Age limit is a serious  concern for travelers booking gorilla safaris in Africa. Children aged below 15 years are not allowed to take part in gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Virunga Conservation Area where mountain gorillas live. Parents traveling with children are advised to choose  the alternative activities for their children . Fortunately, there are various children friendly activities which  young ones can do while parents trek gorillas.

Superfine Safaris Limited guided on the  suitable activities for children on a gorilla trekking trip ensuring fun  for everyone. Gorilla trekking is the leading primate safari experience in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, which bring the highest number of travelers from all over the world. Age restrictions is one of the major concerns in all gorilla national parks across Africa. The top activities for children on a gorilla safari include among others:

Nature/Forest walks
While parents trek into the jungle in search of the gentle giants, children can go for a guided nature /forest walk. In most cases, nature walks are done a short distance from the hotel and can last for up to two hours but at a relaxed speed. A nature walk is the best moment for children to pick up beautiful flowers, look up for birds in the trees and small forest animals especially monkeys. Walking on foot through the forest is the best way to explore and enjoy the quite natural en environment. Children will follow different trails to visit some tourism spots such as waterfalls, which make the whole experience more enjoyable.

Community visits
Children are also taken to visit local communities neighboring gorilla national parks in Uganda and Rwanda. The most visited local villages are for batwa pygmies where kids are taught about the forest life of these Batwa people and how they lived harmoniously with wild animals for thousands of years. More so, local people who perform traditional dances, songs and skits introduce young kids to local community’s traditions, norms and customs, entertain children.

Children are also guided to neighboring village schools where they get a chance to interact with fellow kids. Community visits also involve touring medical centers and other community projects. Kids are allowed to take part in some local activities such as grinding sorghum and peeling plus traditional dances, which make them, feel as part of the local community.
If you are doing a Rwanda gorilla safari in Volcanoes National Park, children can visit the Iby’iwacu community village to learn more about Rwanda’s traditions, norms and customs.

City tours
A city tour especially to the beautiful Kigali is a not miss for kids. While children are taken to various art galleries, local markets and shopping malls, which is an interesting, experience. The other interesting activities for kids in Rwanda include Heaven restaurant & inn Playground, City Arts classes, Pili Pili sandbox and pool, Fazenda Sengha Horse Farm, Spiderman Game Center, Playground at Mamba Club, Playground at La Palisse Hotel, Play Area at Bamboo Chinese, Pool at Umubano Hotel and Play area at Monaco Café. Parents are very assured that kids will have a good time on a gorilla tour to Africa.

Photography
Kids are well versed with the camera can go for photography near the hotel as their parents trek the gorillas. Photography goes along with filming which is indeed an interesting activity.

What to pack for kids of an African safari
In order to ensure safety and comfort of children on your gorilla safari to Africa, parents are reminded to pack the following for the kids:
Snacks and drinks: Safaris to see gorillas normally take long hours before travelers come back. More so, parents go with packed lunch into the jungle. It’s therefore wise to pack enough snacks and drinks for the kids to keep them strong in absence of their parents

Playing toys
Endeavor to bring playing toys for your children. These will keep them busy throughout and kill the boredom. However, do not carry big heavy toys to reduce on the baggage.

First aid kit
Parents are also reminded to bring a first aid kit for safety in case of any accident. The fact that kids can at times be playful, sliding and falling on sharp objects is inevitable. A first aid kit is therefore a must have on an a gorilla safari in Africa.

Warm sweaters and jackets
Gorilla parks (Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Volcanoes, Virunga and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks) are generally cold especially at night and in the morning hours. Travelers are therefore reminded to bring warm sweaters to save kids from cold nights.

In general, traveling with kids is undeniably an interesting experience you should try. Superfine Safaris Limited offers you suitable activities for children while travelers trek gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Forest/nature walking is one way of exploring the hidden gem in  Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Trekking through Mgahinga Gorilla Park on foot is the  best way to explore the hidden treasures in the jungle. Travelers are guided into the jungle forest by armed park rangers who guide them to different sites in the forest. Nature walks in Mgahinga Gorilla Park is  an exceptional way of discovering attractions such as waterfalls, caves and swamps among others. The sweet melodies of birds up in the trees make the whole experience magical.

Walking slowly in the forest gives you a true feeling of quite, cool and natural feeling of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Moreso, a forest walk through Mgahinga is a chance to see other different plant species, birds and wild animals, which you will meet on your trek. Nature walks are normally done as add on gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking and other wildlife experiences to make a complete safari package. The top walking trails in Mgahinga Forest National Park include:

Batwa Cultural trail

Batwa cultural trail is one way of exploring  Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The experience is about learning and experiencing the traditional forest life of Batwa pygmies who lived thousands of years in the jungle. In this experience, Batwa pygmies guide travelers into Mgahinga Forest to perform some indigenous batwa activities such as hunting, fruit gathering, collecting honey, picking medicinal herbs and making fire.

Also, travelers are taken to visit Ngarama cave where batwa pygmies would perform traditional rituals and offer sacrifices to their gods. Ngarama caves were also used as a hiding place for batwa pygmies in cave of any insecurity. More so, Batwa pygmies perfume their traditional dances, songs and poems telling their story of traditional forest life. Travelers are given chance to take part in these traditional practices which make them feel as part of the community. Batwa cultural trail costs $80 per person which money is used to support batwa community projects and improve Batwa’s standards of living.

Sabinyo Gorge Walk
Enjoy a 5-6 hours Sabinyo walk in the sloped of the extinct Sabinyo Volcano. The gorge walk is a tiresome and strenuous experience but worth the effort You will meander through different vegetation zones of Mt Sabinyo which give you chance to see numerous birds, plants and animals. The Sabinyo walk also offers you spectacular views of the Virunga volcanoes, Bwindi Forest, Local communities, gardens and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Ridges have been built to ease trekking through this trail, which at times gets slippery especially in the rainy season. Physical fitness is essential for everyone taking part in Sabinyo forge walk. Sabyinyo Volcano is located in the borders of Uganda and Rwanda. It can be hiked from either sides but Uganda is the best starting point for hiking Sabyinyo Volcano. The trail is also a best birding spot sheltering numerous bird species.

Border trail
The border trail takes you to Uganda border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. Trek through the forest in the slopes of Sabinyo volcano with great chances top see birds, wild animals and different vegetation types. A hike to Gizosi hill offers you great views of Virunga Volcanoes, local communities and all other attractions in Uganda and the neighboring Congo.

Hike to Ntebeko Information Centre
You can as well hike to Ntebeko Visitor information center where registration of gorilla trekkers and pre trekking briefing is done. As its name says, Ntebeko is the center of all information about Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. There are lots of documentaries, maps and sculptures to give you all the basic information you need to know about this jungle Forest. A park warden will tell you the story of formation, wildlife and general tourism in Mgahingta Gorilla National park

NOTE: Among the things you need for a successful nature walk include walking stick, closed hiking boots, insect repellents, rain jacket, hat, sunglasses, drinking water and energy giving snacks among others.

Other things to see and do in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

In addition to nature walks, travelers to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park have an endless list of amazing things to see and do for a great experience. These include among others:

Mountain Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking to see Nyakagyezi gorilla family, the only gorilla group in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Nyakagyezi family has 12 members headed by Mark as a dominant silverback gorilla. Nyakagyezi family is fully settled in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and ready to receive visitors each day. 8 travelers are allowed to visit this family each day at the same time meaning 8 gorilla permits available everyday issued on the first come first serve basis. The other place to do Uganda gorilla tours is Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park.

Golden Monkey Trekking:

Golden Monkey trekking is yet another interesting activity to do in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The experience gives you chance to interact with the playful and lively golden monkeys in their natural habitats. The permit to trek golden monkeys cost $60 exclusive of park entrance fees.

Golden Monkey Habituation Experience

Take part in training the wild golden moneys to make them familiar with people. A traveler in golden Monkey habituation experience hikes long researchers, primate doctors and conservationists to tame these endangered species. The 2-3 years habituation experience is the first stage all primates go through before they are opened to travelers for trekking. Golden Monkey habituation experience costs $100 exclusive of park entrance fees.

Virunga Volcano hiking

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to three extinct volcanoes offering memorable hiking experiences. The volcanoes in Mgahinga Park are Mt Sabinyo, Mt Gahinga and Mt Muhabura. Each Volcano has a different story and a different experience of hiking. A hike to the summit of any one of the three volcanoes is an exceptional experience you will live to remember. Volcano climbing is the best experience for adventure travelers.

Bird watching

Sheltering over 180 bird species, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a best spot for Uganda birding safaris. 12 species of birds are endemic to This Park and cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The notable birds in Mgahinga Park include Cape Robin Chat, African Paradise flycatcher, Pin tailed whydah, Speckled mousebird, Scarlet tufted malachite sunbird, African Olive Pigeon, Olive woodpecker, Kivu ground thrush and Alpine Swift. Bird watching in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is best done from April to mid May and October to November.

Superfine Safaris Limited helps you to organize nature walks and other wildlife experiences in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park at affordable rates.

People also ask

What wildlife is in Mgahinga Gorilla National park

Mgahinga shelters a variety of wildlife in Mgahinga Gorilla National park. Among the wildlife in Mgahinga Park include mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, African  Buffalos, Forest Elephants, Vervet monkeys Red tailed mangabeys, Olive baboons and Black and white colubus monkeys among others.  For birders, Mgahinga gorilla National park is home to 180 bird species some of which are hardly found anywhere else in the whole of Uganda.

Some of the notable birds in Mgahinga include Black Kite, pin tailed whydah, African paradise Flycatcher, Cape Robit Chat, Moorland Chat, Alpine Swift and Olvive woodpecker among others. April to Mid May  and October to November is the best time for birding in Mgahinga Gorilla Park while November to April is the best time  to see migratory birds

What is there to do in Mgahinga Gorilla National park?

There are lots of things to do in Mgahinga Gorilla National park rewarding you with memorable travel experiences. Some of things to do in Mgahinga include Mountain gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, Bird watching, Batwa cultural trail, Volcano climbing and Nature walks among others.

How much is Mgahinga Gorilla National park fees?

The entrance fees to Mgahinga Gorilla national park depend on the nationality of the traveler and the activity he/she intends to do there.   For those who want to trek mountain gorillas, the cost is $800 for foreign non residents, $700 for foreign residents and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. For golden monkey trekking,  the fee is $60 for foreign non residents, $50 for foreign residents and UGX 40,000 for East African citizens.

Batwa cultural trail costs $80 for foreign non residents, $70 for foreign residents and UGX 50,000 for east African citizens. Volcano climbing costs $80 for forein non residents, $70 for foreign residents and UGX for east African citizens, Gorge walk costs $30 for foreign non residents, $15 for forein residents and UGX 15000 for East African citizens. The cost of visiting Mgahinga Gorilla Park therefore depend on the activity one is interested in doing.

What is the Mgahinga Gorilla National park famous for?

Mgahinga Gorilla National park is famous for sheltering the endangered mountain gorillas. The Park is home to one Nyakagyezi gorilla family. Most of travelers to Mgahinga are interested in trekking and interacting with these endangered primates and enjoy their company. The park was garzetted in 1991 purposely to conserve the endangered mountain gorillas and other primates which live there. The park is also home to golden monkeys and other monkey species.

How do i book a gorilla trek in Mgahinga Gorilla Park?

Booking a gorilla trek in Mgahinga Gorilla National park can be done through any trusted travel operator registered with AUTO, UTB and other tourism bodies. Superfine Safaris Limited  is your reliable travel agency to book a safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. You can also book directly with Uganda Wildlife Authority

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Rwanda 2025- 2026

As we prepare for the experimental 2025 Africa safaris, Rwanda should be on the top bucket list, and here are the top 5 reasons to visit Rwanda in the year 2025-2026. Superfine Safaris Limited guides you through the top 5 reasons why you should visit Rwanda on your gorilla safaris in Africa and another wildlife experience in 2025. The small land of “ A Thousand Hills” is naturally endowed with wildlife, Lakes Rivers, Rich culture, and mountains which all support a variety of adventure and relaxed travel experiences.

Most people have visited Rwanda over time while others have continued to review Rwanda as a must-visit travel destination in Africa. Some numerous exceptional features and attributes make Rwanda a unique destination that no traveler should miss out on his/her gorilla safaris in Africa. The combination of beautiful landscapes, a clean environment, wildlife, first-class hotels, friendly people, and safety makes Rwanda a favorite destination for most travelers. African Apes Holidays brings you five top reasons why Rwanda needs to be on your travel bucket list. These include:

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Rwanda

Detailed reasons to visit Rwanda on your safari to Africa

Mountain Gorillas & other wildlife

Habituated in the bamboo Forests of Volcanoes National Park situated in Northwestern Rwanda, mountain gorillas are the major tourist attraction that brings many travelers to Rwanda. You ought not to miss a close meet-up with these endangered primates in their natural habitats. Rwanda is one of the 3 countries where these endangered primates can be seen in the wild.  The other two countries that harbor gorillas are Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Since 2027, Rwanda has been popular for offering luxury gorilla safaris at $1500 for a single gorilla permit.

Rwanda Development Board together with the African Parks have habituated 10 gorilla families to ease gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Each day, 80 travelers are allowed to trek and interact with mountain gorillas in the wild jungle of Rwanda. The families of mountain gorillas to see in Rwanda include the Susa A Family, Karisimbi Gorilla family, Agashya Gorilla family, Ugenda Gorilla family, Umubano Gorilla family, Sabyinyo Gorilla family, Pablo Gorilla Family, Titus Gorilla Family, and  Hiwa Gorilla family.

Mountain gorilla trekking has been ranked as the best wildlife experience in the wild and a continued increase in the number of travelers booking gorilla safaris in Africa confirms that the experience is indeed worth every penny.  Gorilla safari booking is recommended at least 6 months before the trekking date and also to allow timely preparations

In addition to the gorillas, Rwanda is home to the “big five” seen in Akagera National Park.  Guided day and night game drives through the park give you great views of wild animals including Elephants, Lions, Buffalos, Rhinos, Zebras, Leopards, Waterbucks, Giraffes, Hippos. Elands, Topis, Diki Diki, Warthogs, and Thomson gazelles among others. Other activities in Akagera National Park include camping, nature walking, and a boat cruise at Lake Ihema.

Also, Rwanda wildlife safaris include a visit to Nyungwe Forest National Park home to the endangered chimpanzees. Other primates in Nyungwe forest include vervet monkeys, black and white colubus, Blue monkeys, Red-tailed monkeys and baboons among others. In general, Rwanda is a center of wildlife viewing.

Peaceful & safe

Over time, Rwanda has proved to be a peaceful and safe country to visit and stay. The last incident of fighting in Rwanda was the 1994 genocide, which claimed the lives of millions of people. Since then, the netizens of Rwanda vowed to “Never again ” and peace has reigned till the present. For over 2 two decades, there have not been any civil wars or rebel attacks in Rwanda which make it one of the most peaceful countries in Africa. The Rwanda police, local people and other security forces work hand in hand to ensure peace and safety of all people

Beautiful and Clean

For those who have been there before, there is no doubt that Rwanda is undeniably among the most beautiful and clean countries in the world. The ban on plastic bags and papers in Rwanda has kept the city clean and dirty-free. You will hardly see any litters or rubbish on the streets of Kigali City and the whole of Rwanda. Reading the beauty of Rwanda, its incomparable! The endless rolling hills in the countryside of Rwanda are very beautiful and best for scenic viewing. The thousand hills of Rwanda are rolled on by tea and coffee plantations while others are covered by rainforests that shelter wild animals and birds. Paved roads connecting from Kigali to the major tourist destinations in Rwanda make movements within the country easy and quick.

Gorgeous Hotels and Lodges

Regarding accommodation in Rwanda, the country has numerous first class lodges and hotels to offer you food and sleeping services at affordable rates. The leading lodges in Rwanda include Bisate Lodge, Virunga Lodge, One & Only Nyungwe House, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Kigali Serena Hotel, Ruzizi Tented Camp, Akagera Game Lodge, Magashi Camp, Lake Kivu Serena, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Kigali Marriott Hotel and Radisson Blu Hotel. These hotels and lodges offer luxury, midrange and budget services as required by travelers. Well-trained and professional staffs are at your service all day and night to ensure a smooth and quick service delivery system. Superfine Safaris Limited help you book and reserve hotel rooms at a cheap price

Friendly people

Rwanda people will make you feel at home! In every corner you v reach, smiling happy faces of local people wait for you. The initial ethnic conflicts that geared up the 1994 genocide have been resolved and people are now living in peace as one. A cultural tour to the Iby’iwacu community village introduces you to Rwanda’s traditions, norms and customs. Interestingly, travelers are allowed to be part of these cultural experiences and practices which make them feel as part of the community.

Generally, there are many reasons to visit Rwanda. Contact us today, book your Rwanda safari and enjoy the natural beauty, wildlife, peace and cleanness of this small country with a thousand hills.

Discover the hidden gems in Uganda’s savannah parks by taking part in the open park days. For two days on 17th and 18th October 2024 , Uganda Wildlife Authority is offering free park days for all Ugandans wishing to visit the savannah parks across the country. The initiative is to introduce Uganda to the treasures in their own country. YES, it’s with no doubt that some Ugandans have not visited these parks and therefore have no information regarding conservation, attractions, and activities that bring clients to tire own county. The offer includes a free park entrance fee and free game drives in the park for all Ugandans.

Parks to visit                                      

Murchison Falls National Park

Among the national parks to visit for free is Murchison Falls National Park. Located in North Western Uganda, Murchison Falls National Park is a not miss for a true wilderness experience in the Pearl of Africa. Murchison Falls is Uganda’s oldest park which was established in 1952 spreading over 3,893 square kilometers of Land. It’s Uganda’s largest National park sheltering a high concentration of wild animals and birds. The savannah derives its name from the mighty “Murchison Falls” found in the heat of the park.

The falls are formed when the strong Nile waters squeeze through a small meter gorge of seven meters falling off 43 meters down into the devil’s Cauldron forming a permanent rainbow.  Game drives in the northern section of Murchison Falls National Park offer travelers a chance to see and interact with different wild animals both grazers and hunters. Expect to see animals such as Elephants, Lions giraffes, Uganda Kobs, Hippos, Buffalos, Waterbucks, Warthogs, Topis, Oribis, and wild dogs among others.

A boat cruise at the bottom of the falls offers you a fresh feeling of the cold breeze with exceptional views of wild water animals and birds seen on the banks of the river. For birders, Murchison Falls National Park is home to over 450 birds some of which are not seen anywhere else in the whole world. Some of the birds to see in Murchison Falls Park include black-headed lapwing, shoebill Stork, African Jacana, Black Billed Berbet, Piapiac, Silverbird, Giant Kingfisher, and Malachite Kingfisher among others. Migratory birds are best seen between November and April

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Second to Murchison Falls National Park in terms of size and popularity, Queen Elizabeth National Park will also be open freely for Ugandans for two days. The Savannahs Park is located in western Uganda spreading over 1.978 square kilometers. The park is home to a variety of wild animals such as Buffalos, elephants, Lions, Leopards, Hyenas, Uganda kobs, Warthogs, antelopes, and waterbucks among others. The park also boosts the rare tree-climbing lions seen in the ishasha sector south of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

A boat cruise at Kazinga Channel offers travelers with exceptional views of birds, wild animals, and fishing villages in the neighborhood. In addition to wild animals Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to over 600 bird species which makes it one of the popular birding areas in Uganda. Some of the notable birds seen in Queen Elizabeth National Park include the Shoebill, African finfoot, Swamp Flycatcher, Palm-nut vulture, Crab plover, African hobby, African skimmer, and common sand martin among others. Game viewing, boat cruising, nature walks, community tours, and bird watching are among the top travel activities done in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Kidepo valley National park

Located in the far northeastern part of Uganda, Kidepo Valley National Par will also be freely open for Uganda travelers on the 17^th and 18^th of October 2024. The park is the most remote tourism destination and the least visited park in Uganda.  The long distance from Kampala/Entebbe to Kidepo has limited many people from visiting and discovering the beauty of this park.

Game drives in the park will offer you clear views of wild animals such as Giraffes, Zebras, lions, Elephants, Leopards, Hyenas, Uganda kobs, Waterbucks, Cheetahs, serval cats, and wild dogs among others. The park is also good for nature walking, bird watching, community tours, and mountain hiking among others

Lake Mburo National Park

Located in southwestern Uganda in Lyantonde district, Lake Mburo National Park is also a not-miss destination on these two days of free park entry on the 17^th and 18^th of October 2024. Lake Mburo National Park covers a total land area of 260 square kilometers and is Uganda’s smallest savannah Park, However, regardless of its small size, Lake Mburo has a lot to offer for travelers.

Game viewing is a chance to see wild animals including Giraffes, Zebras, Buffalos, Wild Pigs, Uganda kobs Waterbucks, and Impalas among others. A boat cruise on Lake Mburo is an experience of its kind and worth doing.  Horseback riding, bird-watching community tours, nature walks, and bird-watching are other interesting activities to do in Lake Mburo National Park.

Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve

Do not miss visiting the beautiful Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve on these free park days on the 17^th and 18^th of October 2024. Perched in the Karamoja region in Northeastern Uganda, Pain Upe Wildlife Reserve is the second largest tourism destination in Uganda after Murchison Falls National Park.  The reserve is a shelter for many birds and wild animals which you should see. Game viewing experiences in the reserve bring you close to wild animals such as Giraffes, Lions, Elephants, Buffalos, Gazelles, Elands, Topis, Waterbucks, and Warthogs among others.

Other popular pars in Uganda

In addition to the savannah parks, Uganda safaris also entail visiting other popular National parks in different parts of the country. These include Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, home to half of the world’s mountain gorillas and a center for gorilla trekking experience. Kibale Forest National Park, is the Primates capital of Africa for chimpanzee trekking and habituation experience. Mgahinga Gorilla National park, Mt Elgon National park Mount Rwenzori, and Semliki valley National. Each Park is unique and offers a unique experience and worth visiting

In conclusion, a free entry and game-viewing experience in Uganda’s savannah Parks is an opportunity every Ugandan should enjoy.

Yes, you can trek gorillas during the rainy season. Whereas mountain gorilla trekking is best done during the dry season between June to September and December to February, the endangered mountain gorillas can also be seen during the rainy season, which is between March through May and September through November.  Mountain gorillas live in rainy forests which at times receive rainfall throughout the year.

Travelers are alerted to expect rainfall even during the dry season.  The advantage is that gorillas live in rain forests which form canopy. Travelers can therefore trek peacefully with fewer showers as they are covered by the  forest canopy. Trekking during the rainy season is undeniably difficult but it’s an experience of its kind.  Interestingly in most cases, rain showers for a short time and the sun sets in immediately which allows you to continue with your gorilla trekking adventure

Advantages of trekking mountain gorillas in the rainy season.

Ease of finding gorillas

It’s so easy to find gorillas in the wet season as compared to the dry season.  During the rainy season, there is an abundance of vegetation and general food for the gorillas even on the lower slopes. Trekking to see them takes much less time as compared to the dry season Mountain gorillas are seen roaming in the lower slopes of the mountains they live. Travelers with difficulty in trekking can therefore trek during the rainy season when gorillas are easily seen

Less demand and competition for the permits

The rainy season is generally characterized by fewer visits hence less demand and competition for the gorilla permits as compared to the dry season when permits sell out limiting the chances of last-minute bookers.  Travelers trekking in the rainy season can even get a permit one day to the trekking day which is not the case in the dry season

Discounted offers in Lodges and hotels

Trekking mountain gorillas during the low/rainy season attracts discounted offers from service providers such as lodges and hotels that offer low rates to attract stayovers. Low-budget travelers therefore have a chance of staying in high-end lodges during their gorilla safari in the rainy season at very low rates.

About mountain gorillas

Mountain gorillas are a sub specie of the Eastern gorillas and they are among the most visited primates attracting a high number of travelers from all parts of the world.  The endangered species only exist in habitats which are Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and the Virunga Conservation Area shared between Mgahinga Gorilla Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.  Roughly 1006 mountain gorillas are surviving in the world half of which live in Uganda and the rest in Rwanda and Congo.  Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda is home to the highest gorilla population followed by Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

What to pack for gorilla trekking during the rainy season

You must pack the essentials I you want a less stressful gorilla encounter in rainy season. The first thing in your backpack should be a rain jacket to deal with the rain showers. Also, endeavor to pack light-closed hiking boots/shoes to protect your feet from mud and slippery ground. Gardening gloves are a not-miss to protect your hands, a Hat for your hair, and a poncho/scarf to keep you warm all through. Long-sleeved shirts/blouses and pants are also highly advised to keep your arms and legs safe.

Where is the best place to see gorillas?

Each gorilla destination offers an exceptional gorilla trekking experience. The choice of which place is best to see gorillas depends on the traveler’s choice and interests. For budget travelers, Virunga National Park in Congo is the best place for you. The permit to see gorillas in Congo costs $450 which is the cheapest compared to $800 in Uganda and $1500 in Rwanda.  For short-time travelers and those who want luxury gorilla safaris, Volcanos National Park in Rwanda is the best place for you.

The bamboo forest park is located in north western Rwanda roughly 3 hours drive from Kigali International Airport. Also, Rwanda offers luxury gorilla safaris at $1500 per permit far higher compared to other gorilla parks. Uganda on the other hand, Uganda shelters the highest population of mountain gorillas compared to Rwanda and Congo.  Gorilla trekking in Uganda takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The high number of gorillas means many habituated gorilla families and hence more gorilla permits. Uganda, therefore, offers many travelers a chance to see gorillas compared to Rwanda and Congo.

How ready should I be for gorilla trekking in the rainy season?

Trekking gorillas during the rainy season comes with some challenges, especially slippery and muddy grounds. You must therefore be prepared to overcome this. Firstly, you need to be physically fit and mentally ready for the adventure. Travelers are advised to do some physical exercises to ensure fitness. Also, pack the essentials such as hiking boots rain jacket, and the like as mentioned already. Visit your medical person for a checkup and get treatment if need be.

Conclusively, mountain gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you should partake in on your African safari.

Visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a close encounter with the newly introduced giraffes and Hartebeest. Unlike in the past years when Ziwa was only known for the endangered Rhinos, the sanctuary is now home to giraffes and hartebeests. Visit the newly introduced Giraffes at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola on your Uganda safaris to northwestern Uganda.

To diversify tourism products in Uganda, the Uganda Wildlife Authority has introduced giraffes and hartebeest to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the home to the endangered rhinos. Travelers to Ziwa have a chance to have a close encounter. The translocation of giraffes took place on 19^th August 2024 by experienced rangers, conservationists and wildlife doctors. Three giraffes were introduced to Ziwa and they are now available for travelers visiting the sanctuary

The introduction of giraffes and hartebeest in Ziwa is also aimed at promoting and enduring a viable population of wild animals at Ziwa Sanctuary and also promoting long-term wildlife conservation goals in the Pearl of Africa

A guided walking safari in Ziwa offers travelers a chance to see rhinos, giraffes, and hartebeest among other monkey species which live there.

Over the years, Ziwa Sanctuary has been an en-route stop by travelers headed to Murchison Falls National Park. A combination of Rhinos at Ziwa and the elephants, Lions, leopards, and Buffalos make Uganda home to the Big Five game.

More about Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary was established in 2005 spreading over 70 square kilometers of land located in Mukerenege Village in the Kafu river basin in Nakasongora district in north western Uganda. The major purpose for the establishment of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary was to protect the endangered white rhinos which had been reintroduced in the country after decades of nonexistence.

The ranch is managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority together with Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch Limited. These two bodies have worked hand in hand to see the population of the critically endangered Rhinos rise to 40 individuals as of June 2024. In addition to the rhinos, Ziwa shelters other primates such as colobus monkeys and baboons.

Rhino tracking experience

Rhino tracking is the main travel activity that attracts many travelers to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. A trek to see these critically endangered primates is reviewed as magical and lifetime. According to one client, ziwa is a completely fantastic place to see rhinos in large numbers.

When you stay you do a morning rhino walk and often the rhinos are close to the central accommodation area so you walk 100m and can see large numbers of rhinos. Very special to see them in large numbers interacting socially. I’d also highly recommend the night walking safari which is a very special experience. The shoebill trek is just a birding walk so if you’re not a birder, it’s less likely to be your thing.

Fairly decent accommodation and food which they were in the middle of renovating their facilities.

Birding at Ziwa

For birders, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is home to over 300 bird species some of which are hardly seen anywhere else in the country. Some of the birds seen at Ziwa sanctuary include Shoebill, Grey Crowned Crane, African fish eagle, African Jacana, African Grey hornbill, Pied Kingfisher, Marabou stork, White Egrets, Blackheads stork, Red-chested Cuckoo and hamerkop among others.

Bird watching can be done all year round and having binoculars would be a great deal for the amazing bird watching experience.

Nature walks

A nature walk at Ziwa Sanctuary is an experience of its kind. Explore hidden gem at Ziwa on foot! Nature walking offers you a chance to see some animals hiding and other small ground animals such as tortoises and other animals such as waterbuck, common duiker, Golden crested crane, hippos, Bushbuck, Oribis, and Bohor reedbuck and Uganda kobs among others

Accommodation at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

For those who wish to stay overnight at Ziwa Sanctuary, budget, midrange, and luxury lodges have been established to offer you excellent food and sleeping services. Ziwa Rhino Camp and Amuka Lodge are some of the popular lodges at Ziwa Sanctuary

How to access Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa Sanctuary is located 170 kilometers from Kampala which is roughly 4 hour’s drive by road Gulu highway to northern western Uganda

Best time to visit Ziwa Sanctuary

Ziwa can be visited all year round and all activities can be done all through with no disruptions.  The dry season between June and September and December to February is the best time to visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.   This season is normally dry and with less or no rain. The vegetation at Ziwa is normally short during the dry season which makes it easy to see wild animals feeding and resting

Conclusively, Ziwa is the best place for short day Uganda excursions Contact Superfine Safaris and book your short Uganda tour to Ziwa sanctuary at affordable prices

Guide to the best places for primate trekking in Rwanda with Superfine Safaris Limited.  Rwanda has become so famous over time due to her lifetime primate trekking adventures!  Over 90% of travelers to Rwanda are interested in visiting one or two primates for a face-to-face encounter with the endangered species in their natural habitats.  The small country also known as the Land of a Thousand Hills boosts in many primates, namely the mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, golden, and other Colobus monkey species.  Rwanda tours cannot be complete without the inclusion of any primate tours.

Popular primates of Rwanda

Mountain Gorillas

Scientifically known as Gorilla Beringei Beringei, mountain gorillas are the most visited primates in Rwanda.  Mountain gorillas are a subspecies of the Eastern gorillas that survive in Bwindi Forest and the Virunga Conservation Area.  The endangered primates reside in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park located in northwestern Rwanda. The country protects over 400 mountain gorillas which is the highest number in the Virunga Conservation Area.

An encounter with mountain gorillas in their natural habitats is the best wildlife experience that travelers yearn to have over and over again.  Mountain gorillas were declared endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature in 2018 due to several threats that affect their survival.  Altogether, the world has roughly 1006 mountain gorillas half of which live in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park while the other population is shared by the three gorilla parks in the Virunga Massif.

Mountain gorillas are covered by much fur which helps them to survive in the cold mountain regions where they live. Adult silverback gorilla weighs between 120 to 200 kilograms while adult female gorillas weigh between 70 to 100 kilograms. Mountain gorillas are slightly smaller than their sister species, the eastern Lowland Gorillas which live in Kahuzi Biega National Park in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

Chimpanzees

Chimpanzees rank second to mountain gorillas in terms of popularity and visitation. The chimpanzees are scientifically called pan troglodytes chimpanzees are believed to share over 98% of human genes which make them the close relatives of humans. Chimpanzees in Rwanda are found in Nyungwe Forest National Park located in southwestern Rwanda. Bonobos are closely related to bonobos and baboons.  Just like mountain gorillas, chimpanzees are also endangered primates highly threatened by poaching, habitat loss, and civil conflicts. Chimpanzees live in communities each headed by an adult male who overlooks the rest of the members in the community.

Golden Monkeys

Found in Volcanoes National Park, golden monkeys are yet another interesting primate species to visit on your Rwanda safari.  Golden monkeys are scientifically called Cercopithecus kandti and are a subspecies of the blue monkeys. These endangered primates are old-world monkeys that survive in the jungles of the Virunga Mountains.

Baboons

Scientifically called Papio, baboons are divided into different subspecies which include Guinea baboon, Olive baboon, Kinda baboon, Chasma baboon, hamadryas baboon, and yellow baboon among others.

Top places for primate trekking in Rwanda

Volcanoes National park

Home to the endangered mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park is a stop center for mountain gorilla trekking in the Virunga mountains. With 10 gorilla families, habituated for trekking, Volcanoes National Park offers luxury gorilla tours. Each gorilla permit in Rwanda costs $1500 issued by the Rwanda Development Board.  A gorilla safari in Rwanda offers you the chance to meet and interact with one of the 10 gorilla groups in the forest.

The Rwanda gorilla families include Hirwa, SusaA, Karisimbi, Sabyinyo, Pablo, Titus, Agashya, Umubano, and Kwitonda. Each gorilla family is visited by 8 people for a maximum of an hour. Superfine Safaris specializes in customized Rwanda gorilla tours and we can help you arrange the Rwanda safari to see the endangered primates.

Our Rwanda safaris range from 1 Day Rwanda gorilla trekking to over 10 Rwanda gorilla safari which combines gorillas and other wildlife species to make a complete package. In addition to the endangered gorillas, Volcanoes National Park is also home to the famous golden monkeys.  These playful primates are seen jumping across tree branches.  A combination of mountain gorillas and golden monkeys offers you a more intimate Rwanda primate trekking adventure. Other things to see and do in Nyungwe Forest include bird watching, nature walks, community tours, Karisimbi hike, Mt Bisoke hike, visiting Bulera and Ruhondo twin lakes, and hiking to Dian Fossey grave graveyard.

Nyungwe Forest National Park

Located in southwestern Rwanda, Nyungwe Forest National Park shelters the endangered chimpanzees. Nyungwe Forest is the center of chimpanzee and colubus trekking experiences in Rwanda. Chimpanzee trekking is done in the main Nyungwe Forest of the Cyamudongo Forest which was cut off from the main forest by deforestation.  Chimpanzees are a major attraction that brings many people from all parts of the world to Nyungwe Forests. Travelers on Chimpanzees safaris in Nyungwe Forest can also take part in canopy walks, nature walks, colubus monkey trekking, and bird watching among others. Entrance to Nyungwe Forest National Park is $100

Best time for primate trekking in Rwanda

Dry/peak season between June to September and December to February is regarded as the best time for primate trekking in Rwanda. There are fewer or no rains during this time which makes it easy to trek through the dense forest in search of the endangered primates. There is always a high demand for primate trekking permits during this period hence travelers are urged to book as early as possible

What to pack for Primate trekking in Rwanda

You are reminded to pack the best for your primate trekking adventure in Rwanda. Packing the best does not mean suits but rather the best attire ft for the jungle. These include Light waterproof hiking boots, gardening gloves, sunglasses, a hat, a rain jacket, pocho, stockings, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts among others. Also, endeavor to pack insect repellents, drinking water, energy-giving snacks and toiletries among others. A first kid kit is also necessary for your primate trekking safari.

Other places to Visit in Rwanda

The other tourist destinations to explore in Rwanda include among others

Akagera National park

Located in Eastern Rwanda, Akagera National Park is the only savannah park in Rwanda. The park is the best place for game safaris sheltering the big five “Elephants, Rhinos, Leopards, Buffalos and Lions”. You can also see Giraffes, Waterbucks, Zebras, warthogs, Impalas, Topis, Gazelles, Dik Dik, and cheetahs among others. Wildlife viewing is best done during morning and evening hours when wild animals are actively hunting and grazing. Sport fishing, bird watching community tours, and nature walks are other things to do in Akagera National Park.

Kigali City

Ranked as the cleanest city in Africa, Kigali city is a gateway to all tourism destinations in Rwanda.  The city tour through Kigali is a chance to visit different destinations in the city center. These include the Kigali Convention Centre, Kigali genocide memorial center, Kimironko Market, Presidential Palace, Inema Art Gallery, and various shopping malls. You will enjoy the beautiful and traffic-free roads of Kigali and confirm for yourself that the capital is indeed the best

Call it nature or forest walking, the experience is about walking through the Impenetrable Forest of Bwindi Gorilla Park.  Penetrate through the dense thick forests of Bwindi following narrow trails as you discover the hidden gem in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park. Whereas  Bwindi Forest has been known for gorilla trekking, the forest is a best spot for  walking safaris in Uganda.  Nature/forest walking is one way of discovering and exploring the hidden gem in Bwindi Forest.

A guided walk through the impenetrable jungles of Bwindi is undeniably an exceptional experience you should not miss out on your Uganda gorilla tour to Bwindi. The experience has presently become common where many travelers desire to explore this jungle forest on a walk. Fortunately, different hiking trails have been designated in Bwindi unlike in mountain gorilla trekking where travelers have no direct path to the endangered gorillas.

Forest/nature walking is an add-on experience to gorilla tours and cultural experiences  in Bwindi Forest. Each trail starts and ends at a certain point. Forest walks offer you great chances of seeing numerous trees and plant species, birds and wild animals in the forest.

The hiking trails in Bwindi Forest are categorized into short, medium and long split in four sectors of the national park, some trails like the Buhoma Nkuringo trail start from one sector and ends in the other. The common hiking trails in Bwindi Forest National Park include:

Munyaga River trail
Munyaga river trail is the most hiked trail in Buhoma sector north of Bwindi Forest National park. The trail is done along the Bizenga creek connecting to Munyaga river lasting for roughly 2 hours. More so, the trail is in some way circular starting and ending at the same point without backtracking.

The scenic views of River Munyaga are best for photography. More so, Munyaga trail is the best spot for bird watching. The banks of river Munyaga shelter various bird species such as red-headed bluebill and African Emerald Cuckoo among others. It is therefore the best trail for bird watching.

Waterfall trail
Also located in Buhoma sector, the 3 hours’ waterfall trail is yet another interesting trail to hike on your Uganda tour to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. The trail slashed in 1970 majorly to build a road connecting to Kisoro. However, the road was not constructed there leaving it for only people walking on foot. The scenic views of the beautiful waterfall make it more enjoyable. You will meet many local people on this trail giving you a chance to interact with them

Rushura Trail
Join the Rushura trail to the summit of Rushura, the highest hill in Buhoma sector north of Bwindi Forest National Park. Hiking the Rushura trail starts near Buhoma park headquarters lasting for roughly 3 hours to reach the Rushura hill summit at 1915 meters above the sea level.

Travelers hike through terraces, local farms and the forest which make it more enjoyable. The summit of Rushura hill offers great views of the jungle forest, Virunga volcanoes, Rwenzori mountains and the western rift valley plus local people’s farms and homesteads.

Mujabajiro Loop Trail
This trail entails ascending through the forest canopy across the Mujabajiro creek to Rukuburi hill for scenic views of the Virunga Volcanoes and the entire Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The hiking trail takes for between 3-4 hours but the magical feeling that comes along is worth the effort. In 1992, the trail was caught by fire which destroyed the vegetation leaving the trail so open. However, the vegetation has grown and its surely beautiful

River lvi trail
River lvi trail is one of the longest hiking trails ascending and descending south of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. The 6 hours walk follows the old road which is mostly used by local people going to gardens and Nteko local market. The trail starts in Buhoma sector ending in Nkuringo. It therefore, crosses from the northern sector to the southern sector of Bwindi Forest National park. The scenic views of River lvi is best for photography

Kashasha River Trail
Kashasha river trail starts in Buhoma and ends in Nkuringo sector. The 5-6 hours’ trail takes you through steep forests taking you up to 600 meters above the sea level. Travelers who use a vehicle along this route take roughly 7 hours’ drive. Walking is therefore easier than driving along this trail. Moreso, the scenic views along the trail, encounters with different wild animals and birds make it more enjoyable and fun

Bamboo Trail
The guided bamboo trail takes you through bamboo forest of Bwindi National park. It’s a steep hike to 0ver 2007 meters above the sea level overlooking the Virunga volcanoes and the entire Bwindi Forest. More so, the trail takes you through different vegetation types which include afro montane forests. Ryamunyonyi hill is the highest point of the bamboo trail and the summit offers great views of the beautiful lake Bunyonyi.

Mubwindi Swamp Trail
This trail descends along a path through the forest to Mubwindi swamp, home to numerous birds and forest animals. The walk gives you great chances of meeting numerous birds and wild animals along the way. Also, the joyful birds which sing endlessly above you in the trees make this trail more colorful

What to park for nature/forest walks in Bwindi Forest
Superfine Safaris Limited brings you a guide on what to pack for forest/nature walk in Bwindi Forest National Park. Travelers are reminded to carry essentials to make their walking experience less difficult. Among the things to carry for forest walking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park include:
• Closed walking shoes/boots
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Bottled drinking water
• Insect repellants
• Rain jacket for the unpredictable forest weather
• Long pants
• Scarf and sweaters
• A walking stick is a must-have for everyone going for a nature walk. The fallen rotten forest leaves and vegetation make the ground slippery and at times difficult to walk through. A walking stick will, therefore, give you support

Best time for Nature walks in Bwindi Forest
The dry season in the months of June, July, August, September, December, January, and February is the best time to do nature /forest walks in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park. The forest grounds in this time are dry making it easy to walk through. However, if you are interested in seeing many birds, the rainy season in March, April, May, and November is the best.

Other activities to do in Bwindi Forest
Besides nature walks, Bwindi Forest National park offers travelers a variety of many more travel activities to make a complete package. The other things to see and do in Bwindi Forest National Park include:
1. Mountain gorilla trekking, the number one travel activity in Bwindi Forest.

The forest is home to the highest number of the world’s mountain gorillas with 17 habituated gorilla families. A gorilla permits in Bwindi costs $800 for foreign nonresidents, $700 for foreign residents and UGX 300,000 for east African residents
2. Mountain gorilla habituation experience is yet another interesting activity done in Rushaga sector, south of Bwindi Forest National Park. Habituation is the process of training wild gorillas to make them familiar with human presence
3. Bird watching
4. Community visits
In general, forest/ nature walks are a not miss on your Uganda gorilla safari to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Contact African Apes Tours today, book your walking tour for a memorable experience

There are lots of interesting experiences  to add  on your gorilla trekking experience in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo. Whereas most travelers on African safaris consider gorilla trekking safari as their first priority, Africa offers much more than gorillas. Superfine Safaris Limited  gives you a detailed list of the gorilla trekking add-ons to ensure much more fun and enjoyable gorilla safari to Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Complementing your gorilla tour with other wildlife activities make your safari magical and life-changing. In most cases, travelers who have long safaris ask which other activities they can partake. The recommended gorilla trekking add-ons by Superfine Safaris Limited include:

Gorilla Trekking Addons

Chimpanzee trekking

Ranked second best wildlife experience after gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking is  best add on your gorilla safari. An encounter with chimpanzees in the jungle is a magical feeling that lasts for a lifetime. The top chimpanzee trekking destinations in Africa include Kibale Forest National Park, Kyambura gorge in Uganda and Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda. Chimpanzees are the closest relatives to people sharing over 99% of human genes.

Enjoy the human-like characters of chimpanzees where the adult male watches over the family like a father in a human home, adult females nurse babies while juveniles continuously play entertaining other family members. Like in gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking starts with registration and briefing at the respective park headquarters. Travelers are required to follow the rules and regulations of chimpanzee trekking such as seven meter distance , avoiding direct eye contact, avoid using flashlight cameras, do not litter in the park, do not shout.

If you want to spend extended time with chimpanzees, book a chimpanzee habituation experience in Kibale Forest National Park Uganda. The costs of chimpanzee trekking are quite less compared to gorillas hence the best option for budget travelers. Chimpanzee permit booking is recommended as early as 5 months prior directly through Uganda Wildlife Authority, Rwanda Development Board or through superfine safaris your number one safari company.

Game Viewing (Game Drives)

Go game viewing in the open savannah parks of Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania with Superfine Safaris. Morning, evening and night game drives through savannahs offer you great views of numerous wild animals grazing, hunting, and browsing. Expect to see various wild animals such as elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, Oribis, Topis, Elands, Waterbucks, Buffalos, Hippos, Kobs, Cheetahs, Leopards, Warthogs, Hyenas and wildebeests among others.

The top places for game viewing in Uganda include Kidepo Valley National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo National Park. In Rwanda, game viewing is done in Akagera National Park. Do not miss visiting the famous tree-climbing lions in Ishasha sector, south of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Golden Monkey trekking

A trek to see golden monkeys in Mgahinga Gorilla National park Uganda and Volcanoes National Park Rwanda is a not miss on you gorilla safari in Africa. The golden fur on the backs distinguish golden monkeys  from other species. Travelers are required to book and secure golden monkey permits at a cost of $100 in both Uganda and Rwanda. Golden monkeys are one of the critically endangered species in the jungle as listed by IUCN on the red list of endangered species.

Cultural tours

Spare time and visit the indigenous local communities in Africa for an experimental cultural experience. The most visited cultural groups are the batwa pygmies living adjacent to all gorilla parks in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo. Also, the IK people in karamoja regions of Uganda near Kidepo Valley National Park are a must visit on your Uganda safari to northeastern Uganda. A batwa cultural trail done in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park tells you about the traditional forest life of batwa pygmies before the introduction of gorilla tourism. Enjoy and take part in traditional local activities such as hunting, preparing local food, searching for medicinal plants and collecting honey among others. Visit the Manyattas of the K’ Jongs, learn about their pastoral life and have fun.

Mountaineering/Mountain Climbing

Enjoy a hike to the summit of any one Mountain in Africa. A hike to snow-capped Magherita peak of Mount Rwenzori, Mt Elgon or any one of the Virunga Volcanoes is a memorable experience. Join a hike to the summit of active Nyiragongo Volcano to peep into the boiling lava lake. Among the things to pack for mountaineering safari in Africa include hiking boots, gardening gloves, bottled drinking water, hiking gears and energy giving drinks. A climbing stick and porter are essential in ensuring a successful volcano hiking experience.

Bird watching

Ensure to add a birding trip on your gorilla safari to Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Birds in Volcanoes National Park include Red backed shrike, Blue spotted wood dove, Baglafecht weaver, Cinnamon checked bee-eater and Bateleur. Birds in Bwindi Forest National park include Chapins flycatcher, Regal sunbird, Montane Oriole, Handsome francolin, Rwenzori Batis, strange weaver, and Dusky Tinspot.

Birds in Virunga National Park include African Olive Pigeon, Grey throated barbet, Angolan swallow, tropical boubou, alpine swift and Papyrus yellow warbler among others. Our experienced birding guides will help you spot different bird species. Bird watching is best done in the morning and evening hours during a forest/nature walk.

Mountain gorilla trekking add-ons make your whole gorilla trekking experience much more memorable. Contact Superfine Safaris, book gorilla trekking, and the add-ons to have a memorable African experience.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda from Kigali Rwanda has become a real deal recently. Most travelers on Uganda gorilla tours prefer flying to Kigali and crossing to Uganda via any land border (Cyanika in Kisoro or Katuna in Kabale).   Uganda gorilla trekking safaris starting and ending in Kigali Rwanda are a real deal, especially for travelers who have limited time. Also, Uganda gorilla safaris through Kigali are a preference for travelers who don’t like long hours of driving.  Connecting from Kigali Rwanda to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks in Uganda is much easier and convenient compared to a full day of driving from Kampala/Entebbe.

Interestingly, Uganda safaris starting from Kigali do not zero down to only gorillas but also entail other wildlife experiences in different parts of Africa’s Pearl.  The other best experiences to enjoy in Uganda starting from Kigali include game viewing/launch cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Bunyonyi,  Virunga Volcano climbing, and chimpanzee trekking in Kibale  Forest National Park among others.

Distance & driving time from Kigali to Uganda

The overall travel time from Kigali to Uganda gorilla parks is roughly 5 hours of driving.

Kigali City is located 129.6 kilometers from Kisoro district in southwestern Uganda. This takes roughly 3 hours of driving. If you are on a Uganda gorilla safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Cyanika is the best land border to use when crossing from Kigali Rwanda.

For Bwindi gorilla tours, the distance is roughly 105 kilometers which takes roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes of driving.

Popular Uganda gorilla tour packages starting from Kigali Rwanda

In most cases, it’s the short Uganda gorilla trekking tours that start and end in Kigali Rwanda. The popular ones include the

1 Day Uganda gorilla trekking tour.

On this trip, travelers leave Kigali at 3:30 am to be able to catch up with a gorilla trekking briefing in Uganda.  The 1 day Uganda gorilla trek from Kigali has made it easy for limited-time travelers who want to see gorillas on a budget. Over time, the 1 Day Uganda gorilla trekking tour has become popular with lots of travelers booking it. After gorilla trekking, travelers drive back to Kigali for overnight or departure

2 Day Uganda gorilla trip

A 2-day Uganda gorilla trip starting and ending in Kigali Rwanda entails an overnight stay in either Bwindi impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park depending on which park they will be visiting.  Pick up from Kigali and transfer to Uganda. Spend an overnight at your lodge. The next day trek gorillas and drive back to Kigali for your departure flight

3 Days Uganda gorilla tour

The 3 days Uganda gorilla tour starts in Kigali and normally ends in Kampala/Entebbe Uganda. However, you can still start and end in Kigali Rwanda on your 3-Day Uganda gorilla tour. Day 1 Arrive in Kigali and drive to Uganda, Day 2 trek gorillas and visit Batwa/Bakiga local communities and Day 3 depart through Kigali or Entebbe depending on your flight schedule and choice

4 Days Uganda Gorillas & Lake Bunyonyi

The 4-day Uganda Gorillas & Lake Bunyonyi safari including flying into Kigali and driving to Uganda. Day 1 arrive and travel to Bwindi Forest/Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, day 2 mountain gorilla trekking, Day 3, transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, Day 4  Departure through Kigali or drive to Entebbe

5 days Uganda gorillas & wildlife safari

This one entails flying into Kigali Rwanda, gorilla trekking, and game viewing in Uganda. Day 1 transfer from Kigali to Bwindi Forest. Day 2 mountain gorilla trekking, Day 3, Lake Bunyonyi & transfer to Ishasha, Day 4 Game viewing & launch cruise at Kazinga Channel, Day 5 Departure

Superfine Safaris helps you customize any Uganda safari of your choice starting and ending in Kigali Rwanda at pocket-friendly prices.

How far are the gorillas from Kigali?

Uganda gorillas are 4 -5 hours away from Kigali Rwanda. The distance is roughly 134 kilometers via Cyanika or Katuna border and the 4-5 hours include driving and immigration time.  Uganda mountain gorillas are so close to Kigali Rwanda than Entebbe Uganda. Travelers with short time prefer trekking gorillas in Uganda starting from Kigali

How much does it cost to see gorillas in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking in Uganda costs $800 for foreign nonresidents, $700 for foreign residents,

and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. The Uganda Wildlife Authority issues all Uganda gorilla permits on a first come first serve basis. Superfine Safaris helps you secure and reserve permits. The recommended time for booking gorilla permits in Uganda is 6 months. In addition, Uganda gorilla safaris in Bwindi Forest include 4 hours of gorilla habituation experience in which wild gorillas are trained to get used to people. Each permit for habituation costs $1500 and only 8 permits are available each day.

How difficult is gorilla trekking?

Trekking uphill in the dense forests of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and the Virunga Conservation Area is not a walk away. The experience is strenuous and requires some sort of physical fitness hence not for the faint hatred. Whereas travelers are allowed only an hour with the endangered gorillas, the actual time spent in the jungle is not certain. It takes roughly 2 to over 7 hours depending on where the gorillas are located and the hiking speed of the clients. Travelers planning gorilla safaris in Africa are advised to do some physical exercises to ensure fitness before the start of the adventure

Is Gorilla trekking worth it?

YES, gorilla trekking is undeniably worth every penny and energy. Looking into the brown eyes of the silverback gorilla tour, seeing the adult female gorillas take care of the infants and the general social life of the gorillas is a magical feeling worth the money.

How long is a trek to see gorillas in Uganda?

The length of a gorilla trek to see gorillas in Uganda is not specific! It lasts for between 2 hours to over 6 hours depending on the location of the allocated gorilla family. How long also depends on the physical fitness of the travelers. However, regardless of how long you take on a trek, you are 99% sure of seeing the gorillas at the end of the trek

In conclusion, gorilla trekking in Uganda from Kigali Rwanda is the easiest and cheapest way to visit gorillas in Uganda. Contact Superfine Safaris Limited, let us know when you intend to travel and we shall offer you a customized Uganda gorilla safari starting and ending in Kigali Rwanda.

Traveling with small kids can be exciting and fun but challenging is not properly planned. Most families have wondered whether it’s possible to travel internationally with small kids and how the experience would be having the little ones in the jungles and wilderness. It’s very possible to travel and have fun with kids. Those who have traveled with kids before confirm that moving and spending time with kids in the wilderness is the best experience a family can ever have. Superfine Safaris brings you detailed tips for traveling with kids, and what you need to know to ensure a superfine African safari.  These tips include:

Tips For traveling with Kids

Schedule passports for the kids

Just like for adults, your kids must have passports to be allowed to travel to any international destination. You are therefore advised to secure and schedule your kid’s passports as early as possible to avoid bouncing at the airport processing passports can sometimes be crazy hence better done as early as possible to avoid any last-minute disappointments.  Arrange an appointment with a local post office near you and work on the kid’s passports as early as possible. We are only talking about the kid’s passports hoping you already have yours ready!

Choose a mix of destinations and activities in your itinerary

When traveling with kids, endeavor to have a mix of destinations and activities. Make sure your itinerary includes places and activities that excite kids and also activities that suit your travel interests as adults. Among the places that excite kids include city tours where they visiting shopping malls and kids parks. Also, a safari to the wildebeest in the national park where wild animals are seen from a distance has proved to be interesting to the kids.

You will be amazed at how your kids will cheer throughout the safari during game drives and other related activities.  Do not forget to engage in adventurous lifetime experiences for yourselves such as mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.  When you go trekking the gorillas, the local guide can take your kids to a nearby community for a cultural experience or a nature walk near the lodge.

Travel during the low season

YES, you heard me right! Traveling with kids is best enjoyable during low season when crowds are less. Peak. High season normally makes tourist destinations congested with lots of crowds which makes the little kids uncomfortable and feel out of place.  The low season comes with freedom and fewer crowds which turn out to be exciting for the kids. They will be few at the kid’s park hence getting attention from their masters.

Limit the number of travel days

Make sure you limit the number of travel days when with kids. Being on a road or flight every two days becomes tiring for the small kids hence killing their whole safari vibes. You should at least have 4 sleepovers in one destination to avoid continuous traveling from one destination to another in the shortest time. Give the little kids to enjoy and feel one destination at a time rather than jumping on a plane every other day which exhausts them!

Rent a private family car

If you can afford this, please rent a private family car for you and the kids. This saves you the stress of waking up very early and rushing the catch the flight, train, or bus that travels at a fixed timetable.  You need to be flexible as much as possible when traveling with kids if you want to have them enjoy the safari. Once you have a private car, you follow your timetable, move at your own pace, and give the children enough time to relax and enjoy their favorite activities without rushing to catch a flight or train.

Stay longer for the first days

You are advised to at least stay four nights in your first destination before traveling to a new destination. After long hours of flight and the jetlag, kids and even the adults are so tired. Having extended time at the first destination helps you refresh and get relief from the fatigue and jetlag as well as adjusting to the different time zones. Immediate packing and heading out to a new destination is tiring to the kids who end up stressed and unhappy with the safari.

Book long-haul flights at night

If possible book long-haul flights at night. This enables you to have enough sleep at night and land at your destination the next morning. This gives your children enough time to explore the new destination in the morning

Why is Uganda best for gorilla trekking? When you talk about gorilla trekking, Uganda never misses on the top list of 3 gorilla safari destinations in Africa. True, Uganda is best for gorilla trekking for many reasons including pocket-friendly gorilla permits.

Gorilla trekking is mainly conducted in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). In these three destinations, there exist fewer than 1063 mountain gorillas.

Trekking through the jungles before you find gorillas can take between 2 and 6 hours depending on how fast you can walk or the location of these apes. But what is most remarkable is that you are guaranteed an hour to enjoy face-to-face with a family of mountain gorillas in the wild.

When choosing a place to visit for gorilla trekking, you have every reason to include Uganda in your bucket list. Here are the top reasons why Uganda is best for gorilla trekking;

Why is Uganda Best for Gorilla Trekking?

Two gorilla safari destinations

Uganda alone has two places where mountain gorilla trekking is conducted which is not the case with Rwanda and Congo. The two gorilla parks avail visitors options to choose the best place for them to visit to spend a gorilla safari holiday. They include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park Game Park.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park are found in Southwestern Uganda. These two protected areas all have habituated gorilla groups for tourists to visit to see mountain gorillas in the wild.

Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks account for the five gorilla sectors where gorilla treks begin from. They include 4 regions in Bwindi National Park alone; Ruhija, Buhoma, Rushaga and Nkuringo then Ntebeko sector in Mgahinga National Park. Each of these five regions feature fully habituated gorilla groups.

Gorilla groups to trek

The highest population of already habituated gorilla groups exists in Uganda alone which presents huge opportunity for most trekkers to engage in a gorilla trek compared to any other destination. Currently, the total number of habituated gorilla groups in Uganda stands at about 24 families with 23 of them all existing in Bwindi then one in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

The notable mountain gorilla families to expect to explore include Mubare –the first habituated gorilla group to open for gorilla trekking in Uganda. Other families include Nshongi, Nkuringo, Oruzogo, Christmas, Bweza, Kahungye, Habinyanja, Bitukura, Rushegura, Mishaya, Bikingi, Bushaho and Mukiza, etc. Each group is visited by a maximum of 8 (eight) guests.

The highest concentration of mountain gorillas live in Uganda

Out of the estimated 1063 mountain gorillas which survive on earth, about half of them exist in Uganda. These are inhabited in the two parks; Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park.

Affordable gorilla permits

Compared to Rwanda, Uganda is the most affordable gorilla safari destination. This makes it pocket-friendly to majority of trekkers worldwide. A valid gorilla permit in Uganda only costs USD 800 per person compared to USD 1500 in Rwanda. In total, about 192 gorilla permits are always available for visitors to book for gorilla trekking in Uganda alone.

Safety

Uganda is the safest place to visit for gorilla safaris. Visitors can go and engage in a gorilla trek and return safely. Uganda as a country has a record of over 3 decades of prevailing peace and security making it not only a safe place for business, but an ideal destination for gorilla trekking/tourism in general.

Opportunity to combine gorilla trekking & other experiences

A gorilla trip in Uganda allows trekkers to have a combination of experiences besides normal gorilla trekking. You can combine game drives and boat cruise from different destinations such as Lake Mburo National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Game Park and Murchison Falls National Park.

Combining gorilla safaris with visits to some of these parks is a great opportunity for you to encounter the Big game mammals in the wild.

Within Bwindi National Park, there is a chance to include/combine mountain gorilla habituation experience. With gorilla habituation, you spend about the entire day in the jungles while you follow the semi-habituated group of mountain gorillas in order to make them to get used to human presence.

It can take about 2 years or more to make gorillas become comfortable with humans then they are opened officially for gorilla trekking. The gorilla habituation experience is only offered in Uganda’s Bwindi National Park.

Even en-route, you have a chance to enjoy multiple stopovers including the Equator crossing at Kayabwe which you can have prior reaching to Bwindi or Mgahinga.

Best weather for gorilla trekking

Unlike other foreign countries or most African destinations, Uganda enjoys the best weather conditions making it the best for gorilla trekking. Uganda experiences tropical kind of climatic conditions and its weather conditions are favorable all year round. The best period though to consider for gorilla trekking is the dry season. This is recorded from June to September and then December to February –this happens across the two parks; Bwindi and Mgahinga.

What to carry for Uganda gorilla trekking

On your packing list for gorilla trekking in Uganda, do not leave out any of the following items; a camera free of flashlight, insect repellent, a valid gorilla permit and waterproof hiking boots. You also require long trousers, long-sleeved shirts, a sweater, a rain jacket, insect repellents, toiletries, enough snacks and bottled drinking water. On actual gorilla trek, you also need a walking stick and this can be obtained while you are still at the park offices or lodge.

Travel tip

• Book a gorilla permit/gorilla safari in advance before the actual visit to Bwindi or Mgahinga to see mountain gorillas.
• Hire a porter to assist you with heavy luggage. The porters can be found at the park offices during briefing session. You can hire porter services at USD 15-20.

In summary, there is a long list of factors that make Uganda the best for gorilla trekking including affordable gorilla permits, multiple gorilla groups to explore, safe destination to visit, two gorilla safari parks to choose for your gorilla trekking and more.

Tips for booking and enjoying budget Uganda gorilla safaris to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks with Superfine Safaris Limited. Whereas gorilla trekking ranks among the most expensive wildlife experiences in the world, our customized budget Uganda gorilla safaris enable you to meet and encounter endangered mountain gorillas on a low budget. Superfine Safaris takes you through different guidelines that will help you ensure a budget gorilla trekking safari.

Several factors determine the overall cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda. These include transport, accommodation, number of days, and your group size (how many people you are traveling with). At Superfine Safaris we give you tips for booking a budget Uganda gorilla safari without compromising the quality of the gorilla trekking experience. These tips also help you to book the overall Uganda wildlife safari

Tips for budget Uganda gorilla safaris

Travel during the low season

YES, travel during the low season between March to June and September to December and you will realize the low cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda. The low season is normally wet and characterized by heavy everyday rains which most people do not find comfortable traveling in. The low rate of visits during the low season attracts discounted offers from service providers especially lodges, hotels, and transport companies.

These reduced prices for accommodation and food to entice travelers and encourage them to visit. A reduction in the cost of accommodation and other services will reduce the overall cost of gorilla trekking hence rewarding you with a budget Uganda gorilla safari.

Book budget accommodation

Budget Uganda gorilla safaris require you to book and stay at budget lodges and hotels. Whereas as they are categorized as budget, these facilities are good, safe, and comfortable. The difference between them and the midrange and high end is sometimes not felt.  A variety of budget lodges and resorts have been established in all regions of Bwindi Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks to offer you a comfortable and cheap yet safe stay. Some of the budget lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park include

1. Broadbill Forest Camp
2. Bwindi Panaroma Forest Lodge
3. Bwindi Community Homestay
4. Gorilla Valley Lodge
5. 3 Way Gorilla Resort
6. Nshongi Campsite
7. Bwindi Backpackers Lodge
8. Buhoma Community Rest Camp
9. Bwindi View Bandas

Superfine Safaris Limited helps you to contact a lodge of your choice to reserve accommodation for your stay during your Budget Uganda gorilla safaris

Join a group gorilla tour

If you get a chance and find any group enrolling new members you are advised to join them. Group tours are cheap and affordable compared to private and solo Uganda gorilla safaris. While on a Uganda group tour, you will share most of the costs such as transport and accommodation. This lowers the overall cost hence ensuring a budget Uganda gorilla safari. You are however you are advised to join a group with the same interest and energy as yours

Start your Uganda gorilla safari from Kigali Rwanda

Flying into Kigali International Airport Rwanda and crossing to Bwindi Forest/Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is much easier than connecting from Entebbe International Airport Uganda. The driving time to Kigali is roughly 5 hours compared to over 9 to 10 hours’ drive time from Entebbe/Kampala. The long-distance comes with much fuel consumption and hence the increased cost of gorilla safari. Budget Uganda safari travelers are therefore advised to start and end their gorilla safaris in Kigali Rwanda. Kigali to Uganda gorilla trekking is a deal to ensure budget Uganda gorilla safaris

Reduce the number of Days

Shorter gorilla trips are cheaper compared to long gorilla safaris. Reducing the number of days for your gorilla trekking safari is therefore one way of ensuring a budget Uganda gorilla safari. Superfine Safaris has customized short-day gorilla trips which include 1 Day Uganda gorilla trekking starting from Kigali Rwanda. 2 Days Bwindi gorilla tour and 3 Day Uganda gorilla safari. These are cheap compared to a 10-day Uganda gorilla safari which comes with many days of paying for accommodation, transport, meals, and a driver guide among others.

Use cheap means of transport

Ensure to use cheap means of transport on your budget Uganda gorilla safari to Bwindi Forest/Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks. There are private chattered flights from Entebbe airport to kihihi and Kisoro airstrips where you can easily connect to Bwindi/Mgahinga Gorilla Parks, this is so expensive. At Superfine Safaris, we advise you to use affordable transport means. We have 4×4 wheels at affordable rates. Also, you can use public means and travel in a bus to gorilla parks on your budget Uganda gorilla safari.

People also ask

How much does it cost to gorilla safari in Uganda?

The cost of gorilla safari in Uganda ranges between $950 to $2500 per person. Thus cost is determined by different factors such s gorilla permit cost, accommodation, mode of transport, and the number of days for a gorilla safari. You are reminded that the cost of a Uganda gorilla permit is fixed as set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Each gorilla permit costs $800 for foreign nonresidents, $700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. In addition, gorilla habituation permits in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Forest cost $1500 each.

Do I own the permit after paying for it?

NO, a mountain gorilla permit remains the property of the Uganda Wildlife Authority even after you have fully paid for it. Each traveler MUST report with his/her gorilla permit on the day of gorilla trekking. UWA wardens collect permits from clients which are recycled back into the system. No traveler goes into the jungle with a gorilla permit.

What if I fail to see gorillas?

On rare occasions when travelers fail to see gorillas due to natural calamities such as heavy rains and floods, they are given another chance to trek gorillas without paying again. However if one fails to see gorillas due to personal challenges such as failure to hike, there is no second chance unless he/she pays again.    In other words, gorilla permits are nonrefundable

What to pack on budget Uganda gorilla safaris?

You are reminded to pack the right attire and other essential things for your budget Uganda gorilla safari. Among the things you must pack include sanitary wear for ladies, long pants, hiking boots, gardening gloves, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellents, a rain jacket, and energy-giving snacks plus enough drinking water

Guide to Virunga Conservation Area also known as Virunga Massif! In this blog, Superfine Safaris Limited brings you detailed information and a guide to the Virunga Conservation Area. The Virunga Conservation Area is a popular tourism destination for gorilla safaris in East and Central Africa. The Virunga Conservation Area is shared between Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The conservation area is home to the chain of Eight Virunga mountains which make it the best place for Volcano hiking and adventure. Mountain gorilla trekking is the most done travel experience in the Virunga Conservation Area. The Massif shelters half of the world’s total gorilla population while the other gorilla population lives in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Top attractions in Virunga Conservation Area

There are lots of attractions in the Virunga Conservation Area. However, we bring you the list of top things, the must-see things on your African safari to the Virunga Conservation Area. These include

Mountain Gorillas

As we said earlier, mountain gorillas are the major attraction for travelers to the Virunga Conservation Area. Gorilla trekking in the Virunga Massif can be done in any of the three gorilla national parks that make up the Virunga Massif. These gorilla parks are Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda, Virunga National Park in Eastern Congo, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in the south western Uganda

Gorilla safaris in Volcanoes National Park

Spanning over 160 square kilometers, Volcanoes National Park shelters the most number of gorillas in the Virunga Conservation Area. Over 350 gorillas are said to inhabit the bamboo forest of Volcanoes National Park.  The park is managed by the African Parks who work hand in hand with the Rwanda Development Board to promote gorilla conservation and Rwanda gorilla safaris.

10 gorilla families are habituated for trekking in Volcanoes National Park. These include the Hirwa Family, Karisimbi Family, Amahoro family, Agashya family, Umubano family, Susa A Family, Pablo Family, Titus Family, and Kwitonda gorilla family.  Each family received a group of eight travelers for a maximum of an hour. 80 Rwanda gorilla permits are issued every day at $1500 per permit. Rwanda is the best place for luxury gorilla tours

Gorilla Safaris in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Home to the one and only Nyakagyezi gorilla family, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park shelters the least number of gorillas. There are roughly 30 gorillas that live together in this one family. Each day, 8 gorilla permits are available for gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Each permit costs $800. Mgahinga Gorilla National park is a must visit on your Uganda gorilla safaris

Gorilla safaris in Virunga National Park

Congo gorilla safaris in Virunga National Park are on halt! The park was closed for tourism to first deal with insecurities and rebel attacks that had become a threat to travelers. Superfine Safaris Limited will keep travelers updated when the park reopens for tourism. Eight gorilla families are habituated in Virunga National Park and each Congo gorilla permit costs $450.

Virunga Mountains

Virunga Conservation area comprises eight Virunga mountains which are shared between Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Most of these Volcanoes share the borders of two countries. Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira are the only active mountains in the Virunga Massif. Superfine Safaris offers guided mountain hiking tours to Mt Karisimbi, Bisoke, and other dormant Virunga volcanoes at a pocket-friendly budget.  The popular hiking packages include 2-day Mount Karisimbi hike, 1 Day Mt Bisoke Hike, and 3-day Mt Nyiragongo Volcano hiking tours.  The Virunga Mountains are listed below

1. Mt Nyiragongo in Congo
2. Mount Nyamuragira in Congo
3. Mount Karisimbi in Rwanda and Congo
4. Mount Bisoke in Rwanda & Congo
5. Mount Mikeno in Congo
6. Mount Gahinga in Uganda & Congo
7. Mount Muhabura in Uganda & Congo
8. Mount Sabyinyo in Uganda, Rwanda & Congo

Golden Monkeys

Inhabited in the jungles of Mgahinga Gorilla Park in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, golden monkeys are yet another common attraction in the Virunga Conservation Area. Golden monkey trekking gives you a chance to interact with these lively creatures in their natural habitats. The primates are normally trekking alongside gorillas to make a complete primate trekking experience. The cost of trekking golden monkeys in both parks is $100 and it is worth it.

Birds

YES, birds also attract clients to the Virunga Conservation Area. Altogether, the Virunga Massif is home to 1,565 birds shared between the three parks. Mgahinga is believed to host 180 birds, Volcanoes National Park 200 birds while Virunga National Park shelters over 1185 birds. Some of the birds in these parks are endemic and rarely found anywhere else. Birding in each park is unique in its kind and worth doing.

Batwa pygmies

Batwa pygmies are the original dwellers of Mgahinga , Bwindi,  and Volcanoes National Parks.  After the introduction of gorilla trekking and conservation. Batwa were evicted from forests and sent to live in communities surrounding the gorilla parks. A cultural visit to Batwa pygmies is an opportunity to learn and experience their traditional forest life. A live example is the Batwa cultural trail in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

In this tour, batwa pygmies lead travelers into Mgahinga Forest where they perform their traditional practices. These include hiding in caves, picking herbal medicine, collecting honey, hunting, making firewood, and many more. Batwa pygmies also perform their traditional songs and dances as they entertain travelers.  A safari to the Virunga Conservation Area without visiting Batwa is counted as incomplete! Batwa cultural trail costs $80pp

Dian Fossey Graveyard

Hiking to the Graveyard of Dian Fossey is among the top interests for travelers to Volcanoes National Park. The American primatologist was killed by poachers during her campaign to save the endangered gorillas that were almost becoming extinct. On good days, travelers hiking to the graveyard of Dian Fossey meet with gorillas in the jungle.

Burera and Ruhondo Twin Lakes

These twin lakes are a not miss on your Rwanda safari to Volcanoes National Park. They are among the water sources in the park. A boat ride at the lake is exciting and memorable offering you spectacular views of the park, Virunga volcanoes, and local communities.

Conclusively Virunga Conservation Area/Massif is a center of adventure experiences in East and Central Africa. Contact Superfine Safaris Limited for your gorilla trekking safaris, Golden monkeys, Virunga Mountains and other adventure experiences at affordable rates.

Honeymoon is one of the celebrated events on Uganda safaris! Are you a newlywed couple planning a honeymoon safari to Africa, Book and enjoy our customized honeymoon safari in Uganda to explore and discover the beauty in the Pearl of Africa. Uganda is naturally with beautiful landscapes, national parks, wildlife, water bodies, and mountains, Uganda is undeniably one of the best places for honeymoon safaris. Our romantic Uganda honeymoon safaris take you deep into the jungle Forests to meet with the endangered primates on our gorilla trekking tours in Bwindi Forest/Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks.

We also take you to the beautiful Savannah Parks of Uganda for excellent game and scenic viewing experiences. A boat cruise on the calm waters of Uganda is a not miss for a newlywed couple.  Relax and chill on Uganda’s sandy beaches and enjoy each other’s company while planning for your new life together.  Superfine Safaris Limited offers tailor-made Uganda money moon safari packages ranging from 2 Days to over 10 Days depending on the client’s available time, interest, and budget.

Top 10 places for honeymoon Safaris in Uganda

Ssese Islands

A honeymoon safari is worth it all. Located in the northwestern part of Lake Victoria, Ssese islands offer the best honeymoon treat to newly married couples. Enjoy your intimate time at any of the lavish resorts on the islands of Ssese surrounded by cool waters and cold breezes. The calm serenity, beautiful environment, and fresh air on the island of Ssese will refresh your mind from the Chaos of cities where you spend most of the time. While on the islands, you will take part in different luxury activities such as boat cruising, swimming, sunbathing, and Nature walks.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

It’s exciting to celebrate your new marriage in the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. YES, come and celebrate your new life with your close relatives, the gorillas on our guided Uganda gorilla safaris. We have hosted several couples who want to celebrate their honeymoon by rewarding themselves with a lifetime gorilla encounter in either Bwindi or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Besides gorilla trekking, Uganda’s honeymoon Safaris to Bwindi Forest include visiting Batwa local communities, bird watching, and forest walks among others. Enjoy holding each other’s hand as you hike through the dense forest of Bwindi Forest” the ultimate gorilla experience”.

Lake Bunyonyi

Enjoy your honeymoon on the shores of the beautiful Lake Bunyonyi located in southwestern Uganda. Perched with 29 islands, Lake Bunyonyi is the second deepest lake in Africa which offers you a variety of interesting and lifetime experiences. Enjoy a boat cruise to tour different islands of the Lake such as Punishment Island where the unmarried pregnant girls of Bakiga were taken and left to die alone, Bucuraniko Island, Akampene Island, and Bushara Island among others. Other activities done at Lake Bunyonyi include boat cruising, bird watching, ziplining, a Picnic at the top of the mountain, community tours, Motorbiking, and swimming. The beautiful sunset cruise is best for photography!

Kidepo Valley National Park

Located far away in the North Eastern Part of Uganda, Kidepo Valley National Park is a real hideout and the best destination for honeymoon safari. Travel far and enjoy the True African Wilderness as you celebrate your new life together as a couple. Kidepo Valley National Park is the least visited and unspoiled Park in Uganda best for you to explore with your loved one. Enjoy guided nature walks to the Narus Valley where animals are gathered for drinking water. Game drives in the open savanna offer you the best views of wild animals feeding and socializing.  You can also visit the IK people to learn and participate in their traditions, norms, and customs. Birding, mountain hiking, and camping are other activities you can do in Kidepo Valley National Park.

Jinja City

Also known as the Adventure Capital of East Africa, Jinja is yet another best destinations for honeymoon safaris in Uganda. The city is home to the source of the River Nile on which different adventure activities happen. Some of the top adventure activities done in Jinja include bungee jumping, White rafting, Motorbiking, Kayaking, and swimming among others. Also, a boat cruise to the source of the Nile is best for newly married couples.

Murchison falls National park

Travel to northwestern Uganda for your honeymoon safari in Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s oldest and largest park. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Murchison Falls and the mighty Murchison Falls which is Africa’s strongest waterfall. A hike to the top of the falls and a boat cruise to the bottom of the mighty Falls is rewarding and worth doing. Also, enjoy guided morning and evening game drives in the open grasslands of the park for scenic views of wild animals such as Elephants, Lions, Leopards, Giraffes, Hyenas,  Uganda kobs, Waterbucks, and Impalas among others. The park is also home to the endangered chimpanzees in Budongo Forest and over 400 bird species hence an Important Birding Area.

Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale Forest, the “Primate Capital of Africa” offers you the best memories on your Uganda honeymoon safari. The trek to meet endangered chimpanzees in their natural habitats is a lifetime experience you should enjoy as a newly married couple. More so, take part in the guided nature walk in Bigodi wetland home to birds, reptiles, and primates

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is yet another ideal place for honeymoon safaris in Uganda. The park is the second largest and popular ark in Uganda sheltering a high concentration of animals and birds. Newly married couples have a long list of interesting activities to do in Queen Elizabeth National Park. These include a launch cruise at Kazinga Channel, game viewing in Kasenyi plains, bird watching, chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge, nature walks, community tours, and camping among others.  Queen Elizabeth National Park is also home to the rare tree-climbing lions seen in the Ishasha sector south of QENP

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Located in southwestern Uganda in Kisoro district, Mgahinga is Uganda’s smallest National park. The small park is home to endangered gorillas, golden monkeys, and numerous birds. Also, Mgahinga shelters three of the eight Virunga Volcanos (Mt Gahinga, Mt Sabyinyo, Mt Muhabura). The activities done in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are gorilla trekking, Batwa cultural trail. Golden monkey trekking, bird watching and volcano climbing. As you celebrate your new marriage joinery, take part in any of these activities.

