The Best Time to Book Gorilla Trekking Permits in Uganda
Are you planning a gorilla safari in Uganda and wondering when is the best time to book Gorilla Trekking Permits in Uganda? Don’t wait until the last minute. This article will explain how early one can book a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda offers nature lovers a unique and exclusive experience, allowing them to encounter a family of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Uganda, known for its safety and exclusivity, is one of the best places to enjoy such enchanting experiences. So, when is the ideal time to purchase gorilla trekking permits in Uganda? A gorilla permit is necessary for joining the trek with mountain gorillas, making it crucial to know when to obtain one to plan your gorilla tour in Uganda effectively.
A guide on when to secure permits for gorilla trekking in Uganda.
In Uganda, it’s essential to book gorilla permits ahead of time. Securing your ticket 6 to 12 months in advance greatly increases your chances of seeing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Due to high demand, particularly during peak travel months, it is advisable to reserve a permit early. Booking permits last-minute for gorilla trekking is typically not recommended. The key months to consider when planning your gorilla tour are June, July, August, and September, with an additional peak season from December through February. Proactively booking early is the key to a successful gorilla trekking adventure.
Booking permits at the last minute during peak season is nearly impossible. Most permits sell out quickly, making missing out on your dream primate adventure stressful. However, last-minute gorilla permit bookings may benefit tourists planning to track gorillas during the wet, rainy, or low season. There are two off-peak periods: the longer one lasts from March to May, and a shorter low season occurs from October to November.
Going gorilla trekking in Uganda during the peak season
The peak months for gorilla trekking span June to August and December to February. These periods are the driest of the year and feature ideal weather conditions. Consequently, demand for gorilla trekking permits is particularly high during these times, necessitating visitor bookings.
Shoulder months of the year
In Uganda, the shoulder months of March, April, May, and October to November provide a distinctive experience. These periods feature pleasant weather and reduced crowds, resulting in increased availability of gorilla permits and possible discounts.
How to Reserve Gorilla Trekking Permits in Uganda
Reserving a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is a straightforward process. Licensed tour operators such as Native Africa Tours assist visitors in securing gorilla permits and organizing safaris to their preferred destinations. We are a reliable, recognized tour company based in Uganda. To start the process, you must provide us your full name, passport information, contact details, and nationality. We will then submit this information to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) for verification. Once your permit is confirmed, we will inform you and organize your safari. This process usually takes a few days, so planning your trip well in advance is best.
Native Africa Tours helps visitors secure gorilla permits and organize safaris to their preferred destinations. We are a reliable, recognized tour company based in Uganda. To start getting your gorilla trekking permit, please provide us with your full name, passport information, contact details, and nationality. We will then submit this information to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) for verification. Once your permit is confirmed, we will let you know and organize your safari.
Gorilla Trekking Permits in Uganda per Destination
Gorilla permits in Uganda provide access to the country’s premier gorilla trekking locations. Approximately 200 gorilla permits are available in Uganda, with 192 allocated for Bwindi and eight designated for those wishing to visit Mgahinga National Park. Each gorilla group allows a maximum of 8 visitors daily, with around 25 habituated gorilla families available for tourism.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park includes four sectors: Ruhija, Rushaga, Nkuringo, and Buhoma. Each industry is home to fully habituated gorilla groups, such as the Nshongi group, Mishaya, Busingye, Katwe, Christmas gorilla family, Nyakagezi group, and Kahungye.
Other gorilla families to explore include the Mubare, Rushegura, Muyambi, Bitukura, Kyaguriro, Oruzogo, Nkuringo, Posho, and Kutu groups. Each family includes various members, such as females, males, infants, and silverbacks. The Mubare group, for instance, is known for its playful juveniles, while the Nkuringo group is famous for its dominant silverback. Engaging with each gorilla group offers visitors distinct experiences in the jungle, from observing the family’s social dynamics to witnessing the young ones’ playful antics.
Traveling to Bwindi and Mgahinga for your gorilla trekking adventure can be done by road or air. A drive from the center of Kampala or Entebbe City to Bwindi/Mgahinga takes approximately 8-9 hours. Alternatively, the journey from Kigali to Bwindi/Mgahinga National Park takes about 4-5 hours. Road travel is best undertaken in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
What to expect on an actual gorilla trekking day in Uganda
The day of trekking mountain gorillas begins with an early breakfast at your lodge. By 7:00 am, everyone must arrive at the designated gorilla trekking site for a briefing led by a park official. You will be verified at the park offices, and your permit and other details will be needed. After verification from a representative of Bwindi or Mgahinga, you will head to the briefing location. Here, you’ll learn about the safety guidelines while tracking gorillas. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) official will assign visitors to gorilla families. A single habituated gorilla group in either Bwindi or Mgahinga is allocated to a group of 8 people.
Who is eligible to book a gorilla permit in Uganda?
According to the park authorities’ regulations in the gorilla safari areas, individuals over 15 can obtain a gorilla permit. Age eligibility is the first factor to consider when planning a trip to Uganda or Rwanda for gorilla trekking.
To book a gorilla trekking permit, you will need a valid permit. Our team must collect the necessary information for verification. The tour operator may ask you for your full name, passport information, contact details, and nationality.
What else to pack
Along with permits and passports, you will need other essentials, including a rain jacket, waterproof hiking boots, insect repellent, a safari hat, binoculars, a camera, long trousers, a sweater, and gardening gloves. Your packing list should include a first aid kit, sufficient drinking water, snacks, long-sleeved shirts, facemasks, toiletries, sunscreen, and more insect repellent.
Fitness level for gorilla trekking
Gorilla trekking demands a certain level of fitness to ensure an enjoyable experience. Before you venture into the jungles of Bwindi or Mgahinga in search of a gorilla family, engaging in some exercise is wise. You might even think about arriving early in Uganda to train in the beautiful hills of the country. Being physically prepared will enhance your experience and ensure you can fully enjoy the adventure. It’s important to note that the terrain can be challenging, with steep slopes and dense vegetation, so being in good physical shape is essential for a successful trek.
Engaging in early practice can enhance your chances of having a successful trekking experience while visiting gorillas in their natural habitat. Hiring a porter is also crucial, especially if you carry heavy luggage. Porters can help carry your bags, provide support on steep and slippery terrain, and share their knowledge about the local flora and fauna, ensuring you enjoy a disturbance-free trek and have a more enriching experience.
Ultimately, obtaining gorilla permits is vital to participate in the trekking adventure. Before booking your flight, please let me know the best time to book Gorilla Trekking Permits in Uganda, as this should be your first step in planning your gorilla tour.
