Booking Nkuringo Gorilla Permits and Safari Holidays

Gorilla trekking in the Nkuringo area of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a truly exceptional adventure that allows you to come face to face with one of the world’s most majestic and endangered species, the mountain gorilla. This remarkable experience takes you deep into the heart of Uganda’s lush and dense rainforest, where you can observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about planning your gorilla trekking expedition in Nkuringo, from permit booking to accommodations and other activities you can enjoy in the area.

Overview of Nkuringo Area in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Nkuringo is one of the four gorilla trekking sectors within Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, covering approximately 327 square kilometers of thick, tangled vegetation draped over volcanic remains. This park is renowned for its rich biodiversity and is home to the critically endangered mountain gorillas, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

For administrative purposes, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park was divided into four areas: Buhoma, Ruhija in the northern sectors, and Rushaga and Nkuringo in the southern sector. Nkuringo, our focal point, offers a unique opportunity to trek with three distinct gorilla families: the Muhozi family, the Christmas family, and the Nkuringo family. This means that a total of 24 gorilla permits are available per day for visitors, allowing you to witness the beauty of these magnificent creatures up close.

Booking Your Nkuringo Gorilla Permits

To embark on this remarkable adventure, you must start by selecting a date for your gorilla trekking expedition. The duration of your trek depends on your available holiday time, but please note that the maximum duration for a gorilla tour in Uganda is three days. It’s essential to decide on the number of gorilla permits you wish to book in advance, as only a maximum of eight tourists is allowed to visit a gorilla family per day, especially if you are traveling with a large group.

To check the availability of gorilla permits in the Nkuringo area, you can enlist the services of a tour operator like Iconic Africa Safaris Ltd. They have access to the gorilla permit status list and can assist you in reserving gorilla permits as part of a comprehensive safari package. Alternatively, you can inquire directly with the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Once favorable availability is confirmed, it’s crucial to purchase your gorilla permit as soon as possible. These permits are in high demand, particularly during the peak seasons of June, July, August, September, December, and January. The supply is limited to eight permits per gorilla family, and they are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Therefore, early booking is highly recommended to secure your spot.

Additionally, you will need to provide some personal details for identification purposes on the day of the trek. These details typically include full names as indicated on your passport, nationality, date of birth, and passport expiry date. This information will be added to the gorilla permit card issued to you for identification during the trek.

Gorilla Permit Costs

Gorilla permits for the Nkuringo area are priced as follows:

• $800 per person per trek for foreign nonresidents
• $700 per person per trek for foreign residents
• 300,000 Ugandan Shillings for East African residents

The cost of the gorilla permit covers several essential components, including park entrance fees, ranger guide services, security during the trek, one hour of intimate interaction with the mountain gorillas, contributions to conservation efforts, and support for the local community.

However, it’s essential to note that the gorilla permit cost does not include transportation, accommodation, snacks, packed lunches, or any other personal expenses. Fortunately, Iconic Africa Safaris Ltd offers services to assist with booking accommodations, providing transportation, driver guide services, and tailoring your gorilla safari package to meet your specific budget and preferences.

When to Book Gorilla Safaris to Nkuringo Area

Gorilla trekking in the Nkuringo area is possible year-round, but it’s crucial to consider the weather conditions when planning your visit. The dry season, which typically falls in June, July, August, September, December, and January, is a popular time for gorilla trekking. During this period, the forest experiences less precipitation, making it easier to navigate the trails.

The drier conditions also lead to increased activity among forest dwellers, including the mountain gorillas, as they search for food. The dry season offers better visibility for spotting various wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and other creatures, which enhances the overall trekking experience.

However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the peak season during these dry months results in high demand for gorilla permits. Therefore, booking your permits at least 6 months to a year in advance is advisable to secure your spot and avoid last-minute disappointments.

Conversely, the wet season in Uganda, occurring in March, April, May, and November, presents a different set of challenges. The trails can become slippery due to unexpected rainfall, and there is less sunlight penetrating the dense forest canopy. Mountain gorillas tend to stay higher on the slopes during this time, avoiding the wet ground.

While gorilla trekking is possible in the wet season, it may require more physical effort and patience. Nevertheless, the dedicated trackers and rangers work diligently to locate the mountain gorillas each day, ensuring a successful trek. Even during the wet season, you still have a high probability of encountering these incredible creatures.

Assurance of Seeing Mountain Gorillas in Nkuringo Area

Regardless of the season you choose for your gorilla trekking adventure in Nkuringo, you can be highly confident of encountering the mountain gorillas. Mountain gorillas live in cohesive family groups, and their movements are carefully monitored by a team of experienced trackers and rangers.

Each day, these dedicated professionals wake up early to determine the whereabouts of the mountain gorillas and communicate their findings to park management. This information is invaluable in guiding the tourist groups to the gorilla families. Even if, by rare chance, you do not get to see the mountain gorillas during your trek, the Uganda Wildlife Authority has a refund policy in place. Under this policy, approximately 75% of the total permit cost is reimbursed to tourists who were unable to locate the gorillas.

Accommodation Options in Nkuringo Area

The Nkuringo area offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious lodge or a more budget-friendly option, you’ll find a suitable place to stay in this breathtaking region. Here are some of the accommodations available in the Nkuringo area:

1. Clouds Lodge: This upscale lodge offers stunning views of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and provides a luxurious and comfortable retreat for visitors.
2. Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge: Located just a stone’s throw away from the gorilla trekking starting point, this lodge offers comfortable accommodation with scenic views.
3. Ichumbi Lodge: This mid-range lodge provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a balance between comfort and affordability.
4. Bwindi Backpacker’s Camp: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, this camp offers affordable accommodation options without compromising on the unique gorilla trekking experience.
5. Rushaga Gorilla Safari Lodge: Situated in the nearby Rushaga area, this lodge provides a convenient alternative for those looking to explore the southern sector of the park.
6. Nshongi Camp: This budget-friendly camp offers simple and comfortable accommodation options for visitors on a tighter budget.
7. Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge: Nestled in the southern sector, this lodge offers a tranquil setting and comfortable lodging for guests.