Lake Mburo National Park

This smallest Savanna Park in Uganda offers all you need to satisfy your Uganda honeymoon Safari. Lake Mburo National Park offers excellent game-viewing experiences, boat cruising, bird watching, nature walks, community tours, and horseback riding safaris among others.

Conclusively, Uganda remains your best country for honeymoon safaris. Contact Superfine Safaris, let us know when you intend to visit, how many days you have, and what are your interests and we shall arrange for you a customized pocket-friendly Uganda honeymoon safari!

Top 5 Honeymoon Packages in Uganda

3 Days Bwindi Honeymoon Gorilla tour

3 Days Murchison Falls Park Tour

4 Days Ssese Island Honeymoon Island Tour

3 Days Jinja Honeymoon Safari

3 Days Queen Elizabeth Honeymoon Safari

4 Days Kidepo Valley Honeymoon Safari

Explore and be part of tailored day excursions in Uganda with Superfine Safaris. The Day excursions in Uganda help you to discover the hidden gem in the Pearl of Africa within the shortest time possible. Do you have a short time, probably 1 Day Uganda tour, and wondering what you can do? No worries, this article gives you detailed information on the day excursions in Uganda that can be done in Kampala’s capital city and other nearby towns such as Jinja, Entebbe, and Nakasongola among others. There are lots of interesting things to see and visit on your day excursion in the Pearl of Africa. These include:

Kampala City tour

YES, Kampala city is a highlight for day excursions in Uganda. Explore the capital city of Uganda to visit different tourist places in the city center and learn about them. Our day tour in Kampala city takes you to visit places such as the Old Kampala Mosque, Makerere University, Mulago Hospital, Kasubi tombs, Bahai temple, Owino Market, Nakasero Market, Buganda Palace, Kabaka’s Lake, Ndere Cultural Centre, Uganda National Museum, Uganda Martyr’s shrines n Namugongo, independent Monument, Kabaka’s Lake, Namirembe and Rubaga cathedrals among others

Mabamba Wetland Sanctuary

Book our 1 day at Mabamba Bay wetland, home to the endangered shoebill stork and several other bird species. Located just a few meters from Entebbe International Airport, Mabamba Wetland is one of the Important Birding Areas in Uganda being home to the elusive shoebill Stork. Jump on a rustic boat and ride through the swamp searching for the famous bird. In addition to shoebill, expect to see other birds in the Mabamba swamp such as the Black egrets, Jacana, Black Clark, Goliath Heron, Lesser Jacana, and Payrus Genolek among others

Visit Entebbe Zoo

A day spent at the Uganda Wildlife Education Center is worth it! Home to the endangered habituated animals, Entebbe Zoo is the best place to see and interact with different wild animals most of which have been rescued from the wild with severe injuries especially due to poaching. You learn about different wild animals, the different ecosystems in which they live, and their lifestyles. Among the animals seen at The Uganda Wildlife Education Center include Lions giraffes, Zebras, Hyenas, Camals, Waterbucks, and Uganda Kobs among others. Also, Entebbe Zoo is home to several snakes, chameleons, and birds which await you.

Ngamba Chimpanzee sanctuary

Enjoy a one-day tour to Ngamba Island home to the habituated chimpanzees.  Located in the heart of Lake Victoria, Ngamba Island is home to rescued and orphaned chimpanzees. These are normally rescued from poachers and brought for treatment and rehabilitation. Travelers take part in feeding the chimpanzees as well as learning about the lifestyles of these endangered species. The island is home to 52 orphaned chimpanzees. The sanctuary is run by the Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Wildlife Conservation Trust

Rhino Tracking at Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Enjoy a trek to see the critically endangered Rhinos at Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola district. The sanctuary is the only place to see white rhinos in the whole of Uganda. Zziwa Sanctuary is normally visited by travelers en route to Murchison Falls National Park. A visit to Zziwa for Rhino tracking is an opportunity to see the “Big Five”. Rhinos at Zziwa add to the other big four in Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth, and Kidepo Valley National Parks. Other things to do at Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary include bird watching, Nature walks, and shoebill treks.

Mountain gorilla trekking

If you are already in the Kabale or Kisoro district, engage in our 1 Day Uganda gorilla trekking tour to either Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The 1 Day Uganda gorilla trekking tour can also be done starting and ending in Kigali Rwanda.

Visit the source of the Nile

OHH YEAH, Visit and explore the source of the River Nile in Jinja on our day excursion with Superfine Safaris. A boat cruise to the source of the Nile is a thrilling experience you will live to remember. More so, take part in the other adventure experiences in Jinja such as bungee jumping, white water rafting, Quad biking, swimming, visiting Itanda Falls, fishing, and Kayaking among others. Your day trips to Jinja start very early in the morning to allow you enough time for these activities. You depart from Kampala very early to catch up with activities in Jinja and then drive back later in the day

Visit Lake Mburo National Park

Located 229 kilometers from Kampala, Lake Mburo National Park is the closest national park to Kampala. The drive time from Kampala to Lake Mburo is roughly 6 hours via Masaka Mbarara. The 1 day Lake Mburo Park tour is an opportunity for game viewing. Boat cruising, nature walking, horseback riding, and bird watching among others. Some of the animals to see in Lake Mburo National Park include Zebras, Giraffes, Buffalo, Uganda Kobs, Waterbucks, and Warthogs

Conclusively, you can enjoy the beauty of Uganda in one day. There are lots of interesting things you can do on your day Excursions in Uganda.

Also known as the “Mufumbira Ranges”, the Virunga  Mountains/Volcanoes are among the top attractions, a common interest for travelers to the Virunga Conservation Area.  The Virunga Volcanoes is a chain of eight volcanoes shared among the three gorilla parks in the Virunga Massif. These parks are Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.  The Virunga Volcanoes are part of the Albertine Rift Valley located between Lake Edward and Lake Kivu. Six of the eight Volcanoes are dormant while two (Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira) are active. All Volcanoes can be hiked except for Nyamuragira which is very active and not safe for hiking

The slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes shelter the endangered mountain gorillas, other primates, and birds. On good days, hikers can meet with the endangered primates an exciting moment which makes the whole experience amazing.  Volcano hiking is mostly done as a complement to gorilla trekking and other wildlife experiences in East and Central Africa

Eight Virunga Volcanoes

Mount Karisimbi

Located in the borders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mount Karisimbi is one of the most hiked Volcanoes in the Virunga Massif. The Volcano stands at 4507 meters above sea level and it’s the highest Volcano among the eight Volcanoes and the 11^th highest Volcano in Africa. The Volcano is named after the white snow” Amasimbi” seen at its peak, especially in the dry season (July, July, and August).

The peak of Mount Karisimbi comprise of two crater lakes and a caldera Blanca.  The permit to hike Mount Karisimbi costs $400 issued by the Rwanda Development Board.  The 2 days Mount Karisimbi Hiking tour is a perfect package to conquer this iconic Volcano. The nearby Volcanoes to Mount Karisimbi include Mount Bisoke and Mount Mikeno. The Karisimbi gorilla family lives on the slopes of Mount Karisimbi and is normally encountered by travelers hiking to the summit of the tall Volcano.

Mount Mikeno

Located in Virunga National Park, Mount Mikeno is an extinct Volcano franked by Mount Nyiragongo, Nyamuragira, Bisoke, and Karisimbi. Mount Mikeno stands at 4437 meters above sea level which make it the second-highest volcano in the Virunga Conservation Area after Mount Karisimbi. Mikeno is the 13^th tallest Volcano in Africa.  The volcano derives its name from the harsh slops “Mikeno” which could not allow human habitation. The forested lower slopes of Mount Mikeno is home to primates and birds

Mount Bisoke

Mount Bisoke is yet another active strata volcano located on the borders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo but with its summit in Rwanda. Mount Bisoke is the commonly hiked Volcano in the Virunga Conservation Area. The Volcano stands at 3,711 meters above sea level and can be hiked in one day. Our customized 1 Day Bisoke hike is best for short time hikers. Mount Bisoke is preferred by travelers who are on Rwanda gorilla safaris in Volcanoes National Park. The permit to hike Mount Bisoke is $75. Superfine Safaris can help you book and reserve your permit to hike Mount Bsioke

Mount Nyirigongo

Mount Nyiragongo is an active stratovolcano located in the heart of Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo which last erupted in 2021. The Volcano stands at 3470 meters above sea level and its peak contains the largest lava lake of 3250 meters.  The 3 days Nyiragongo Volcano hiking tour offers you the chance to spend a night on the slopes of the Volcano. In the night, travelers get chance to peep into the lave lake with boiling Magma. A hike to the summit of Nyiragongo has been reviewed as one of the most satisfying experiences in Africa.

Nyiragongo hiking is done alongside other experiences on your Congo safaris. The cost of hiking Nyiragongo is $300 exclusive of meals and porters.   Due to insecurities in Virunga National Park, Nyragongo is closed for hiking as well as the Congo gorilla safaris in Virunga Park. Superfine Safaris will keep you posted when the park is reopened for Congo gorilla trekking and hiking experiences.

Mount Nyamuragira

Located in Virunga National Park, Mount Nyamuragira is the most active Volcano in the Virunga Conservation Area and Africa as a whole. The Volcano is said to have erupted 40 times since 1885 when the first eruption happened.  Mount Nyamuragira is located roughly 25 kilometers north of Lake Kivu and it is closed for hiking due to its activeness.

Mount Sabyinyo

Mount Sabyinyo is an extinct located in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park but sharing borders with Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Volcano stands at 3669 meters above sea level east of Lake Kivu and west of Lake Bunyonyi.  The volcano is locally translated as the “old man’s tooth” due to its peak that looks like the tooth of an old man perched in the gum.  Whereas the peak of Mount Sabyinyo is shared by the three countries, hiking is done from the Uganda side.  Mount Sabyinyo is the oldest Volcano in the Virunga Conservation area and its slopes are home to the endangered mountain gorillas and other wild animals

Mount Gahinga

Mount Gahinga stands at 3474 meters above sea level and it is the shortest Volcano in the Virunga Massif located in Mgahinga National Park on the borders of Uganda and Rwanda. Mount Gahinga is named after the local word “Gahinga” which means a small pile of stones. The slopes of Mount Gahinga comprise many stones piled together. The dormant Volcano is located between Mount Muhabura and Mount Sabyinyo and it’s the smallest of the three.  The peak of Mount Gahinga contains a swampy crater lake.

Mount Muhabura

Also known as Mount Muhavura, the volcano stands at 4127 meters above sea level located on the borders of Rwanda and Uganda. The Volcano is within the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, home to the endangered Nyakagyezi gorilla family and golden monkeys.  Mount Muhabura is the third tallest volcano in the Virunga Massif and its locally translates at “Guide” because people used to refer to it for directions

To book hiking safaris to any of the Virunga Volcanoes, contact Superfine Safaris  and speak to the travel experts!

Mountain gorillas are one of the top attractions in the world. The endangered primates attract many travelers to East and Central Africa. In this article, we bring you 10 interesting facts about mountain gorillas which you should know. These facts include where mountain gorillas live, what mountain gorillas eat, the number of gorillas left in the world, how long mountain gorillas can live, why gorillas are special, and why gorillas are endangered among others. Mountain gorillas are scientifically called Gorilla Beringei Beringei and its one subspecies of the Eastern gorillas.

Roughly 1006 Mountain gorillas are living

There are roughly 1006 mountain gorillas that live in the wild worldwide.  Mountain gorillas are endangered species that were once at the verge of extinction. The 1006 is a great achievement and great thanks to the conservation efforts by respective governments and local people who have worked together to remote gorilla conservation. Also, the great applause goes to the fallen Dian Fossey, an American primatologist who lost her life in the struggle to conserve the gorillas that were extincting to poaching, habitat loss and encroachment.

Gorillas can eat all day long

Mountain gorillas are said to spend most of their times eating. From the y they wakeup to almost half of the day, mountain gorillas are mainly feeding on leaves, tree branches fruits, tree trunks among others. They are herbivorous animals which mainly feed on vegetation. Also, on some occasions, gorillas feed on lavae, snails, and rotting wood in which they get sodium

Mountain gorillas live in two Destinations

These endangered primates live in only two destinations.  These are Bwindi Impenetrable Forst National Park Uganda and the Virunga Conservation Area which comprise of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. Anyone who wants to visit gorillas must visit any one of the three countries.  Bwindi Forest shelters the highest gorilla population followed by Volcanoes National park in Rwanda

Gorillas get Cozy at night

Whereas mountain gorillas spend most of their day time active, the endangered species get cozy at night. They retire to sleep in their nests which they make at the end of the day. Once the silverback gorillas decides on where the family will sleep the night, they collect foliage in which they make their nests. All family members share the nest together while baby gorillas sleep close to their mothers. It’s said that each day, gorillas sleep in a new nest

Mountain Gorillas share over 98% of human genes

Research has found out that gorillas share over 98%of human genes which make them man’s close relatives.  The social behaviors and characters of mountain gorillas for example silverbacks protecting other gorilla families while adult females nurse and take care of the infant gorillas is an evidence that gorillas are man’s relatives Also, gorillas live in families each family headed by a dominant male (Silverback) just like a father in a human home

They are strong

Mountain gorillas are one of the most powerful primates in the world. An adult silverback can weigh up to 170 kilograms while an adult female weighs over 90 kilograms. Angry gorillas have been seen breaking big tree trunks and it’s said that a gorilla can break a man’s arm when annoyed. This is why travelers are advised to be careful when around the gorillas to ensure safety.

Gorillas live in families

Mountain gorillas live in families and each family is headed by a silverback gorilla. Uganda has 21 habituated gorilla families, Rwanda has 10 and the Democratic Republic of Congo has 8 gorilla families. Each gorilla in the family has a different responsibility. The silverback is the head of the family who plans and watches over all family members, adult females bear and take care of children, Black backs keep the family active while the infants stay with their mothers. However, both family members take care of the infants, they cuddle, carry, and play with them just like in a family of people. Each gorilla family is visited by eight people.

Gorillas live to over 40 years

Mountain gorillas live up to 40 years of age. At the age of 0 to 4 years, gorillas are called infants, 8 years are adults, and 8 to 12 years are black backs while after 12 years, a gorilla develops silver hair at the back hence the name silverback

Gorillas are under threat

Mountain gorillas are endangered primates under threat. Having only 1006 mountain gorillas in the whole world is not enough. It’s a confirmation that the primates are under threat. The major threats to mountain gorillas include poaching, and habitat loss due to human encroachment to expand their and or settlement and agriculture.

Gorillas have Long arms than the legs

They have long and thick hair

Adult male gorillas have grey hair on their back

People also ask

What special thing can gorillas do?

Mountain gorillas are intelligent creatures. They have been seen on several occasions using tools and sticks to measure the depth of the river before they cross. Also, gorillas can detect danger and flee to a safe place

How long can gorillas live

The lifespan of gorillas is between 35 to 40 years old. However, in rare cases, gorillas live for more than 40 years.

How many babies can a gorilla have in a lifetime?

A female gorilla can have two between 2 to 4 babies  in lifetime

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What are the chances of seeing gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo is among the frequently asked questions by travelers planning gorilla safaris in Africa. Well, the chances of seeing gorillas are 98% if not 100%.  Given the high cost of gorilla trekking packages and the energy required hiking up and downhill in search for the endangered gorillas, travelers are always concerned about the chances of seeing gorillas in the wild. It would be so disappointing for one to miss out on seeing gorillas after paying huge sums of money and traveling from far.

The good thing is that you are over 98% sure of seeing gorillas at the end of the trek.  For the time we have been arranging gorilla safaris and tours in Africa, no cases have been reported about clients who failed to see the gorillas. Tourism and conservation bodies in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo have put strategies to ensure travelers get to see gorillas on the gorilla trekking safari.   At superfine Safaris Limited, we work hand in hand with conservation bodies in gorilla trekking parks to ensure our clients see gorillas in their natural habitats,

The strategies to See Gorillas 

Find strategies that guarantee high chances of seeing gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo include:

Trackers who go ahead of time!

In all gorilla trekking Parks, a group of trackers have been trained about gorilla conservation and tourism.  At the end of each day, trackers follow up on the gorilla families to confirm where each gorilla family is going to spend a night. At the start of each trekking day, trackers hike up into the jungle o confirm the exact location of each gorilla family.

They then notify the rangers and travelers on the exact location of each gorilla family. They use tracking devices to tell exactly where the gorillas are and which route to follow to avoid going off-track in the forest. Having known the actual location of the gorillas is a guarantee for travelers to see the gorillas at the end of the trek

 Gorilla Family allocation

At the start of each gorilla trekking day, park rangers allocate different gorilla families to each group of eight travelers. The gorilla family allocation is categorized as hard, medium and easy trek depending on the traveler’s physical fitness and hiking abilities. The physically fit, young and energetic travelers are allocated hard to trek gorilla families which are normally far while the elderly, physically unfit are given easy and medium to trek gorilla families.  Travelers are reminded to always disclose about their physical abilities to the tour operators arranging their gorilla safari packages.  Disclosing your hiking abilities and physical fitness enable the tour operators to plan for you a head of time and secure for you an easy to trek gorilla family.

In case, the traveler is disabled and totally unable to trek, they are advised to hire porters who carry the on sedan chairs to and from seeing the gorillas. Our topic on gorilla trekking for the elderly gives you more information!  This prevents the risk of failing to hike which can lead one to miss out on seeing the gorillas.  Therefore the allocation of gorilla families’ based on the travelers fitness and hiking ability increases chances of seeing gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo

Mountain gorillas are habituated

In all three countries, the mountain gorillas have been habituated into families.  Gorilla habituation is the act of training and taming wild gorillas making them familiar to people. Travelers therefore trek habituated gorillas which are used to people’s presence. This increases the chances of seeing gorillas since they will not run a way on seeing people. Gorillas are habituated in a way that they can come so close to people without any fear. A gorilla can come so close to touch a client! Travelers are however reminded to keep their distance and step back in case a gorilla comes so close.

Tourism police

Armed tourism police and security has been enforced in all gorilla trekking park sin Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. These patrol gorilla habits day and night to ensure security! Insecurity and rebel threats is one of the common reasons why travelers would miss on seeing the endangered gorillas. The live example in In Virunga National Park where gorilla trekking is closed due to insecurity and rebel threats.  When tourism police confirm safety in a park, travelers are very sure of seeing gorillas in all gorilla trekking national parks in Uganda, Rwanda

Some people also ask

What if I fail to see the gorillas?

In rare cases when travelers fail to see gorillas due to the unavoidable  circumstances such as  heavy rainfall or trekking all day in vain, travelers are given chance to trek another day without paying again. However if a traveler fails to see gorillas due to his/her failure to hike or sickness, they are not given another chance. They will pay again if they want to try again another time.

Are you guaranteed to see gorillas in Uganda?

YES, whereas it is not 100% sure, there are high chances of seeing gorillas in Uganda. No travelers have reported missing out on see gorillas on their Uganda gorilla trekking safari.  Endeavor to carry your gorilla permit, arrive at the park headquarters on time, and be physically fit, you will definitely see gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest/Mgahinga Gorilla National parks both in south western Uganda

How easy is it to see the gorillas in Rwanda?

For the physically fit, seeing gorillas can even take 30 minutes. Hiking through the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National park is not as strenuous as hiking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Park. The ease of seeing gorillas in Rwanda depend on the traveler’s readiness and preparedness. First of all, book and reserve your gorilla permit as early as 6 months in advance. Also report at the park headquarters before 7:00am. The actual trek to see gorillas in Rwanda starts at 8:00am. One physical abilities can ease or harden the gorilla trekking experience.

How can I see the gorillas?

The possible way for one to see gorillas is to book a gorilla safari to Uganda, Rwanda or the Democratic Republic of Congo. Superfine Safaris Limited offers guided tailor-made gorilla trekking packages to Bwindi Forest and the Virunga Conservation Area at affordable rates.  You should first decide on which country you want to visit for gorilla trekking since each country has set different prices for gorilla trekking permits.  Once the permit is secured and the itinerary designed, work on your physical fitness to ease hiking up and down hill in the gorilla parks.

How much does it cost to see gorillas in Africa?

The real cost of seeing gorillas in Africa is determined by different factors. These include the gorilla permit, the number of days, Extra activities included, type of accommodation booked and many others. However zeroing to gorilla trekking permit, each permit costs $1500 in Rwanda, $800 in Uganda and $450 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. On average, a 3 Day Uganda gorilla safari costs $1500 inclusive of the permit, accommodation, transport, and driver guide and everything included in the 3 days Uganda gorilla trek.

Where can I see gorillas in Uganda?

Gorillas in Uganda are seen in Bwindi impenetrable Forest ad Mgahinga Gorilla National parks. Both are located in south western Uganda Bwindi shared between Kabale and Rubanda district while Mgahinga is in Kisoro district. Gorillas in Bwindi Forest can be seen in any one of the four gorilla regions that make up Bwindi Forest National park. These gorilla regions are Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga and Nkuringo. Altogether, Uganda shelters 21 gorilla families, 20 of which lie in Bwindi Forest while one lives in Mgahinga Gorilla National park.

How much does it cost to go gorilla safari in Uganda?

The cost of Uganda gorilla safari is between $1000 to $2500. This is determined by several factors. First of all, the Uganda gorilla permit costs $800 for foreign nonresidents, $700 for foreign residents and UGX 300,000 for east African citizens.  The cost of a gorilla safari in Uganda increases upon addition of transport, accommodation, meals and miscellaneous. However Uganda remains an affordable gorilla safari destination compared to Rwanda.

How old do you have to be to see gorillas in Uganda?

You Must be 15 years old and above to be able to see gorillas in Uganda. The age limit is one of the requirements by Uganda Wildlife Authority for anyone coming to see gorillas in Bwindi Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National park. However, this age limit also applies in other gorilla parks in Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Is Gorilla trekking cheaper in Uganda or Rwanda?

Gorilla trekking is cheaper in Uganda than in Rwanda. The Uganda gorilla trekking permit costs $800 which is far less compared to $1500 in Rwanda. However in terms of accessibility, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is cheaper than in Uganda. Connecting from Kigali to Volcanoes National is roughly 3 hours’ drive compared to the 9 hours’ drive time from Entebbe airport to Bwindi Forest/Mghinga Gorilla parks in Uganda.

Conclusively, there are high chances of seeing gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. With Superfine Safaris Limited, you are 99% sure of seeing gorillas in your gorilla safaris in Africa

Located in north eastern Uganda in the Karamoja region within the Mount Elgon Conservation Area Pian Upe Wildlife reserve is Uganda’s hidden gem  worth exploring on your Uganda safaris. Pian Upe spreads over 2,788 square kilometers and it’s the second largest protected area in Uganda after Murchison falls National Park. The reserve was established in 1962 to promote wildlife conservation and diversify tourism products in the Pearl of Africa. Pian Upe wildlife reserve is located between Mount Elgon and Kidepo Valley National parks and it’s bordered by Bokoro and Matheneko game reserves.

Pian Upe game reserve was first established as an animal sanctuary in 1958 but was later upgraded to a game reserve in 1960 and opened to tourists in 1962. The dominant vegetation in Pian Upe game reserve include savannahs and woodlands with perched red acacia trees. The diverse vegetation provide food and habitation to different wild animals and birds.  Mbale is the closet town to Pian Upe game reserve and most travelers can spend their overnights in Mbale City. The drive time from Mbale to Pian Upe is roughly 2 hours. In most cases, Pian Upe game reserve is visited as a complement to Uganda safaris in Kidepo Valley National park which together make a complete safari package. The landscape in Pian Upe Game Reserve contain mountains, vast plains and rocky outcrops which favor habitation of various wildlife.

Wild animals in Pian Upe Game reserve

As said already, Pian up game shelters variety of wild animals both herbivores carnivores and omnivorous. Guided game drives in the savanna plains of the park offer you great views of these animals feeding, hunting and relaxing. Among the animals seen in Pian Upe game reserve include Lions, Elephants, Buffalos, Giraffes, Uganda kobs, Dik Dik, Waterbucks. Warthogs, Jackals, Duikers, Topis, Leopards. Cheetahs, Hares, Gazelles, Oribis and Rock Hyrax among others. More so, Pian Upe game reserve is home to primate such as Vervet monkeys, Patas, monkey and Olive baboons. Also, expect to see reptiles such as water snakes, Rock pythons, Puff udders and monitor lizards among others. Morning and evening is the best time for game viewing in Pain Upe Game reserve when animals are actively hunting, socializing, browsing and grazing

Birds in Pian Upe Game Reserve

With over 242 birds recorded in Pian Upe game Reserve is best for bird watching experience.  Some of the notable birds seen in Pian Upe Game Reserve include ostrich, Secretary Sunbird, Karamajong Apalis, Shoebill Stork, white headed buffalo weaver, Abbysinian Ground Hornbill, Fox’s Weaver Birds, Jackson Hornbills. Ostrich is the famous bird, a focus for most birders in Pian Upe Game Reserve.

Best time to Visit Pian Upe Game Reserve

January to March is the best time to visit Pian Upe Game reserve. The season is generally dry which make it easy to view wild animals even from a distance. Also, animals gather at water pints to refresh during the dry season making it easy to spot them. Girik River located in the southern part of the reserve is the major source of water for animals in the Reserve. Also, during this season, Uganda Wildlife Authority does bush burning in the reserve to enable new fresh grasses to grow which make the scenery beautiful for photography and viewing.

