Is Gorilla Trekking done every day?

Is Gorilla Trekking done every day?

Is Gorilla Trekking done every day? Are you planning to come to Africa to see Gorillas and you want to know does Gorilla Trekking takes place every day? Gorilla trekking typically takes place daily in Uganda. However, it’s essential to check with the specific national park or reserve where you plan to trek as there might be seasonal variations, closures due to conservation efforts, or limitations on the number of permits issued per day to minimize disturbance to the gorillas. It’s always best to book in advance so that we can confirm availability with the Uganda Wildlife Authority to ensure you can participate on your desired date. Contact us for more information.

Daily Gorilla Trekking Activity

Regardless of the season, gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga National parks is scheduled every day. However, securing a permit in advance is essential as permits are limited and highly sought after, especially during the peak seasons of June to September and December to February. A gorilla permit is like a passcode that indicates that you are eligible to participate in gorilla trekking. Without it, you cannot be allowed to do gorilla trekking.

About Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi is one of only four national parks in the world that are home to the critically endangered mountain gorillas, alongside Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Bwindi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Africa’s oldest forests, boasting incredible biodiversity. The park is home to over 350 bird species, 310 butterfly species, 200 tree species, 51 reptiles, 88 moth species, and 120 mammals, including chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and mountain gorillas. Bwindi holds about half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, with 1,064 individuals globally. Over 20 habituated gorilla families in Bwindi are available for trekking, with eight permits allocated per group each day. This means that there are more than 160 permits available for dorilla trekking every day. There are also 2 gorilla families undergoing habituation, a process that helps gorilla that are not used to human to human presence to get used over time. Uganda Wildlife Authority issues only 8 gorilla habituation permits every day.

Where Gorilla Trekking Takes Place in Bwindi

Trekking in Bwindi occurs in four main sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga.

• Buhoma and Ruhija (Northern Sectors): These are located near Queen Elizabeth National Park, making it convenient to combine gorilla trekking with a game safari.
• Nkuringo and Rushaga (Southern Sectors): These are situated near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, offering additional activities such as golden monkey tracking. Rushaga is notable for having the highest number of habituated gorilla families. Nkuringo is known for having high altitude, hence rewarding trekkers with stunning views of landscapes from afar.

Each sector has its own distinct appeal, and travelers can select one based on their itinerary and preferences.

Cost of Gorilla Trekking permits in Uganda

Starting July 1, 2024, gorilla trekking permits costs USD 800 for foreign Non-Residents, USD 700 for foreign residents, USD 500 for residents from other African countries, and UGX 300,000 for East African Citizens

Each permit grants a one-hour interaction with a mountain gorilla family during the trek.

Travelers who seek more time in the presence of gorillas can purchase gorilla habituation permits at USD1500 for foreign non-residents, $1000 for Foreign residents and African citizens, and Ugx750000 for East African citizens.

How to Purchase a Gorilla Trekking Permit

Permits can be purchased directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) headquarters in Kampala or its Kisoro branch. Visitors traveling via Entebbe are advised to secure permits in Kampala, while those arriving through Kigali can do so in Kisoro. Alternatively, tour companies like (us) can assist in booking permits. Once you provide your trekking dates, a permit will be tentatively reserved, and upon payment, the permit will be secured and sent to you along with the booking ID for confirmation.

How to Book Uganda Gorilla Permits

Booking a gorilla permit for any sector in Bwindi requires planning and advance arrangements. Permits are often booked at random by tour operators depending on the nature of the itinerary. To increase your chances of not missing out this fascinating activity, plan and book your permit 6 months to a year in advance, especially if you are traveling during the peak seasons.

When contacting a tour operator, provide your intended trekking dates, the number of travelers, and alternative dates to speed up the booking process. Note that permits are limited, and early booking is crucial to secure your desired trek date. You will also need to provide personal details such as your name, nationality, and passport information for the permit processing and the certificate awarded after the trek from Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

While gorilla trekking is available year-round, the drier months (January, February, June through early September) are ideal. During this period, the trails are less muddy, and the vegetation is less dense, offering better visibility of the gorillas. Trekking is therefore easier during this period.

Meanwhile, you can also trek gorillas in the wet season which runs from March to May and October to November. Though there is heavy rain and the trails are muddy, there are less crowds, and accommodation facilities are available at discounted prices (not all of them but most of them). Also, the quality of other services like accommodation and transport is higher because of the fewer customers, hence concentrating on the few that each service provider has.

Packing List for Gorilla Trekking

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience, pack the following essentials:

• Comfortable hiking boots (durable and suitable for muddy terrain)
• Long-sleeved shirts and lightweight trousers to protect against undergrowth and insects
• Gardening gloves for navigating thick vegetation and saving hands from possible damages.
• Rain jacket, hat, and sunscreen
• Insect repellent, flashlight (with spare batteries), and wet wipes
• Water bottle, camera, and binoculars
• Warm clothing such as a sweater or fleece for cooler weather

Accommodation Options in Bwindi

Lodging in Bwindi is conveniently located near each trekking sector:

• Northern Sectors (Buhoma and Ruhija): Options include Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Ride 4 a Woman, Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge, Broadbill Tented Camp, and Mahogany Springs Lodge.
• Southern Sectors (Rushaga and Nkuringo): Accommodations include Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Four Gorillas Lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, gorilla Heights Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Gorilla Leisure Lodge, and Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge.

Most lodges are strategically placed close to trekking start points for easy access.

Accessibility to Bwindi

Bwindi can be accessed by both road and air:

• By Road: Depending on the sector, the park is an 8–9-hour drive from Kampala or Entebbe. Ruhija and Buhoma can be accessed via the Kabale-Kisoro road, while Rushaga and Nkuringo are reached through a turnoff at Muko(10 hours).
• By Air: Domestic flights from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kisoro (for southern sectors) or Kihihi (for northern sectors) are available through operators such as Aerolink and Fly Uganda.

Why Book with Us?

We specialize in arranging gorilla trekking tours in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. We offer packages tailored to various budgets, from luxury to mid-range and budget options. With a team of experienced consultants and excellent reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor, we ensure a seamless booking experience and a memorable safari.

Contact us for personalized assistance in planning your gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.