There is no end to what you can imagine in a forest. Just beyond the trees, rocks and caves; a treasure is unveiled for your holiday time. Talking of what to do in a holiday in the continent of Africa? Gorilla trekking should be a Must do. Not Just a trip, but a visit to the world’s most powerful primates.
Science suggests human beings have a common ancestry with these Apes that are only found in Africa. Uganda, Rwanda, and the democratic Republic of Congo are homes to the Mountain Gorillas and the western Gorillas. Buy a gorilla trekking permit and visit the half of the total mountain Gorillas in either the Lush Bwindi Impenetrable National park, or the untouched Mgahinga Gorilla National park both in the south western part of Uganda.
Uganda is one of the must Visit destinations in the continent of Africa. It is a beautiful landlocked country in the east of the continent of Africa, gifted with a variety of Flora and fauna, vast water bodies, rolling hills, and cultural diversity. There is a remarkable infrastructural development, which ensures a memorable stay. Uganda’s neighbors are; the republic of Rwanda, Burundi, the democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya and the republic of Tanzania.
Gorilla Trekking Permit is a document that clears you visiting the destinations for Gorilla trekking. It is only issued by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA); a government body that is responsible for conservation of wild life in the country. The Authority’s offices are located in Kampala; the capital city of Uganda. If you cannot reach out to the headquarters for the permits, visit the website; Ugandawildlife.org, or get one through a fully licensed tour operator. Except for companies, Non trekkers are not allowed to purchase a permit. It is only valid if it has a seal, authorities stamp, your identity, trekking destination, and valid trekking dates.
The Cost of Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda
As from July, 2024 to June 2026 Gorilla trekking permit costs 800$ for foreign non-resident, 700$ for foreign residents and 300,000 shillings for Ugandan and east African Residents. This cost covers the park entrance, payment to the ranger Guides, and the contribution to the communities living around the communities surrounding the park. The permit is for only persons aged 15 years and above, and ready for adventure. It is for a one time use, with no refund once the adventure is missed unless communicated early with a valid reason.
Gorilla trekking starts from the very moment one purchases the permits. You are advised to have some physical exercises as the adventure demands certain level of fitness. On the day of trekking, you will go to the park headquarters for a pre-trekking briefing that is done at 07:00hrs for about 30 minutes. The ranger guides explain the trekking dos and don’ts, what to expect at the Jungle, and assign the Gorilla family for trekking.
The trekking dos and don’ts include; No making noise, littering not allowed, stand-about 7mtrs from Gorillas, no smoking, proper waste disposal, no using flash lights when taking photos, and more. The trekking exercise takes about 1-8 hours, plus an additional hour for taking photos, asking the ranger guide questions, and more. Having an up-close encounter with the Gorillas is an unforgettable experience worth every penny and dedication. A family of gorillas is tracked by a group of a maximum of 8 people.
Gorilla trekking destinations in Uganda
Get a Gorilla trekking permit for Bwindi impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla national park through a trusted tour operator like Omangwa Safaris. These parks are located at the foothills of the vast Virunga ranges in the south western part of Uganda. To access the destinations, you can book a chattered flight from Entebbe international airport, or Kajansi airstrip for a flight to Kihihi in the south western part of the country.
A road trip from Kampala; the capital city takes about 8-9 hours, depending on the route used, and the traffic condition. Bwindi Impenetrable National park is home to over 19 Gorilla families; the largest of the other parks hosting the endangered mountain Gorillas in its four sectors.
Mgahinga Gorilla national park is a much quitter destination, with about 2 habituated Gorilla families, with of them most trekked. Different Destinations but the same experience awaits you in the pearl of Africa.
In conclusion, a Gorilla trekking permit is limited yet on high demand. We advise you book for yours at least six months to the day. Whereas the trekking is done throughout the year, the best of the trekking days is in the month of June to September, and December to march.