Choosing the right accommodation depends on your preferences and budget, but each option ensures a memorable and immersive experience in the heart of gorilla country.

Getting to Nkuringo Area

There are two primary ways to reach the Nkuringo area: by road or by air.

By Road:

• If you opt for a road trip, you can take the route from Kampala to Kabale, covering a distance of approximately 414 kilometers. The journey takes about 5 to 6 hours and involves navigating winding roads through picturesque landscapes.
• From Kabale, you’ll need to travel an additional 105 kilometers to reach the Nkuringo area. This part of the journey takes roughly 4 hours and involves driving on mountainous Murram roads.
• Some travelers choose to stop in Kisoro town, which is about 80 kilometers from Kabale, and continue their journey the following day for an additional 35 kilometers, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. It’s important to note that a 4×4-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for navigating the rough terrain in certain areas.

By Air:

• For a quicker and more convenient option, daily domestic flights are available from Kajjansi Airstrip or Entebbe International Airport to Kisoro Airport. Once you arrive in Kisoro, you can hire a transfer vehicle to reach the Nkuringo area.
• Charter flight services are also available at Kajjansi airstrip and Entebbe Airport, but it’s advisable to make reservations in advance to ensure necessary clearances are obtained.

Both road and air travel offer unique experiences and allow you to appreciate the diverse landscapes of Uganda as you make your way to the enchanting Nkuringo area.

Duration of Gorilla Trekking in Nkuringo Area

The duration of a gorilla trek in the Nkuringo area can vary considerably due to several factors. These factors include the gorillas’ movements, such as conflicts with other gorilla families, the loss of a family member, particularly the dominant silverback, the availability of food, the pace of the trekking group, and other unforeseen circumstances.

It’s important to approach gorilla trekking with patience and a sense of adventure. The topography of the region includes highlands, plateaus, and ridges, which may require hiking at times. Ensuring you are in reasonably good physical shape before embarking on the trek can help prevent muscle strains and make the experience more enjoyable.

While the exact duration of the trek is unpredictable, it’s essential to remember that encountering mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that makes any challenges along the way worthwhile.

Can You Trek Mountain Gorillas in another area with a Nkuringo Gorilla Permit?

Gorilla permits for the Nkuringo area are specific to the families in that region. Using a Nkuringo gorilla permit to trek in another area of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is possible but subject to approval by park management. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind.

Staying overnight in a different area and hoping to use your Nkuringo gorilla permit for trekking in that area can be problematic. This is because each gorilla family is allocated a limited number of permits, and crossing from one area to another can be logistically challenging. Bwindi’s different sectors are not directly connected, and the journey may involve navigating challenging terrain, including fallen logs, car punctures, fog, slippery roads, and other obstacles.

To ensure a smooth gorilla trekking experience, it is advisable to spend the night before your trek within or close to the area where your gorilla permit is booked. This will help you avoid logistical complications and ensure that you do not miss out on the opportunity to trek with the gorilla family you have longed to see.

Challenges of Gorilla Trekking in the Nkuringo Area

Gorilla trekking in the Nkuringo area, like any adventure in a natural wilderness, presents certain challenges. It’s important to be prepared for these challenges to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

The Nkuringo area is characterized by its volcanic terrain, including ridges and plateaus, where mountain gorillas spend part of their time. The slopes of these highlands are covered in dense vegetation, which can be challenging to navigate. During the trek, ranger guides often use machetes to clear a path through the tangled vines, making it easier for visitors to locate the mountain gorillas.

Weather conditions can also pose challenges, especially during the wet season when rainfall is more frequent. The trails can become slippery, and rainproof gear is essential to stay dry and comfortable.

When packing for your gorilla trek in the Nkuringo area, it’s recommended to include items such as safari boots, a long-sleeved shirt, insect repellent, rain gear, and any other personal essentials to ensure you are adequately prepared for the adventure.

Other Activities in the Nkuringo Area

While gorilla trekking is undoubtedly the highlight of any visit to the Nkuringo area, there are other exciting activities to enjoy before or after your trek. Here are some options to consider:

1. Gorilla Habituation Experience: If you have extra time and want a more immersive experience, you can participate in the gorilla habituation experience. This adventure allows you to spend at least four hours in the company of a semi-habituated family of mountain gorillas, providing a deeper understanding of their behavior and social dynamics.
2. Birding in Nkuringo: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 350 bird species. While in the Nkuringo area, you can embark on birding excursions and spot fascinating avian species such as Handsome Francolin, Shelley’s Crimsonwing, Mountain Masked, and Chestnut-throated Apalises, Rwenzori batis, and white-tailed crested flycatchers.
3. Nkuringo Community Walk: Interact with the local communities near Nkuringo and gain insight into their traditional practices and way of life. You can visit traditional healers, explore rural homesteads, observe blacksmiths at work, and even learn about local brewing methods. This immersive experience allows you to connect with the people who live in harmony with the forest.
4. Nature Walks: Guided nature walks in the Nkuringo area offer an opportunity to explore the lush forest beyond gorilla trekking. You may encounter other captivating primates such as black and white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabey, blue monkeys, olive baboons, and more.