Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safaris Tour – Places for Gorilla Safaris Tour in Uganda

Uganda is a fantastic destination for gorilla trekking safaris tour, as it is home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. The country offers a unique opportunity to observe these endangered primates in their natural habitat, and it’s an experience that wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers shouldn’t miss.

When planning a gorilla trekking safaris tour in Uganda, it’s advisable to work with Eizoba Safaris Ltd a reputable Uganda tour operator or travel agency that specializes in wildlife safaris. They can assist with the permit booking, transportation, and accommodation, and provide knowledgeable guides to ensure a safe and memorable experience.

Iconic Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safaris – Eizoba Safaris Ltd

Brief Information about Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Uganda:

Location

Gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including approximately 400 mountain gorillas.

Permits

To go gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda, you’ll need to obtain a gorilla trekking permit. These permits allow you to spend a limited amount of time (usually one hour) with a gorilla family. Permits need to be secured in advance, and it’s recommended to book them well ahead of your planned visit, as they are in high demand.

Gorilla Trekking Experience

Gorilla trekking involves hiking through the dense forests of the national parks in search of gorilla families. The trek can vary in duration and difficulty, depending on the location of the gorilla group on that day. It can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours of hiking to reach the gorillas. The trek itself is an adventure, with experienced guides leading the way and sharing information about the wildlife and ecosystems along the route.

Meeting the Gorillas

Once you locate the gorilla family, you’ll have a designated amount of time to observe and photograph them from a close but safe distance. It’s an awe-inspiring experience to witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat, observing their behavior, social interactions, and sometimes even witnessing playful juvenile gorillas.

Conservation and Responsible Tourism

Gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda is not only an incredible wildlife experience but also contributes to the conservation of these endangered animals. The fees from the permits directly support gorilla conservation efforts and the local communities living around the parks. It’s essential to follow the rules and guidelines provided by the park authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of the gorillas and their habitat.

Other Wildlife Experiences

In addition to gorilla trekking safaris, Uganda offers a range of other wildlife experiences. You can go on game drives in national parks like Queen Elizabeth National Park or Murchison Falls National Park, where you can spot elephants, lions, buffaloes, and various antelope species. Uganda is also known for its diverse birdlife, making it a haven for bird watching enthusiasts.

Where to Go for Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safaris?

For gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda, there are two main national parks where you can go to see the mountain gorillas

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi is the most popular and renowned destination for gorilla trekking in Uganda. Located in southwestern Uganda, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to approximately half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. The park is known for its dense tropical rainforest and rugged terrain, offering a challenging yet rewarding trekking experience. Bwindi has multiple gorilla families spread across different sectors, and each trek takes place in a specific sector of the park. These sectors include Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Located in the Virunga Mountains on the border of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is another option for gorilla trekking in Uganda. While it is smaller in size compared to Bwindi, the park is still home to one habituated gorilla family called the Nyakagezi group. The park’s diverse habitats, including bamboo forests and afro-alpine zones, offer a unique backdrop for gorilla trekking.

Both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park provide opportunities for unforgettable gorilla encounters. The choice of park may depend on factors such as the availability of permits, accessibility, and personal preferences. It’s worth noting that gorilla permits are limited, so it’s essential to secure them well in advance.

Working with Eizoba Safaris Ltd a reputable Uganda tour operator that specializes in gorilla trekking safaris will help you plan your trip and provide guidance on which park and sector would be best suited to your preferences and availability.

When to go for Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safaris?

The best time to go for gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda is during the country’s dry seasons, which are generally from December to February and from June to September. These months offer favorable weather conditions and make trekking through the forests more manageable. However, it’s important to note that gorilla trekking can be done year-round, and each season has its advantages and considerations.

Dry Season (December to February, June to September):

• Weather: The dry season in Uganda is characterized by lower rainfall and drier conditions. Days are generally warm with clear skies, making it comfortable for trekking.
• Accessibility: The drier conditions make the trails less muddy and easier to navigate.
• Vegetation: During the dry season, the vegetation is usually less dense, allowing for better visibility of the gorillas.
• Tourist demand: This period falls within the peak tourist season, so it’s advisable to book permits and accommodations well in advance.

Wet Season (March to May, October to November):

• Weather: The wet season in Uganda is characterized by higher rainfall and occasional showers. It can be quite humid, and rainstorms are common.
• Accessibility: The trails can be muddy and slippery during the wet season, making the trekking experience more challenging.
• Vegetation: The rainforests are lush and green during this time, offering beautiful scenery and vibrant foliage.
• Tourist demand: The wet season generally experiences fewer visitors, which means permits and accommodations may be more readily available.

It’s important to note that Uganda’s weather patterns can vary, and it’s advisable to check the specific weather conditions for the time of your visit.

Regardless of the season, it’s always recommended to pack appropriate clothing, including sturdy hiking shoes, long pants, lightweight rain gear, and layers for varying temperatures. Additionally, don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good pair of binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Lastly, it’s crucial to obtain gorilla trekking permits well in advance, as they are limited and tend to sell out quickly, especially during the peak tourist season. Working with a reputable tour operator or travel agency can assist you in securing the permits and planning your gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda.