Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi – Uganda after AFCON 2027

After the excitement of AFCON 2027, taking part in a gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi or Mgahinga will be the perfect way to unwind. The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will take place in June and July, hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. It will be the first time this tournament is hosted by three countries. AFCON 2027 will be the 36th edition of this famous tournament. It is also the first time in 50 years that East Africa will host it. The games will be played in ten cities. Uganda’s host cities include Kampala, Lira, and Hoima. Kenya will host in Nairobi, Eldoret, and Kakamega. Tanzania will host in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Dodoma, and Zanzibar. Uganda, along with Kenya and Tanzania, will have the honor of showcasing their culture, sports, and wildlife. After the excitement of the football tournament, a unique adventure awaits in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, home to endangered mountain gorillas. Iconic Africa Safaris offers exclusive trekking experiences in these regions for an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is famous for its dense, mountainous forest. It is home to about 459 mountain gorillas, nearly half of the world’s total population. The park covers an area of about 331 square kilometers and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an exceptional destination for wildlife lovers. The park’s ecosystem supports over 120 mammal species, including forest elephants and chimpanzees, as well as over 350 bird species.

Bwindi’s rich biodiversity makes it a key destination for eco-tourism. The park is part of the Albertine Rift Valley, known for its steep slopes and valleys. These natural features make trekking a challenge, but the journey is rewarding. The park offers a variety of wildlife experiences. Besides gorillas, you can also see baboons, monkeys, and unique bird species. Bwindi’s isolated location on the edge of the Congo Basin adds to its appeal.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is one of Uganda’s most popular activities. The park has four main trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Each sector offers different trekking experiences, with varying levels of difficulty. Visitors typically start their trek early in the morning with a briefing at 7:00 AM. The trek can last anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the terrain and the location of the gorillas.

Once you are assigned a group, you will be guided through the dense forest by experienced guides. These guides work closely with trackers who monitor the gorillas throughout the day. Upon reaching the gorillas, you will be allowed to spend an hour with them. If you prefer more time, you can opt for the gorilla habituation experience. This special trek allows you to spend up to 4 hours with the gorillas, but the permit costs $1,500 compared to the regular $800 for one hour.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

If you’re looking for a different experience, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is another excellent location for gorilla trekking. This park, located in the Virunga Mountains, is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla group. Mgahinga offers a unique combination of wildlife, including golden monkeys, along with stunning volcano views. Visitors can also enjoy cultural encounters with the indigenous Batwa people and explore the Batwa Trail.

Besides gorilla trekking, Mgahinga is perfect for adventurous travelers interested in hiking and birdwatching. The park has over 75 mammal species and over 150 bird species, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

Gorilla Trekking at Mgahinga

Trekking at Mgahinga provides the chance to observe the Nyakagezi gorilla group, the only habituated gorilla family in this park. Similar to Bwindi, the trek begins early in the morning with a briefing. Trekkers are guided through the forest by expert guides, who have been in communication with trackers.

Like Bwindi, Mgahinga offers a chance to track mountain gorillas, but it also includes other exciting experiences, like golden monkey trekking and volcano hikes. These activities make Mgahinga a great alternative for those seeking variety in their gorilla safari experience.

When to Go for Gorilla Trekking

The AFCON tournament will occur during the peak season in June and July, making it important to book your permits early. It is advisable to reserve your permit 6 months to a year in advance to secure a spot. During peak times, the permits sell out quickly. The maximum group size for each trek is 8 people to minimize the impact on the gorillas and reduce the risk of disease transmission.

Getting to Bwindi & Mgahinga

Mgahinga is accessible by road or air. It is a 9-hour drive from Kampala. However, domestic flights from Entebbe International Airport to Kisoro Airstrip are available, offering a quicker option for visitors.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking requires preparation. The thick vegetation and muddy trails demand appropriate clothing. As Uganda is on the equator, expect rain at any time of year. Light, comfortable clothing is ideal, but it’s also important to protect your skin from the forest’s insects and thorny plants.

Essential items for your trek include:

• Sturdy waterproof trekking boots

• Lightweight waterproof pants

• Long socks to cover your legs

• A waterproof jacket or raincoat

• A long-sleeved shirt (preferably Dri-FIT or similar)

• Gardening gloves for protection from thorns

It’s also recommended to bring rehydration salts. Although water is provided, you may feel dehydrated after a long trek, and the salts help restore your energy. Walking sticks are also provided to assist with navigating the terrain.

The Rules of Gorilla Trekking

Before your trek, your guide will give you a briefing on the rules to follow. It’s essential to respect these guidelines for the safety of both trekkers and gorillas.

Key rules include:

• Maintain a 7-meter distance from the gorillas at all times.

• Flash photography is strictly prohibited.

• If you feel unwell, you cannot join the trek.

• Each group can only spend one hour with the gorillas unless you opt for the gorilla habituation experience, which lasts four hours.

These rules ensure the safety of both the gorillas and the visitors. The limited group size and the strict guidelines help minimize the risk of disease transmission.