Luxury gorilla trekking safaris In Uganda are one of the rarest travel experiences, where travelers get one on one with gentle giant primates of Mountain gorilla.
The trekking day kicks off with coffee or breakfast before going in for a briefing. Guests can follow the tour guides and park rangers deep in the rainforests in search of gorillas.
Normal gorilla trekking sessions take four to six hours. Once guests finally encounter the mountain gorillas, they are then offered a one-hour limit to spend with the gentle primates.
It’s always during such moments that guests get to sight silverbacks’ chest beating, playful juveniles, and mother gorillas nursing babies. The pearl of Africa shelters almost half of the world’s only remaining mountain gorillas. So, visitors should anticipate the most thrilling wildlife experience. Mixed with high end accommodation spots and the whole experience turns into a once in a lifetime adventure.
WHERE TO DO GORILLA TREKKING IN UGANDA?
All gorilla trekking activities in Uganda can only be carried out in the country’s two gorilla trekking destinations. That’s to say, the ancient forests of Bwindi, and Mgahinga national park. Both spots lie in the south western part of the country.
Bwindi Impenetrable national park prides itself as Uganda’s leading gorilla tracking destination. The spot harbours about four hundred of the remaining gorilla individuals. Steep valleys, thick vegetation where the name “impenetrable” is derived from and volcanoes dominate the area.
There are four gorilla sectors in the misty forests of Bwindi. These include the Buhoma gorilla sector, Ruhija sector, Rushaga, and Nkuringo sector. Many guests prefer Buhoma due easy access and reliable lodge options.
Mgahinga National Park is the smallest national park in Uganda, yet the spot is one of the most dramatic and of the wild, given of its location in volcanoes. There are one to two gorilla families in Mgahinga. But the whole setting stays wilder, with volcanic peaks rising above the misty forests.
GORILLA PERMIT PRICES.
UWA, also the Uganda Wildlife Authority only has the right to issue gorilla trekking permits in Uganda. The permit must be legally booked in advance, either through a licensed trusted tour operator or via UWA itself online. The standard permit cost for foreign non-residents is 800 USD per person in each of the national parks.
The permit costs help fund conservation efforts, ranger salaries, and community projects around the parks. The dry season of the year is the peak sell out, serious planners are advised to book six to twelve months early.
WHERE TO STAY FOR LUXURY GORILLA TREKKING?
Mahogany Springs Lodge.
The spot lies in the northern part of the park, Buhoma tracking sector. Mahogany springs lodge hosts peculiar cottages with private pools, and delicious food. The lodge also offers spa and personalized services like massage services and more.
Buhoma Lodge.
This is one of those exciting spots to stay at for gorilla trekking. The property is well placed right inside Bwindi. The clearest canopy views can be sighted while at the lodge.
Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge.
The accommodation spot is also situated in Nkuringo gorilla tracking sector. Clouds mountain gorilla lodge is spacious, and made up of stone and timber cottages. These cottages offer the clearest volcano views, fireplaces for relaxing evenings, and strong support for community projects.
Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Lodge.
This lies in North Buhoma, the spot is intimate, with luxury tents that blend comfort with the wilderness experience.
Gorilla Heights Lodge.
This is located in Nkuringo gorilla tracking sector, the spot offers large suites, modern luxury and perfect for guests who prefer to trek in less crowded places.
BEST TIME FOR LUXURY GORILLA SAFARIS IN UGANDA.
For the most remarkable gorilla experience, the dry seasons of the year hit a sweet spot. June to September and December to February are long and short dry seasons respectively. The trails are firmer, and the forests are passable.
July to September offers clearer weather, good gorilla visibility, and firm roads too. January and February also work, and can charge slightly lower.
The wet months are March to May and October to November. The 2 periods bring lush greenery and lower prices, but trails get tricky, muddy and slippery making the whole trekking experience a tough one. Planning around the dry windows and in advance is highly recommended.
Hiking boots with good grip are a must carry. Dry long trousers, long stockings and sleeved shirts help from thorns and insects. Lightweight rain jackets should be carried even during dry seasons.
Binoculars can also be added on the gear list especially for gorilla closeup views, camera and sunscreens add an exciting touch. Walking poles to offer support while hiking can be used.