Great Gorillas

Category: Travel Planner

  • How to Plan a Luxury Gorilla Safari

    Have you ever thought about taking luxury gorilla trekking tours? If you are an affluent traveler and you feel like getting out of the usual gorilla trekking safaris, then a luxury safari is the only exceptional way for you realize your dreams in Africa. This denotes encountering all that that the real world has in offer in African wilderness but with a complement of comfort.

    It comes in lush amenities like classic accommodation and lodging units, luxurious tour vehicles especially the extended land cruiser and highly customized and personalized service. You can also decide to fly up to your destination of choice and the travel pace is more flexible. It is all about reducing environmental effects and making getting around part of the exceptional adventure. By spending more, visitors are equally treated to more included meals, more leader led activities as well as experience the local encounters and at the end, benefits the local communities and offering the most thrilling experience to the visitors.

    Luxury gorilla trips come with astonishing Uganda safari destinations including the mountain gorilla trekking sites of Bwindi Impenetrable Park and Mgahinga National Park in the Southwestern part of the country as well as wildlife safari destinations such as the untapped Kidepo Valley National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park and Lake Mburo National Park and not to leave out sport fishing safari destinations like Lake Victoria and the mighty River Nile, cultural heritage safaris to the ancient sites of Uganda.

    In Rwanda, gorilla trekking is done in the Rwandan Volcanoes within the northern sector. Your luxury gorilla safari also offers you opportunity to explore Nyungwe Forest National Park in the South where 13 primate species are inhabited, 300 bird species including the rare Rwenzori Turaco. As you head towards the East, Akagera National Park is another birders paradise and best spot for big game safaris in Rwanda. In the west, there is Lake Kivu the deep blue water and white sand beaches that offer amazing relaxing and chilling moments in life.

    Visitors who partake this kind safari have higher chance of a relaxed pace that permits them to experience fully the purpose of their long waited holiday. There is no need to worry about long distant drives; there are scheduled flights that have simplified movement of travelers from Entebbe International Airport and Kajjansi Airstrip which takes you up to Kisoro where you will easily connect to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga National Park. But if you want to catch a glimpse of Uganda’s naturalness then you can drive up to the park where gorilla trekking is conducted.

    Whereas most travelers book gorilla trekking safaris to Uganda, a few of them book for luxury gorilla trekking tours in Uganda, given the fact that the budget looks relatively higher for them to certain extent and basing on the fact that  gorilla permits are obtainable at $450 per visitor for foreign non residents, $400 for foreign residents and shs.150000 for East African residents in the wet/low season especially in the months of April, May and November while during the peak season the permits are sold at $600 per tourists for foreign non residents, $500 for foreign residents and shs.250000 for East African residents. In Rwanda, gorilla trekking permits cost $1500 per tourist. This however makes the cost of the trip to be a little high as compared t0 other types of safaris such as wildlife safaris in Uganda or Rwanda If you have ever been in Uganda for a budget gorilla trekking trip, we encourage you to also check out with our most rewarding luxury gorilla trekking tours for an entire new unique encounters right from exceptional lodging facilities, meals, safari cars and several services that will repay you with a life time experiences.

    Luxury gorilla trekking safaris are more exceptional than the usual packages in that for a luxury setting, travelers have higher chances of participating in two gorilla treks or even as more as three gorilla treks within Uganda, Rwanda or Uganda and Rwanda combined. This is advantageous in that if the first trek of your luxury gorilla trekking is not that well especially when it comes to viewing rare species and given the fact that you only sight them in Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park when you are in Uganda, the rest of the days of your luxury safaris won’t hurt you as you will have a high opportunity to sight several gorillas.

    Climate can also another hindering factor and remember it is challenging trekking these apes during the wet season since most of them hind in the forest. This kind of obstacles can make you sight a few individuals but with luxury gorilla trekking safaris which has two gorilla treks, there is no need to be scared about this because the following trek will compensate the previous days. If you need to enjoy Uganda gorilla trekking in a luxury set up, then book any of our luxury gorilla trekking tours now.

