A guide to gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga National park

A guide to gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga National park

A guide to gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga National park , No destination rivals Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks. When it comes to offering unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences. Home to half the World’s remaining population of Mountain gorillas in the wild. Numerous habituated gorilla families, and a more affordable option compared to Rwanda, Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks’gorilla trekking experiences. Are perfect for adventure seekers, honeymooners, and even nature lovers.

For the ultimate gorilla trekking safari in Africa, nothing beats the 331-square-kilometer Bwindi Impenetrable National Park– widely renowned as the ultimate gorilla trekking destination. With the highest number of these Giant Apes and habituated gorilla families. Additionally, there are numerous accommodation options ranging from luxury to budget. Distributed across its four trekking regions/sectors.

If you are planning to undertake a gorilla safari and wondering what to expect during your gorilla trek in Bwindi or/and Mgahinga. You have come to the right place. Thanks to our decade-long experience in curating gorilla packages and organizing these adventures. We have compiled everything you ought to know to plan your gorilla trekking trip to Bwindi or/and Mgahinga National Park in this guide.

Gorilla Trekking

With numerous mountain gorillas and habituated gorilla families on offers. Bwindi Impenetrable is undeniably the best destination to see the Giant Apes in their natural habitat. With over 20 habituated gorilla families here. About 160 gorilla permits are issued each day for Bwindi alone and these primates are tracked from any of the four sectors- Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija, and Nkuringo.

Done with experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority Rangers. Gorilla treks here not only introduce visitors to the unique ecology of the Impenetrable jungle and varying landscape. But also provides the opportunity to learn about the exceptional behavior of Giant Apes. Treks last between 1 and 6 hours, sometimes even more but when contacts are made with the Mountain gorillas. Trekkers are expected to remain still and observe silence as the Giant Apes walk and emerge from the thick vegetation.
Visitors  allowed to take photos and learn about mountain gorillas for a maximum of one hour. But this time isn’t enough, you book for the 4-hour Gorilla Habituation Experience which is only offered in Bwindi.

The accommodation options in Bwindi depend on the sector you are visiting but the key ones are Gorilla Safari Lodge, Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, Chameleon Hill Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Lodge, Four Gorilla Lodge. And Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge while for Nkuringo, you can stay at Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, and others.
Visiting tracking mountain gorillas can stay at Buhoma Lodge, Ride 4 a woman cottages, Mahogany Springs Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, Engagi Lodge, Buhoma Community Rest Camp. Buhoma Lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Bwindi Guesthouse, CTPH Gorilla Conservation Camp, and Trackers Safari Lodge among others.

The Ruhija sector accommodation options include Bakiga Lodge, Ruhija Safari Lodge, Kiho Safari Lodge, Ruhija Community Rest Camp, Broadbill Forest Camp, Trekkers Tavern Cottages. Gorilla Mist Lodge, Cuckooland Tented Lodge, to mention but a few.

How to get to Bwindi: The most convenient yet expensive way to get to this Park is to fly to either Kihihi airstrip (when visiting Ruhija and Buhoma sectors). Or Kisoro airstrip (when visiting Rushaga or Nkuringo sector) will work for you. Followed by a one and a half to two hour drive to your Lodge.

Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Adjacent to the Rwanda border, the 34-square-kiloemeter Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is another excellent gorilla trekking destination in Uganda. And perfect for visitors interested in enjoying cross-boundary gorilla tours with Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Here, about 40 mountain gorillas/one habituated gorilla family is available.
Besides mountain gorillas, golden monkeys also found in this Park. Tracked as a combined gorilla and golden monkey safari.

The accommodation options in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park include Mount Gahinga Lodge, Mucha Hotel Kisoro, Ichumbi Hotel Kisoro, and many others.

Best time to go Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks

The best time to visit Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks for gorilla trekking is during the dry season (from June to September. Then again from December to February) when rainfall levels reduced hence forest trails are less muddy and slippery. This means you will have less challenging gorilla trekking adventures. While the rainy season (March to May, and October to November) imarked by increased rainfall levels. That make forest trails muddy and slippery, it is also the time when verdant green views. Sensational birding adventures and nature photography enjoyed.

What to wear and what to carry for gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks

Dressing for a Gorilla trekking safari obviously a thing and for this reason, you are advised to dress in long trousers (khaki, sand or neutral color). Extra layers are advisable during gorilla treks that usually start during cold mornings especially during the wet season. A rain jacket for the unpredictable rains and long-sleeved shirts for protecting against stinging insects are also advisable. Hiking boots and gaiters are important for comfortable gorilla treks.
For things you need to take on your gorilla trekking safari. We recommend a good camera with extra batteries and memory space, a pair of binoculars, a backpack, gardening gloves. A first aid kit, a re-usable water bottle, energy-giving snacks, toiletries (tooth brush, toothpaste, deodorant, hand and body lotion, and hair comb/brush), and your travel documents.

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