Threats to Pian Upe Game Reserve

Human encroachment and habitat loss is the major thereat in Pian Upe game reserve.  Local people living adjacent to the game reserve have continually encroached on the game reserve land to expand on their land for settlement and population. Human wildlife conflict has also been a common challenge in Pian Upe Game Reserve. Poaching by Kenyan herdsmen in the borders of Pian Upe Game Reserve is another great challenge.

People also ask

In which district is Pian Upe Game Reserve?

Pian Upe Game Reserve is located in Nakapiripiriti in North eastern Uganda in the Kalamajong region. The reserve can be easily accessed by road and the drive time from Kampala is roughly 7 hours. Mbale is the closest town which is roughly hour’s drive from the game reserve.

What is the history of Pian Upe Game Reserve?

The reserve was at first established as Debasian animal sanctuary in 1958. The southern part of the reserve near Greek river was managed by a government body to be used for agricultural and farming. However, this put a threat to wild animals which forced Uganda Wildlife Authority to convert Pain Upe into a game reserve to promote wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism.

What is the biggest game reserve in Uganda?

Murchison Falls Park located in north western Uganda is the biggest game reserve in Uganda covering 3840 square kilometers of Land. Pian Upe is the second biggest in size covering 2275 square kilometers followed by Queen Elizabeth National park spreading over 1,978 square kilometers.  Murchison falls National Park is famous for having a high concentration of wild animals and birds. The top activities done there include game viewing, boat cruising, bird watching, chimpanzee trekking in Budongo forest and community tours.

Which game park is found in the North eastern part of Uganda?

Kidepo Valley National park is located in north eastern Uganda in the kalimajong region and it’s the least visited park in the Pearl of Africa.  The park is located 571.5 kilometers from Kampala which takes roughly 10 hours via Kampala Gulu Highway. When driving using Kampala Jinja highway, the distance is 593.9 kilometers which take roughly 12 hours of driving.  If using Kampala Hoima highway, Kidepo Valley Park is 660.5 kilometers from Kampala which takes roughly 12 hours and 30 minutes of driving.

Which is the smallest game reserve in Uganda?

Mgahinga Gorilla National park located in kisoro district south western Uganda is the smallest park in Uganda. Mgahunga spreads over 34 square kilometers of land and its home to the endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys hence the slogan “Where Silver meets Gold”. Also, Mgahinga shelters three of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Conservation Area. These there volcanoes in Mgahinga Gorilla Park include Mt Sabyinyo, Mt Gahinga and Mount Muhabura.  The popular activities in Mgahinga Gorilla National park include gorilla trekking, Golden monkey trekking, Volcano climbing and Batwa cultural trail.

What is the first private game reserve in Uganda?

River Aswa wildlife conservancy is the private game reserve in Uganda and it’s located in Murchison Falls National park.

Which game park is most visited in Uganda?

Queen Elizabeth, the second largest National park in Uganda is the most visited and receives the highest number of travelers on Uganda safaris. The park has a vast biodiversity comprised of savannahs, forest, woodlands and swamps which all provide food and habitation for various wild animals and birds. Also, Queen Elizabeth National park offers a long list of activities such as game viewing, boat cruise at Kazinga Channel, Bird watching, chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge, Lion tracking and community tours among others

What are the game reserves in Uganda?

Uganda has 12 game reserves located in different parts of the country. The list of game wildlife reserves in Uganda include:

1. Ajai Wildlife Reserve
2. Bokoro Corridor Game Reserve
3. Bugungu Wildlife Reserve
4. Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve
5. Kyambura Wildlife Reserve
6. Kigezi Wildlife Reserve
7. Karuma Wildlife Reserve
8. Katonga Wildlife Reserve
9. East Madi Wildlife Reserve
10. Matheniko Wildlife Reserve
11. Toro Semliki Valley National park
12. Pian Upe Game Reserve

In conclusion, Pian Upe Game serve is a hidden gem worth exploring on your Uganda safari. Contact Superfine Safaris, book your Uganda Safari and explore the treasures of Pian Upe Game Reserve.

Safety is a concern for all travelers booking gorilla safaris in Africa. How safe is gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo is one of the common asked questions in gorilla tour bookings. Travelers want to be sure of their safety while with gorillas in the jungle forests of Africa. For the first time travelers, gorilla tracking is indeed threatening given the huge size of a silverback gorilla, his serious looks and the forested nature of gorilla habitats. However, Superfine Safaris Limited guarantee your safety on your gorilla tour to Africa. YES, we give you gorilla trekking safety tips to ensure your safety and that of the endangered mountain gorillas. The gorilla trekking rules and regulations have been put by Uganda Wildlife Authority and Rwanda Development Board to ensure safety of the gorillas and travelers.

Keep a distance away from the gorillas
Please, do not come so close to the endangered gorillas. Keep a distance of at least seven meters away from the gorillas to give them some free space. Coming so close to gorillas looks like you are encroaching on their privacy, which can cause them to charge at you. Moreso, keeping a distance is one way of preventing the transmission of communicable diseases especially flue and cough from humans to the endangered gorillas. Similarly, people can catch some animal diseases if they come so close to the gorillas. These endangered species share over 99% of human genes. This makes them to susceptible to human illnesses, which can be deadly to them. Uganda Wildlife Authorit

Wear closed shoes and gardening gloves
You must dress right for the jungle if you want to be safe. Closed shoes are recommended to protect your feet from sharp stones and sticks. Also, closed shoes protect your feet from dirty mud, which at times can be slippery making it hard for one in sandals to walk through. The shoes should also be waterproof to ease your movements. More so, gardening gloves protect your hands from thorny bushes and dirty grounds.

At some point in gorilla trekking, travelers are forced to touch down or grab bushes for support especially after rain. Your soft hands will be safe with gardening gloves. The other things to carry for gorilla trekking include long sleeved shirts/blouses, insect repellants to prevent poisonous insect bites, rain jacket, hat and sun glasses. A walking stick and porter are also helpful in gorilla trekking.

Avoid direct eye contacts with the silverback gorilla
Do not look direct into the eyes of the silverback gorillas. During the pre gorilla trekking briefing, travelers are asked not to look direct into the eyes of the gorillas. Direct eye contact irritates the gorillas. It makes a silverback gorilla scared forcing him to behave wild. Keep focused on your camera, observe silently the human like characters of the gorillas and utilize this hour to the maximum.

Keep within your group
Do not split from your group! Gorilla trekking at time s takes several hours of roaming in the jungle before meeting the endangered species. During this time of hiking, travelers are reminded to keep within their group of sight. Splitting and moving alone in the jungle so risky and dangerous for you.

Listen to your ranger guide
You will be assigned two armed park rangers to escort you on your gorilla tour experience. These rangers are experienced with gorilla behaviors and can tell when a gorilla is in good or bad mood. If the ranger guide tells you to step back, please do for your own safety.

Do physical exercises
Travelers warming up for gorilla trekking are also advised to do physical exercises to ensure fitness. A hike up and down hill to see gorillas is a strenuous activity, which require fitness. Some travelers who are not fit find it hard to make it to the gorillas. Examples of physical exercises recommended for physical fitness include walking, stretching, and long hikes among others.

Do not trek when sick
If you feel any sign of sickness, please do not insist to trek the endangered gorillas.

Safety remains key for every successful gorilla trekking experience. Contact Superfine Safaris for more gorilla tour advice and bookings!

The cost of a gorilla safari in Uganda can vary depending on several factors such as the tour operator, the number of days, the level of accommodation, and whether it’s a group or private tour. However, as of today, the typical cost for a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is $800 USD per person. This permit allows you to track gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

In addition to the permit cost, you would need to consider the cost of accommodation, transportation, and possibly other tour activities included in the package. Generally, a full 1 or 2 days’ gorilla safari package including permits, accommodation, meals, and transportation can range from $1,700 to $2,500 USD or more per person, depending on the level of luxury and services provided. Our team is always available online to guide you on anything to do with Safaris in Uganda and Rwanda. You can either send an email or send a WhatsApp message on our contacts.

How Difficult is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla tracking in Uganda can vary in difficulty depending on several factors such as the location of the gorilla group you are tracking, weather conditions, and your own physical fitness level. Here are some of the things to bear in mind as you plan to go for Gorilla trekking in the mountains:

1. Terrain: The terrain in the gorilla habitats can be quite challenging. You may encounter steep slopes, dense vegetation, and uneven ground. In some cases, you may need to hike for several hours through dense forest to reach the gorilla group.
2. Altitude: Gorilla tracking often takes place at higher altitudes, which can make the trek more physically demanding, especially if you are not acclimatized to the altitude.
3. Weather: Weather conditions can also affect the difficulty of gorilla tracking. Rain can make trails muddy and slippery, adding to the challenge of navigating through the forest.
4. Duration: The duration of the trek can vary from a few hours to a full day, depending on where the gorillas are located at the time of your visit. Some groups may be closer to the starting point while others may require longer hikes.
5. Porters and Guides: To help mitigate some of the physical demands, porters are often available to carry equipment and assist you during the trek. Experienced guides also accompany groups to ensure safety and provide information about the gorillas and their habitat.

Overall, while gorilla tracking in Uganda can be physically demanding, it is a highly rewarding experience for those interested in wildlife and conservation. It’s recommended to be in reasonably good physical condition and to follow the advice of your guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.

People also ask

How Safe is Gorilla Trekking?

Gorilla trekking is generally considered safe when conducted under the supervision of experienced guides and following established guidelines. The gorillas have been habituated and are now used to the presence of humans. The conservation procedures have been put in place to avoid any interference with trekking process. The gorillas are visited once each day for one hour to avoid stressing them. This ensures safety of the guests since the Gorillas are not threatened and stressed with the presence of humans. Some of the guidelines put in place to ease Gorilla trekking and ensure safety of the visitors include the following:

1. Guided Tours: Gorilla trekking is typically organized through guided tours provided by licensed and trained guides. These guides are knowledgeable about the behavior of gorillas and the terrain, which enhances safety.
2. Group Size: Tour groups are usually small, which allows for personalized attention and minimizes impact on the gorillas and their habitat.
3. Health Precautions: Before trekking, visitors are required to undergo a health check to ensure they are not carrying any contagious diseases that could be passed to gorillas. This protects both the gorillas and humans.
4. Physical Demands: Gorilla trekking can involve hiking in sometimes challenging terrain, including steep slopes and dense vegetation. It’s important to be reasonably fit and prepared for these physical demands.
5. Respect for Gorillas: Rules and guidelines are in place to protect the gorillas and ensure minimal disturbance to their natural behavior. Visitors are instructed to maintain a safe distance (typically 7 meters or more) and avoid direct eye contact with the gorillas.
6. Security: In areas where gorilla trekking occurs, security measures are generally in place to ensure the safety of visitors. This includes protection from wildlife and potential hazards in the environment.
7. Local Conditions: It’s essential to stay informed about local conditions and follow the advice of guides and authorities, especially in regions where there may be political instability or other risks.

Generally, while gorilla trekking involves some inherent risks associated with wildlife and outdoor activities, adherence to guidelines and the expertise of guides significantly mitigate these risks.

Which Country is Best For Gorilla Trekking?

The two primary countries renowned for gorilla trekking are Rwanda and Uganda, both offering unique experiences and considerations:

Rwanda:

1. Accessibility: Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is close to the capital city, Kigali, making it convenient for travelers with limited time.
2. Gorilla Habituation Experience: Rwanda offers a unique gorilla habituation experience, allowing longer and more immersive encounters with gorilla families, though it can be more expensive.
3. Mountain Gorilla Population: Rwanda is home to a significant portion of the mountain gorilla population, particularly in Volcanoes National Park.

Uganda:

1. Biodiversity: Uganda offers a more diverse safari experience beyond gorilla trekking, including savannah wildlife like lions and elephants in addition to the gorillas.
2. Gorilla permit Cost: Gorilla trekking in Uganda is cheaper than Rwanda, making it a more budget-friendly preference for most tourists.
3. Multiple Habitats: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda provide diverse habitats for gorillas, offering different trekking experiences.

Choosing Between Rwanda and Uganda:

• Time and Budget: If you have limited time and can afford higher permit costs, Rwanda might be preferable due to its proximity to the capital Kigali and the shorter travel distances involved.
• Safari Interests: If you are interested in combining gorilla trekking with a broader safari experience that includes savannah wildlife, Uganda offers a more diverse range of activities.
• Gorilla Habituation: If you are particularly interested in spending extended time with gorillas during the habituation process, Rwanda’s gorilla habituation experience may be more appealing.

Both countries are committed to conservation efforts, ensuring sustainable tourism practices and providing memorable experiences while protecting these critically endangered animals. The choice between Rwanda and Uganda may depend on your specific interests, budget, and travel preferences.

What is the most Economical Approach to See Gorillas in Uganda?

The cheapest way to see gorillas in Uganda involves several considerations to minimize costs while still ensuring a safe and rewarding experience:

1. Choose Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Bwindi is home to several gorilla families and generally offers more affordable gorilla permits compared to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The southern sector of Bwindi (Rushaga and Nkuringo regions) tends to have a slightly higher number permits available compared to the northern sectors.
2. Book Directly with Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA): Gorilla permits are sold by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Booking directly through their website or office in Kampala and let the tour operator do other things for you.
3. Choose Budget Accommodation: Bwindi has a range of accommodation options, including budget lodges and guesthouses. Staying at these more affordable places can significantly reduce your overall expenses.
4. Consider Off-peak Season: Gorilla permits may be slightly cheaper during the low season (April, May, November), although weather conditions can be less predictable during these months.
5. Group Size: Gorilla trekking permits are issued for specific groups, and joining a larger group can sometimes be cheaper than arranging a private trek. However, this may limit your ability to control the pace and experience of the trek.
6. Prepare for Additional Costs: While cutting costs is important, ensure you have adequate funds for necessary expenses such as transportation, accommodation, meals, and tips for guides and porters.

Plan carefully and choose the right options for your budget, you can have a memorable gorilla trekking experience in Uganda without breaking the bank.

Is Gorilla Trekking Cheaper in Uganda then Rwanda?

Yes, gorilla trekking is generally cheaper in Uganda compared to Rwanda. Some of the key facts to think over on include:

1. Gorilla Permit Costs: As of recent information, gorilla trekking permits in Uganda cost $800 per person for foreign non-residents, while in Rwanda, they cost $1,500 per person for all visitors (as of April 31^st 2024). This price difference makes Uganda a more affordable option for gorilla trekking.
2. Accommodation: Accommodation options in Uganda can vary widely in price, but generally, there are more budget-friendly options available compared to Rwanda, where accommodations tend to be more expensive.
3. Travel Costs: Transportation costs can also influence overall expenses. Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are located at varying distances from major cities like Kampala or Entebbe, but travel within Uganda is generally less expensive compared to Rwanda.

Uganda largely offers a more budget-friendly option for gorilla trekking compared to Rwanda, making it a popular choice for travelers looking to experience mountain gorillas in their natural habitat at a lower cost.

Which Month is Best For Gorilla Trekking?

The best months for gorilla trekking typically coincide with the dry seasons in Rwanda and Uganda. The dry seasons are generally considered the optimal times to visit due to better trekking conditions and clearer views. Here are the recommended months:

1. June to September: This period corresponds to the mid-year dry season in both Rwanda and Uganda. Weather is generally cooler, and there is less rainfall, making trekking conditions more comfortable and trails less muddy.
2. December to February: This period is also a dry season in Rwanda and Uganda, making it another good time for gorilla trekking. Days are often sunny with pleasant temperatures, and wildlife viewing is generally good.

Choosing a specific month within these periods can depend on personal preferences such as weather conditions and travel schedules. It’s important to note that gorilla trekking is possible year-round, but the dry seasons typically offer the most comfortable and reliable conditions for trekking and wildlife viewing.

How is a permit to see gorillas in Uganda?

As of the latest information, the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is $700 per person for foreign non-residents. This fee is set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), which manages the national parks where gorilla trekking activities take place, primarily in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

It’s important to note that gorilla trekking permits in Uganda are subject to availability and should be booked well in advance, especially during the peak tourist seasons. The permit cost contributes to conservation efforts aimed at protecting mountain gorillas and their habitats, ensuring sustainable tourism practices.

For residents of East African Community (EAC) countries, the permit cost is lower, set at approximately 250,000 UGX per person. Prices may change over time, so it’s advisable to check with the Uganda Wildlife Authority or authorized tour operators for the most up-to-date information and availability.

Have you been updated about the new tourism prices in Uganda? Well, effective 1^st July 2024 to 30th June 2026, Uganda Wildlife Authority put new rates for mountain gorilla permits and chimpanzee trekking permits. The change in prices apply to both foreign nonresidents, foreign residents and East African citizens. Superfine Safaris brings you detailed information on the new rates for gorillas and chimpanzee trekking experiences in the Pearl of Africa. These are:

New Gorilla trekking permit prices

As of today, each Uganda gorilla trekking permit costs $800 for foreign nonresidents, $700 for foreign residents and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens.  Also, Africans who are not East African citizens but wish to undertake the thrilling Uganda gorilla safaris will pay $500 per permit.   On the other hand, gorilla habituation permits were not increased so it remained at $1500 for foreign nonresidents, $1000 for foreign residents and UGX 750,000 for East African citizens.

New chimpanzee trekking permits

The new chimpanzee trekking permits in Uganda cost $250 for foreign nonresidents, $200 for foreign residents and UGX 180,000 for East African citizens.  The chimpanzee habituation permit costs $300 for foreign nonresidents, $250 for foreign residents and UGX 250,000 for East African citizens.

In Kyambura gorge, a single chimpanzee permit costs $100 for foreign nonresidents, $80 for foreign residents and UGX 50,000 for East African citizens.

Cost of Volcano Climbing in Mgahinga Gorilla National park

Mountain climbing in Mgahinga Gorilla National park (Mt Sabyinyo, Mt Muhabura and Mt Gahinga) costs $100 for foreign nonresidents, $80 for foreign residents and UGX 50,000 for East African citizens

Birding and Day Nature Walks

The cost of birding and day nature walks cost $40 for foreign nonresidents, $30 for foreign residents and UGX 30,000 for East African citizens. This apply in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Mt Elgon National park, Mt Rwenzori National park and Semliki Valley National park.

The other category of birding and day nature walks cost $25 for foreign nonresidents, $20 for foreign residents and UGX 20,000 for East African residents. This apply to Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National park, Lake Mburo National park, Kidepo Valley National Park, Kibale Valley National Park, Kapkwai Reserve and all game reserves across the country.

Cost of Night Walks

In all National parks and game reserves across the country, night walks cost $50 for foreign nonresidents, $30 for foreign residents and UGX 20,000 for East African residents.

People also ask

How much is tourism in Uganda

The overall contribution of tourism to the Gross Domestic product of Uganda is over 4.7%.  Revenue collected from the sale of gorilla, chimpanzee permits, park entrance fees and other activities done in different parks was 1.4 trillion shillings in the year 2023. Tourism is one of the main sources of income to the government and the people of Uganda.

How much is a gorilla permit in Uganda 2024?

Effective 1^st July 2024, each gorilla permit in Uganda costs $800. This cost is valid till 30^th June 2026. All bookings are done through Uganda Wildlife Authority or any licensed tour operators such as Superfine Safaris Limited.

How much does it cost to visit Gorillas?

The cost of seeing gorillas vary depending on which country you want to visit.  In Uganda, the cost of seeing mountain gorillas is $800 for foreign nonresidents, $700 for foreign residents and UGX 300,000 for East African residents. In Rwanda, the cost of seeing gorillas in Volcanoes National park is $1500 paid by all travelers regardless of the nationality. Seeing gorillas in Congo costs $450 and it’s the cheapest gorilla destination for budget travelers.  In all the destinations gorilla trekking is valid for an hour counted from the time travelers meet the allocated gorilla family.

How do I book gorilla trekking in Uganda?

You can book for your Uganda gorilla trekking safari with Superfine Safaris, the reliable travel company in Uganda. We are fully licensed members of AUTO (Association of Uganda Tour Operators) specializing in gorilla tour packages in Uganda. Alternatively, you can sue any other travel company after doing thorough research about it and its operations

What is the cheapest way to see gorillas?

Choosing to visit gorillas in the Democratic Republic of Congo is one way of cheapest ways of seeing gorillas. A gorilla permit in Virunga National park and Kahuzi Biega National park costs $450 which is very cheap compared to Uganda at $800 and Rwanda at $1500. Also, traveling in low season/wet season is another cheap way of seeing gorillas. Low season normally call for discounted offers from service providers. Traveling in a group also reduces the general cost of seeing gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo.  When you travel in a group, the costs such as transport and accommodation are shared among group members.

Where to see gorillas in Uganda?

Uganda gorilla safaris take place in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks both located in south western Uganda. Bwindi is home to half of the world’s total gorilla population counting to over 500 mountain gorillas which have been habituated into 21 families. The other gorillas in Uganda live in Mgahinga Gorilla National park and its only Nyakagyezi gorilla family inhabited there.

Which country us best for gorilla trekking

The conclusion on which country is best for gorilla trekking depend on the choice of the traveler. Each gorilla destination is unique in its own kind offering the exceptional gorilla trekking experience.  Uganda shelters the highest population of gorillas scattered in four gorillas regions which make up Bwindi Forest Park. The gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest is there wider than in other countries. A traveler has a right to choose which gorilla sector he or she wants to trek from. Rwanda on the other hand is the most accessible gorilla destination. The drive time from Kigali to Volcanoes is roughly 3 hours making it the best place for short time travelers. Hiking through the bamboo forests of Volcanoes Park is also not as strenuous as hiking in Bwindi Forest. Also since 2017, Rwanda transformed into a luxury gorilla destination following a double hike of the gorilla permit from $750 to $1500. Congo offers the cheapest gorilla safaris at $450 and hence the best place for low budget travelers.

How much does it cost to see gorillas in Congo?

Gorilla trekking permit in Congo costs $450 in both Virunga National park and Kahuzi Biega National parks. Superfine Safaris Limited help you book and reserve your Congo Gorilla permits

Popular Gorilla Tour packages

Some people also ask about the popular or most done gorilla tour packages. Tourism statistics indicate that these packages have driven more traffic and are a focus for most travelers coming for gorilla safaris in Africa. These include

3 Days Uganda gorilla tour to Bwindi Forest

2 Days Rwanda gorilla tour

5 Days Uganda gorillas & chimpanzee safari

4 Days Rwanda gorillas & Dian Fossey  Hike

1 Day Rwanda gorilla trekking

Conclusively, you ought to be updated about new gorilla and general tourism prices in Uganda to ensure a peaceful Uganda gorilla safari.

Wondering how to book a wildlife safari in Africa? Superfine Safaris is your reliable travel agency to book and enjoy an exclusive Africa wildlife safari to Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania at pocket friendly costs. Whether you want to do the lifetime gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest or the Virunga Conservation Area or want to experience the “big five”, Superfine Safaris offers a variety of customized African safari packages to meet, satisfy and exceed your travel expectations.

Do you want to go chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest Uganda or Nyungwe Forest National park in Rwanda, Book our customized chimpanzee tours to meet and interact with man’s close relatives in their natural habitats.

Book through a travel agent
Whereas you can book a safari yourself, booking through a travel agent is undeniably the best option. YES, these travel agents and destination management companies with all detailed information on what is required of travelers into a specific country. A travel agent will charge you a fair price to arrange for you a best trip. Search for the best travel agent based on the years of experience and trip advisor reviews from previous travelers before confirming your trip. Suprfine Safaris is one of the best travel companies to guide you on your African safari. We help you book gorilla permits, accommodation, driver guide, travel car and all other duties. Your only role is to come ready and we take you around. Booking a through a travel agent therefore saves you from the hustles of private bookings which can be time consuming and tiresome. A travel agent will also gives you all detailed information about covid19, for example the test requirements,

Book a direct flight
Flying direct from your home to your destination is the best thing you to do. This helps to avoid unnecessary stopovers and interactions with many people. Rwanda Air runs several direct flights from the United Kingdom and other Western African Countries for those who want to trek Rwanda gorillas in Volcanoes National park. In the same way, Kenya Airs has many direct flights from across the world, which saves you from meeting and interacting many people along the way. Booking a direct flight is therefore highly recommended for the traveler’s during covid19 pandemic.

Tour within the same country
If possible, tour within one country art a specific period of time. Whereas, connecting safaris across different countries is the best way to explore and enjoy different experiences, a simple itinerary within one destination is the best option in this covid19 time. Avoid itineraries that cross-land borders which expose you to meet many people some of which are covid19 positive. A 7 Uganda safari helps you to explore the popular activities in Uganda, whereas a 3 Days Rwanda gorilla tour offers you chance to trek gorillas and explore other beauties in the land of a thousand hills. Long stays in a single destination ensures fewer interactions and lesser chances of contracting the deadly covid19.

Choose your best destination
Have you dreamt of exploring the Pearl of Africa, Zero down to it and explore it to the fullest. Or5 else you want to maneuver through he rolling hills of Rwanda or in Magical Kenya, decide and travel now. Almost all destinations are now open and ready t6o welcome you! African Apes Holidays takes you whenever you want to go at affordable rates guaranteeing you safety, comfort and memorable experiences.

Contact Superfine Safaris Limited  for more travel tips and how to plan a safari during covid19.

Guide to gorilla trekking permits in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo with Superfine Safaris Limited. Gorilla permit/gorilla pass is a legal document that allows a traveler to trek gorillas in East and central Africa. The gorilla permit is an identification without which you will not be allowed to engage in mountain gorilla trekking experience.  This articles gives you detailed information  about gorilla permits, how to  book them, permit costs, when to book and everything else you need to know about gorilla trekking permits u east and central Africa

What is a gorilla permit?

