When is the best time to track gorillas in Uganda? Uganda is often regarded as the top place in the world for gorilla trekking safaris. Gorilla trekking is one of the major foreign exchange earning tourism activities in the country, generating about $ 324 million in income each year. Having said that, the country attracts about 8,647 travelers from all over the world each year in order to follow its unique mountain gorillas.
In Uganda, gorilla trekking takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, both of which are located in the country’s south-western region. Bwindi alone contains about 459 mountain gorillas divided into 18 habituated gorilla groups. Mgahinga National Park, on the other hand, now has two habituated gorilla groups that tourists may follow.
When is the best time to track gorillas in Uganda?
The ideal months to hike mountain gorillas in Uganda are June to September and December to February. It is dry at this time of year, which people love since hiking through the trees in search of a group of mountain gorillas is much simpler. The hiking pathways in the woodlands are less muddy and treacherous at this time of year, making for a much easier hike through the woods.
Even though it is a dry season, rain can be expected at any time, and the peak/dry season has some drawbacks, for example, a gorilla trekking permit is competitive during the peak season due to an increased number of visitors, and permits usually sell out, so you should book 3 to 6 months in advance to avoid disappointment. Accommodations in national parks are likewise becoming more competitive, so tourists are urged to book ahead of time.
Trekking mountain gorillas in Uganda is also possible during the rainy season, which runs from March to May and October to November. It is crucial to know that the parks experience severe rainfall throughout the rainy season, which can make hiking mountain gorillas difficult at times.
During this time of year, the hiking trails within national parks are exceedingly slippery and muddy, and the roads connecting to the parks can be difficult to manage. As a result, if you wish to go gorilla trekking in Uganda, it is suggested that you hire a 4×4 wheel drive vehicle.
What you need to pack to for your gorilla trekking safari in Uganda?
If you are going on a gorilla trekking tour in Uganda, you should bring the following items: a good pair of hiking boots, sunscreen and insect repellent cream, a hat/cap, a mineral water bottle, long trousers and shirts, long stockings, a warm sweater, a light raincoat, warm and durable hand gloves, binoculars, and a camera. Also, remember to have your gorilla trekking permit with you on the day of the walk because you will be needed to show it to park officials.
How long does it take to track gorillas in Uganda?
Tracking mountain gorillas in Uganda can take anything from two to eight hours, including one hour spent with the gorillas after they are identified. It can take many hours of hiking and monitoring a gorilla group depending on their location, therefore the activity requires one to be in good physical and mental health. If you have a chronic disease, it is essential to consult your doctor before going on a gorilla trekking safari to Uganda.
How much does it cost to track gorillas in Uganda?
A permit to go gorilla trekking in Uganda costs between USD 700 and USD 600 per person. You may reserve your gorilla trekking permit in Uganda through a reputable tour operator, such as Explore Rwanda Tours. Simply show a photocopy or scanned copy of your valid passport, and the rest will be taken care of. You will be provided a scanned document as confirmation that your gorilla trekking permit has been acquired/booked after your trusted travel expert has secured it.
Finally, gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda is an exciting and adventurous primate excursion to take during your vacation to Uganda. Trekking mountain gorillas in Uganda is a fantastic leisure activity that you may enjoy with friends and family aged 15 and above. Check out our gorilla trekking trip packages for the best deals!
