Uganda, often referred to as the 'Pearl of Africa', is a stunning tapestry of scenic wonders, teeming with diverse wildlife, lush rainforests, shimmering lakes, and snow-capped mountain peaks. From the enchanting spectacle of mountain gorillas in Bwindi to the pulsating rapids of the Nile at Jinja, Uganda offers a captivating blend of adventure, cultural richness, and natural beauty that beckons travelers seeking an authentic African experience."
Venture into Uganda's lush wilderness, home to Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks. Housing over half the world's mountain gorillas, Uganda offers unparalleled gorilla trekking experiences. The profound encounter with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is deeply moving and unforgettable. Each moment spent observing their world offers a unique connection to the wild.
Guided by locals with an uncanny ability to track these elusive creatures, your trek is an immersive journey through a stunning, biodiverse landscape. Witnessing the intricate dynamics and familial bonds within a gorilla family is a profoundly transformative experience. Gorilla trekking in Uganda is more than just an adventure, it's a rhythmic dance with the wild that leaves an indelible mark on the soul.
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking expanse of Uganda's wild plains, where nature weaves an enchanting tapestry of diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity. Journey through savannas studded with acacia trees, wetlands teeming with birdlife, and dense forests echoing with the calls of the wild. A safari in Uganda is an invitation to a dance with nature, where every turn presents an opportunity to encounter the country's incredible wildlife, from lumbering elephants and stealthy lions to graceful antelopes and vibrant bird species.
As you traverse the terrains under the soft hues of an African sunrise, each moment whispers stories of the wilderness, unveiling the heart of a land untamed by time. A Ugandan safari is more than a journey; it is an intimate encounter with the raw, unfiltered essence of life, a testament to the harmonious coexistence of diverse species. Guided by knowledgeable locals, your safari becomes a thrilling adventure, pulsating with the rhythm of the African bush.
Step into the captivating realm of Queen Elizabeth National Park, a treasure trove of natural wonders nestled in the heart of Uganda. Marvel at the diverse landscapes, from sprawling savannahs to lush wetlands, and from the sparkling expanse of Lake Edward to the distant, hazy peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains. Here, the wild calls out to adventurous souls, offering thrilling encounters with Uganda's incredible wildlife.
Catch a glimpse of majestic elephants, stealthy lions, and playful chimps, or gaze in awe at the park's rich birdlife, a vibrant spectacle that lures birdwatchers from around the globe. From a tranquil boat safari on the Kazinga Channel, teeming with hippos and crocodiles, to the mesmerizing melodies of the wild echoing through the Maramagambo Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa's stunning beauty. Don't just visit, but live the adventure, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Uncover the answers to your curiosities and concerns in our Frequently Asked Questions section. From details about planning your journey, to understanding the rich experiences you can anticipate, our FAQs are a treasure trove of useful insights to ensure your adventure with Africa Adventure Safaris is smooth and memorable.
The gorilla trekking experience is almost the same in both Uganda and Rwanda. However, there are a few differences in terms of distance travelled from the Airport to the parks where gorillas live. Rwanda has the shortest distance from Kigali international Airport to Volcanoes National Park (3-hour drive). On the other hand, it takes about 10 hours to drive from Uganda’s Entebbe international airport to Bwindi impenetrable national park although visitors may opt to fly to the park from Entebbe at their own cost. Amazingly, it is shorter to drive from Kigali to Bwindi than from Entebbe because the park is located near the border with Rwanda and many visitors opt for this route (about 4-hour drive).
As of July 2024, the gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is sold at $800 per person to foreign nonresidents, $700 to foreign residents in East Africa and Uganda Shillings 300,000 to East African citizens.
A gorilla permit in Rwanda is sold at $1,500 to all visitors who want trek gorillas in Volcanoes national park.
The dry season from June to September and December to February is the best time to trek gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda. Gorillas live in montane rainforests that can be so muddy and slippery during the rain season making it a bit hard to trek through to reach gorillas.
Trekking gorillas requires moderate fitness enough to navigate streams, climb hills and traverse muddy and slippery terrain.
Gorilla treks can last anywhere between 1-5 hours depending on the location and movement of your assigned gorilla group.
Visitors who want to trek gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda should be at least 15 years old.
Recommended packing list for gorilla trekking include a pair of hiking boots, khaki trousers, a rain jacket, pair of gloves, long-sleeved shirt and a camera.
Each gorilla group is visited by a group of 8 trekkers per day.
Gorilla habituation is the process through which gorillas are made to get used to the presence of humans in their habitat. This process is carried out by trackers and rangers who follow a wild gorilla group everyday for a period of time until it the animals get used to their presence. Gorilla habituation is currently done in Bwindi impenetrable national park in Uganda in the Rushaga sector of the park. Visitors who wish to be part of this experience can apply for permits at $1,500 per person. Only four visitors are permitted to join the exercise per day and the experience lasts for 4 hours.
Travellers who want to track gorillas are advised to book their gorilla permit at least 6 months before their desired tracking date. This is because the number of gorilla permits issued per day is limited as a measure of promoting gorilla conservation.
Yes. We design customised itineraries to enable our visitors enjoy a variety of experiences while on their safari in East and Central Africa. Besides gorilla trekking, you can explore experiences like game viewing, chimpanzee tracking, bird watching, cultural tours and more depending on the length of your vacation, budget, and interests.