Trekking among the world’s rarest primates in Uganda is an experience unlike any other. Many people’s dream vacation involves tracking endangered mountain gorillas in the thick jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. But before you can even think about this trip, you must get a gorilla trekking permit.
If you want to have a worry-free adventure, this article will show you how to get your permit and suggest a dependable tour operator, Great Lions Safaris.
How does one get a permit to go gorilla trekking?
The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) issues specialized passes called gorilla trekking permits that allow visitors to follow and spend one hour with a family of mountain gorillas. The gorillas and their environment are protected, therefore only a certain number of people may hike each day. Therefore, the permission is needed.
What Is the Price of a Gorilla Trekking Permit?
Here is the current price of a Ugandan gorilla trekking permit:
$800 USD for non-resident foreign nationals
for foreign residents: $700
East African nationals may get UGX 300,000.
Although this may seem costly, the funds will be used to protect the mountain gorillas, who are in grave risk of extinction, as well as to assist the local residents.
Where can one get a permit to go gorilla trekking?
In Uganda, a gorilla trekking permit may be obtained in one of three primary ways:
The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) is the go-to place for booking permits; they’re reachable via phone, email, or a Kampala office. If you are an independent traveler with plenty of time to create your own schedule, this is the way to go.
With the help of a licensed travel agency
Booking gorilla trekking permits from a certified tour operator, such as Great Lions Safaris, is the preferred method for most travelers. If you are looking to make the most of your time in Uganda and mix gorilla trekking with other activities, this is definitely the way to go.
At the Parks campus of UWA
The Uganda Wildlife Authority offices in Bwindi or Mgahinga may sometimes have permits available, although it is highly discouraged to do so since permits sell out rapidly, particularly during peak seasons.
why should you choose Great Lions Safaris to reserve your permit?
There are a number of benefits to reserving your permit via a reputable tour operator, such as Great Lions Safaris:
First-time visitors to Uganda may find it difficult to book their permits directly with UWA. In order to ensure that you do not miss a thing, Great Lions Safaris handles all the details, including obtaining the necessary permits and scheduling your expedition.
Great Lions Safaris is well-versed in planning gorilla trekking excursions, so they can provide you with professional guidance on when to come, where to stay, and how to handle other practicalities. They’ll make sure you’re ready for the hike.
Get Your Gorilla Permit in Time! These permits sell out quickly due to the great demand. You may rest easy knowing that Great Lions Safaris will get your permit in advance of your trip.
Gorilla permits are only the beginning of what Great Lions Safaris has to offer when it comes to customizing safari packages in Uganda. You may add chimpanzee tracking, wildlife safaris, cultural excursions, and more to your trip with the gorillas. Make the most of your vacation by having them tailor itineraries to your interests, needs, and budget.
A percentage of your permit fee and tour cost goes toward gorilla conservation and supports the local community living near the parks. Great Lions Safaris is dedicated to responsible tourism and ensures that this money is reinvested.
When is the Best Time to Reserve a Gorilla Trekking Permit?
During the busiest travel seasons (June–September and December–February), it is very important to reserve your permit in advance. You should be sure to prepare soon if you have a definite travel window, since permits might sell out up to six months in advance.
If you want to make sure you have enough time to be ready for your safari, book your permit in advance with Great Lions Safaris.
Deciding Between Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks.
You may undertake gorilla trekking in Uganda at either Mgahinga Gorilla National Park or Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. You can go gorilla trekking in both parks, but they’re different in the following ways:
Nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas call Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (BUhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo) home. The park also provides a variety of trekking sectors. With a wide range of lodging choices, it has become the gorilla trekking mecca of Uganda.
Part of the greater Virunga Massif, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park provides an opportunity to hike gorillas in a less touristic and more secluded environment. Although there are less habituated gorilla families in Mgahinga than in Bwindi, it is still a great choice for those looking for a less touristic encounter.
With Great Lions Safaris’ assistance, you may choose the park that best fits your needs and arrange for the necessary permissions.
Preparation for a Gorilla Trek
An incredible experience awaits you after you have your gorilla trekking permit. On the day of the hike, you may anticipate the following:
Treks start bright and early in the morning, so before you ever see the gorillas, you and your fellow trekkers will gather at the park headquarters for a safety briefing and an explanation of what to anticipate.
The Hike: Follow your knowledgeable guides as they lead you through the thick jungle; the exact amount of time you spend trekking will vary from day to day based on where the gorilla family is. Despite the difficulty of the journey, the payoff is well worth it.
You will get the opportunity to spend an hour seeing these incredible primates in their own environment after you have located the gorilla family. Observing their actions so closely is an unforgettable experience.
Trek back to base after an hour with the gorillas so you may enjoy your amazing excursion and exchange stories with others.
Things You Should Bring on Your Gorilla Trek
To have a pleasant gorilla trekking experience, it is essential to bring the appropriate equipment. Some basics are as follows:
Strong hiking boots: The ground may be rough, muddy, and steep at times.
To avoid being bitten by insects or scratched by plants, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants.
Be ready for unexpected downpours in the rainforest—the weather is unpredictable. Bring a rain jacket.
Protection against insects: The forest may be a breeding ground for a wide variety of insects.
The hike may be lengthy and exhausting, so it’s important to bring water and food to keep you energized.
You may photograph unforgettable moments with the gorillas (no flash permitted) with a decent zoom lens and a camera.
A gorilla trekking permit is an essential component of any Ugandan safari, but the procedure may be complicated and intimidating for those who have never done it before. You can relax and enjoy your once-in-a-lifetime safari experience when you book with Great Lions Safaris. They are the top tour operator in Uganda because of their professionalism, familiarity with the area, and desire to ensure that your gorilla trekking trip is both easy and memorable.
Get in touch with Great Lions Safaris right now to reserve your gorilla trekking permit and begin organizing your dream safari to Uganda!
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