Insider Guide to Gorilla Tracking Safaris in Uganda – Gorilla Tracking Uganda

Go Gorilla Tracking in Uganda.

Gorilla tracking Uganda is a popular and thrilling wildlife experience, attracting tourists from around the world.

Uganda is home to the endangered mountain gorillas, and it offers several locations where you can embark on this incredible adventure.

The main destination for gorilla tracking in Uganda is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, but you can also visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Mountain Gorilla tracking in Uganda is a unique and life-changing experience, allowing you to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures while contributing to their conservation.

It’s essential to plan your trip carefully, book your permits and accommodations in advance, and be prepared for a challenging but incredibly rewarding adventure in the heart of Africa.

In Uganda, gorilla tracking safaris primarily take place in two national parks: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These parks are home to the endangered mountain gorillas, and both offer unique experiences for visitors interested in gorilla tracking.

When planning a gorilla tracking safari in Uganda, you should consider your preferences, the availability of gorilla permits, and the location of the gorilla groups you wish to track. It’s essential to book your gorilla permits in advance, as they can sell out quickly, especially during the high season.

Additionally, consulting with Acacia safaris ltd a reputable Uganda safari operator can help you plan your trip, arrange permits, and provide guidance for a memorable and well-organized gorilla tracking experience.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the most famous gorilla tracking destinations in Uganda.

It is located in the southwestern part of the country, near the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

This Bwindi forest is home to several habituated gorilla families, making it a prime location for gorilla tracking. There are four main sectors within Bwindi where gorilla tracking activities occur: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.

The park’s dense, impenetrable forest is rich in biodiversity, and it’s not only a gorilla sanctuary but also offers opportunities to spot other wildlife, including various bird species and primates.

Accommodation options around Bwindi range from budget to luxury lodges and camps, providing a variety of choices for visitors.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is another gorilla tracking destination in Uganda, located in the southwestern part of the country, near the borders with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The park is part of the larger Virunga Massif, which spans three countries and is home to a population of mountain gorillas. Mgahinga offers a unique experience as it is known for its gorilla families that sometimes move between Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo.

In addition to Uganda gorilla tracking, Mgahinga offers opportunities for golden monkey tracking and other trekking activities. The park is also known for its stunning volcanic landscapes.

Accommodation options around Mgahinga are more limited compared to Bwindi, but there are lodges and camps that offer comfortable stays.

Gorilla Tracking Permits

Gorilla tracking permits are the most crucial aspect of your Uganda safari. These permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and allow you to spend a limited amount of time with a habituated gorilla family. It’s essential to obtain your permits in advance, and it’s advisable to book them as early as possible, as they are in high demand. The price of gorilla tracking permits can vary depending on the season and your nationality.

Trekking Experience

Gorilla tracking in Uganda is not for the faint of heart. It involves hiking through dense and often steep terrain in the jungle. The duration of the trek can vary, ranging from a couple of hours to a full day, depending on the location of the gorilla family. Your guide will lead you through the forest, and you’ll need to be reasonably fit to cope with the challenging conditions.

Meeting the Gorillas

Once you find a gorilla family, you’ll have a strictly regulated one-hour encounter with them. This hour allows you to observe and photograph the gorillas in their natural habitat, while minimizing any potential stress on the animals.

Wildlife Sightings

While the main focus of the Uganda safari is gorilla tracking, these national parks are rich in other wildlife and bird species. You may encounter various primates, such as colobus monkeys and baboons, as well as diverse birdlife during your trek.

Best Time to Go for Gorilla Tracking in Uganda

The best time for gorilla tracking in Uganda is during the dry seasons, which are from June to September and from December to February. The trails can be muddier and more challenging during the rainy seasons, but permits may be more accessible.

Packing List

When preparing for your Uganda gorilla tracking safari, you should pack appropriate clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, sturdy hiking boots, a rain jacket, a hat, and sunscreen. A backpack with essentials like water, snacks, and a camera is also essential.

Conservation and Ethical Guidelines

There are strict rules and guidelines in place to protect the gorillas and their natural habitat. You should follow your guide’s instructions and maintain a safe distance from the gorillas to minimize potential harm or disease transmission. These rules are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of both gorillas and visitors.

Accommodation

There are various accommodation options near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, ranging from budget to luxury lodges and camps. It’s recommended to book your accommodations well in advance, especially during the high season.

What is the Cost Uganda Gorilla Tracking Permits?

Uganda Gorilla tracking permits are relatively expensive, but the revenue generated from them contributes to the conservation of these magnificent creatures and their habitats. The cost of a permit can vary depending on the season and whether you’re a foreign or domestic visitor.

Preparation for Gorilla Tracking

Gorilla tracking in Uganda can be physically demanding, so it’s essential to be in good health and reasonably fit. You’ll need to hike through dense forests and steep terrain, sometimes at high altitudes. Bring appropriate clothing, hiking boots, and a backpack with essentials like water, snacks, and a rain jacket.

Gorilla Tracking Rules and Guidelines

There are strict rules and guidelines in place to protect the gorillas and minimize any potential disturbance. For example, you should maintain a safe distance (usually about 7 meters) from the gorillas, avoid loud noises, and limit your time with the gorillas to one hour.

Gorilla Tracking Experience

The experience can take several hours, and the duration of the trek varies depending on the location of the gorilla group on that particular day. It can be physically challenging, but the moment you encounter a gorilla family in the wild is truly unforgettable.