After COVID gorilla tracking Safaris in Uganda

After COVID Gorilla Tracking Safaris in Uganda: A Complete Guide

Gorilla trekking in Uganda has returned as one of the most sought-after wildlife experiences in Africa after the COVID-19 pandemic. If you are looking for an unforgettable adventure, Monumental Expeditions and Safaris (gorillatrackings.com) offers expertly planned trips to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. From the lush jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park to the volcanic landscapes of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda is a top destination for gorilla safaris in East Africa.

Why Uganda is a Top Destination for Gorilla Tracking

Uganda is one of only three countries in the world where you can still find half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, alongside Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. For travelers seeking both adventure and safety, Uganda provides a perfect balance of affordability, accessibility, and unforgettable wildlife experiences.

Key gorilla trekking locations in Uganda:

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park – This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas and offers incredible biodiversity.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Part of the Virunga Conservation Area, Mgahinga combines volcanic landscapes with dense forest, ideal for gorilla tracking and wildlife exploration.

Travelers can begin their gorilla trekking safari from Entebbe/Kampala in Uganda or Kigali in Rwanda. From Kigali, it takes about 4–5 hours to reach the parks, while from Entebbe/Kampala, the drive is around 8–9 hours. Learn more about gorilla trekking from Kigali with Monumental Expeditions and Safaris.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Gorilla Tracking Tourism

During the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism activities in both Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks were temporarily halted. This was to protect mountain gorillas, which share approximately 98% of their DNA with humans and are vulnerable to human-borne diseases. The Ugandan government, in partnership with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and the World Health Organization (WHO), implemented strict measures to prevent the virus from spreading to wildlife.

With travel resuming, Monumental Expeditions and Safaris has put safety at the forefront. Our gorilla trekking tours now comply with enhanced hygiene protocols, including the use of masks, hand sanitizers, and social distancing during hikes.

Planning Your Post-COVID Gorilla Trekking Safari

At Monumental Expeditions and Safaris, we offer a variety of gorilla trekking packages to suit every traveler’s budget and schedule. Our tours are designed for comfort, adventure, and safety:

Budget-friendly safaris – Affordable packages without compromising the experience.
Moderate tours – A balanced option with mid-range accommodations and extra activities.
Luxury tours – Premium packages with high-end lodges and personalized services.

One of the advantages of gorilla tracking in Uganda is cost-effectiveness. While a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs around USD 1,500 per person, Uganda offers permits for only USD 800, making it a more accessible option for many travelers. Book your gorilla trekking safari in Uganda today with Monumental Expeditions and Safaris.

Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi

For wildlife enthusiasts seeking a more immersive experience, the Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi’s Rushaga sector allows travelers to spend up to four hours with gorillas, observing their behavior in detail. This unique encounter offers a deeper understanding of mountain gorilla social structures and daily life.

Combining Gorilla Tracking with Other Wildlife Adventures

Uganda offers more than just gorilla trekking. Monumental Expeditions and Safaris can help you plan a multi-day safari combining gorilla tracking with other wildlife experiences:

Queen Elizabeth National Park – Enjoy game drives and boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel, home to hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species.
Kibale Forest National Park – Track chimpanzees and explore Uganda’s rich primate biodiversity.
Murchison Falls National Park – Witness dramatic waterfalls and diverse savannah wildlife.
Kidepo Valley National Park – Remote wilderness safari for adventurous travelers seeking rare species.

These options provide a well-rounded East African safari experience for travelers seeking both gorilla trekking and broader wildlife adventures.

Safety Measures During Post-COVID Gorilla Safaris

Safety remains a priority in post-COVID Uganda. The Uganda Tourism Board has issued travel guidelines to minimize health risks during gorilla trekking:

All tour operators and lodges maintain handwashing stations and provide hand sanitizers.
Masks (preferably N95) are required on vehicles and in lodges. Travelers are encouraged to carry personal masks.
Tour staff and guests receive guidance on hygiene protocols, such as avoiding handshakes, disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, and maintaining distance from wildlife.

These measures ensure that travelers can enjoy Uganda’s wildlife safely while protecting vulnerable gorilla populations.

Rules and Guidelines for Gorilla Tracking in Uganda

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) enforces strict rules to protect gorillas and ensure a safe trekking experience:

Health Screening – Do not join a trek if you are ill. The head park ranger may deny access for safety reasons.
Age Requirement – Minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years. Passport verification is required.
Group Size – A maximum of eight people per gorilla group helps reduce stress on the animals.
Distance – Maintain a minimum distance of 7 meters (21 feet) from gorillas.
Behavior – Avoid loud noises, sudden movements, smoking, eating, or drinking near gorillas.
Photography – Flash photography is prohibited. Follow ranger instructions carefully.
Time with Gorillas – Standard visits last one hour per group; Gorilla Habituation Experience lasts up to four hours.
Waste Management – Human waste must be buried 30 cm (12”) deep, following ranger instructions.

Adhering to these rules ensures a safe, responsible, and memorable wildlife encounter.

Accommodation Options for Gorilla Trekkers

Uganda offers diverse lodging options near gorilla trekking parks, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury:

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park:

Budget: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Trekkers Tavern Cottages, Buhoma Community Rest Camp ($90–$100 per person/night)
Mid-range: Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge ($100–$200 per person/night)
Luxury: Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, Gorilla Sanctuary Camp, Four Gorillas Lodge, Mahogany Springs, Engagi Lodge ($200–$400 per person/night)

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park:

Budget: Kisoro Travelers Inn ($90–$100 per person/night)
Mid-range: Lake Cahafi Resort, Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge ($100–$200 per person/night)
Luxury: Gahinga Lodge ($200–$400 per person/night)

Booking in advance with Monumental Expeditions and Safaris ensures availability and personalized trip planning.

Why Choose Monumental Expeditions and Safaris

Monumental Expeditions and Safaris is one of East Africa’s most trusted safari operators. With years of experience in Uganda, Rwanda, Congo, Kenya, and Tanzania, our expert guides provide safe, comfortable, and memorable tours. We offer:

Customized gorilla trekking itineraries tailored to your interests, budget, and schedule
Multi-day safari packages combining gorilla tracking with wildlife, cultural, and adventure activities
Excellent customer service, highly rated on TripAdvisor and SafariBookings.

By choosing Monumental Expeditions and Safaris, travelers enjoy professional guidance, insider knowledge, and seamless travel experiences in East Africa.

How to Book Your Post-COVID Gorilla Trekking Safari

Booking your gorilla tracking safari is simple. Visit Monumental Expeditions and Safaris and connect with our experienced tour designers. We will help you select the ideal gorilla trekking route, accommodations, and additional activities for a truly unforgettable experience.

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned wildlife traveler, Uganda offers incredible wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and close encounters with mountain gorillas that you will cherish forever.

Conclusion

Gorilla trekking in Uganda post-COVID is not just a travel activity—it’s a life-changing adventure. With safe travel protocols, affordable packages, expert guides, and world-class national parks, Uganda remains one of the top destinations for mountain gorilla safaris. From the misty jungles of Bwindi to the volcanic peaks of Mgahinga, each trek promises awe-inspiring encounters with one of the world’s most endangered species.

Plan your journey today with Monumental Expeditions and Safaris and experience the thrill of gorilla tracking in Uganda like never before.