Why Visit Uganda Gorillas?
There are countless reasons why Uganda is better than other gorilla trekking destinations. These are astonishing facts that have been proven by millions of visitors who have come to the pearl of Africa.
Uganda hosts over 50% of the total mountain gorilla population. There are currently 1063 mountain gorillas living in the wild and Uganda shares over 50% of those with a number of 604 that are living in her southwest forested territories. Gorillas live in organized families. 25 of these families are ready for gorilla trekking with 24 in Bwindi and only one in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These mountain gorillas inhabit the slopes of Virunga mountain ranges.
Uganda's affordable gorilla permit prices
Gorilla permits in Uganda are very affordable price tag that doesn't break the pockets of the travelers. They are acquired depending on the nationality of gorilla trekkers with foreign non-residents paying $800, foreign residents paying $700 and East African citizens pay Uganda shillings 300,000 that is non-negotiable. The gorilla trekking permits can be obtained through a registered and licensed tour operator like Standard Safaris.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda exposes to some of the 25 gorilla families. These gorilla families are fully habituated meaning that they have no threat to human beings unless provoked. They are scattered all over Bwindi impenetrable and Mgahinga national parks.
Favorable gorilla habitats
Uganda presents favorable habitats for mountain gorillas to flourish. Gorillas inhabit the Virunga massif and Bwindi impenetrable National Park which are characterized by thick tropical rainforests that form a perfect home for these gentle giants. These natural gorilla habitats include Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga national parks.
Bwindi national park is a host to the oldest tropical rainforest on African continent and is divided into 4 gorilla sectors; Rushaga, Nkuringo, Buhoma and Ruhija with a total of 24 fully habituated gorilla families. Mgahinga national park on the other hand has no sectors but hosts one exciting gorilla family known as Nyakagezi.
Uganda is a perfect setting for gorilla trekking
Uganda is truly the “Pearl of Africa” and undoubtedly one of the best safari destinations on the African continent with its abundant land, iconic national parks, fresh water bodies including Lake Victoria and the Nile river, mountain peaks including Rwenzori mountain, rapid waterfalls and springs, natural wealth and heavy dense jungles that in turn act as shelter for the endangered mountain gorillas and other primate species including chimpanzees, monkeys and baboons.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is however a popular safari activity and the country is a uniquely endowed gorilla trekking destination with almost half the number of the only remaining a thousand mountain gorillas in the wild while being one of the best spots to sight and spend some quality time with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitats.
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The Gorilla Trekking Experience in Uganda
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is the most popular and sought-after safari in the country. Many tourists across the globe especially those that have been part of gorilla trekking experience in Uganda before, acknowledge it as once in a life time activity that is worthy of more visits.
Uganda is one of the three habitats of the only surviving endangered mountain gorillas in the wild, while the other two are Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo, all spanned by the Virunga ranges which is dominated by dense forests and volcanoes that act as home for mountain gorillas.
All gorilla trekking tours in Uganda begin with a briefing session, conducted by government ranger guides and this is where visitors are provided with rules, regulations and tips to observe while trekking gorillas. The briefing session starts at 7:30am in the morning and this is when visitors are also divided in groups of eight and each group assigned to track and locate one particular gorilla family.
Visitors can then embark on the thrilling journey from 8:00 am led by park guides and armed rangers for safety and then dive into the thick forests to search for mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking in Uganda also involves hiking and that's why trekkers are argued to always be sure they are in their best health before engaging in a gorilla trek.
Visitors are soon rewarded with the scenic views of these gorilla trekking destinations like Bwindi, sighting several mammal species and other primate species including Vervet monkeys, baboons, and black and white colobus monkeys. Once the gorilla family is located, visitors can only encounter with them for only one hour while learning about their behavior, feeding habits, mating and breast-feeding.
Take stunning photos for memories provided the regulations are fully observed. The chances of sighting mountain gorillas in Uganda are over 95% since the pearl of Africa shelters almost half of one thousand mountain gorillas remaining in the wild. “Nyakagezi family” is the only gorilla family sheltered in Mgahinga while Bwindi gives its visitors a chance to track from 25 habituated gorilla groups.
Inquire NowGorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Just like its name, Bwindi is an “impenetrable” national park due to its thick and dense forest with water streams and a mountainous terrain.
The park is neighbors Virunga ranges in the south, which spans Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga national park in Democratic Republic of Congo that are also home to hundreds of endangered mountain gorillas.
There are only 1063 mountain gorillas remaining in the wild but Bwindi shelters over 500 of them, making gorilla trekking in Uganda a popular safari adventure. Bwindi national park alone has 24 habituated gorilla families that visitors can trek; including Mubare, Katwe, Habinyanja, Nkuringo, Kyaguriro, to mention but a few.
