THE JOURNEY
TO EXPLORE AFRICA
Experience Africa's wild landscapes, merging wildlife encounters and cultural adventures
highlighted by unforgettable gorilla encounters in the continent's heart.
Explore Top Destinations
Whether you’re fascinated by the diverse landscapes of Uganda, the captivating beauty of Rwanda, the wildlife wonders of Kenya, or the unique allure of Congo, we’ve got you covered. Our team meticulously evaluates each destination, considering safety, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Your journey with Iconic Africa Safaris promises not only unforgettable adventures but also the assurance that every destination has been handpicked with your enjoyment and satisfaction in mind.
Get Inspired for Your Next Trip
Our private-tailor-made experiences cover diverse safari routes, including the efficient gorilla tracking Uganda safari from Rwanda’s Kigali capital. We customize these tours to your preferences for destinations and accommodations. At Iconic Africa Safaris, we handle all fees and permits, manage transfers, and suggest optimal accommodations.
5 Days & 4 nights
Discounted Rwanda Primates Safari
Rwanda
5 Days & 4 nights
Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking Adventure
Uganda
2 Days & 1 night
Gorilla Tracking Experience in Rwanda
Rwanda
8 Days & 7 nights
Masai Mara, Gorilla & Chimpanzee Safari
Kenya
2 Days & 1 night
Luxury Bwindi Gorilla Safari Through Kigali
Uganda
3 Days & 2 nights
Fly-in Safari to Murchison Falls National Park
Uganda
The Cost of Gorilla Permit in Uganda 2024
The Cost of Gorilla Permit in Rwanda 2024
The cost of a single gorilla permit (known in full as a mountain gorilla tracking permit) in Rwanda is US$1,500 for visitors from outside Africa. This price is discounted to US$200 for citizens of Rwanda and other East African countries.
Single Day Ideas
These day trips are especially recommended for tourists who find themselves with spare time upon arriving in Uganda, often due to early flights, and are situated in Entebbe or Kampala. To make the most of your pre-tour time in these locations, we have curated suggestions on enjoyable activities and experiences. Whether it’s taking in the beauty of Entebbe or immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Kampala, our day trips offer a delightful way to enhance your overall Ugandan safari experience.
1 Day & 0 Nights
Ngamba Island Boat Excursion
Uganda
1 Day & 0 Nights
Entebbe UWEC Zoo
Uganda
1 Day & 0 Nights
Source of the Nile in Jinja
Uganda
Frequently Asked Questions
Mountain gorillas exist solely in three East African countries. To track gorillas, visit Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and two parks in southwestern Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These are the exclusive locations where you can experience mountain gorilla tracking in the whole world.
Iconic Africa Safaris Ltd guarantees year-round gorilla tracking, with popular choices during the dry months of June to December and Christmas season. Some may find tracking during the rainy season (March, April, May, November) challenging, but the gorilla experience remains unchanged. Choose any day for an unforgettable adventure, emphasizing the shared thrill regardless of weather conditions.
A gorilla permit is a special card issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority or Rwanda Development Board, allowing you to spend an hour with mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda) or Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda). Currently, Rwanda’s permit costs $1500 for non-residents, while Uganda’s permits for Bwindi and Mgahinga are $800 for non-residents, $700 for foreign residents and 300,000ugshs for East Africans.
The chances of seeing mountain gorillas in Uganda’s Bwindi National Park or Rwanda’s Volcanoes are very high at 98%. Gorilla trekking is well-organized, with advanced trackers locating gorillas each morning and guiding tourists to them. Communication ensures you don’t get lost, and if a gorilla family moves too fast, alternative options are provided. No need to worry, as the process is well-coordinated for a successful and enjoyable experience. Contact us for more details.
Gorilla tracking welcomes participants aged 15 and above, with no upper age limit. Even if you’re 95 or older, you can trek with mountain gorillas as long as you’re physically fit for a 3 to 6-hour hike in Africa’s dense forest. The focus is on the ability to walk/hike in the challenging terrain.
Get ready for your gorilla trek in Uganda and Rwanda by wearing trousers, long-sleeved shirts, and long socks tucked into your pants. Don garden gloves, a hat, and sunglasses. Don sturdy hiking boots and apply insect repellent. Bring energy-packed snacks for the trek. These precautions will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience as you explore the gorilla habitats.
Gorilla habituation experience is an activity in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park where tourists are allowed to stay four hours with mountain gorillas after paying USD1500.00 for a gorilla habituation permit. Gorilla habituation safaris are currently taking place only in Rushaga located in south of the park.
Yes, now disabled and elderly individuals can enjoy mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda and or Rwanda. Iconic Africa Safaris facilitates this experience for seniors in Uganda or Rwanda. They are matched with a gorilla family near the park headquarters. For those unable to walk far, we provide porters who carry them in a sedan chair into the forest for gorilla trekking, ensuring a memorable experience. Afterward, they are safely brought back to the starting point. This allows senior citizens, including the disabled and elderly, to partake in this exciting lifetime adventure.
Now, you can trek Uganda’s Bwindi gorillas via Rwanda by flying into Kigali International Airport. Choosing this route reduces travel time to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to 5-6 hours, much shorter than the 8-10 hours from Entebbe International Airport. Thanks to the East African tourist visa, you can easily visit both Uganda and Rwanda. Applying for a Rwanda visa upon arrival is now straightforward. The East African tourist visa costs USD100.00, allowing you to explore three countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and Uganda.
Each day, only a maximum of 8 individuals can visit a gorilla family in Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Volcanoes National Park in Uganda and Rwanda. Bwindi is home to 14 habituated gorilla families, with each family hosting a maximum of 8 visitors per hour. In certain situations, park management may exceed this limit, but they will provide explanations. For gorilla habituation, only 4 people are allowed to spend four hours with mountain gorillas undergoing habituation.
Uganda is often referred to as the "Pearl of Africa" due to its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Unlike many other destinations, it remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, offering a more authentic experience. Over time, it has become increasingly popular among adventure-seeking tourists who enjoy activities such as gorilla trekking, safari holidays, wildlife tours, cultural tours, and nature safaris.
Some of the notable attractions in Uganda include:
Queen Elizabeth National Park: Known for its rich biodiversity and opportunities for game drives and boat safaris.
Kibale National Park: Home to over 13 species of primates, including chimpanzees.
Rwenzori National Park: Famous for mountain climbing and diverse wildlife.
Semuliki National Park: Popular for bird watching.
Mt Elgon National Park: Renowned for its mountain climbing opportunities.
The duration of safari tours in Uganda can vary based on individual preferences and the destinations visited. Typically, a standard safari tour lasts around 3 to 7 days, allowing visitors to explore several national parks and wildlife reserves. For a more extensive experience, longer tours ranging from 10 to 14 days or more can include activities such as gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, and cultural encounters with local communities. There are also customizable options for those seeking shorter or longer durations tailored to their specific interests and schedules.
Uganda is considered one of Africa's safest and friendliest nations, offering a welcoming and secure environment for travelers. The country prioritizes security and stability, ensuring a favorable setting for visitors. However, as with any travel destination, it is important for visitors to exercise caution, familiarize themselves with local laws and customs, and follow travel advisories to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
The cost of safari tours in Uganda varies depending on factors such as the type of safari, duration, accommodation, and activities included. Budget safaris might start at around $500 per person for a short tour. Mid-range options could range from $1,000 to $3,000 per person for more comprehensive experiences. Luxury safaris, featuring upscale accommodations and exclusive experiences, can range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more per person. Prices can also fluctuate based on the season and the length of the safari.
