Includes and excludes in a normal gorilla trekking safari in Uganda and Rwanda

A gorilla trekking safari in Uganda and Rwanda is a remarkable adventure that allows you to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. To ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, it’s important to understand what is included and excluded in a typical gorilla trekking safari package.

Inclusions:

1. Gorilla Trekking Permit:

The most essential inclusion in a gorilla trekking safari is the gorilla trekking permit itself. In Uganda, there are currently 152 gorilla trekking permits available for public booking, while Rwanda offers 96 permits per day. It’s crucial to secure your permit well in advance, especially during the peak seasons of June-September and December-January when demand is high. Tourists often book permits as early as 6 months to a year in advance.

2. Accommodation:

Accommodation is typically included in the gorilla trekking safari package. Since gorilla trekking involves an early morning briefing, it’s advisable to stay overnight in close proximity to the gorilla trekking destination. In Uganda, gorilla permits are allocated to specific areas within Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, including Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. It’s best to choose lodging near the area where your permit is allocated to avoid long drives in the early morning.

• Bwindi Accommodations: Some popular lodging options in Bwindi include Gorilla Forest Camp, Clouds Lodge, Engagi Lodge, Ruhija Gorilla Lodge, Bwindi View Bandas, Rushaga Gorilla Safari Lodge, and Bwindi Backpacker’s Camp.
• Mgahinga Accommodations: For those trekking in Mgahinga National Park, options include Gahinga Lodge, Majambere Iwachu, Community Camp, Mountain Gahinga Lodge, and Mutanda Lake Resort.
• Volcanoes National Park Accommodations (Rwanda): In Rwanda, you can choose to stay within Volcanoes National Park or in the capital city, Kigali. Accommodations include Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Hotel Muhavura, Kinigi Guest House, and La Palme Hotel.

3.Transport:

Transport to the gorilla trekking destinations is not always included but can be arranged as part of your package. You have the option of traveling by road or air. In Rwanda, you can drive from Kigali International Airport to Volcanoes National Park, a journey of approximately 3 hours. In Uganda, the drive from Entebbe Airport or Kampala to Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park takes about 8 to 9 hours, with various routes available.

• Air Transport: Domestic flights from Entebbe Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrips are also available. Charter flight services can be arranged to ensure a faster and more convenient journey to the gorilla trekking destinations.

Additional Activities:

While the primary focus of your safari is gorilla trekking, you can often add extra activities to your itinerary. In Uganda, these activities may include chimpanzee trekking, white-water rafting, visiting the source of the River Nile, birding, game drives, launch trips, and sport fishing, among others. In Rwanda, you can explore options like chimpanzee trekking, visiting genocide memorials, birding, boat trips, and more. These activities can be tailored to your interests and the time available for your safari.

Exclusions:

1.International Flights:

The cost of international flights to Uganda or Rwanda is not typically included in the gorilla trekking safari package. It’s important to book your international flights separately and ensure that your arrival aligns with the start of your gorilla trekking adventure.

2.Tips:

While tipping is customary and appreciated, it is not included in the gorilla trekking package. Tipping is a gesture of gratitude to rangers, driver guides, and other service providers who assist you during your safari. Generous tipping can go a long way in supporting local staff.

3. Porter Cost:

Hiring a porter to assist you during the trek is not included in the package but is highly recommended. Porters are local individuals from the community who help carry your gear, making the trek easier for you. It also contributes to their livelihoods.

4. Snacks and Drinking Water:

During the gorilla trek, you may need snacks and drinking water to keep you energized and hydrated. Breakfast is usually taken very early, and the trek can be physically demanding, so having these essentials on hand is important.

5. Personal Expenses:

Personal expenses such as souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, and any items of a personal nature are typically not included in the gorilla trekking package. It’s advisable to budget for these separately.

Best time to book Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda & Rwanda:

Booking a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda or Rwanda is possible year-round, but the dry season is the most popular choice among tourists. The dry season typically spans from June to September and December to January. During this time, the forests are lush and the mountain gorillas are more active, making it an ideal time for trekking. However, it’s important to note that competition for gorilla permits during the dry season can be fierce due to limited permits available per gorilla family. Last-minute availability is rare, so it’s advisable to book well in advance. While the low season may offer more flexibility in terms of permit availability, it’s crucial to check and secure permits in advance if you plan to trek during this time.

Choosing Between Uganda and Rwanda:

Both Uganda and Rwanda offer exceptional gorilla trekking experiences, and the choice between them depends on various factors:

Cost of Gorilla Permit:

Rwanda’s gorilla permits are more expensive than Uganda’s. Rwanda charges $1500 per person per trek for foreign nonresidents, while Uganda’s permits cost $700 for foreign nonresidents. Budget-conscious travelers may prefer Uganda for this reason.

Drive Time:

The drive time to the gorilla trekking destination differs between the two countries. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is closer to Kigali, with a 3-hour drive from Kigali International Airport. In Uganda, the journey from Entebbe or Kampala to Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park takes 8 to 9 hours. Travelers can also choose to combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with a drive through Rwanda.

Additional Activities:

Uganda offers a wider range of additional safari activities to combine with gorilla trekking, including chimpanzee trekking, game drives, river Nile visits, and more. Rwanda, while known for its gorillas, has fewer additional activities available.

Number of Permits:

Uganda currently has more gorilla permits available for public booking (152 permits) compared to Rwanda (96 permits), which may increase your chances of securing a permit.

In the end, both Uganda and Rwanda offer incredible gorilla trekking experiences, and your choice should align with your preferences and priorities. Regardless of the destination, gorilla trekking is a life-changing adventure that allows you to connect with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Remember to book early with Iconic Africa Safaris Ltd, prepare for your trek, and follow guidelines to ensure a safe and respectful