Independent gorilla trekking in Uganda is very possible! This kind of safari arrangement offers amazing opportunity to independent or private travelers to be part of the exhilarating gorilla experience. Gorilla trekking is remarkably an ultimate primate experience and while on a holiday in Africa, count it a must-do. It is undoubtedly one of Africa’s main highlights and it is possible to arrange a gorilla safari without even involving the tour operator/agency/company.
A gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda entirely involves you navigating through the lush tropical forests and breathtaking landscapes to find a habituated family group of mountain gorillas. Other than Uganda, a section of mountain gorillas also dwells in the rain-forests of Rwanda and D.R. Congo.
Where to go for independent gorilla trekking in Uganda?
Mountain gorillas are massive, beautiful and unique creatures in the world. They are one of the most endangered primates in the world with only not more than 1063 of them still thriving in the jungles of Africa. Nearly half of the world’s population live in Uganda and only trekked in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. They are a few creatures that are so much close to humans with sharing about 98% of their DNA with human beings. A close encounter with them in the wild is mind blowing!
While on independent gorilla trekking in Uganda, trekkers travel to Southwestern side of the country to trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi or Mgahinga. Bwindi is in Kabale district and shelters one of the oldest rainforests in Africa. In Bwindi alone, trekkers have 4 areas to start their trek to see gorillas and they include Buhoma, Nkuringo, Rushaga and Ruhija.
Bwindi National Park has 20 habituated families of mountain gorillas and each of the 4 gorilla trekking regions has its own gorilla groups. Mgahinga is the least explored because only one group is available for gorilla trekking. But it is an amazing gorilla destination to have lifetime encounter with the rare mountain gorillas in the wild.
When to travel for independent gorilla trekking in Uganda?
Uganda is famous for her pleasant weather and climatic conditions which makes it an all-year-round destination. If you plan to go on independent gorilla trekking in Uganda, the dry season is the best time. Normal dry months begin from June to September and December to February. During the dry months, Bwindi and Mgahinga experience low or no rains and the ground generally remains drier.
Obtaining gorilla permits in Uganda.
Whether you plan to go on independent gorilla trekking or as a group, obtaining a gorilla permit is a must-do. Considering the high demand, we advise our clients to ensure that they have their permits booked early about 2-4 months before the actual date of gorilla trekking. There are 2 alternatives visitors can book their gorilla permits in Uganda; one is through a ground tour operator/company and the other option is through Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
For easier gorilla permit reservation or planning the best gorilla safari, contact our team of experts and you won’t have tough time going through the strenuous process to book a gorilla permit. Provided you are above 15 years and you plan to go on independent gorilla trekking safari, gorilla permits in Uganda cost US Dollars 700 (foreign non-residents), shs. 250000 (East African community citizens) and US Dollars 600 in case of foreign residents on Uganda gorilla safari.
Where to stay
To have a successful independent gorilla trekking experience in Uganda, you must choose the right accommodation. The different accommodation options to consider for overnight stay on independent gorilla trekking in Uganda include Buhoma Lodge Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Mahogany Springs Lodge (Luxury), Engagi Lodge Bwindi, Gorilla Mist Camp, Ichumbi Lodge (Mid-range), Wagtail Eco-Safari Camp, Broadbill Forest Camp (Basic). These are available in and around Bwindi National Park.
Around Mgahinga, the available places to stay in include among others Mount Mgahinga Rest Camp, Travelers Nest Hotel, Nkuringo Safari Lodge and Mount. Mgahinga Lodge.
Practical tips for independent gorilla trekking in Uganda.
- Dress well preferably long-sleeved shirts, trousers and should be environmentally friendly-avoid bright colors.
- Keep a social distance of 8-10m away from gorillas and this should be at all times.
- Have good hiking boots/shoes and they should be comfortable preferably waterproof.
- Carry some energy giving snacks, bottle of water, insect repellent, first aid kit, camera with no flashlight, rain jacket, walking stick (find one during briefing time).
- You should be above 15 years to trek mountain gorillas in Uganda and those with illnesses may not be allowed to go trek these rare apes.
- Only 1 hour shall be given to you to enjoy a close encounter with gorillas and to take photos.
- In case you have heavy luggage, there are porters for hire to assist you carry throughout your round gorilla trek.
