Guide to Booking Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: When and How?

Recommended Booking Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Book at Least 6-12 Months in Advance

To ensure you get the dates and the specific gorilla group you want to visit, it is highly recommended to book your gorilla trekking permit at least 6-12 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the peak tourist seasons. The peak seasons for gorilla trekking in Uganda are June to September and December to February. During these months, demand is at its highest, and permits can sell out quickly.

Consider the Shoulder Seasons for More Flexibility

If you are flexible with your travel dates, consider visiting Uganda during the shoulder seasons—from March to May and October to November. These months are less crowded, and there may be more availability for gorilla trekking permits. While it’s still wise to book in advance, the permits may not sell out as quickly, and you may have more options when choosing your dates.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Costs in Uganda

Gorilla trekking is an investment, and the cost of permits is an important factor to consider when planning your trip. As of 2023, the prices for gorilla trekking permits in Uganda are as follows:

• $800 per person for Foreign Non-Residents
• $700 per person for Residents
• $70 for East African Citizens (Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi, and South Sudan)

This cost provides you with an hour-long encounter with the mountain gorillas in either Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Gorilla Habituation Experience

For those looking for a more immersive experience, Uganda offers the Gorilla Habituation Experience. This allows you to spend 4 hours with semi-habituated mountain gorillas, under the guidance of trackers and researchers. It is an exclusive experience, available only in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The cost for the Gorilla Habituation Permit is $1500 per person.

How Many Gorilla Permits Are Available Daily in Uganda?

Uganda is home to over 17 habituated gorilla families, with 16 families in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and 1 in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. As a result, there are more than 136 gorilla permits available each day for visitors wishing to trek these magnificent creatures. However, it’s important to note that gorilla permits sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons, so booking in advance is crucial.

How to Book Gorilla Permits for Uganda

Booking your gorilla trekking permit can be done either directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or through a trusted tour operator. For seamless booking, many travelers opt to book through a tour operator, like Monumental Expeditions and Safaris, who can assist in securing your permits, providing personalized service, and offering expert guidance.

1. Confirm Your Travel Dates: Once you know when you want to visit Uganda, send an email to your tour operator to check for permit availability.
2. Payment: Once your tour operator confirms that permits are available, you will be sent an invoice to make payment for the permits.
3. Permit Purchase: After the payment is received, your tour operator will purchase the permits directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority and send you the scanned copies of your gorilla trekking permits for your records.

It’s advisable to book your gorilla trekking permits 2-3 months in advance to ensure availability, though booking earlier is always recommended.

Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

The minimum age for participating in gorilla trekking in Uganda is 12 years. There is no maximum age limit, but it is important to consider your fitness level. For elders or those with mobility challenges, sedan chair carriers are available. These chairs, carried by porters, allow individuals who feel unfit to trek into the forest. The cost of hiring a sedan chair ranges from $400-$500.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

While gorilla trekking in Uganda can be done year-round, the best times to visit are during the drier months from January to February and June to early September. During these months, the weather is relatively dry, making it easier to trek through the forest, and the vegetation is less dense, offering better visibility for spotting the gorillas.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Packing the right gear is essential for a successful and enjoyable gorilla trekking experience. Here are some essential items to pack for your trip:

• Insect Repellent – To protect against biting insects.
• Torch/Flashlight – For early morning treks, plus spare batteries.
• Wet Wipes – Useful in case water is scarce.
• Water Bottle – Stay hydrated during the trek.
• Comfortable Hiking Boots – Sturdy footwear is essential for navigating muddy, uneven terrain.
• Long-Sleeve Cotton Shirt and Long Trousers – To protect against undergrowth and insects.
• Gardening Gloves – Helpful when moving through dense vegetation.
• Rain Jacket – The weather in Uganda can be unpredictable.
• Hat and Sunscreen – For protection from the sun.
• Camera and Lenses – Capture memories of your experience.
• Sweater/Fleece – Temperatures can drop in the evenings.
• Binoculars – For birdwatching or viewing wildlife from a distance.

How to Get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

By Road

The most common way to reach Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is by road. The drive from Entebbe or Kampala takes approximately 8-9 hours, passing through scenic landscapes. You will turn off at Muko along the Kabale-Kisoro Road and follow signs to your accommodation in either the Rushaga or Nkuringo sector.

By Air

Alternatively, you can fly from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kisoro Airstrip, which serves the southern sectors of Rushaga and Nkuringo. Domestic airlines like AeroLink and Fly Uganda offer scheduled flights, and a transfer from the airstrip to the park will be arranged by your tour operator.

Why Book Your Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tour with Monumental Expeditions and Safaris?

When booking your gorilla trekking tour in Uganda, Monumental Expeditions and Safaris stands out for its commitment to providing personalized service and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all guests. The company also prioritizes eco-friendly practices, supporting conservation efforts and minimizing the environmental impact of tourism. Book your trip with Monumental Expeditions and experience a memorable adventure in Uganda’s stunning national parks.

For further inquiries on how far in advance to book your gorilla trekking permits in Uganda, feel free to reach out to us at info@monumentalexpeditions.com.