Gorilla Destinations and Permits in Uganda
Gorilla Destinations and Permits in Uganda: Uganda is one of the most fabulous countries in the world, with endangered mountain gorillas due to its diverse habitats ranging from highland areas with montane forests and lowlands to dark, misty, lush forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park. These are the only two gorilla parks in Uganda known for gorilla trekking adventure experiences that draw tourists from different parts of the world to come and witness the pristine wilderness and the unique mountain gorillas.
Gorilla Destinations and Permits in Uganda
Habitat/location
In Africa, mountain gorillas are found in three countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, which are part of the Virunga Conservation Area. These primates are conserved in four protected areas: Volcanoes National Park of Rwanda, Mgahinga Gorilla Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park of Uganda, and Virunga National Park of the Democratic Republic of Congo. These protected areas have a unique and rich biodiversity and diverse habitats characterized by montane forests, heath, moorland, and lowlands, hence creating a haven for these endangered mountain gorillas.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park are top locations that harbour mountain gorillas. They have varying landscapes and ecological zones, such as bamboo, montane, and misty forests; lowlands; and mountainous areas. In Mgahinga, it is easier for trackers to spot gorillas because the area has more bamboo and is less dense compared to Bwindi’s thick vegetation of vines and shrubs. Bwindi, known as the impenetrable dark forest, is one of Africa’s oldest forests. Mgahinga is a single, cold mountain, but gorillas live on its warmer lower slopes where food is plentiful. Bwindi has a gentler landscape with hills, making it easier for trackers. In Bwindi, the gorillas primarily eat leaves and fruit from the trees in the warmer environment.
Gorilla permits in Uganda.
A gorilla permit is a state legal document issued by the governing and regulating body in Uganda that grants permission and access to tourists to these endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat in both Mgahinga Gorilla Park and Bwindi Gorilla Park.
Bwindi Gorilla Park has the largest population of mountain gorillas, while Mgahinga has the smallest. Within Bwindi, gorillas live in different sectors such as Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, and Ruhija. To trek and see the gorillas, travellers need to have a valid gorilla trekking permit, which confirms their trekking date. This permit grants access to 21 gorilla families in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Nyakagezi, as well as the only family in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. When booking, it is advisable to book in advance, approximately 3-4 months, to obtain gorilla permits for the specific sectors of your choice in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga National Park.
The trekking permit indicates the sector where you will trek, which is checked by park wardens. Visitors can obtain gorilla permits from the Uganda Wildlife Authority or reputable local tour operators by providing their desired trip dates. Availability of permits is determined based on those dates, and after payment, a booklet of permits is issued. It’s important to book and purchase these permits in advance through a tour operator or at the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) headquarters at Kira Road, Kamwokya, Uganda, or the Kampala Sheraton Kampala offices.
What is the cost of gorilla trekking permits in Uganda?
A gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs $800 for non-foreign residents, $700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for citizens of East Africa. The habituation experience is only carried out in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where the habituation costs stand at $1500 for non-foreign residents, $1000 for foreign residents, and UGX 750,000 for citizens of East Africa.
Best time to trek Mountain Gorillas in Uganda
Following gorilla destinations in Uganda, gorilla trekking in Uganda takes place throughout the year. However, the best times for gorilla trekking are from June to September and December to February, during the dry season when trekking trails are dry, visibility is good, and roads are accessible. Although trekking is possible year-round, the rainy season from March to May and October to November can be challenging with muddy, slick trails and dense foliage. Travellers can find discounts and lower prices for activities and accommodations during the rainy season to encourage visits.