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi national park lasts anything between 30 minutes and 7 hours depending on the location of the gorillas since they tend to move for longer distances just like other primate species in search of food.
Each gorilla family can only be visited by a group of eight members to limit mass tourism and control possible transmission of some contagious diseases like flu, cold, COVID-19, Ebola etc.
Once the gorilla family is sighted, visitors can only spend one hour with these endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. All gorilla trekking tours in Uganda start in the morning at 7:30 am with a briefing before embarking on this lifetime adventure.
Inquire NowGorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park
Regardless of its small size (only 33.9 km2), Mgahinga national park is one of the most visited national parks and the second popular gorilla destination in Uganda after Bwindi. Mgahinga National Park is one of the best spots to trek and spend quality time with the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
There is only habituated gorilla family group in Mgahinga national park, known as “Nyakagezi family”. The chances of sighting mountain gorillas in Mgahinga are at 98% depending.
It takes 8-9 hours of drive from Uganda's only international Airport Entebbe to bothgorilla trekking destination and while visitors are preparing to embark on this remarkable adventure, Standard Safaris makes it easier for visitors to have a less stressful and challenging experience with mountain gorillas in the country.
At Standard Safaris, we will book gorilla trekking permits for you reliably and in time so as you don't have to go through the tiring process of acquiring them, and as well book the finest accommodation facilities, transport and ensure you have the ultimate full experience of gorilla trekking in Uganda.
Inquire NowSecuring your Gorilla Permits
Visitors who are anticipating to undertake Uganda gorilla trekking tours can book their gorilla permits from Uganda Wildlife Authority through a licensed tour company in Uganda. You will be required to send your travel documents and passport, and the most convenient way is to book through trusted tour operator like Standard Safaris.
We will get everything done and reserve your gorilla permits on your behalf, seamlessly and affordably.
Gorilla Trekking Rules & Regulations
While gorilla trekking experience in Uganda is a thrilling activity, there are rules and regulations that should be observed in order to have an ultimate adventure of gorilla trekking in Uganda.
- Keep a distance of 7 meters from the gorillas. While encountering mountain gorillas, visitors are advised to maintain a distance of about 7 meters and leave an ample space for gorillas to move. The restricted distance is to ensure there's no easy transmission of contagious diseases from humans to the gorillas.
- The minimum gorilla trekking age is 15 years. All trekkers must be at least 15 years of age or above to ensure there's no easy transmission of diseases like cough, colds and flu. This is because persons under the age of 15 tend to unintentionally carry such diseases yet they are extremely dreadful to the mountain gorillas.
- Only 8 people are allowed to visit a gorilla family per day. Only a group of 8 members can track one particular group of endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Visitors are limited to this number so as to keep the gorilla habitats intact and not impose any pressure due to mass tourism. This is why visitors are strictly advised to first take medical checkups and ensure they are at their best health before participating in gorilla trekking tours.
Visitors cannot track the mountain gorillas if the park rangers and caretakers feel that these primate species are infected with transmittable diseases. This is to ensure maximum safety and well-being of the mountain gorillas.
Inquire NowLuxury & Budget Gorilla Trekking
Luxury Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
We organize luxury gorilla trekking safaris, where we plan your stay in upscale safari lodges and glamping luxe tents, private transportation, gourmet meals, premium drinks and exclusive treat. Luxury safari experience prioritizes comfort, personal service and often includes additional amenities such as spa treatment, camp fire, cultural excursions, providing a premium and indulgent gorilla trekking adventure.
Budget Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Budget travelers are also catered for, by offering affordable and yet enriching experiences in basic accommodation, cost effective meals and transportation. While maintaining the primary focus of gorilla trekking, budget safaris always involve group tours, basic amenities and fewer frills making the adventure accessible to travelers with financial constraints.
Standard safaris also offer last minute gorilla tours involving booking gorilla trekking permits and lodges on short notice. Whether you have gotten sudden availability or unexpected schedule changes, the company is able to offer spontaneous travelers an opportunity to experience this unique adventure.
However, flexibility is crucial as last-minute gorilla trekking tours might face challenges in securing gorilla permits and preferred lodges. You can either choose to do last minute deals or decide to embark on unplanned adventure, contributing to the unpredictability of the booking timing.
Inquire NowWhy Choose Us as your Gorilla Trekking Company?
Standard safaris are an experienced and trusted gorilla trekking company in Uganda and Africa at large, offering thrilling adventure safaris in Uganda. We offer gorilla safaris in Uganda, as well as Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo, ensuring that we reach your heart and fill your mind with a brand-new understanding of nature that makes Uganda the best gorilla trekking destination.
