Gorilla trekking tour in Uganda.
An exciting experience with the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitats. There are about 100 mountain gorillas which is still remaining on the earth whereby the half of it is found in four sectors of Bwindi impenetrable forest national park and one gorilla family in Mgahinga gorilla national park. This country is also one with high number of 20 habituated gorilla families and they are all open for gorilla trekking every day at any time of the year. But these gorilla families are found in different sectors of Bwindi Forest that is 3 gorilla families in Nkuringo tracking sector, 4 gorilla families in Buhoma sector, 4 gorilla families in Ruhija and 8 gorilla families in Rushaga sector plus 1 gorilla family in Mgahinga national park.
Why tracking mountain gorillas in Uganda?
As mentioned earlier Uganda is natural habitat to almost half of the few remaining mountain gorillas on earth in only two national parks that is Mgahinga national park and Bwindi impenetrable forest national park. Uganda offers a best gorilla trekking experience than other gorilla destinations in Africa. As their name applies, these animals are normally found in the mountainous areas of Bwindi impenetrable forest at an altitude of between 2000-3000. Tourists who have visited mountain gorillas of Bwindi impenetrable forest national park enjoy an exciting experience while hiking into the big forest searching for mountain gorillas. Once finding a gorilla family, you allowed to be in 7 meters away from these primates interacting, taking photos as well as learning their natural behaviors.
Another reason, the gorilla tracking permit for Uganda is cheaper than that one of Rwanda which is increased from $750-$1500 per person per trek which is enough to a single tourist to do 3- or 2-days gorilla trekking in Uganda. A gorilla permit in Uganda is sold $700 per person per trek which is also favoring budget travelers.
What to expect on a gorilla tour in Uganda?
Rain
Gorilla destinations are found in the tropical rain forest, so we expect rain at any time of the day even in the dry season months but this does not stop you to complete your dream of visiting African mountain gorillas however you have to know that hiking trails can be too muddy and slippery in the rainy season.
Slippery terrains
Tourists who are planning to visit African mountain gorillas during the rainy season months, you expect to pass in the trails which are slippery and muddy and this may make trekking difficult but we advise you to carry hiking boots, water proof rain jacket and long-sleeved clothes, this can help you to complete your trek.
Unexpected gorilla movements.
When the gorillas are fighting together, they normally go deep into the African’s forest and this can make your gorilla trekking harder as you have to move for long hours searching for them.
Mountain gorillas are always moving from one place to another and it needs you to walk for long distance where the gorilla families are found to avoid long hikes over the mountains.
Joining other travelers on gorilla trekking day.
You will join other tourists in a small group of 8 people since each gorilla
family in all African gorilla destination are trekked by 8 people.
Animal attacks
There are other wildlife animals and these includes forest elephants, wild chimpanzee, wild buffaloes, monkeys and others.
When to visit mountain gorillas of Uganda.
Mountain gorillas of Uganda can be visited at any time you love to enjoy gorilla trekking experience. In Uganda, there are two seasons that is the high season which start from June -August and another one from December-February, these are known as dry season. It is the most recommended time for gorilla trekking and is when Uganda receives high number of travelers so, when you are to travel during this period, you are advised to book your gorilla permit in advance at least 3 months back.
Those who want to visit mountain gorillas when there are few people, the best season is during the rainy season which starts from May and September to November and even during this season is when the accommodation facilities offer discount with purpose of attracting more tourists, since this is low season in the country.
Accommodation and lodges.
Accommodation facilities in and outside Bwindi Forest offers high quality services through friendly staff, en-suite bathrooms and beautiful views of the forest.
Lodges in Bwindi Forest offers rooms which are family friendly, due to many safari lodges and hotels, every tourist has a chance to book accommodations where he/she will get a night before 0r after gorilla trekking experience. Some the safari lodges around Bwindi impenetrable forest national park are Rushaga gorilla camp, Nkuringo Bwindi gorilla lodge, Buhoma community campsite, Gorilla Forest camp, Volcanoes safari Bwindi lodge, Bakiga lodge and many more.
What should I need on my packing list for gorilla trekking?
While planning coming for gorilla trekking you need to prepare yourself through improving the body fitness and also carrying the necessary items and these includes long-sleeved clothes, a rain jacket as it may rain any time, a camera with extra batteries, binoculars, hiking boots, hat, garden gloves, water, and energy drinks and a walking stick is provided at free of charge from the park offices.
Trots and Safaris is the best tour operator one should book with, because we are experts in organizing gorilla trekking tours in either Uganda or Rwanda, we also help you to secure gorilla permits once you confirm with us, for more formation about gorilla tours in Africa contact us.
