Whereas we advise booking a gorilla trekking safari at least 3 months to the trekking date, we understand that not all have a luxury of time, yet can have an abrupt urge of activity.
Last Minute gorilla trekking is always a question to many who have a set itinerary or already in a destination. The Good news is that even in the very last minute; you can book for a gorilla trekking experience in Uganda in the destinations with available gorilla trekking permits. The gorilla trekking permits are documents that confirm your legibility to trek, and also a confirmation to the fact that you have paid for the activity. The documents can be obtained at Uganda Wildlife Authority headquarters in Kampala, or use on the registered tour operators to acquire one.
About Uganda
Uganda is located in the east of the continent of Africa. It is one of the top travel destinations in the world, hosting half of the total mountain Gorilla population. It is home to the source of the Nile-the longest river on earth; the big 5 cats (lions, leopard, Elephants, Buffalos, and Rhinos), wide biodiversity, mountains and Lakes. Countries Neighboring Uganda are: Rwanda and the republic of Tanzania to the south, the democratic republic of Congo to the west, Sudan to the north and the republic of Kenya to the east.
Does booking a gorilla trekking last Minute Mean More expenditure?
Last minute Gorilla trekking permit is at the same cost with the normal permits, though finding availability can be a big issue. If you will secure a permit last minute, it is very important to have cash at hand, at the credit card for quick transaction. As from 1st July 2024, the Gorilla trekking permits will cost 800$ for foreign non-residents, 700$ for foreign residents, and 300,000ugx for Ugandans and East Africa Citizens. The money paid covers park entrance fee, payment to the ranger guides and the contribution to the families that live at the border with the park. The more expensive might arise at the accommodation if those at the budget range or booked out, or at a high rate. Only children at with the age of 15 years and above are eligible for the Gorilla permits for a one time use. Gorilla trekking cost can’t be matched with the unforgettable memories of meeting the gentle Jungle giants at their habitat.
Gorilla trekking Destinations in Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
This is home to over 19 Gorilla families in the four sectors that make up the park. The Buhoma sector, Ruhija sector, Rushaga, and Nkuringo sector. Bwindi is located in south western part of Uganda, with the largest concentration of Mountain Gorillas in the Virunga chain of Mountains.
The Gates of the park open to visitors as early as 06:00hrs for a pre-trekking briefing which takes about 30 minutes. When reserving for an experience here, you must specify which sector to do the trekking. A maximum of 8 people are allowed to trek a Gorilla family and a maximum of 1 hour given for photography, and listening to explanations from the ranger Guide. This destination is safe and the most visited for Gorilla trekking.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mgahinga Gorilla national Park, established in 1991 is located in the south western part of Uganda. It is home to a quarter of the total Mountain Gorilla, but there is one famous habituated Gorilla family Open for visitors to trek. The park opens for Visitors from 6:00 am, for document verification, pre-trekking briefing and the ultimate Gorilla trekking experience.
What to have for a last minute gorilla trekking?
Last Minute Gorilla trekking Needs when one has all that is necessary for the trip. These include; The Gorilla trekking permits, travel and identification documents, waterproof hiking boots, professional camera for photography, a hut to protect your head, long sleeved shirts, trousers, water proof rain coat, water container, binoculars to watch distant attractions, insect repellant, Hand gloves to protect your hands, long stockings, and personal effects. Contact your tour operator to guide on what is needed for the travel.
In conclusion, a last minute Gorilla trekking Safari is very possible, and can be achieved with proper planning and time management. If you aren’t in Uganda, we advise getting to the park through Kigali Rwanda; a Journey of 4-6 hours instead of Entebbe International Airport in Uganda which takes about 9-11hours.The cost Gorilla trekking permits don’t change, and trip is unforgettable. Book your trip today and uncover the tropical Jungle of Uganda.