You are able to encounter these endangered mountain gorillas within their natural habitat as well as interact and learn from the African people who are warm and welcoming. By booking with standard safaris, you are able to embark on an exciting safari in all gorilla destinations and get close to nature having an unforgettable adventure incomparable to any other company.
We are dedicated and passionate in organizing gorilla safaris that meet your expectations and budget, you will get chance to experience adventure in Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo and return home safely and delighted by the pleasures of your journey.
Our expert team of gorilla trekking planners will make sure you get a memorable journey and the finest treatment at every step of your safari with the highest standards in mind, giving you a highly vetted, simply excellent and top-notch gorilla trekking adventure in the impenetrable jungles of Africa.
Choosing Standard Safaris for your gorilla safaris is an incredible decision due to our unbeatable customer-centered service, expert tour guides, rich and fun-filled tour packages, quality accommodation, safety and overall value for your money.
Inquire NowWhat to pack when going for a gorilla safari in Uganda?
Visitors embarking on the Uganda gorilla safari are reminded to pack appropriately for this adventure to avoid unnecessary interruptions while exploring the beauty of the pearl.
Carry essentials such as hiking boots to help maneuver through the thick tropical rainforests with ease, long sleeved shirts and trousers to protect the body from scratching plants, mosquito repellents to keep the biting insects away.
A camera is also important during a gorilla trek to capture the exciting moments though photographers need not to forget that flash photography is not allowed while with the gorillas, because the flashes scare away the gorillas or might irritate them.
Binoculars also play a big role on the trek, they help the visitors to see animals that are near and at a distance thus should be carried.
A tourist day pack shouldn't be forgotten too since it helps the visitors carry with them personal essentials like drinking water, snacks, first aid kits and extra clothes.
Inquire NowWhere to stay during gorilla safaris in Uganda
There are a variety of accommodation facilities where visitors can have peaceful stay during their Uganda gorilla safaris. These provide upscale hospitality services and are run by warm staff who are always willing to help;
Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
Renowned for upscale hospitality it has provided to travelers over the years, Ichumbi is situated in the Rushaga gorilla sector in Bwindi Impenetrable national park. It is just a 10 minutes' walk to the Rushaga gorilla gate. Its operated by a team of attentive staff who pride themselves in making meals that are worth finger - licking. The lodge presents a breathtaking view of the Bwindi forest and tends to be visited by gorillas in its compound.
Four Gorillas Lodge
This astonishing lodge is located in Rubuguri in Rushaga gorilla sector. It boasts well decorated structures that are perfectly positioned overlooking the Bwindi Impenetrable forest. A look through the windows while in the rooms presents views of canopies of the trees that form a beautiful scenery.
Guests at the lodge can view a variety of biodiversity by just standing outside their balconies. The hospitable team and the delicious meals served at the lodge make it a go to area when one needs a calm place to stay when on a Uganda gorilla safari.
Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
This captivating lodge is located in Ryarutagara in the popular Rushaga gorilla sector, overlooking Bwindi impenetrable National Park just as its name suggests. This lodge has a variety of room types to fit the needs of different kinds of guests including the double rooms, twin rooms and single rooms.
The rooms are well kept on a daily basis by smart staff who render upscale hospitality to the guests. It is usually visited by gorillas in its compound which the guests will stand a chance of viewing as a bonus after gorilla trek.
Buhoma Lodge
Buhoma Lodge is an intimate hospitality facility in the captivating Bwindi impenetrable National Park. It is located in Buhoma gorilla sector which is the pioneer of Uganda gorilla safaris in Uganda. Buhoma lodge provides a wide range of services to match the comfort of clients from all walks of life especially the spacious rooms, forest views, lounge and dining. It is served by a steady 24/7 Wi-Fi and has spacious parking area.
Inquire NowGorilla Trekking in Uganda Vs Rwanda and D.R. Congo
Gorilla trekking is one of the most exciting wildlife experiences in the world, through it, you'll be able to meet the largest primate species on earth. One has to hike through dense forests at high altitude to encounter the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are the only three countries where you can see these magnificent primates in the wild. You might wonder which is the best place to trek gorillas? I would say Uganda, due to some factors that make Uganda gorilla safaris exceptional compared to other destinations.
Gorilla Permit costs
Uganda offers relatively affordable gorilla permits in the region, at $800 per person for foreign nonresidents, $700 for foreign residents and UGX 300,000 for East African nationals. Rwanda on the other hand charges $1,500 per person, while D. R. Congo is the cheapest gorilla trekking destination at $400 per person.
Uganda has two gorilla trekking destinations
Uganda is home to almost half of the world's mountain gorilla total population and therefore has more gorilla families that can be visited making the number of available permits for tourists high compared to the other two countries.
It is also the only country with two different gorilla trekking national parks, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park hence tourists have options of where to go gorilla trekking in Uganda.
Gorilla habituation experience
Uganda is the only country that offers gorilla habituation experiences, which allow one to spend up to four hours with a gorilla family instead of the usual one hour.
This is a unique chance to observe the very wild gorillas' behavior and interactions, as well as to participate in the habituation process which is to make these primates familiar to human presence. Gorilla habituation permits cost $1,500 per person and are available only in Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Gorilla conservation efforts
Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC are all committed to protecting and conserving mountains gorillas and their habitats. A percentage of gorilla permit revenue is used to support local communities and invest in various conservation projects. Members of the communities are employed as rangers, guides, trackers, and porters, creating jobs and income for local people.
Additionally, there are strict rules and regulations for gorilla trekking, such as only 8 trekking visitors are allowed per gorilla group, keeping a safe distance of about 7 meters from the gorillas, and wearing masks to prevent disease transmission, not using flash photography among others.
Uganda has more to offer than just gorillas
It is home to 10 national parks and 12 wildlife reserves, where you can see a variety of animals, birds, and plants. You can also enjoy activities such as chimpanzee tracking, game drives, boat cruises, white-water rafting, and cultural tours. Uganda is also known as the Pearl of Africa, for its stunning scenery and friendly people.
Rwanda and D.R. Congo on the other hand are homes to numerous other attractions, such as the Nyiragongo volcano, Lake Kivu, and the genocide memorial sites, but they are less diverse and accessible than Ugandan attractions.
Uganda gorilla safaris are the best option for travelers who want to see gorillas at an affordable price and yet have a longer and deeper interaction with them, and explore other natural and cultural wonders of the country. Uganda is a safe, stable, and welcoming destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Inquire NowResponsible Gorilla Tourism And Gorilla Conservation In Uganda
The importance of ethical and sustainable gorilla trekking practices - Ethical and sustainable gorilla trekking practices include issuing of limited gorilla trekking permits has helped tourism sector of Uganda to legally generate enough revenue from the country's gorilla trekking destinations that include Bwindi impenetrable forest national park and Mgahinga national park hence largely contributing to the economic growth and development of the country.
Other funds secured from these gorilla trekking permits are also meant for gorilla conservation activities like treating sick gorilla individuals and care taking of the mountain gorillas hence boosting the thrilling activity while offering an amazing unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Uganda.
There has also been a progressive development in other sectors of Uganda's economy as a result of sustainable gorilla trekking practices especially where these gorilla trekking destinations are located. This can be witnessed by improved infrastructure to the standard level and community development initiatives.
Security level has also been at its best to ensure maximum safety of tourists in the country and several illegal wildlife activities for example poaching has also been controlled ensuring welfare of mountain gorillas too.
The strict gorilla trekking rules and regulations issued by park rangers to the visitors in for the gorilla trekking experience in Uganda are meant not only to protect visitors but also mountain gorillas too making gorilla trekking tours well organized and highly acknowledged tourism activities.
Tourism Supports Gorilla Conservation Efforts in Uganda
Several gorilla conservation efforts that may include treatment of sick mountain gorillas, salaries / wages for gorilla caretakers like veterinary doctors, park rangers, researchers, trackers and deployment of security around different gorilla trekking destinations to ensure there are no external threats like poaching. This has been as a result of accumulated funds off gorilla trekking permits that has also enabled other conservation efforts like research about these primates and gorilla habituation process to take place.
There has been progressive development initiatives witnessed in the local communities surrounding some of the national parks through genuine support from both domestic and international visitors by boosting their small businesses, staying in their lodges, buying local hand made products like jewelries, crafts and art pieces hence contributing to the welfare of these local people that in turn may offer assistance as porters, local tour guides or get employed as park rangers in Uganda's gorilla trekking destinations.
Infrastructure development has been registering progress and success and it has seen its way to the standard level through tax revenue generated from gorilla tourism. This has enabled the government to establish health facilities, road networks connecting to several tourism destinations in the country and education facilities like schools within local communities surrounding Bwindi and Mgahinga national park.
The fact that Uganda is home to half of the remaining mountain gorilla population in the wild has helped to promote awareness about how vital it is to protect mountain gorillas and giving these primate species another chance to live hence attracting a big number of visitors from across the world. The income generated is yet used to facilitate gorilla conservation activities.
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