The Best way of Planning Gorilla Habituation Safari in Uganda and Great Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti

To plan a gorilla habituation experience in Uganda and witness the great wildebeest migration in Tanzania, you need to start by securing permits and booking accommodations. In Uganda, Bwindi National Park is the only place where gorilla habituation happens. You must obtain a permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. However, only four permits per day per family are available, so it’s crucial to book in advance to avoid last-minute disappointment.

Similarly, for the great wildebeest migration in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, early booking is essential. Accommodations and other facilities tend to sell out quickly during this period. Although the park gets crowded with safari vehicles during migration season, early booking ensures you get the best lodges with optimal viewing spots.

Best Time to Go

The dry season is the ideal time for both experiences. In Uganda, this season lasts from June to September, while in Tanzania, it’s from July to September. During this time, the mountain gorilla habitats receive less rain, making it easier to trek through Bwindi forest. In Serengeti, the dry season offers better chances to witness the great wildebeest migration.

Day 1: Journey to Bwindi National Park

After breakfast, your driver guide will pick you up for the journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The drive takes about 8 to 9 hours, excluding stops. Expect a bumpy ride but enjoy the scenic views along the way. As you approach Bwindi, you’ll notice a drop in altitude and the lush greenery of the landscape. Upon arrival, check into your chosen lodge.

Accommodation Options in Bwindi

There are various accommodation options in Bwindi, including Gorilla Safari Lodge, Clouds Lodge, Nshongi Camp, Bwindi Backpacker’s Camp, and Ichumbi Lodge.

Day 2: Gorilla Habituation Experience

After breakfast, prepare for the gorilla habituation experience. Arrive at the briefing point early for necessary clearances. Make sure to carry two clean masks and your packed lunch. Fitness is beneficial for trekking through the jungle to locate the mountain gorillas. Along the way, you may encounter other primate species and birdlife.

Once you locate the gorillas, wait for the ranger guide to assess their mood before taking photos. Follow the instructions given by researchers to enjoy the four-hour experience fully. Participate in data collection, observation, and note-taking during this unique encounter. Afterward, return to your lodge to relax.

Day 3: Journey to Entebbe Airport

After completing the gorilla habituation experience, drive to Entebbe Airport for your flight to Tanzania. Overnight in Arusha.

Day 4: Travel to Serengeti National Park

Your safari guide will pick you up early to drive to Serengeti National Park. The journey takes about 6 to 7 hours, depending on your destination within the park. Enjoy the stunning views along the way and check into your accommodation upon arrival.

Day 5: Game Drive in Serengeti

Wake up early for a game drive in Serengeti National Park. Witness the wildlife emerging from their hiding spots to start the day. Keep an eye out for animals like cheetahs, lions, wildebeests, and more. If it’s migration season, you may have the chance to witness millions of animals moving across the plains.

Day 6: Second Game Drive

Take a second game drive to explore more of Serengeti National Park’s beauty. Spot animals you may have missed the previous day and increase your chances of completing the “big five” sightings. Return to your lodge to relax.

Day 7: Departure

After enjoying both the gorilla habituation experience and the Serengeti safari, drive to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home.

Additional Tips

To reduce travel time, consider flying from Entebbe or Kajjansi airstrip to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrip in Uganda. Charter flight services are also available.

Similarly, charter flights can be arranged from Kilimanjaro Airport to airstrips near Serengeti National Park. Advance arrangement is necessary for both options.

Costs and Visas

The cost of the gorilla habituation experience varies depending on the package chosen. At Arch Safaris and Tours, safari packages are categorized as high-end, mid-range, or basic. Additionally, there are universal costs such as gorilla permits and park entrance fees for Serengeti National Park.

Visas are required to enter Uganda and Tanzania. While visas can be obtained on arrival, it’s recommended to apply in advance to avoid delays.

Crossing Borders and Road Travel

Crossing by road from Uganda to Tanzania is possible but lengthy. It may take about two days to travel from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to Serengeti National Park. Consider the exhaustion and extra costs associated with booking accommodations along the way.

Packing Essentials

For both experiences, essential items include safari clothing, insect repellent, rainproof gear, and sturdy footwear. It’s also advisable to carry extra batteries, a torch, and cash for on-ground purchases.

By following these tips and planning in advance, you can enjoy a memorable gorilla habituation safari in Uganda and witness the incredible great wildebeest migration in Serengeti National Park.