How to plan a Uganda Gorilla Safari from Mombasa-Kenya Coastal Region

Planning a Uganda gorilla safari from Mombasa coastal region of Kenya is an exciting adventure that requires careful consideration and preparation. Whether you choose road or air transport, securing gorilla permits, booking accommodation, arranging transportation, and planning additional activities are essential steps to ensure a memorable and smooth gorilla safari experience. In this detailed guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of planning a Uganda gorilla safari from Mombasa, Kenya, covering everything from permit acquisition to safety precautions when encountering mountain gorillas.

Step 1: Secure a Uganda Gorilla Permit

The first and most crucial step in planning your Uganda gorilla safari from Mombasa is to secure a gorilla permit. These permits are in high demand, especially during the peak season, and they can sell out quickly. Here’s how to go about it:

Choose Your Date and Group Size: Decide when you want to embark on your gorilla safari and determine the number of people in your group. Keep in mind that gorilla permits are limited to a maximum of 8 people per gorilla family.

Check Availability: Contact a reputable tour operator like Iconic Africa Safaris Ltd or the Uganda Wildlife Authority to inquire about permit availability for your preferred date and group size. It’s crucial to secure your permits as soon as possible to avoid missing out.

Provide Personal Details: To reserve your gorilla permit, you’ll need to provide personal information such as nationality, date of birth, passport expiry date, and your full name as it appears on your passport. Ensure accuracy, as any discrepancies can lead to issues when obtaining your permit.

Step 2: Pre-book Accommodation

Selecting and reserving accommodation for your gorilla safari is a critical aspect of your planning. Gorilla permits are allocated based on the specific area within Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, so your choice of accommodation should align with your permit location:

Choose Your Accommodation Area: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers various accommodation options in different areas, including Buhoma in the North, Ruhija in the East, Nkuringo, and Rushaga in the South. Book accommodation that is convenient to your permit location.

Book Accommodation in Advance: Accommodations in the gorilla trekking areas can fill up quickly, especially during the peak season. After securing your gorilla permits, make accommodation reservations promptly to ensure you have a comfortable place to stay during your safari.

Step 3: Book Transportation to the Gorilla Safari Destination

Your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga National Park will typically begin from Entebbe Airport in Uganda. Here are your transport options:

Flights from Kenya to Entebbe: Flights from Mombasa to Entebbe Airport in Uganda operate daily at various times. Make sure to book your international flight to align with your gorilla safari schedule, as missing your flight can disrupt your plans.

Road Transport: Alternatively, you can choose road transport, which takes approximately 8 to 9 hours but offers scenic views along the way. This option allows for stopovers at various attractions, such as Lake Mburo National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Kibale National Park. During the peak season, securing transport can be competitive, so book well in advance.

Transfer Vehicles: If you choose to fly into Entebbe or Kajjansi Airstrip, you’ll need a transfer vehicle to reach Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrip, which are closer to the gorilla habitats. Coordinate your transfers to ensure a seamless transition.

Step 4: Reserve Additional Activities

While gorilla trekking is the main highlight of your safari, Uganda offers numerous other activities and attractions that you can combine with your gorilla safari experience. These activities may include chimpanzee tracking, exploring the source of the River Nile, cultural visits, game drives in national parks, and hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains. To avoid disappointment, reserve these activities well in advance to secure your spots.

Step 5: Choose the Best Time to Book Your Gorilla Safari

Gorilla safaris in Uganda are possible year-round, but the dry season is the preferred time due to favorable conditions:

Dry Season: The dry season typically falls in June, July, August, September, December, and January. During this period, there is less rainfall, and the mountain gorillas feed closer to the ground, making them more accessible. Trails in the forest are also drier and more passable, and there is high demand for gorilla permits, so book at least 6 months to a year in advance.

Wet Season (Low Season): The wet season offers a chance to find last-minute gorilla permits, but it comes with more rain and unpredictable weather. Availability may be more open, but demand remains high.

Step 6: Prepare Physically for Your Gorilla Safari

Gorilla safaris can be physically demanding due to the challenging terrain of the gorilla habitats:

Fitness Level: Ensure you have a reasonable level of fitness before embarking on the trek. Gorilla tracking may involve hiking on steep slopes or navigating through thick vegetation.

Follow Ranger Guidelines: During the trek, always follow the instructions of your ranger guide. They are experienced in gorilla tracking and will ensure your safety and the well-being of the gorillas.

Step 7: Understand Mountain Gorilla Behavior and Safety

Mountain gorillas are generally calm and non-aggressive but can exhibit signs of distress or anger. It’s essential to understand their behavior and follow safety guidelines during encounters:

Mountain Gorilla Behavior: Mountain gorillas are usually serene but may thump their chests, pull grass, hoot, or display other signs of anger when agitated. Stay calm and follow your ranger guide’s instructions to avoid disturbing them.

Departure Protocol: When leaving the gorilla group, walk away quietly to avoid appearing suspicious. Mountain gorillas are sensitive to sudden movements and loud noises.

Step 8: Be Aware of Age Restrictions

There is an age limit for participating in gorilla safaris in Uganda:

Age Limit: The minimum age for gorilla safaris is typically 15 years and above. Younger children may struggle with the challenging conditions and unpredictability of the trek.

Step 9: Understand the Cost of a Gorilla Safari

The cost of your gorilla safari can vary based on several factors:

Permit Cost: The primary cost factor is the gorilla permit, which varies for foreign nonresidents ($800 per person per trek), foreign residents ($700 per person per trek), and East African residents (300,000 Ugandan Shillings per person per trek).

Safari Package: The overall cost of your safari package will depend on the number of days, the level of accommodation (budget, mid-range, or luxury), and the activities you choose to include.

Additional Activities: If you opt for additional activities or experiences, such as chimpanzee tracking or cultural visits, these will incur additional costs.

Step 10: Embrace the Value of a Gorilla Safari

While the cost of a gorilla safari may be substantial, it is undoubtedly worth every penny:

Unique Experience: Meeting mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that connects you to these incredible creatures on a deep level.

Conservation Impact: Your permit fees contribute to the conservation efforts that have helped increase the mountain gorilla population from just 250 individuals in the 1980s to over 1000 today.

Step 11: Be Prepared for Variable Safari Duration

The duration of your gorilla safari can vary based on numerous factors, including the location of the gorilla group, weather conditions, and the pace of your trek. Be patient and prepared for varying trek times, which can range from a couple of hours to a full day.

Step 12: Understand Gorilla Family Allocation

Gorilla family allocation on the day of the trek is not based on specific criteria. It can depend on factors such as age, physical capability, and interests. Keep an open mind and embrace the adventure of whichever gorilla family you are allocated.

In conclusion, planning a Uganda gorilla safari from Mombasa, Kenya, requires careful preparation, from securing permits to choosing the right accommodation, transportation, and activities. By following these steps and guidelines, you can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable gorilla safari experience in the heart of Africa’s natural beauty.