Firstly, you ought to understand what a gorilla permit is! The permit is a document issued by Uganda wildlife Authority and Rwanda Development board to allow travelers visit and trek the endangered primates.  The gorilla permit is printed a few weeks to the trekking date and given to the travel operator through which travelers booked through. On the trekking date, every traveler is expected to carry his/her gorilla permit and present it to the respective park wardens.

How much does a gorilla permit cost in Uganda and Rwanda?

The cost of gorilla trekking permits in Uganda costs $800 for foreign nonresidents, $700 for foreign residents and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. If you want to engage in the 4 hours gorilla habituation experience, the permit costs $1500 each. In Rwanda, each permit costs $1500 for foreigners and $200 for Rwandese and East African citizens.  For Congo gorilla tours, each permit costs $450 to trek in Virunga National park and Kahuzi Biega National parks.

How to book a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo

You can book for a gorilla permit directly with the responsible government bodies, ie Uganda Wildlife Authority in Uganda and Rwanda Development Board in Rwanda. Alternatively, you can book for gorilla permit through any trusted travel agency. First check tourism forums to confirm that the travel agency you are booking with is licensed. In this case, Superfine Safaris is a reliable travel operator which has been licensed to book and reserve gorilla permits on behalf of the travelers. Booking through a travel agent saves you time and energy since they do everything for you from reserving the permits to picking them for you.

Do you need a permit to see gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo?

YES, as said already, a gorilla permit is a MUST have for anyone visiting gorillas. At the state of each trekking day, all travelers are gathered at the park headquarters of the respective gorilla parks. One of the major purposes of this gathering is to cross check and ensure every travelers has got a valid permit. Anyone found with no permit is not allowed to engage in gorilla trekking experience. You therefore need a gorilla permit to see gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

What is the cheapest way to go gorilla trekking?

Gorilla trekking is an expensive venture that comes with huge budget. However, here are the possible ways to ensure cheapest gorilla trekking experience. Firstly,

Trek gorillas in low season:

This is between February and May and September through November. This season is normally rainy attracting a low number of travelers. Service providers normally give discounted services such as accommodation and transport to encourage more stays. Traveling in a low/wet season is therefore one way of ensuring cheap gorilla trekking.

Traveling in a group:

Group tours are normally cheap and affordable compared to primate tours. If you can gather your mates and family and form a group, it would be a big deal. In group tours people share costs such as transport and accommodation. A single room is normally higher than a twin or triple room in which three people share room costs.

Book through a travel agent:

This is another way of ensuring a cheap gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Whereas travel agents charge commission for booking you safari, the cost of commission is normally worth it. It’s less costly than doing everything for yourself. Also tour operators normally get discounted offers from hotels, Lodges, transport companies which is an advantage for you

Use public transport and choose budget accommodation:

Traveling in a public means such as Taxi rob use to the gorilla destination is cheaper compared to hiring a private car. Traveling from Kampala to Bwindi for example is roughly 50,000ush while hiring a car from Kampala to Bwindi ranges from 200,000 to 400,000shs per day exclusive of the fuel. Also consider staying in budget lodges on your gorilla trek. An average budget lodge can cost between $70 to $100 compared to luxury which cost over $1000.

Is Gorilla Trekking Cheaper in Uganda or Rwanda?

Gorilla trekking is cheaper in Uganda than Rwanda. The cost of Uganda gorilla permit to Bwindi Forest/Mgahinga Gorilla National parks cost $800 compared to $1500 in Volcanoes National park Rwanda. One Rwanda gorilla permit can therefore buy two gorilla permits in Uganda. It’s therefore wise for budget travelers to visit Uganda for cheap gorilla safari packages.

Is gorilla trekking worth the money?

YES, based on the positive gorilla trekking reviews from those who have done it, gorilla trekking is worth the money. Most people who have trekked gorillas before confirm that the experience is worth every penny and they can gladly do it over and over again. The magical feeling of looking into the eyes of the silverback gorillas, seeing adult female gorillas nurse and feed babies just like human mothers is thrilling and worth it.

How many days do you need for gorilla trekking?

The days of gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo start from 1 Day gorilla trekking tour to over 10 Days gorilla safari. A 1 Day Uganda gorilla trek starts and ends from Kigali Rwanda. Here travelers fly into Kigali and cross over to Bwindi Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla parks in Uganda. The 1 Day Uganda safari starts at 3:00am with a transfer to the park headquarters to catch up with pre gorilla trekking briefing. In Rwanda, the 1 day gorilla trekking is simple.

Travelers only need two hours and 30 minutes’ drive from Kigali to Volcanoes National park.  Other popular days for gorilla trekking include 2 Days gorilla adventure, 3 days gorilla safari, 4 days  double gorilla safari that include double trekking in both Uganda and Rwanda, 5 Days that combine gorillas and chimpanzees, 6 Days that include gorillas, chimpanzees and game viewing among others. The days of gorilla trekking therefore depend on the traveler’s available time, budget and interests.

What is the age limit for gorilla trekking

15 years old is the official age limit for gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Given the adventurous nature of the experience and the endangered nature of gorillas, 15 years is considered the best starting age for anyone visiting gorillas. Travelers are asked to present their passports showing the actual date of birth to confirm that one is indeed of age. However in case  a child is not yet 15 years but almost celebrating it, May be like one or two months to make 15 years, his/her parents/guardians are asked to write and submit a consent letter to Uganda Wildlife Authority. In this letter, the parent admits to be accountable for anything that happens to that child during gorilla trekking experience.

Which country is best for gorilla trekking?

The answer for which country is best for gorilla trekking is not conclusive since it varies from one person to another. The trekking in each country is unique in its own kind and worth doing. However I you are looking for luxury gorilla tour, Rwanda is the best destination for you. Since 2027, Rwanda transformed into a luxury gorilla safari destination. This followed the double hiking of Rwanda gorilla permits from $750 to $1500.

Uganda on the other hand is home to the highest number of mountain gorillas compared to Rwanda and Congo. The high number of habituated gorilla families’ guarantee availability of permits giving many travelers chance to take part in this lifetime experience. Also, A Uganda gorilla trekking permit is quite cheaper at $800 compared to $1500 in Rwanda.  The cheap gorilla permits therefore make Uganda the best country for gorilla trekking for low income earners.

Gorilla Tours in Africa are the highlight of most travelers on African safaris visiting Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. An encounter with the endangered gorillas, looking direct into their red round eyes is a dream come true for many and a lifetime experience you should not miss! Gorilla Tours in Africa take place in three designated national parks which are Bwindi Impenetrable Forest/Mgahinga Gorilla National parks in Uganda, Volcanoes National park in Rwanda and Virunga National park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.  Superfine Safaris Limited helps you customize best gorilla tours in Africa at pocket friendly prices without compromising the quality of the experience

Once you get to the park headquarters, you are handed over into the hands of the rangers from the Ugandan Wildlife Authority. After a briefing,   in your group of eight travelers, you will be led into the jungle by armed rangers. The hiking is very physically demanding on difficult terrain and at quite a fast pace since the rangers are usually keen to find the gorillas as early as possible so that the group can return to the gate before the evening. Gorilla trekking  time is not certain but  ranges from between 2 to over 6 hours. It may be less or more than this depending on the location of the gorillas and the speed of the slowest person in your group. Ranger guides move at a speed of the slowest person.

After reaching the gorillas, you are given one hour to observe them and enjoy their company. And yes, the experience is as good as everyone says! Mountain gorilla habitats are quite dense and some of the gorillas, particularly the younger ones, can be hard to see clearly if they don’t feel like coming out into the clearing. The rangers do their best to get a good view for everyone.

Gorilla Tours Uganda

Book and enjoy our tailored Uganda gorilla tours to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park.  Located in south western Uganda, Bwindi Forest is a prime gorilla tours destination sheltering half of the world’s total gorilla population. There are over 500 mountain gorillas in Uganda scattered in the four regions of Bwindi Forest.  The gorilla regions in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest are Buhoma in the north, Ruhija in the East, Rushaga and Nkuringo in the south.  The other gorilla tours in Uganda take place in Mgahinga Gorilla National park to see the one and only Nyakagyezi Gorilla Family. Trekking in each sector of Bwindi Forest offer you chance to meet a different gorilla family of different characters.  The list of gorilla families in Uganda include:

• Nyakagyezi Family
• Mubare Group
• Habinyanja Group
• Rushegura Group
• Kyaguliro Group
• Christmas Family
• Mishaya Family
• Oruzogo group
• Nshongi Family
• Bitukura Family
• Kutu Family
• Kahungye Family
• Katwe Family
• Busingye Family
• Rwigi Family

Uganda gorilla tour packages

Our Uganda gorilla tour packages include 3 Day Gorilla trekking  Uganda , 5 Days Uganda gorilla and chimpanzee safari, 1 Day  Gorilla trekking Uganda starting and ending from Kigali Rwanda.  Contact superfine safaris for the best gorilla trekking tours in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Gorilla Tours Rwanda

Go gorilla tours Rwanda  to Volcanoes National park, home to the highest number of gorillas in the Virunga Conservation Area.  Situated in north western Rwanda, Volcanoes National park is naturally blessed with spectacular setting, amazing wildlife and greenery!  The cost of Rwanda gorilla tours is $1500 for a permit. The cost may be more if you add transport, accommodation, driver allowance, and porters among others.  Rwanda offers the best luxury gorilla tours compared to Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The list of habituated mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National park Rwanda include:

• Karisimbi Family
• Amahoro Family
• Agashya Family
• Umubano Family
• Kwitonda Family
• Susa A Family
• Ugenda Family
• Hirwa Family
• Pablo Family
• Titus Family

Each Rwanda gorilla family is visited by a group of eight travelers each day for a maximum of an hour. Gorilla tours Rwanda also offer you chances of encountering other wild animals which live in Volcanoes Park. These include golden monkeys, colobus monkeys, baboons, Forest Elephants, and various bird species. Some of the top Rwanda gorilla tour packages include 3 days Rwanda gorilla trekking, 1 Day gorilla trekking Rwanda and 5 days Rwanda primates’ safari that include both gorillas and chimpanzees

Congo Gorilla Tours

Congo Gorilla Tours entail trekking mountain and lowland gorillas. YES, the country is home to two different gorilla species which give you opportunity to meet the on the same trip. The 5 days Congo gorilla safari entail double trekking to see mountain gorillas in Virunga National park and Eastern Lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National park. Fortunately the cost of gorilla trekking in Congo is still low at $450 compared to $800 in Uganda and $1500 in Rwanda.  Congo gorilla tours are therefore the best for budget travelers

Tips for Gorilla Tours in Africa

1. Get as fit as you can before the trip, but don’t feel that you must be a super athlete. You will be assigned to a gorilla family group based on their location and your age/fitness level. Some treks are easy or moderate. Just know that some treks turn out, as mind did, to be more difficult than originally estimated.
2. Notify your driver/guide of any health or fitness issues the night before your trek. He/she may have some influence about which level of difficulty you are assigned to.
3. Hire a porter.  You need a porter to assist you carry the camera equipment, rain jacket, water, etc.  Porters also help to support by grabbing your hands in case of slippery grounds.
4. Speaking of water, take more than you think you will need, in case your trek is longer than expected (and if you hire a porter, you don’t even have to carry it).
5. Snacks and packets of electrolyte powder mix will be helpful to re-fuel during your trek
6. Bathroom breaks – The guide explained that at any point, you could ask to pause for a bathroom break. Ladies can go behind these bushes, and men can go behind those bushes. Also, they explained that if you needed to go for long call, the porters/guides would dig a shallow hole in the ground for your use.
7. Ladies – If you go to an online retail store and type in “female urinal” you will find an array of products that allow women to pee standing up and while fully clothed (wow, such power!). They are specially designed funnel-like items, inexpensive, small/discrete, plus no toilet paper is needed – genius! I know it seems odd; just practice in your own bathroom or shower a time or two, but they really work!
8. Also, practice with your camera, and recognize that you may or may not need a long zoom. A wide focus area may cause your camera to focus on the vegetation in the foreground, and your gorillas will be blurry. Before you leave, practice photographing your dog, the neighbor’s cat, etc. With only one hour with the gorillas, you will be glad if you’ve already figure out the best position to use for photography on your gorilla tour safari

About Gorilla Trekking Certificates

OHH YES, travelers are rewarded with mountain gorilla trekking certificates after successful gorilla trekking. This is an evidence that someone trekked the gorillas! Travelers go worth the gorilla certificate and they can always refer to it for remembrance.

Packing list for Gorilla Tours in Africa

Walking boots are a must, binoculars were extremely useful and of course a camera to capture all the wildlife. You are also reminded to carry inspect repellents, sunglass, warm sweaters, gardening hand gloves, energy giving snacks and bottled drinking water. A first aid kit and toiletries are also recommended on your Gorilla trekking tour in Africa.

Book and enjoy luxury gorilla trekking safaris in Africa tailored and guided by Superfine Safaris Limited. Our luxury gorilla trekking tours are mostly done in Volcanoes National park where a single mountain gorilla permit costs $1500.  Uganda luxury gorilla safaris mainly entail mountain gorilla habituation experience at $1500 where only four people are allowed to visit the gorilla family for a maximum of 4 hours.  A normal gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs $800 while in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a permit costs $450 for an hour’s interaction with the endangered gorillas.

What makes a luxury gorilla trekking safari?

There are several factors that determine a luxury gorilla trekking safari in Africa. These include among others:

Luxury lodges/hotels (Accommodation Facilities)

Luxury gorilla trekking safaris entail staying in luxury/first class lodges and hotels near or within mountain gorilla parks in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Some lodges are extremely luxury costing over $1000 for a single night. Staying in these kind of hotels/lodges qualify our safari as a luxury gorilla trekking tour.  The list of luxury gorilla lodges include

1. Bwindi lodge in Bwindi Forest
2. Buhoma Lodge
3. Bisate Lodge in Volcanoes National park Rwanda
4. Virunga Lodge in Mgahinga Gorilla Park
5. Four Gorillas Lodge in Bwindi
6. Sabyinyo Silverback Gorilla Lodge in Volcanoes Park Rwanda

Trekking gorillas in Volcanoes National park Rwanda

Since 2017, Rwanda transformed into a luxury gorilla safari destination offering the most expensive gorilla permit.  A single Rwanda mountain gorilla permit was doubled from $750 to $1500   for an hour with the endangered gorillas. The cost of Rwanda gorilla trekking is far higher compared to Uganda at $800 and Congo at $450.

Use chartered flights or book 4×4 land cruisers

Using chartered flights to connect to mountain gorilla parks is a luxury venture.  Flying from Entebbe at Kajjansi airstrip to kisoro or kihihi airstrips from where you connect to Bwindi Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National park is a luxury experience. The addition of flight fares, gorilla permits and other expenses make this whole experience luxury

Double Gorilla trekking

Double gorilla trekking comes with double pricing. If you trek two times in Uganda, the cost doubles to $1600 while in Rwanda it becomes $3000. Double mountain gorilla trekking offers double experiences rewarding adventure seekers with a lifetime experience.  For Rwanda and Uganda double gorilla trekking, you requires a Uganda and Rwanda permit which is together costs $2300. If you double trek I Uganda, you buy two Uganda gorilla permits each at $800 hence totaling to $1600. Double treks therefore make a luxury gorilla trekking safari

Booking a private gorilla tour

A gorilla trekking safari becomes luxury when one books it privately. YES, private gorilla tours are normally expensive compared to when someone books through a travel operator.  Low budget travelers are therefore advised to book through travel operators if they want to cut costs of gorilla trekking.

Combining gorilla trekking with other wildlife experiences

If you combine mountain gorillas and other wildlife experiences in Uganda or Rwanda. The cost becomes higher making it luxury gorilla trekking tour.  Some of the interesting wildlife experience you can do together with mountain gorilla trekking include game viewing, mountain climbing, cultural tours, bird watching and chimpanzee trekking among others.

How to book a luxury gorilla trekking safari?

Contact superfine safaris for your luxury gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. We help you to reserve the gorilla permits, booking your favorite lodge, provide transport and handle any other ground activity to ensure stress free and enjoyable gorilla safaris in Africa. You can email us at info@gorillasafarisinafrica for bookings or general inquiries.

In conclusion, luxury gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo offer you a different taste of Africa’s primates.

Uganda gorilla tours rank among the top bucket list for most travelers booking Gorilla Safaris in Africa.  It undeniable that Uganda gorilla tours are among the most done experiences in the Pearl of Africa attracting the highest number of travelers who visit Uganda. For those who have done it before, seeing mountain gorillas face to face is a lifetime experience that one can do over and over again! Superfine Safaris is a reliable company to trust with your Uganda gorilla tours

Uganda Gorilla Tours take place in dense jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National parks both located in south western Uganda. The expeditions through the impenetrable Forest of Bwindi transcends the ordinary offering you with the unparalleled encounter with nature’s grandeur.  Each step up and down the jungle on your Uganda gorilla tours feels like a pilgrimage into the territory of the extra ordinary.  The trek through the forest is quite difficult under feet, steep, climbing over fallen trees, slippery & walking across stream

Is Uganda Gorilla Trek Worth it?

YES, Uganda gorilla trek is worth it! Based on the positive reviews of those who have done Uganda gorilla tours before, it’s with no doubt that Uganda gorilla trek is worth the penny. A close look into the red eyes of the endangered mountain gorillas is a magical experience that happens once in a lifetime. The cost of Uganda gorilla tours ranges from between $1200 and above depending on several factors. The inclusions in the cost of gorilla treks Uganda are gorilla permits, Government taxes, Accommodation, transport, driver guide. Meals and miscellaneous. If you want to do gorilla habituation, each permit costs $1500 allowing you to spend 4 hours with the gorillas.

Which is better Gorilla Trekking in Uganda or Rwanda?

Comparing gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda is tricky and not conclusive. Concluding on which one is better for gorilla trekking Uganda or Rwanda varies from one person to another. Each country is unique in its own kind offering a unique gorilla trekking experience. For travelers with limited time, Rwanda is the best option. The one day Rwanda gorilla trekking tour gives short time travelers chance to see gorillas in the hottest time possible compared to the long driving time required to reach Uganda’s Mgahinga and Bwindi impenetrable Forest National park.

Is Gorilla trekking Expensive?

YES, gorilla trekking is an expensive activity compared to other wildlife experience in Africa. One single gorilla permit in Rwanda costs $1500 while in Uganda it costs. This cost can facilitate 5 days wildlife safari without gorillas.  Therefore it’s undeniable that gorilla trekking is a very expensive activity.

What is the best time to see gorillas in Uganda?

 Dry or peaks season is the best time to see gorilla in Uganda. This is in the months of June, July, August, September, and December to February. This season is characterized by low or no rains which make it easy to trek through the dense gorilla national parks. Travelers are however reminded to book for gorilla trekking permits as early as 4 months in advance during the high season due to high demand in the peak season. On the other hand, seeing gorillas during low/wet season is an advantage for budget travelers. Whereas the cost of gorilla trekking permit remains the same all through, low season attracts discounted offers from service providers especially hotels. Lodges and transportation companies. These offer low prices to encourage more visits

How fit do you need to be for Uganda gorilla trekking?

You must be physically fit for your Uganda gorilla trekking experience. YES. Mountain gorillas live in the mountainous regions of Bwindi impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National parks which require physical fitness. Trekking through the jungle forest up and down hills is a strenuous adventure and not for the faint hearted. Travelers planning Uganda gorilla tours are therefore advised to practice some exercise such a jogging, walking and hiking to ensure they are physically fit before coming for Uganda gorilla trekking tours

How hard is a gorilla trek in Uganda?

How hard is a gorilla trek in Uganda features among the frequently asked gorilla trekking questions by those planning Gorilla safaris in Africa. Ascending and descending through dense thorny bushes of Bwindi Forest/Mgahinga make this whole experience surely hard but worth it. Also, the uncertainty about how much time to spend in the forest make gorilla trekking hard. The estimated time ranges between 30 minutes to over 7 hours depending on the location of the allocated gorilla family.

How safe is gorilla trekking in Uganda?

Uganda gorilla tours are very safe! The tourism police that patrols in the gorilla national parks day and night ensures that gorilla trekking is safe. Also, mountain gorillas have been habituated which make them familiar and friendly to people. There are no incidences when rebel attacks have been reported in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National parks which guarantees security for gorilla trekking travelers. Also Uganda Wildlife Authority has trained and armed park rangers and wardens who escort travelers for gorilla trekking.

How much does gorilla trekking cost per person in Uganda?

The cost of gorilla trekking per person in Uganda is $800 for a gorilla permit. However you is had accommodation, transport, drive guide, government taxes, Miscellaneous and more activities, the cost will be higher. The cost of gorilla trekking also depend on the number of days for the entire safari

What is the cheapest way to do gorilla trekking in Uganda?

Whereas gorilla trekking is rated as an expensive activity you can lower the cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda by

• Traveling in low season when service providers are offering discounted offers
• Traveling as a group where you share costs of transport, accommodation and food
• Booking low budget hotels and lodges
• Using public transport to connect to and from gorilla parks. This is cheaper compared to hiring a land cruiser

How to prepare for gorilla trekking in Uganda?

First know when do you intend to travel. After there, choose which travel agency to travel with for your customized Uganda gorilla tours.  Superfine safaris is your reliable travel agent. After knowing how much is needed, deposit on it if you have or start saving for the planned date. Also do physical exercises to ensure fitness on your gorilla trekking adventure. You are also reminded to  pack you traveling bag with hiking boots, first aid kit, snacks and right clothing’s for your trekking in Bwindi Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National park

Call it gorilla regions or gorilla sectors, it all means the bisections which make up the famous Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park. YES, gorilla safaris in Bwindi Forest take place in any of the four gorilla regions sectors. The four gorilla regions are Buhoma sector in the North, Ruhija sector in the East, Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors in the south.

Each gorilla trekking  sector shelter different gorilla families groups/families. This means that if you have a specific gorilla family you wish to trek, you MUST visit the specific gorilla region in which it dwells. Gorilla families have not been known for crossing from one sector to another. This article also gives you details of the list of lodges in Bwindi Forest Park as scattered in different regions

If you planning a Uganda gorilla safari to Bwindi Forest and wondering which gorilla region you should visit,  Superfine Safaris gives you detailed information about gorilla regions/sectors in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. When making gorilla safari bookings, travelers normally specify which sector they want to visit based on what they read about each sector and referrals from friends.

Each gorilla region in Bwindi has an independent headquarter where travelers gather each day for registration and pre gorilla trekking briefing.  For better gorilla trekking comparisons, you can do two gorilla treks enabling you to visit two different gorilla families in two separate sectors. Based on  many traveler’ reviews,  gorilla each sector is unique in its own kind and worth visiting. Superfine Safaris brings you details about gorilla trekking regions/ sectors in Bwindi Forest National Park:

Buhoma sector

Located in the northern part of Bwindi Forest National Park, Buhoma is the most visited gorilla region in Bwindi. Sheltering the oldest gorilla family in Bwindi Forest, Buhoma is a preference for  some travelers who want to see the elderly mountain gorillas.  Buhoma sector is located near Kabale town hence easy to reach when connecting from Kampala/Entebbe and Katuna Border for those crossing from Rwanda.

The list of Mountain gorilla families in Bwindi Forest include

1. Mubare family habituated in 1992
2. Rushegura gorilla group habituated in 2000
3. Habinyanja gorilla family habituated in 1997
4. Katwe family which was added in 2018.

If you want to combine Uganda gorilla trekking with wildlife experience, Buhoma can easily be combined with Queen Elizabeth National Park. The 5 Days Uganda gorillas and game safari entails gorilla trekking in Bwindi and game viewing in Queen Elizabeth national park, the drive through Ishasha  gives you chance to see the iconic tree climbing lions.

Each day, Buhoma has 32 gorilla permits available for issuing. Due to high demand, gorilla permits normally sell off easily than in other sectors.

If you want to spend an overnight in Buhoma region, the following are some of the top lodges you should choose from . These include

• Bwindi Forest Lodge
• Buhoma Lodge,
• Mahogany Springs Lodge,
• Haven Lodge
• Buhoma Community,
• Silverback Lodge
• Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp

Rushaga Gorilla Sector

Located in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park. Rushaga is home to the highest number of gorillas in Bwindi and its the centre  of  gorilla habituation experience.

The list of gorilla groups/ Families in Rushaga sector of Bwindi include

1. Kahungye gorilla family
2. Busingye gorilla family
3. Bweza, Nshongi
4. Mishaya gorilla groups.
5. Bikyingi Gorilla group
6. Bushaha gorilla families

Rushaga  sector is the most accessible sector for those doing a 1-Day Uganda gorilla tour to Bwindi from Kigali Rwanda. Each day, Rushaga sector has 48 gorilla trekking permits and 8-gorilla habituation permits giving chance to the high number of travelers to see gorillas. In addition to gorillas, travelers to Rushaga sector enjoy a boat on Lake Mutanda making the whole experience memorable.

The recommended lodges/accommodation in the Rushaga sector include

1. Gorilla Safari Lodge
2. Chameleon Hill Lodge
3. Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
4. Rushaga Gorilla Camp
5. Gorilla Valley Lodge
6. Mutanda Lake Resort.

Ruhija Gorilla Sector

Visit Ruhija sector in the eastern part of Bwindi Forest to trek one of the three gorilla families namely

1. Bitukura gorilla family
2. Kyaguliro gorilla family
3. Mukiza Gorilla family
4. Oruzogo gorilla group.

32 gorilla permits are available every day in Ruhija sector issued on a first come first serve basis. Other activities to do in Ruhija sector include visiting Batwa communities, bird watching, forest walk, and visiting Batwa communities. The top lodges in Ruhija sector include

• Bakiga Lodge,
• Gorilla Mist Camp,
• Agandi Lodge,
• Trekkers Traven Lodge
• Nshongi Forest camp
• Ruhija safari lodge

Lodges and all accommodation services in Ruhija sector are categorized into the budget, luxury and midrange but all services are excellent and worth the money.

Nkuringo Sector

Also, in the east of Bwindi Forest, Nshongi sector is known to have the toughest gorilla hikes in Bwindi impenetrable Forest National Park due to its location on higher altitudes. Nkuringo is home to two gorilla families, which are Nkuringo family, and the newly introduced Christmas family. The sector has 16 gorilla permit available everyday giving chance to first come travelers to see gorillas at a close range. The recommended lodging facilities in Nkuingo sector include Clouds Mountain gorilla Lodge,

The list of top lodges in Nkuringo Sector

1. Nkuringo gorilla lodge,
2. Nkuringo Gorilla Campsite
3. Hammerkop bunkhouse
4. Nkuringo Gorilla Camp.

In general, Uganda gorilla tour to any one of the four gorilla regions/sectors in Bwindi Forest National Park offers you an exceptional gorilla safari experience. Contact Superfine Safaris today, choose a gorilla region you want to visit and we shall tailor-make for you a perfect gorilla safari package.

Looking for a gorilla safari lodge in Congo? Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has all categories of safari lodges for Congo tour travelers to consider for their overnight stay. Located on the extreme Eastern side of Congo, Virunga Park is set near the border of Uganda and Rwanda. The 3 African countries are home to endangered mountain gorillas and visits to explore these large apes are possible when you have where to stay.
Before or after the long day Congo gorilla safari in the Virunga Park, guests get back to retire at the accommodation they prebooked with their tour operator. At Virunga National Park, you can book budget, midrange, or luxury lodges.

Top accommodation in Virunga Park

Mikeno Lodge

Mikeno Lodge is a luxury accommodation facility located in Virunga Park Congo. It is one ideal area for guests visiting the park for mountain gorilla trekking via Mikeno region. Mikeno is built near Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage, a great opportunity for you to also explore the orphaned mountain gorillas that live here.
At Mikeno Lodge, there are 12 rooms all uniquely decorated with walls built with Lava stones and mahogany poles offering an absolute state of luxury. This luxurious lodge is strategically located overviewing the rift valley and Nyiragongo Mountain. It is found right at Rumangabo Area in Virunga National Park, occupying over 35 hectares of land with its rooms fully furnished featuring African and colonial styles.
The rooms at Mikeno Lodge are fitted with comfortable beds, ceiling fans, and mosquito net, and there is a fireplace for guests to keep themselves warm during cold nights/days. There is also a private patio in each room offering visitors that ultimate relaxation atmosphere.
Accessing Mikeno Lodge takes about 1 and a half hours to drive from Goma. This lodging facility provides full board accommodation and guests are guaranteed 3 meals a day with a chance to tour Senkwekwe Orphanage at a free cost.

Bukima Tented Camp

Bukima Tented Camp was once a research station but turned into a lodge offering mid-range/standard lodging services. It is set a few minutes off from Bukima patrol station where briefing about mountain gorilla trekking rules and allocation of park guides is done by Virunga National Park officials. Bukima Tented Camp is comprised of 6 luxury tents and each features advanced bathrooms with water running, beds, and with a chance to enjoy an exceptional view of the surrounding areas.
The amazing bit about spending a night at Bukima Tented Camp is that guests enjoy personalized service despite the fact that fewer visitors are accommodated here. This is perfect for travelers on Congo safaris who prefer privacy and are guaranteed exceptional views including Mikeno and Nyiragongo volcanoes.

Kibumba Tented Camp

Located along the Nyiragongo volcano trailhead, Kibumba Tented Camp is one of the best-budget lodges in the Virunga National Park. At Kibumba Camp, guests are guaranteed not only delicious cuisines in the wild but also ultimate comfort. This budget camp has a fully stocked bar, comfortable beds, tents, en-suite bathrooms, and showers. Its strategic location at the trailhead of Mt. Nyiragongo makes it an ideal place to retire for the night before or after your hiking adventure.

Nyiragongo summit shelters

The Nyiragongo summit shelters are set right at the top of Mt. Nyiragongo – the world’s most active volcano. It is at these summit shelters where climbers spend a night when they finally get to the top of the Nyiragongo volcano. 12 Nyiragongo volcano summit shelters offer an uninterrupted view of the Lava Lake as it bubbles the whole night. Each summit shelter has 2 single beds and basic breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all provided.

Tchegera Island Camp

Tchegera Island Camp is another incredible place for visitors on a gorilla tour in Virunga National Park to spend a night after their guided gorilla trek. The camp is set near Lake Kivu, at close proximity to Virunga Park. It is also an ideal place for a family gateway or honeymoon holidays.
Activities to do while at Virunga National Park

Gorilla trekking

Trekking mountain gorillas remains the leading attraction and wildlife experience visitors can enjoy while at Virunga National Park. 8 habituated gorilla families live in Virunga and these represent about 64 gorilla permits, each permit costs USD400.

Nyiragongo climbing

Nyiragongo hiking is another top adventure hikers on Congo safari can enjoy while at Virunga National Park. Nyiragongo volcano stands at an elevation of about 3470m, and hiking takes about 6 hours, and descending back takes a slighter shorter time. For an overnight stay, there are Nyiragongo summit shelters where you will also enjoy the breathtaking view of the bubbling Lava Lake, and take pictures. Nyiragongo volcano is powerful and it has recorded multiple eruptions, and the most recent one took place in 2021.

Birding

Bird watching in Virunga National Park allows you to search for most of the forest and Albertine rift endemic bird species. 706 bird species reside in this park, and they include Madagascar bee-eaters, white-headed wood hoopoe, grey throated barbet, narrow-tailed starling, stripe breasted tit, olive sunbird, Rwenzori batis, yellow billed barbet, double toothed barbet, African olive pigeon, handsome francolin, white throated francolin, harlequin quail, laughing dove, dusky turtle dove, ring-necked dove, tambourine dove, emerald spotted wood dove, etc.

What to pack

The list of essentials you should consider carrying on safari in Congo includes a waterproof daypack, hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts, cameras, trousers, insect repellent, a first aid kit, and more.

Getting to Virunga Park -Congo

There are many options in which guests can connect to the Virunga National Park. By road, several tourists often connect from Kigali to Congo’s Virunga National Park and your journey takes about 5 hours for you to drive. Drive up to the Gisenyi-Goma border (Grande barrier) and cross to Virunga NP. From Grande Barrier to Virunga Park, it is 15kms away. Visitors in Congo can drive from Goma Airport to Virunga National Park or take a boat to cross through Lake Kivu to Congo where you can transfer to the park for gorilla safaris, birding tours, or hiking adventures.

Is Rwanda safe for solo travelers? The correct answer is YES, the Rwanda, the lad of a thousand Hills is very safe for solo travelers. Whether you are a male of female solo traveler. Rwanda is the best place for you. Most travelers intending to visit Africa on Rwanda Safaris  ask whether the country is safe for solo travelers.  The small clean country is naturally endowed with lots of beautiful  natural attractions and travel activities to make your Rwanda tour a memorable safari.

If you are a solo traveler and have been wondering whether Rwanda is safe and fit for you, no worries, Superfine Safaris Limited  a ground company that runs gorilla safaris and other Rwanda tours assure that this land locked country is very safe for you. You will surely enjoy and fall in love with it. Recently, Usebounce ranks Rwanda as the 6th out of 10 safest countries for solo travelers to Africa. The other safest countries that were on the list include Switzerland, Denmark, Austria, Slovenia,Georgia, Iceland, Croatia and Czechia among others. What makes Rwanda safe for solo travelers?

Peace and security
For over 20 years now, Rwanda has not had any into civil wars and conflicts, which guarantee peace and security in the country. Despite the 1994 Rwanda genocide, the country has gathered its torn pieces to be one of the peaceful countries in Africa and the world in general. Rwandase agreed on a “NEVER AGAIN” under the leadership of HE Paul Kagame. Solo travelers to Rwanda are therefore assured of their safety in Rwanda provided they keep laws and orders in the country. You can move anywhere anytime with no any threats. However, solo travelers are reminded to be careful and avoid traveling alone in late hours

Group gorilla trekking & other adventures
If you are solo and traveling to Rwanda for gorilla trekking, the adventure experience is done in groups. No one single traveler is allowed to trek gorillas alone unless he/she is the only person available that day. Travelers going to see gorillas are out in groups of eight and allocated a gorilla family. This means that you will have other travelers in your group. This gives you company throughout the trek, which make the whole experience more fun and enjoyable. You can choose to interact with other people you are grouped with or choose to keep quite and just enjoy their jazz. Other adventures where you are grouped include chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Impenetrable Forest National park, golden monkey trekking and volcano hiking tours.

Ease of access & Getting Around
Rwanda is one of the few countries where you do not have to worry about accessibility. Kigali International airport is located in Kigali capital city. Also, distance from the airport to most tourist destinations such as Volcanoes National park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas is short and untiring. The driving time from Kigali to Volcanoes is roughly 3 hours, which makes connectivity and accessibility very easy. Also, there are several means of transport in Rwanda connecting to different corners of the country. You can move around Rwanda using public or private means at affordable prices. You can try bargaining to avoid being cheated.

Hospitable people
Rwanda is known for having hospitable people! The country majorly comprise of two tribes, which are the Hutu and Ttusi. The wide genuine smiles o these local people make them sociable and friendly to catch-up with. Try to be open to people, associate with locals where possible and you will love it

Pocket friendly and safe lodges/Hotels
For pocket friendly and safe lodging services, Rwanda has got you covered. The country has a variety budget, midrange and luxury lodges, hotels and campsites to offer you excellent food and sleeping services. For solo travelers, you can book a single room in any of the many Rwanda lodges at affordable rates. The categories of the lodge and room type you book depend on your budget and interests. Amazingly, you can meet up and converse with other travelers sleeping at the lodge especially at dinner, which is served at the same time. Also, most lodges/lodge rooms are next to each other. A solo traveler will therefore be near other travelers in the next room not isolated alone.

Top travel experiences in Rwanda
There are key travel experiences you should not miss on your Rwanda safari. These activities and attractions have been reviewed as a must do for anyone visiting Rwanda. These include:

Mountain Gorilla Trekking
Do not miss the memorable gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda. Gorilla trekking is the most done travel experience, which bring the highest number of travelers to this small country. The country is home to the highest gorilla population Virunga Massif. The park is believed to host over 500 mountain gorillas, which have been habituated for trekking. Rwanda Development Board manages gorilla tourism in Rwanda and each permit costs $1500.

The list of Gorilla groups in Rwanda include

1. Susa A gorilla family
2. Karisimbi gorilla family
3. Amahoro gorilla family
4. Titus gorilla family
5. Sabyinyo gorilla family
6. Umubano gorilla family
7. Kwitonda gorilla family
8. Agashya gorilla family
9. Hirwa gorilla family
10. Ugenda  gorilla family
11. Bwenge gorilla family

In 2017, Rwanda doubled its gorilla permit cost from $750 to $1500 making it one of the luxury gorilla safari destinations. African Apes Tours & Travel can help you book and reserve a Rwanda gorilla permit.

Chimpanzee trekking
Go chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park with Superfine Safaris Limited. Trek to see and spend time with the endangered chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest located in southwestern Rwanda. You can choose to trek in the main Nyungwe forest of in Cyamudongo Forest, which was separated, from the main forest by deforestation.

Game Viewing
Enjoy scenic game viewing experience to see the “Big Five” in Akagera National Park. Guided morning, evening and night game drives help you locate a variety of wild animals, which live in this Savannah park.

Mountain Climbing
If you are an adventure traveler, try volcano climbing in Volcanoes National Park. Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke are the major hiked volcanoes in this park offering you a lifetime experience. Our 2 Days Mt Karisimbi hiking tour offers you chance to stand and stay overnight at the summit of the highest volcano in the Virginia Conservation Area. More so, you can hike Mt Bisoke which can be conquered in one day. Interestingly, the lower slopes of both volcanoes are covered by rain forests, which shelter the endangered mountain gorillas and other primates.

Lake Kivu
Chilling on the shores of Lake Kivu soothes you after a long hike or primate trek. Lake Kivu can therefore be your last destination in Rwanda to refresh and regain energies lost in the tiring adventures. Enjoy a cruise to any of the islands at Lake Kivu is an interesting experience which offer you beautiful views of Rwanda’s rolling hills and local communities. Other activities to do at Lake Kivu include sun bathing, Sport fishing, Kayaking, Coffee tours, birding and mountain biking among others.

Conclusively, Rwanda is a safe place for solo travelers! a combination of safety and interesting travel experiences make this Rwanda an exceptional destination to explore. Superfine safaris is your best ground handling company in Rwanda

Apes tours are one of the not miss travel experiences  on your gorilla safaris in Africa. YES, you ought to visit and spend ample times with the endangered apes in the jungles of Africa! A close encounter with great apes in the natural habitats has been ranked as one of the best wildlife experiences in the world. In this documentary, we bring you details and guide to Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo tailored  by Superfine Safaris Limited

Where to do Apes tours in Africa
If you are interested in visiting apes on your African safari, you have to visit any one of these destinations for a close encounter with the endangered apes. In Uganda, the best places for ape trekking are Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, Kyambura gorge, Budongo forest and Kalinzu forest. In Rwanda, apes live in Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe Forest National Park while in Congo, ape trekking is done in Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega National Park. A combined apes safari to more than one national park offers you accurate comparisons and a lifetime experience.

Which animal to see on your African Apes tour?
Apes safaris entail visiting a variety of Apes in different habitats in East and Central Africa. Among the apes you will see include:

Mountain Gorillas
Mountain gorillas rank as the top visited apes in Africa. The endangered primates are a subspecies of the eastern gorilla, which attract a high number of primate lovers to Africa. The best places to see mountain gorillas are Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and the Virunga Conservation Area comprised of Mgahinga in Uganda, Volcanoes in Rwanda and Virunga National Parks in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The cost of seeing mountain gorillas in different in each country. Rwanda sells the most expensive gorilla trekking permits at $1500 followed by Uganda at $800 and then DR Congo at $450. A mountain gorilla permit is a must have for anyone visiting the endangered species and booking is recommended at least 6 months before the trekking date. Altogether, there are roughly 38-habituated gorilla families in Africa, 20 in Uganda, 10 in Rwanda and 8 in Congo. 8 people per day visit each gorilla family for strictly an hour. African Apes Tours & Travel helps you book permits and customize a gorilla safari package of your choice at budget friendly costs.

Eastern Lowland Gorillas
Visit Kahuzi Biega National Park in Eastern Congo to visit the critically endangered eastern lowland gorillas. Scientifically called Grauer’s gorilla, eastern lowland gorillas is the largest gorilla sub specie and also the largest living primate in the world. The stocky body, short muzzle and large hands distinguished Eastern Lowland gorillas from other gorilla species.

Western Lowland Gorillas
This is the smallest gorilla specie in the wild distinguished from other species by the brown grey coats and the small size. Poaching and habitat loss greatly affected the sustainability of western lowland gorillas in the world. Its believed that in the past 20 to 25 years, the population of western lowland gorillas has reduced by over 60% despite the continued efforts to restore them. Western lowland gorillas is sub specie of the western gorillas which live in the montane forests of Angola, Gabon, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea and the Central African Republic. Unlike other gorilla species, western lowland gorillas survive in zoos and captivity.

Cross-river gorillas
Also a sub specie of the western gorilla species, cross river gorillas live in the lowland and rain forests of Nigeria and Cameroon. Their population has been greatly affected by poaching and loss of habitat loss due to human encroachment.

Besides gorillas, you will see other apes in Africa such as;
Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)
Visit and trek the endangered chimpanzees on your Africa Apes Tours. The best places to see chimpanzees in Africa include Kibale Forest National Park (the primate capital of Africa) in western Uganda and Nyungwe Forest National Park in southwestern Rwanda. The other places where chimpanzees live include Kyambura gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kalinzu Forest, Budongo Forest in Uganda, Gishwata Mukura National Park in Rwanda and the Lwiro chimpanzee sanctuary in Congo

Golden Monkeys
Go golden monkey trekking in Uganda and Rwanda with Superfine Safaris. The prime places to see these lively and playful primates are Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in southwestern Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda. Like in gorilla and chimpanzee safaris, monkeys live in groups headed by the alpha male. Golden monkey permits cost $100 allowing you to spend an hour with the endangered primates.

Other primates to see in Africa include
Human beings
Red tailed monkeys
Black and white colubus
Grey cheeked monkeys
Olive baboons
Blue Monkeys
L’Hoest Monkeys
Vervet monkeys
Uganda Red Colobus
Pottos
Demidoff Galago
Mangabeys
Guenon

What to pack for Africa Apes Tours
The fact that Apes live in dense forested areas, travelers visiting must be ready for the jungle. The search for primates up and down hill is not a walk away but rather a strenuous adventure, which require proper dressing and readiness. The things you should pack for your ape safari in Africa include hiking boots for easy movements in the jungle, gardening gloves to protect your hands, sunglasses, rain jacket, hat, sweaters and a scarf. Also, remember to carry insect repellants to avoid poisonous bites by forest insects and first aid kit. Also, remember to carry enough drinking water and energy giving snacks since the actual time to spend in the jungle is not certain.

What is the best time for African Ape tours?
Dry season is the best time to visit apes in Africa. This period is in June, July, August, September, December, January and February. This time general dry with less r no rains. This makes it easier to trek through the dense forest where these endangered primates live. Dry season is also called peak season and it’s characterized by high demand for travel. Gorilla and chimpanzee permits normally sell off early in the peak season, which require travelers to book far way in advance.
Conclusively, Superfine Safaris offer you a great encounter with the man’s close relatives. Book now, meet face to face with the endangered primates and enjoy this lifetime experience.

YES, Uganda is now fully open for tourism! As the ear 2022, begins, Uganda the Pearl of Africa has fully opened all its land borders and Entebbe International Airport encouraging and welcoming travelers from all over the world. Come and explore the hidden gem in Uganda on our tailored Uganda safaris with Superfine Safaris. Following several travel bans and restrictions to Uganda due to the continued spread of corona virus, Uganda has now opened fully for all those who want to visit regardless of the existence of the deadly corona and Omicron virus. All other sectors such as transport and education have also been fully opened to operate in Uganda with no limitation. For the last two years, transport in Uganda has been operating on half capacity, which disrupted transport in the country. However with the full reopening, you can now easily travel to any part of the country at any time on air, land or water. Curfew time has also been lifted except for boda boda who stop working at 7:00pm.

Mandatory coid19 testing at Entebbe airport and land Borders
Travelers entering to Uganda through any entry point are subjected to mandatory testing for covid19. After testing, travelers are allowed to check into their hotels in Kampala or Entebbe waiting for the results.

Requirements for travelers to Uganda
Whereas Uganda is now open for tourism, the ministry of health requires negative covid19 test results from all travelers entering and leaving Uganda. A valid covid19 vaccination certificate is required for all people coming in to Uganda. Any traveler with no vaccination certificate and the negative test results will not be allowed into Uganda.

Travel Guidelines to Uganda amidst Covid19
The fact that Covid19 and the Omicron Virus is still existing in Uganda, travelers on Uganda safaris are advised and reminded to keep observing the standard Operating procedures to ensure safety. The travel guidelines to and in Uganda include face masking, keeping a distance, vaccination, avoid crowded places, hand washing, sanitizing and temperature screening among others. Travelers who feel any signs of covid19 such as headache, soar throats, fever and cough are kindly advised to stay back to ensure safety for themselves and other people they might come in contact with.

What you should not miss in Uganda!
Having made up your mind to visit Uganda, African Apes Tours guides you on the interesting travel experiences you should not miss in Uganda. These outrank the others in offering lifetime memories. These include:
1. Go gorilla trekking: Ranked as the number one travel experience, mountain gorilla trekking is undeniably a not miss on your Uganda safari. The Pearl of Africa is home to the world’s highest number of mountain gorillas, which make it a prime gorilla tours destination. The endangered species dwell in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks both found in southwestern region. A permit to trek Uganda gorillas costs $700 for foreign non-residents, $600 for foreign residents and 250,000 Uganda shillings. You can book through Superfine Safaris, your trusted gorilla safari company in Uganda or through any other trusted company.

2. Game safaris: Do not miss excellent game safaris in Uganda to explore the big and free game in the Uganda’s wilderness. Uganda game safaris take place n savannah National Parks that include Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park and Lake Mburo National Park. Game viewing in each park is unique in its own kind in terms of wild animals to see, location and the add on activities. Game viewing is best done in the morning and evening hours when animals are actively feeding. Explore a variety of wild animals including Buffalos, Elephants, Lions, Leopards, cheetahs, Zebras, Giraffes, Waterbucks, Warthogs, Oribis, Uganda Kobs, Roan Antelopes, wild pigs, serval cats and Topis among others. Enjoy lively moments when predators chase, hunt down and feat on their preys. The drive through Ishasha sector in Queen Elizabeth National Park home to the famous tree-climbing lions seen chilling up in the acacia trees. Interesting each game park offers additional experiences such as boat cruise, nature walks, and birding which complement game viewing to make a complete package.

3. Chimpanzee Trekking: Chimpanzee trekking is yet another interesting experience you should not miss doing in Uganda. Visit to trek the endangered chimps in Kibale Forest to have a close encounter with primates that share over 90% of human genes hence your close relatives! The human like social characters of chimpanzees make them interesting creatures worth visiting. Besides Kibale Forest, chimps in Uganda can be found in Budongo Forest, Kyambura gorge, Kalinzu forest and Ngamba Island. Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest is complemented by nature walk/ bird watching in Bigodi wetland and community tour to experience the traditions, norms, practices and customs of local people.

4. Bird watching: Uganda the Pearl of Africa shelters some rare birds, which are hardly found somewhere else in the world. The small country is therefore a best place for bird watching guided by African Apes Tours. Among the rare and famous birds to see in Uganda include the shoebill stork seen in Mabamba bay wetland, the lesser and greater flamingoes at lake Munyanyange in Queen Elizabeth National Park. A boat cruise at Kazinga channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park is a chance to see birds such as African Kingfisher, African finfoot, White egrets, Yellow billed stork, Black bee eater, Pied Kingfisher, African Skimmer, Pink backed Pelican, Common Ringed Plover, Malachite Kingfisher, Pelicans, African fish eagle and Pied Kingfisher among others. Other important birding areas in Uganda include Lake Mburo, Semliki Valley Park, Bwindi Forest, Mabira Forest, Murchison Falls Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Each Park shelters different bird species making your long Uganda birding trip memorable.

5. The other amazing things in Uganda include cultural tours, mountain climbing, golden monkey trekking, chimpanzee habituation, mountain gorilla habituation experience, nature/Forest walks and camping. A combination of these makes a complete Uganda safari package offering you a lifetime experience.

In general, Uganda is fully open for tourism! You can now visit Uganda and explore the hidden gem in all corners of the country with Superfine Safaris.

Rwanda is now open to travelers from all over the world! Despite covid19 that still exists in Rwanda, the Land of a thousand hills has opened her borders and airport for travelers from all parts of the country. Kigali International airport is open for all arrivals to Rwanda for gorilla trekking, meetings, conferences and wildlife safaris. However, given the continued existence of the deadly corona virus, the government of Rwanda together with tourism and conservation bodies have put several measures to cub the spread of the virus between persons. African Apes Tours and Travel brings you the updated measures for travelers to Rwanda to ensure a peaceful and enjoyable Rwanda safari experience. These include among others:
1. Mandatory Negative Test results: All travelers arriving in Rwanda MUST have negative covid19 test certificate which is performed within 72 hours before departure to Rwanda. The only allowed covid19 test results in Rwanda are the SARS-COV 2 real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR). All other tests will not be allowed at the airport or any border entry point into Rwanda. However, accompanied children aged 5 years and below are not subjected to mandatory covid19 testing upon arrival in Rwanda.
2. All travelers arriving in Rwanda must fill in the passenger locater form for easy follow-up. The information put in this form should be valid and updated. In some cases, travelers are asked to attach the vaccination certificate on the passenger form
3. All travelers to Rwanda are tested upon arrival at Kigali International Airport. Covid19 testing in Kigali costs $60. The actual cost for corona virus is $50 plus the $10 for airport logistics. You can pay either online or in cash. However, cash payments are done in local currency which s Rwanda francs(Rwf)
4. After testing, travelers are not fully vaccinated are asked to wait for 24 hours at their hotel
5. Unvaccinated travelers transiting for more than 12 hours via Rwanda will be screened upon entry and asked to take a second RT-PCR test on arrival and wait for results at their designated hotels
6. During your stay in Rwanda, travelers are reminded to observe all the covid19 Standard Operating Procedures such as obtaining social distance, wearing face mask, sanitizing, hand washing and avoiding hand shaking among others.

Safe Travel Tips for families during covid19

If you are traveling as a family of grand parents, parents and children, Check the following safety travel tips to ensure a safe and less challenging experience in Rwanda, Uganda and other African countries.
• If possible leave the elderly family members behind when going for a safari. Covid19 easily spreads to the elderly whose immune system is weak making them susceptible to the deadly virus
• Avoid close contacts with other people you find on the trip. While on the safari, you will probably met and interact with other people on the plane and in some tour experiences such gorilla safaris and boat cruising where people are grouped together. in such scenarios, avoid close contacts with the other people you will find on the trip
• Avoid flights with multiple stopovers to avoid interactions
• If any member of your family ha just recovered from covid19, please leave him/her behind
• Travelers who are not fully vaccinated should not f go for a family trip. Unvaccinated travelers stand high risks of contracting the virus
• Avoid traveling in peak seasons when ether are crowds of travelers
• Family members who are on medication should come along with the drugs
• Ensure that all family members are fully vaccinated against the virus
• Avoid visiting crowded places where social distancing is difficult
• Carry along the vaccination certificates for all family members.

Top travel activities to do post covid19

Superfine Safaris brings you the list of top travel activities to begin with on your post covid19 travel to Uganda, Rwanda, Congo and the rest of Africa. These include:
1. Mountain gorilla trekking done Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park ad the Virunga Conservation Area
2. Game Viewing in the savannah Parks of Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya & Tanzania
3. Great wildebeest Migration in Tanzania & Kenya
4. Mountaineering to the summit of the active Nyiragongo Volcano, the snow caped Mt Rwenzori and the tallest free standing Mt Kilimanjaro
5. Cultural tours to meet locals and experience the traditions, norms and customs of Africa’s indigenous tribes
Conclusively, the norm of travel during covid19 has surely changed compared to the past. The deadly virus still exists and travelers are reminded to be cautions when traveling to ensure safety and enjoyable safaris

Travels are now allowed almost in all countries across the world. Yes, most countries have lifted lockdown and eased travel restrictions to make it easy for travelers. However, where as traveling is accepted, the initial norm of traveling has changed! Covid19 is still existing and killing people which require travelers to be extra careful when traveling to avoid any spread of the deadly virus. Those planning safaris to Africa are advised to keep updated with the latest travel restrictions, guidelines and requirements to avoid any disappointments ion reaching the destination. Each country has different covid19 travel guidelines which a traveler should understand before arriving in the new destination. Superfine Safaris, your trusted travel agent in Uganda, Rwanda and East Africa brings you the detailed expert tips for safe travel during Covid19. These are:

Understand the rate of covid19 in your destination
Before conforming any safari to a destination, first confirm the rate of covid19 in that country you are visiting. Check the levels of covid19, the accumulating number of positive cases, the death number and recoveries. This gives you clear picture of how safe or unsafe the destination you are visiting is. Any country with cumulative positive covid19 cases is not safe for you. You are therefore advised to be careful when you are visiting such a place. Whether vaccinated or not, travelers are advised to avoid traveling to destinations with high rates of covid19 to avoid the risk of contracting the virus and spreading it to their family members and friends.

Known the travel restrictions in the destination you are visiting
Travelers are also reminded to extensively understand the travel restrictions in the destination they intend to visit. Understand which activities are allowed in your destination, the allowed time of travel, the dos and don’ts in the area you are visiting. Also, try to adhere to the travel guidelines in the destination such as wearing face masks, sanitizing, which places are open and those still closed for tourism.

Know the required Tests and Vaccination
You should also understand the tests required in the destination you are visiting. Some destinations allow travelers who are fully vaccinated while others require testing upon arrival. Some of the common covid19 tests include PCR and the Antigen fit among others. Travelers are also advised to check the destinations public health requirement website to confirm which tests are required. More so, try to test in time so as to avid anxiety and high charges of last-minute testing.

Choose safe activities
Endeavour to choose and book safe activities for your postcovid19 African safari. Travelers are advised to avoid risky activities especially those which include large crowds that expose them to the Virus. Avoid indoor activities such as partying in bars which host crowds of people with limited social distancing. Some of the recommended post Covid-19 travel activities include mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Only 8 people are allowed to visit each gorilla family and 2 meters distance advised between travelers. Other safe activities include game viewing done in the open parks of Africa.

Stay Safe when Flying
Much as Flights are known for less covid19 transmissions due to the flirted and circulated airs, the mode of transport is not 100% safe. A crowded plane can easily make it for you to contract the deadly virus. Travelers are therefore advised to be cautious and careful during flights. Remember to keep your face mask on, sanitize and wash your hands with clean running water before, during and after your flight. Also, avoid using traditional boarding passes which involve exchanges.

Other travel guidelines Amidst covid19
Keep a distance of at least 2 meters between you
Keep your face mask on. The mask should fully cover your nose and mouth
Avoid touching your eyes
Sanitize your hands with alcohol-based content
Do not crowd yourselves
Wash your hands with clean running water and soap for at least 20 seconds
Travel only when its necessary
In conclusion, safe travel is all you need for your post covid19 African Safari. Check with Superfine Safaris for expert tips on safe travel during Covid19.

Post covid19 travel questions to Uganda and Rwanda and their answers. The tourism industry is currently open and travelers are allowed to move across countries visiting different attractions and doing various activities of their choice. In 2020 when Covid19 was at its peak, most countries locked down and restricted travelers from moving from one country to the other. Each country strived to do all it takes to contain the spread of the virus and there was some relief and a decrease in death rates and new cases. Thereafter, countries started reopening slowly for tourism but with strict restrictions and great emphasis on the Standard Operating procedures. Apparently, most countries are open for incoming travelers. In this article, we are focusing on common questions asked by post covid19 travelers to Uganda, Rwanda, and the whole of Africa. The commonly asked questions for post covid19 gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris in Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Africa in general

Is Uganda and Rwanda Open for tourism
YES, travelers can now visit Rwanda and Uganda with no restrictions. Both Entebbe and Kigali International airports are open for travelers. However, land borders between Uganda and Rwanda are still closed meaning that travelers cannot cross over to either country using road transport. You can visit each country separately for now.

Do Vaccinated travelers need testing?
No, travelers who are fully vaccinated for coronavirus are not required to test again upon arrival at Kigali or Entebbe International Airports. Travelers are advised to carry their vaccination certificates and the PCR test results are taken at least 72 hours before arrival at the respective airport. Travelers arriving in Rwanda are required to fill the Public Health Passenger Locator Form giving details about the client for follow-up where need be. The form can be found at www.rbc.gov.rw/travel

What should travelers do before visiting Uganda or Rwanda?
Travelers planning to visit Uganda and Rwanda are advised to first vaccinate for covis9 and do several tests to confirm negative covid19 results. You are also advised to apply for your visas online to save time on the day of arrival. Fortunately, travelers visiting Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya can use a single East Africa Visa which allows them to move freely in these countries without applying again.

Where do I test for covid19 in Uganda and Rwanda?
The respective ministries of health in Uganda and Rwanda have gazetted various hospitals and medical centers where travelers can test for covid19 upon arrival. You can test right at the airport or drive to the nearby recommended hospital as guided by your driver guide from African Apes Holidays.

Will I be allowed to move before my test results are out?
You are not allowed to start off a safari to a national park and other tourism destinations in Uganda and Rwanda before receiving your test results. Travelers are advised to stay at their hotels as they wait for the results.

What if I test positive?
If any traveler tests positive for covid19 upon his/her arrival at Entebbe or Kigali international Airport, he or she will be put in quarantine and taken through treatment at his/her budget. This means that a traveler who tests positive for covid19 will not be allowed to proceed with the safari

What is the cost of a PCR test?
A PCR test costs between $55 and $65 per person depending on which medical Centre you use and the urgency. Travelers are advised to test for covid19 from recommended hospitals and medical centers as advised by the government. This saves you from fraudsters who may give you inaccurate information.

How long does it take for PCR results to come out?
The estimated time for PCR test results to be put is between 1 to 4 hours in Rwanda and Uganda. However, in upcountry areas, results can take longer due to slower laboratory systems. Test results are delivered via email or watsup. Travelers who want hard copies can pick them up from the hospital where they do testing

Do I need a Covid19 Test before departure?
YES, travelers departing from Rwanda and Uganda are mandated to re-test for covid19 to ensure no positive case departs the country. You can test for covid19 a day before your departure

What is the situation at Lodges and hotels?
All hotels and lodges accommodating travelers in Uganda, Rwanda, and other East African countries are encouraged to observe and keep the Standard Operating Procedures to ensure safety. Temperature screening is a mandate at the hotel, hand washing and sanitizing are highly encouraged at all lodges.

Are gorillas and chimpanzees open for trekking?
YES, travelers to Uganda and Rwanda are allowed to trek gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Mgahinga gorilla and Volcanoes National parks. However, travelers going for gorilla trekking MUST wear face masks, sanitize, wash hands, must be negative for covid19, and keep a 10 meters’ distance away from the endangered gorillas. Rwanda is still offering discounted gorilla permits to foreign residents at $500 a huge discount from the initial $1500 and $200 for East African citizens. These discounted rates are valid till 2022. Also, visit and trek chimpanzees in Kibale Forest Uganda and Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda with African Apes Tours & Travel. Gorilla permit bookings in Uganda and Rwanda are recommended at least 6 months prior to the trekking date.

Are porters are allowed?
Apparently, porters are not allowed in gorilla and chimpanzee trekking experiences. This is to limit the number of people in a group so as to ensure social distancing. Travelers are therefore advised to carry light baggage that does not need a porter. However, if it’s a special case, a porter can be allowed.

Are travelers affected by a curfew in Uganda and Rwanda?
NP, whereas other people are subjected to curfew beyond 7:00 pm, travelers are not affected. Driver guides who have pickups and drop-offs are not stopped by traffic regardless of the time. Travelers can therefore be picked and dropped at their hotels and the airport any time of the day and night. However, night activities such as nightlife in bars and game viewing in National Parks are currently restricted.
Conclusively, traveling to Uganda and Rwanda is currently not restricted. For any travel advice and bookings, contact us at African Apes Tours.

Can mountain gorillas get covid19? YES, mountain gorillas can contract the deadly covid19! Most people planning to travel for gorilla safaris in Africa ask whether mountain gorillas can get covid19. YES, the endangered mountain gorillas can easily contract the deadly coronavirus if precautions are not followed. For that case, all travelers coming for gorilla trekking MUST test negative for covid19 before they are permitted to visit the endangered gorillas. Upon arrival at the airport, travelers are asked to present the negative covid19 test results taken 72 hours before arrival. Mountain gorillas share over 99% of human genes which make them man’s close relatives. The close relativeness of mountain gorillas and people makes the endangered species susceptible to human diseases especially communicable diseases inclusive of covid19. Even after testing negative for covid19, travelers are encouraged to observe the Starboard Operating procedures, before and after meeting the endangered gorillas to avoid any risk of spreading the virus.

Can Selfie Taking transmit covid19 to gorillas?
Travelers are cautioned against taking selfies with mountain gorillas to avoid the spread of the virus. Some travelers have been seen taking pictures with the endangered mountain gorillas in the jungle. It’s undeniable that gorilla trekking is the best wildlife experience in the world which attracts the highest number of travelers to Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo which shelter the endangered gorillas. The fact that travelers only leave the jungle with only pictures and memories from the gorilla trekking experience, taking a selfie in the company of gorillas has been a target and wish for most travelers visiting to see gorillas. YES, we have seen lots of pictures for travelers who have taken selfie photos with gorillas. However, selfie-taking with gorillas exposes a high risk of contracting the deadly coronavirus to the endangered gorillas. It’s evident that most travelers taking selfies with the gorillas do not keep the seven to ten meters’ distance away from the endangered gorillas as advised by conservationists and gorilla park management. Therefore, selfie-taking with gorillas exposes high risks of spreading covid19 from travelers to mountain gorillas. Selfie-taking with gorillas is therefore highly discouraged in all post covid19 gorilla trekking safaris to Bwindi Forest, Mgahinga, Volcanoes, and Virunga National Park.

Guidelines for post covid19 gorilla trekking tours
The fact that gorilla trekking is open yet covid19 still roaming in gorilla safari destinations, conservationists and gorilla doctors have drafted the list of post covid19 gorilla trekking guidelines to ensure the safety of both travelers and the endangered gorillas in the jungle. The rules of gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo amidst covid19 include among others:
1. All travelers visiting gorillas MUST test negative for covid19. Upon arrival at the entry points (Kigali and Entebbe) international airports, travelers are undertaken through a PCR test to confirm they are free from the virus.
2. Travelers visiting gorillas are advised to have been vaccinated against covid9 before arriving in gorilla destinations
3. Mandatory face making for everyone visiting the gorillas
4. Mandatory hand washing at the start and during the hike to see gorillas. Different hand washing points have been put in gorilla parks to enable travelers to wash hands to avoid the risks of contracting and spreading the deadly virus
5. Sanitizing with alcohol-based content is highly recommended by all people visiting gorillas
6. Keep a distance of 10 meters away from the gorillas. This is to avoid close contact with the gorillas which can lead to the spread of the virus
7. Travelers any symptoms of covid19 such the high temperatures, flu, and cough are not allowed to trek gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo

Discounted gorilla permits in Uganda and Rwanda
Enjoy discounted mountain gorilla permits in Uganda and Rwanda on your postcovid19 gorilla tours in Africa. As a welcome back from travel restrictions, Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) in Uganda and Rwanda Development Board (RDB) in Rwanda is offering discounted gorilla permits to first come travelers visiting trek gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda respectively. Apparently, a single gorilla permit in Uganda costs $400 for foreign nonresidents, $300 for foreign residents, and UGX 100,000 for Ugandans and East African citizens. This far cheaper compared to the initial $700 for foreign nonresidents, $600 for foreign residents and UGX 250,000 for East African citizens. More so, Rwanda Development Board is offering discounted permits at $500 for foreign residents and $200 for Rwanda and East African citizens. However, foreign nonresidents to Rwanda still pay $1500 for each gorilla permit which makes it a luxury gorilla safari destination in Africa. In addition to cheap gorilla permits, Uganda Wildlife Authority is offering 50% discount on entrance fees to all national parks in Uganda

How and when to book gorilla permits?
Gorilla trekking permit booking in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo is recommended as early as possible to avoid disappointments. The advised time for booking gorilla permits is roughly 6 months before the trekking date. Regarding how to book, African Apes Holidays is your trusted gorilla safari company in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Contact us, inform us about your travel date and we shall have the rest done for you. We book and pick your gorilla permits and also design for you a tailor-made itinerary to suit your travel budget and time.

Which other animals are at risk of contracting Covid19?
Besides mountain gorillas, there are other primates that stand high chances of contracting the deadly covid19 if travelers do not follow the Standard Operating Procedures. These include chimpanzees who live in Kibale Forest Uganda and Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda. Like gorillas, chimpanzees are man’s close relatives which share over 99% of human genes. Orangutans also are at risk of getting covid19.
Conclusively, therefore, mountain gorillas can easily contract the deadly covid19 from travelers. All people visiting the endangered gorillas are advised to follow the Standard Operating Procedures, avoid taking selfies with the gorillas, and follow all post covid19 gorilla trekking guidelines.

Murchison Falls National park is one of Uganda’s largest and oldest with several mammals and over 450 different bird species recorded, Murchison Falls National Park is one of the places in Uganda. The park is located 305km from Kampala city on the Northwestern side of Uganda. It is approximately a 4 hours’ drive to reach Kampala. Some of the bird species at Murchison Falls Include; the rare Shoebill stock, Red-Throated Bee-eater, Red-Winged gray Warbler, African Jacana, Saddle Billed Stork, Secretary bird, Senegal Thick Knee, Swamp Flycatcher, Pied Kingfisher, Giant Heron, Denham’s Bustard, Malachite Kingfisher, Gray Crowned crested crane, Martial Eagle, Standard Winged Nightjar, Silver bird, Sandpipers, Long-toed plover, Black-headed Lapwing, Black-Billed Barbet, Yellow-Billed stock and Abyssinian Ground Hornbills among others. Discover birds in Murchison Falls Park with Superfine Safaris

Best time to do birding in Murchison Falls National Park
Birding at Murchison can be done at any time of the year but the best time is January to march which is a low season but with plenty of birds. If you are interested in Migratory birds, the best time for this is November to April. There are basically two seasons for vising any National park in Uganda especially for game viewings like Murchison Falls, Peak season and low season.

• Peak season
This is normally the period when the country is receiving less or no rains (dry season), this is the period between the months of November to March and June to September. The vegetation is relatively short in this period and visitors can easily spot their favorite game like the Buffaloes, lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, waterbucks, forest hogs, warthogs, Impalas, kobs, hippos and crocs are seen sunbathing on the shores of the waters, several antelopes and many bird species including the most sought bird the Shoebill Stock.

• Low season
This is also known to be a wet season with showers of rain at any time of the day. The beauty about this period is that the parks is not so crowded with other guests like in the peak season where you find many visitors surrounding a particular animal or group of animals. The visitors are free to watch their favorite wildlife without the big numbers since most of the visitors are not in the country waiting for peak season. The rains are never too much to stop activities like game viewing as you sit back in a 4WD safari car with a senior driver in control.

What to Carry for Birding at Murchison Falls National Park?
• Camera
• A pair of Binoculars
• Insect repellant
• Sunscreen
• Hut to protect your head from the hot sun
• Water and snacks
• Study shoes
• Rain Jacket
• Long trouser
• Long-sleeved shirt/blouse

Other things to do at Murchison Falls National Park
There are a number of tour activities to do at Murchison Falls National Park.
Game viewing
Murchison is Uganda’s largest and oldest national park; it shelters some of the most interesting wildlife in the world. Visitors who go to this park have a chance to have a game viewing experience in a morning or evening game drive. Our guide will take you to the best spots to watch the wildlife including; Giraffes, Buffaloes, elephants, lions, leopards, Uganda kobs, hyenas, wild dogs, warthogs, hippos, bushbucks and several antelopes and primates like baboons. A game viewing experience after birding will crown your entire trip as you watch your favorite wild animals in Murchison.

Launch a boat cruise launching
Murchison falls is one of the most attractive features at this park, the Nile forces itself into a 7-meter gorge before exploding into the bottom where the boat rides. This mighty falls are such a wonder as you watch the waters flash making a high sound before settling flowing downwards. you will enjoy the crocodiles resting on the river banks and the Hippos swimming in the freshwaters. Several water birds are seen around the river including the rare Shoebill stock. Several mammals are seen coming to drink on the river banks and some are captured by the mysterious crocodiles for dinner.

Hike to the top of the falls
The might falls is the greatest attraction of Murchison Falls National Park attracting thousands of travelers from all over the globe. The best place to watch the falls is at the top of it as you watch the falls with a mighty roar as the Nile plunges into a 7-meter gorge before exploding to the bottom forming a sailable stream.

There is no doubt that a comfortable, safe and friendly lodge is all you need to have an enjoyable Rwanda gorilla safaris. YES, sleeping well is one of the essentials for a successful and less stressing gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park. Are you ready for your gorilla tour to Rwanda and looking for the best lodges in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda? No worries, Superfine Safaris Limited  brings you detailed information on the  best hotels /Lodges  near Volcanoes National park?  With gorilla tracking ranking number one travel experience in Rwanda, choosing the best accommodation is highly recommended.

A variety of budget, mid range and luxury gorilla safari lodges have been established in and near Volcanoes National park to serve you with excellent food and sleeping services. After booking your permit to Rwanda, the next thing is to book for a accommodation according to your budget. Interestingly, Superfine Safaris  help you book and reserve your desired accommodation at a low cost.

The top lodges/ Accommodation in Volcanoes National Park

Bisate Lodge
If you are looking for luxury stay in Rwanda, Bisate Lodge is your best place to stay on your Rwanda gorilla tour in Volcanoes National Park. With six villas, Bisate Lodge is one of the newest lodges in Rwanda. Each villa offers you scenic views Rwanda’s rolling hills, Volcanoes Park and local farms. The villages are setup in a traditional way in a cone shape and thatched with local grass. Each Villa has a private balcony, sitting area, fore place and self-contained.

The restaurant serves all kinds of local and traditional dishes as asked by the traveler. The bar is fully stocked with all kinds of drinks, local and internationally. Food is served with a soft drink!. The staff at Bisate Lodge is always smart, ready and quick to ensure a quick service delivery system. Bisate Lodge is owned and managed by Wilderness Safaris who own several other luxury lodges in the whole world.

Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Located in the heart of Volcanoes National Park, Mountain gorilla view Lodge is yet another luxury and interesting place to stay on your gorilla safari in Rwanda. The lodge is in the foothills of Mt Karisimbi offering you great views of the mountain and the entire park.

The lodge has 30 spacious rooms each self-contained and with great views. Rooms have charging sockets and sitting area. The many rooms at Mountain Gorilla View Lodge is good for a family trip or a group of mates. In the evenings, the lodge brings traditional dancers to entertain visitors, which make the whole stay interesting and fun. Mountain gorilla view lodge is located near Kinigi Park head quarters, which make transfers easy.

Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
Located on the foothills of Sabyinyo Mountains, the Sabyinyo Silverback Gorilla Lodge is a spacious place to stay on your gorilla safari in Volcanoes National Park. The lodge is also called governors camp managed by the and beyond group of companies.

The polished wooden floors and traditional terracotta tile roofs make this lodge one of its own kind. The rooms at Sabyinyo silverback lodge can be arranged into single, double, twin, triple and family rooms to cater for all kinds of travelers. Both local and international foods and beverages are served at all times. The activities that can be done  while staying at Sabyinyo Silverback lodge include gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, cultural tours, bird watching and nature walks among others.

Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Located a short distance from Volcanoes National park, Da Vinci gorilla lodge is your best mid range accommodation for gorilla trekking in Rwanda. The lodge has 5 guest cottages, which can be arranged as single, double, triple and twin. Are you a small group of friends or a family? Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge offers you safe, comfortable and affordable accommodation services on your gorilla tour in Volcanoes Park.

The sitting lounge with fireplace is best for story telling and sharing. The fully stocked bar serving all kinds of local and international beverages is ever open day and night while the restaurant serves both local and international foods. You can do gorilla trekking, Karisimbi hiking, Bisoke hiking, community tours, golden monkey trekking and cycling while staying at Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge.

Singita Kwitonda Lodge
Do not miss staying at this luxurious Singita Kwitonda Lodge on your gorilla safari to Volcanoes National park. YES, the unique setup of this new lodge gives you many reasons of staying there. The lodge offers you great views of Muhabura, Gahinga and Sabyinyo volcanoes in the back view. The sleeping arrangements at Singita Kwitonda Lodge can be single, double, twin, triple and family depending on the interest of clients. The amenities at the lodge include gear room, fire places, in room massage, Private out door heated plunge pools, Free WIFI, Wine cellar and tasting, and the onsite Akarabo Nursey and garden.

Kinigi Guest House
Located in Kinigi a few meters from the park headquarters, Kinigi guest house is your best budget accommodation in Volcanoes National Park. The guesthouse has 20 rooms each with a private balcony, self-contained and with great views. The short distance to the briefing point gives you chance to enjoy your morning sleep unlike other lodges, which are located far from the briefing point.

Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
All constructed with bamboos, Le Bambou Gorilla lodge is a unique place to stay on your Rwanda gorilla tour. The lodge offers mid range food and accommodation services hence affordable for most travelers.

Le Bambou lodge has 21 rooms, both self-contained and with primate balcony’s. Rooms can be arranged as single, twin, double, triple and family as requested by the clients. The facilities at the lodge include restaurant, fireplace, bar, lounge, airport transfer and WIFi all over. Both local and international foods and beverages are served at all times.

Villa Gorilla

With four fully furnished cottages, Villa gorilla is a best place for small groups of mates. The fire place garzetted is good for aharing stories and travel experiences.
The other places to stay in Volcanoes National Park include:
Virunga Lodge
Mountain Gorilla Nest Lodge
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Best View Hotel
Mountain Gorillas’s Nest Lodge
Fraja Hotel
Garden palace Hotel
Gorilla Solution Lodge
Garr Hotel
La Paime Hotel
The list of lodges and hotels in Volcanoes National Park is endless. Contact Superfine Safaris, book your favorite lodge and enjoy your comfortable stay on your Rwanda gorilla safari.

People also ask

Are there gorillas in Volcanoes National park?

YES, there are gorillas in Volcanoes National park. The ark is one of the  four destinations which shelter the endangered gorillas in the whole of East and central Africa. Over 350 gorillas are believed to live in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National park and they are the major attraction that bring many people to this park.

How many gorilla families are in Volcanoes National park?

There are 10 gorilla families in Volcanoes National park which have been habituated and trained for trekking/. These  include Hirwa, Susa A, Karisimbi, Amahoro, Agashya, Umubano, Kwitonda, Titus and Pablo. Each gorilla family has unique features in terms of social behaviors, history of formation and location. Some families live in low altitude areas while other are found in high altitude areas. Each gorilla family in Rwanda is visited by eight people per day.

How much does it cost to see a gorilla in Rwanda?

Seeing gorillas in Rwanda costs $1500 for a permit. Each traveler going to see gorillas in Rwanda must have a valid gorilla permit bought at $1500 each from the Rwanda Development Board. However the cost of Rwanda gorilla safaris may increase if you add transport, accommodation, driver guide miscellaneous and other factors

How much does it cost to trek a gorilla in Virunga park?

Trekking gorillas in Virunga National pk costs $450 per permit. Congo gorilla tours are the cheapest among all African gorilla safaris.

Which National park has the most gorillas?

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park Uganda has the most gorillas in the world. The impenetrable Forest shelters half of the world’s total population. Gorillas in Bwindi Forest are split in the four gorilla regions, Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga which make up this amazing park.  21 gotilla families have been habituated for trekking in Volcanoes National park. These include Rushegura, Habinyanja, Nkuringo, Kutu, Kyaguliro, Busingye, Christmas, Katwe, Oruzogo, Nshongi among others.

What are the names of gorilla families in Rwanda?

The names of gorilla families in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National park are Hirwa family, Karisimbi Family, Umubano Family, Agashya Family, Amahoro Family, Pablo Family, Tutus Family and Kwitonda gorilla family.

How Many gorillas are in a gorilla family?

The number of gorillas in a gorilla family vary from family to family. The number ranges between 6 to over 30  gorilla members These comprise of silverback, juveniles, Black back and adult females

How many gorillas are in Bwindi Forest Uganda?

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park is home to over 500 mountain gorillas which live in 21 gorilla families.