The possibility of trekking Mountain gorillas twice in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Gorilla trekking is a unique and awe-inspiring wildlife experience that allows travelers to get up close and personal with the critically endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This remarkable adventure is available in three East African countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, in this narrative, we will delve into the captivating world of gorilla trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Understanding Gorilla Trekking Permits:

Gorilla trekking permits are the golden tickets that grant access to the enchanting world of Bwindi’s mountain gorillas. These permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and serve as your official entry pass into the gorillas’ domain. To secure a permit, you can either purchase it directly from the UWA website or through Iconic Africa Safaris Ltd.

It’s important to note that gorilla trekking permits come at a cost, and the price varies depending on your residency status. As of the last update in September 2021, the permit fees are as follows:

• East African citizens: 300,000 Ugandan Shillings
• Foreign non-residents: 800 USD
• Foreign residents: 700 USD

These permits are valid for a single day, and each permit allows you to visit and observe one specific gorilla family.

Can You Trek Gorillas Twice in One Day with the Same Permit?

One of the frequently asked questions among gorilla trekking enthusiasts is whether it’s possible to trek gorillas twice in Bwindi on the same day using a single permit. The answer to this question hinges on certain circumstances.

By default, a gorilla trekking permit allows you to spend one hour with a designated gorilla family and explore the lush rainforest with them. Once this hour is over, the permit becomes invalid. Moreover, each permit is associated with a specific gorilla family, so it cannot be used to trek a different family.

However, there are exceptional cases where tourists may have the opportunity to trek gorillas twice on the same day with the same permit. This is an exceedingly rare occurrence and typically happens only if you are unable to locate the assigned gorilla family during your initial trek due to the group’s abrupt movements. In such cases, the park authorities may grant you a second chance to use the same permit to trek the same family on the same day.

Trekking Gorillas Twice: The Practical Solution:

While the possibility of trekking gorillas twice on the same day is limited, there is a more reliable way to fulfill this dream – by booking two gorilla permits on different days. This approach ensures that you have formal permission to enjoy this incredible experience twice during your visit to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Moreover, you can take advantage of this opportunity to explore different gorilla families and regions within Bwindi. The park is divided into four distinct trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga. Each sector offers a unique glimpse into the lives of various gorilla families, adding depth and variety to your gorilla trekking adventure.

The Rich Diversity of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, nestled in the lush southwestern region of Uganda, is a treasure trove of biodiversity and a top tourist attraction in the country. This pristine rainforest is home to approximately half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, making it a global conservation hotspot.The journey to Bwindi is an adventure in itself, whether you opt for a 9 to 10-hour drive from Uganda’s capital city, Kampala, or a quick one-and-a-half-hour chartered flight from Kajjansi Airstrip or Entebbe International Airport.

Embracing Double Gorilla Trekking:

The concept of double gorilla trekking has been gaining popularity among avid wildlife enthusiasts. This experience allows you to visit and trek gorillas more than once during your safari, maximizing your time with these magnificent creatures.

To embark on double gorilla trekking, you must secure two separate gorilla permits. Each permit is specific to a single trekking session, meaning you’ll need two permits to go on two treks. While this does involve an additional cost, the opportunity to witness multiple gorilla families and immerse yourself in their world is an invaluable experience for wildlife lovers.

Activities in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:

Beyond the incredible gorilla trekking experience, Bwindi offers a wealth of other activities for travelers to enjoy:

Gorilla Trekking:

This is the pinnacle activity in Bwindi, allowing you to hike through the rainforest in search of mountain gorillas. The park is divided into four trekking sectors, each hosting different gorilla families. The duration of gorilla trekking can vary widely, from 30 minutes to 6 hours, depending on the assigned family’s location and movement.

• Rushaga Sector: Home to several gorilla families, including Mishaya, Rwiigi, Kahungye, Nshongi, Busingye, Bweza, and Mucunguzi.
• Ruhija Sector: Featuring Bitukura and Oruzongo gorilla families.
• Nkuringo Sector: Hosting the Nkuringo, Christmas, Bushaho gorilla families, with the Posho family undergoing habituation.
• Buhoma Sector: The most popular trailhead, offering treks to the Katwe, Mubare, Rushegura, and Habinyanja gorilla families.

Birding/Birdwatching:

Bwindi boasts over 350 recorded bird species, both endemic and migratory. Birdwatchers can delight in spotting species like Grauer’s Rush, African Green Broadbill, Doherty’s Bush-shrike, and many more. The wet season is ideal for birdwatching when migratory birds are abundant.

Gorilla Habituation:

For an even deeper gorilla experience, you can join researchers in the Rushaga sector as they habituate gorillas. This involves following researchers closely as they study the gorillas’ behavior. A maximum of four people is allowed to participate in gorilla habituation, and a special permit is required.

Hiking:

Bwindi offers various nature trails for hiking, such as the Waterfall trail, River Ivi trail (great for birdwatching), Muzabajiro trail (providing stunning views of the Virunga and western Rift Valley), Habinyanja trail, and the Bamboo Trail.

Visiting the Batwa People:

The Batwa people are indigenous to the region surrounding Bwindi. You can engage with their culture, learn about their history, hunting skills, and enjoy their traditional songs and dances. Supporting the Batwa by purchasing souvenirs and hiring them as porters contributes to their livelihoods.

Rules and Regulations for Gorilla Trekking:

Gorilla trekking is governed by strict rules and regulations designed to protect both tourists and gorillas. These rules include:

• Each trek is limited to a group of 8 people to minimize disturbance to the gorillas.
• No eating or drinking is allowed while with the gorillas.
• A distance of 7 meters must be maintained between trekkers and gorillas.
• Silence must be observed, with communication in whispers.
• Proper disposal of waste, digging and covering holes for waste, and no smoking in the gorillas’ presence.
• Flashlights should be turned off when taking photos of the gorillas.
• If a gorilla approaches, trekkers should avoid eye contact, maintain a submissive posture, and refrain from running.
• Feeding the gorillas is strictly prohibited to encourage their self-sufficiency in finding food.

Packing List for Gorilla Trekking:

Proper preparation is essential for an enjoyable and successful gorilla trek. Some items to include in your packing list are:

• Strong hiking boots and sneakers.
• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers (avoid jeans).
• Rain jacket.
• Day backpack.
• Insect repellent.
• Sunscreen.
• Refillable water bottle.
• Energy bars or snacks.
• Camera with extra batteries and lenses.
• Binoculars.
• Sunhat.
• Sweater.
• Wet wipes.
• Biodegradable toilet paper.
• Thick socks.
• Gaiters.
• Garden gloves.
• Personal hygiene items.

Getting to Bwindi National Park:

You can reach Bwindi by either driving or flying, depending on your budget and preferences. The road journey from Kampala takes approximately 9 to 10 hours, offering picturesque views and a chance to stop at the Equator monument for photos.

Alternatively, you can opt for a chartered flight from Kajjansi Airstrip or Entebbe International Airport. Daily charter flights are available, and you can land at Kihihi Airstrip or Kisoro Airstrip. If you book your trip through a tour operator, transportation to the national park and accommodation will be arranged for you.