Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Zanzibar Beach
Gorilla trekking in Uganda and a Zanzibar Beach vacation are amazing combinations that guarantee unique experiences. Imagine trekking through the spectacular rainforest, where echoes of birds and chimps and the gentle rustle of leaves signal the presence of gorillas. Gorilla trekking in Uganda isn’t a mere adventure but a powerful encounter worth experiencing in the jungle, leaving many lasting memories.
Embarking on a Uganda gorilla trekking tour is a perfect way to awaken your travel spirit. The beauty of trekking gorillas in Uganda is that you can navigate through the breathtaking terrains, and each moment takes you towards a close interaction with mountain gorillas. This is not the end of the expedition. After the thrilling trek with mountain gorillas, expect to have an unforgettable beach experience. Chill in the finest beaches along the scenic Zanzibar coastline.
Soak yourself in the powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters at Zanzibar Island, a perfect way to escape, unwind, and reflect on your previous adventures. Multiple adventures still await along the beach, including wildlife, or if you desire a peaceful beach getaway. The Zanzibar beach promises a tapestry of adventure and relaxation. At the end, the entire journey allows you to create memories that last a while. Book your gorilla tour and beach vacation with Native Africa Tours, the first step that marks the start of making your inspiration story.
Why choose Uganda for Gorilla Trekking Tours?
There are countless reasons why Uganda should be your bucket list destination for gorilla trekking. A gorilla tour in Uganda promises great encounters with mountain gorillas in the wild, not at the zoo.
Explore any of the 2 Destinations to see Mountain Gorillas
Uganda stands out as the best choice for gorilla trekking in Africa. First, visitors can choose between the two National Parks: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Each gorilla safari park has habituated families of mountain gorillas so that you can start your thrilling adventure.
Choose from Multiple Habituated Gorilla Groups
Unlike any other mountain gorilla destination, Uganda has the highest population of habituated mountain gorillas. Over 25 habituated gorilla groups are available for visitors to track in Uganda. The multiple gorilla groups translate to many opportunities for visitors to interact with these large apes in the wild during the trek.
The gorilla families present for gorilla trekking in Uganda include Nshongi, Busingye, Kahungye, Mubare, Rushegura gorilla group, Katwe, Christmas, and Nkuringo gorilla groups. Other gorilla families include Kutu, Rwigyi, Mukiza, Oruzogo, Kyaguriro gorilla family, Posho, Bikingi, Bushaho, Mishaya, and Habinyanja.
5 Gorilla Trekking Regions
Compared to Rwanda and Congo, Uganda has up to five regions or sectors where visitors can start their trek to interact with gorillas. Four sectors are present in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and include Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, and Ruhija. At Mgahinga National Park, a trek with gorillas begins at the Ntebeko area.
Affordable Gorilla Permits
A visitor can obtain a valid gorilla permit in Uganda for USD 800. This rate is far below the USD 1500 cost for booking the Rwanda gorilla trekking permit. A valid gorilla permit can be booked easily through Native Africa Tours. Permits and gorilla tours should be booked in advance before the actual date of visiting the gorillas.
What Makes Gorilla Trekking Unique?
Gorilla trekking is unique from the rest of the experience, considering its nature. First, gorilla trekking entirely involves walking through the forest with an experienced guide, which is different from game drives. The trek with gorillas takes about 2 to 6 hours as you penetrate through the jungle to enjoy up-close and personal encounters with a group of mountain gorillas.
When you come across mountain gorillas, expect to enjoy a maximum of 1 hour. During the one hour, you have a chance to observe how these apes behave and take photos. When you return to the briefing point where you departed, you will receive a gorilla trekking certificate.
Preparing for your Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Uganda
Preparation for your gorilla trek adventure involves obtaining the right gear, planning transportation and accommodation, and getting fit. The essential gear to consider for your gorilla tour in Bwindi or Mgahinga include gorilla permits, waterproof hiking boots, a daypack, long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, a sweater, a rain jacket, an insect repellent, a first aid kit, good and energy giving snacks, adequate bottled drinking water, and more.
To get fit for a gorilla trekking adventure, expect to do thorough exercise. Through exercises, you can get used to challenging altitudes, and on a normal trek, you can go to and back without facing any challenge.
You’ll need to book transportation to track gorillas before visiting any destination. A 4×4 safari vehicle is required for ground travel to and from gorilla safari destinations. You can plan and book your flights early to connect to Entebbe International Airport.
Accommodation options- you must have a place to stay during your gorilla tour in Uganda. The options available usually range from budget to midrange to luxury. Choose a place to keep up that is close to where you intend to begin your trek from Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park. Accommodation, transportation, gorilla permits, and other essentials can be booked before the trekking date.
Best Time to Visit Uganda to Enjoy Gorilla Trekking
Uganda is blessed with the best weather and climatic conditions, offering all year round gorilla trekking experiences. But the most preferred time is the dry season, when you won’t face challenges navigating the forest when searching for gorillas. The dry season is experienced from June to September or December to February.
Being an all-year-round destination, planning a gorilla tour around the wet or rainy season is possible. The long and short wet season is often experienced from March to May or October to November.
The spectacular Zanzibar –the tropical paradise
The Zanzibar beach vacation offers an unforgettable getaway along the coastal beaches of Tanzania. Embarking on the Zanzibar beach tour involves exploring the finest beaches along the Indian Ocean. The coastal Zanzibar beach features tropical islands, white sand beaches, and boutique hotels.
Activities to Enjoy on a Zanzibar Vacation
Along the Zanzibar beach, expect to engage in a myriad of experiences. Here is a checklist of experiences to expect to be part of at the Zanzibar beach;
Snorkeling is one of the most thrilling adventures you should expect to engage in along the Indian Ocean waters. During the snorkeling adventure, expect to interact with many marine wildlife in the shallow spots along the Indian coastline.
Scuba diving is a must-do water sport along the Zanzibar beach. Other activities to enjoy on Zanzibar Island include Kayaking, biking, kiteboarding, Stone Town tours, sunbathing, spice tours, and more.
Responsible Tourism & Conservation
At Native Africa Tours, we are committed to promoting responsible travel and conservation efforts. We craft unique gorilla tours that focus on protecting gorillas and their habitats. We also prioritize eco-friendly practices across all our Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Zanzibar beach travel plans.
