How to plan Gorilla & Rwenzori Mountains Hike Combo
To plan a Gorilla & Rwenzori Mountains Hike combo, start by choosing which adventure you want to focus on more and how much time you want to spend on each activity. Both gorilla trekking and hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains are exciting but physically demanding experiences. You need to prepare well and arrange all bookings ahead of time. Look for tour operators like Iconic Africa Safaris that offer combined itineraries to help make your planning easier. You must also book your permits early because both gorilla trekking and Rwenzori hiking have limited permits. Preparing your body and gear will make your adventure safer and more enjoyable. This guide explains how to plan the trip, book permits, prepare for the activities, and where to stay during your safari.
Decide on the Order and Duration of Your Trip
You should first decide the order in which you want to do your activities. One good option is to hike the Rwenzori Mountains first and then go gorilla trekking. This order helps your body adjust to higher altitudes before the gorilla trek. Alternatively, you can start with gorilla trekking and then head to the mountains. This plan suits travelers who have less time. The duration for Rwenzori hiking varies greatly. It can be a short 2-4 day trek or a longer hike lasting up to 12 days. Gorilla trekking usually takes 1-2 days. You should plan your time carefully to avoid rushing or feeling tired during either activity.
Book Gorilla and Rwenzori Permits Early
You must book your permits early to secure a spot on both gorilla trekking and Rwenzori hiking trips. Gorilla permits are essential and sold through Uganda Wildlife Authority or trusted tour operators like Iconic Africa Safaris. These permits allow access to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Since permits are limited and sold quickly, booking 3 to 6 months in advance is necessary. For Rwenzori hiking, you also need permits. These can be bought through Rwenzori Trekking Services or the national park authorities. Early booking guarantees your access and helps you avoid disappointment.
Prepare Physically and Bring the Right Gear
Both hiking the Rwenzori Mountains and trekking gorillas require a good level of physical fitness. You should start training weeks or months before your trip to build stamina and strength. Rwenzori hikes involve walking through tough terrain, changing weather, and high altitudes. For the hike, pack sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, rain gear, and warm clothes for cold nights. For gorilla trekking, bring long-sleeved shirts, trousers, hiking boots, and a rain jacket. Staying dry and comfortable is important for both activities. If you are worried about altitude sickness, give yourself a day or two to adjust before starting the mountain hike.
The Rwenzori Mountains Hiking Experience
The Rwenzori Mountains offer one of the most exciting and challenging hikes in Africa. The mountain has several zones, including lakes, cliffs, glaciers, and snow-capped peaks. It became a national park in 1990 and a World Heritage Site in 1994. Later, in 2008, it was declared a Ramsar site for its important wetlands. The mountain is the highest in Uganda and offers two types of hikes. Low-altitude hikes last 2 to 4 days and do not go above 4,000 meters. High-altitude hikes are longer, ranging from 4 to 12 days, and take you to peaks above 4,000 meters.
Popular Hiking Routes on the Rwenzori Mountains
There are different trails to hike in the Rwenzori Mountains. The Southern Circuit, also called the Kilembe trail, is a newer route managed by Rwenzori Trekking Services. It has new huts and is ideal for those looking for adventure. The Central Circuit is the oldest and most popular trail. It passes through five vegetation zones and leads to Margherita Peak. This trail suits both beginners and experienced hikers. The Bukurungu trail is the newest and best for nature lovers. It passes many lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. Unlike other trails, the Bukurungu route has no huts, so hikers camp in safe designated areas.
Accommodation on Your Rwenzori Hiking Safari
You will find many accommodation options before and after your hike. These range from budget to luxury lodges. Some popular lodges include Margherita Hotel, Mihunga Safari Lodge, and Equator Snow Lodge. While hiking, you stay in huts built along the trails by Uganda Wildlife Authority. These huts offer warmth and rest after long days of trekking. Some huts are Nyabitaba, John Matte, Bujuku, Elena, Kitandara, and Guyeoman. Rwenzori Trekking Services runs eight clean huts on the Southern Circuit. They include Shine Hut, Kalalama Camp, Kiharo Camp, and Magherita Camp, among others.
Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Gorilla trekking is one of Uganda’s top safari activities. It mainly takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park. Bwindi has four trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga. The park has about 27 habituated gorilla families, so you need a permit to visit. In Bwindi, the gorilla habituation experience is in Rushaga sector and allows a longer time with gorillas. Mgahinga is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family. Both parks offer unique and rewarding experiences for visitors.
How to Get Gorilla Permits in Uganda
Gorilla permits are a legal requirement to see mountain gorillas. You must buy permits from Uganda Wildlife Authority or through a tour operator like Iconic Africa Safaris. Permits sell out fast, so book 3 to 6 months in advance. To book, send your preferred dates and personal details such as passport number. Once the permit is confirmed, you pay and receive proof of purchase. This process ensures you have official access to the gorilla trekking experience.
Gorilla Permit Costs in Uganda
Gorilla permits cost vary depending on residency status. Foreign non-residents pay $800 per permit. African citizens pay $500, while foreign residents pay $700. East African citizens pay 300,000 UGX. The habituation experience costs more because you spend more time with the gorillas. It is $1,500 for foreign non-residents, $1,000 for foreign residents and African citizens, and 750,000 UGX for East Africans. These fees help support conservation and protect the endangered gorillas.
Accommodation for Gorilla Trekking
You will find many lodges near gorilla trekking sites. Around Mgahinga National Park, options include Mount Gahinga Lodge, Mutanda Lake Resort, and Kisoro Tourist Hotel. Bwindi has lodges like Ruhija Gorilla Resort, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Chameleon Hill Lodge, and Gorilla Friends Lodge. These places offer comfort before and after trekking. Many lodges provide easy access to the park sectors and have good services for travelers.
Best Time to Combine Gorilla Trekking and Rwenzori Hiking
You can do this combined safari all year round. However, the best time is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February. These months offer safer and easier trekking conditions. The dry season reduces the risk of slippery trails and heavy rains. Planning your trip in these months improves your chances of a successful and pleasant adventure.
