.
Rules and Regulations About Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga/Bwindi Impenetrable National park;
Before you visit the gorillas;
There is a minimum age for tracking in Uganda which is 15 years and below that age, you’re not permitted to trek.
There is a limited number of 8 people per gorilla group.
Wash your hands before accessing a gorilla family
Lower your voices in the forest so that you do not disrupt the peace of the gorillas.
Don’t throw away rubbish in the forest
Always follow the guide’s rules through the trekking trails.
Your human waste should be buried 30cm deep.
When you are with gorillas?
Once in the forest, trekkers are advised not to get closer than 10 meters to the gorillas.
Do not eat, smoke, urinate, or defecate in the Vicinity of the gorilla family
Flash photography is forbidden
If you have a cough and you feel like coughing or sneezing cover your mouth.
Flash photography is not allowed
Stay in the tight group during the visits.
Always lower your voice and feel free to ask the guide question
Don’t touch the gorillas, they are wild animals
Accept the one hour given to stay with gorillas.
What to carry on a gorilla trekking Uganda
Insect repellent; especially for mosquitoes
Sun blocker cream
Sunglasses; These help with protection from direct sunshine
Headband and hat
A warm sweater; can help in the early mornings and cool nights.
Rain jackets
Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts /t-shirts
