Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safaris Tour
June 21, 2023
Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Tours
August 16, 2023Uganda Gorilla Tours – Tubale Safaris Ltd
Uganda is a fantastic destination for gorilla tours, as it is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The country’s lush rainforests provide the perfect habitat for these magnificent creatures, and visitors have the opportunity to observe them up close in their natural environment.
When planning a gorilla tour in Uganda, the main attraction is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Located in the southwestern part of the country, Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best places in the world for gorilla trekking. The park is home to several habituated gorilla groups, which have become accustomed to the presence of humans, allowing for safe and unforgettable encounters.
To participate in a gorilla trekking experience, you will need to obtain a gorilla permit. These permits are limited in number to help protect the gorillas and ensure a sustainable tourism model. It is recommended to book your permit well in advance, as they can sell out quickly, especially during the peak travel seasons.
Gorilla trekking involves hiking through the dense forest with experienced guides and trackers to locate the gorilla families. The trek can vary in duration and difficulty, depending on the location of the gorillas on any given day. Once the gorillas are found, visitors typically spend up to one hour in their presence, observing their behaviour and capturing unforgettable moments.
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safaris
Gorilla Trekking Destinations in Uganda
In addition to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is another option for gorilla tours in Uganda. Located in the southwestern corner of the country, this park also offers gorilla trekking opportunities, although the gorilla groups here are known to move across the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
When planning a gorilla tour in Uganda, it’s advisable to work with Tubale Safaris Ltd a reputable Uganda tour operator or travel agency that specializes in organizing such trips. They can assist with obtaining permits, arranging transportation, and accommodations, and providing knowledgeable guides to enhance your experience.
It’s important to note that gorilla trekking involves hiking in rugged terrain and can be physically demanding. It’s recommended to be in good physical condition and adequately prepared with appropriate clothing, footwear, and equipment. Additionally, gorilla tourism adheres to strict guidelines to minimize the impact on the gorillas and their habitat, including maintaining a safe distance and following the instructions of the guides at all times.
Overall, Uganda offers an incredible opportunity to witness and conserve these endangered creatures in their natural habitat. Gorilla tours in Uganda provide a unique and unforgettable wildlife experience that will leave you with lifelong memories.
Where to Go for Gorilla Tours in Uganda
When it comes to gorilla tours in Uganda, the main destination is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This park is renowned for its population of mountain gorillas and offers several gorilla trekking opportunities. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in the southwestern part of Uganda, near the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Within Bwindi, there are several sectors or regions where gorilla trekking takes place. These sectors are named after the different entrances or starting points for the treks.
It’s worth noting that the availability of gorilla permits can vary among the sectors, and the distribution of gorilla families can change. Therefore, it’s advisable to check with Tubale Safaris Ltd a reputable Uganda tour operator or Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) for the latest information and availability when planning your gorilla tour.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is another destination for gorilla tours. However, the gorilla groups in Mgahinga tend to move across the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, so the availability of gorilla trekking in Mgahinga may be more limited compared to Bwindi.
Both Bwindi and Mgahinga offer unique and memorable gorilla trekking experiences, allowing visitors to observe and appreciate these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
Volcanoes National Park
The four main sectors in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are:
- Buhoma Sector: This is one of the oldest sectors and offers various gorilla families for tracking. Buhoma is easily accessible and has a good range of accommodation options to suit different budgets.
- Ruhija Sector: Located in the eastern part of Bwindi, Ruhija is known for its diverse birdlife and stunning views. It offers gorilla trekking experiences to different gorilla families.
- Rushaga Sector: Situated in the southern part of Bwindi, Rushaga is known for having the highest number of gorilla families available for trekking. It offers a range of trekking options and is popular for its gorilla habituation experience, where visitors can spend more time with a gorilla family undergoing the habituation process.
- Nkuringo Sector: Nkuringo is located on the southern edge of Bwindi and offers breathtaking views of the Virunga volcanoes. It provides opportunities for gorilla trekking to a few gorilla families.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking Tours in Uganda
The best time for gorilla trekking tours in Uganda is during the dry seasons, which are generally from June to September and from December to February. These months offer more favourable weather conditions and make trekking through the forest more manageable.
During the dry seasons, the trails are usually drier, making them easier to navigate. The chances of encountering rain are relatively lower, reducing the chances of slippery or muddy conditions. Additionally, the visibility in the forest is generally better, allowing for clearer views and better photography opportunities.
That being said, gorilla trekking can be done year-round in Uganda, and each season has its advantages and considerations:
Dry Season (June to September & December to February)
This is considered the peak tourist season for gorilla trekking. The weather is generally dry and mild, with cooler temperatures in the mornings and evenings. It’s important to note that even during the dry season, rain can still occur, especially in the tropical rainforest environment, so it’s advisable to be prepared with appropriate rain gear.
Wet Season (March to May & October to November)
The wet season in Uganda is characterized by rain showers, and the trails can be more challenging due to muddy and slippery conditions. However, this is also the low season for tourism, which means there are fewer tourists, and gorilla permits may be more readily available. The landscape is lush and green, and wildlife activity is generally higher during this time.
It’s worth noting that gorilla trekking is a year-round activity, and the gorillas can be visited in any season. The choice of when to go ultimately depends on personal preferences, availability, and other factors such as budget and travel plans.
Regardless of the season, it’s recommended to plan and book your gorilla trekking tour well in advance, as gorilla permits are limited and can sell out quickly, especially during the peak travel seasons.
Why Uganda Gorilla Tours?
There are several reasons why Uganda is a popular and highly recommended destination for gorilla tours. In summary, Uganda offers an incredible opportunity to witness mountain gorillas in their natural habitat while enjoying the country’s biodiversity, scenic beauty, and cultural richness. It’s a destination that provides a memorable and responsible wildlife experience for nature enthusiasts and conservation-minded travellers.
Here are some of the key reasons:
Largest Population of Mountain Gorillas
Uganda is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda provide a habitat for these endangered primates. Seeing these incredible creatures in their natural environment is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Variety of Gorilla Families
Uganda offers a diverse range of gorilla families available for trekking. Different sectors within Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park provide opportunities to visit various gorilla groups, each with its own unique dynamics and behaviours. This allows visitors to have different experiences and insights into the lives of these gentle giants.
Authentic and Less Crowded Experience
Compared to other gorilla trekking destinations like Rwanda, Uganda’s gorilla tours are known for providing a more authentic and less crowded experience. The number of visitors allowed per gorilla family per day is limited, ensuring a more intimate encounter with the gorillas and minimizing the impact on their natural habitat.
Rich Biodiversity and Scenic Beauty
Uganda is known as the “Pearl of Africa” for its stunning landscapes and abundant biodiversity. In addition to gorilla trekking, visitors to Uganda can explore other national parks and reserves, such as Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Kibale Forest National Park, where they can encounter diverse wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and unique ecosystems.
Cultural Immersion
Uganda is a culturally rich country with a diverse range of ethnic groups and traditions. While on a gorilla tour, visitors have the opportunity to interact with local communities, learn about their customs, and immerse themselves in the local way of life. This cultural aspect adds depth and richness to the overall experience.
Conservation Efforts
Uganda has made significant efforts to protect and conserve its gorilla populations. The country has implemented strict regulations and guidelines for gorilla tourism to ensure the long-term sustainability of these endangered species. By participating in a gorilla tour in Uganda, visitors contribute directly to gorilla conservation efforts and the local communities that depend on sustainable tourism.