    In conclusion, luxury gorilla safaris in Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo offer visitors opportunity to explore more on the critically endangered mountain gorillas in a more comfortable manner. This is best done in the dry/high season that falls in the months of June, July, August, September and December to February.

  • When is the Best Time to Visit Mountain Gorillas

    In the whole world, you can only see the mountain gorillas only in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo.

    Gorilla tracking can be done at any time of the year. However some tourists who would like to combine gorilla tracking with big game safaris prefer the months of March to May and October to November are usually considered rainy months. However it is important to be in the know that in both Rwanda and Uganda, it rain any time.

    Although mountain gorilla tracking can be conducted all year round in these two countries due to the somewhat damp seasons experienced by the national parks in which these gorillas stay, the majority of tourists prefer visiting from June to September as well as from December up to February. This similarly applies in Uganda although there the rains begin in March up to May. Certainly the rains although not very heavy make it challenging to trek the sheer landscape. During that time the rain falls for just one to two hours in about 3 days of the week and for the rest of the days the sun is out. However even in the dry months of Uganda, there are some little showers experienced in Bwindi.

    The seasonality of the trackers can as well be accredited to the overall weather back in the home countries. During summers for instance in Europe, the number of gorilla trekkers is high and then in winter it greatly lowers. Also there are some trekkers who take advantage of the seasonal discounts offered on the gorilla tracking permits. For example not long ago the Uganda wildlife Authority lowered the cost of permits by thirty percent for all non-Ugandans for the months of April and May whereby they will go for $350. The other months the gorilla tour permit will go for $600.

    Is it possible to travel during the rainy season?

    Travel during the rainy season has it’s rewards. The birdlife is superior and the air is cleaner with wonderful vistas. A number of accommodation facilities in the areas where the gorillas are found as well will offer discounts in these months.

    When to Visit Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda

    In Rwanda, these primates can be seen in the Volcanoes National Park. There are twelve (12) habituated gorilla groups in Rwanda thus making it 96 gorilla permits for visitors to Rwanda available every single day since only 8 people are allowed to visit a given group to trek these endangered apes.

    With a gorilla permit costing US $1500 per person per trek, part of your contribution goes to conserving these mountain gorillas. In Uganda, there are 10 gorilla groups that are habituated where only 9 are trekked every day and the remaining one is gazetted for research.

    Within Rwanda, the initial rains are experienced at the end of February, March, April as well as May, and for that reason most of the tourists don’t visit during that time since it is muddy and pretty wet while tracking the mountain gorillas.

    However, during these very months, since it is raining, there is a lot of food for the gorillas on the lower slopes and also the temperatures are lower on the lower slopes. Because of that, the gorillas stay on the lower slopes since food is easily accessible and it is warmer. Therefore if you choose to track in these months, you won’t have a very long trek and actually most trackers find the gorillas just after two hours of trekking meaning by 2:00pm they are back at their lodge.

    No matter what your explanation is, experience reveals that gorilla trekking can be enjoyed all year round and you will surely enjoy a great experience.

  • Budget Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

    Budget gorilla trekking in Uganda are usually understood by most travelers in another way associating them to poor or inadequate facilities. However, the latter is not true as all this may depend on the safari agency or travel company you choose to deal with to arrange your gorilla safari in Uganda or even in Rwanda. For exceptional budget gorilla treks, embarking on a gorilla safari with us is the best way for you to get value of your money.

    We arrange budget gorilla tours for our clients that reward them equally like it is a case with mid-range travelers. Booking with us is great reward as you will be among a few beneficiaries from our lengthy years of experience, special offers, rates and world class of service

    Whether a budget gorilla safaris that you plan for, our exceptional, classic and comfortable 4wheel drive safari cars and professional driver guides are readily available to make your dream come true. Not only do we take you through thrilling gorilla trek but also offer you a chance to interact with locals in their local communities where you will get thrilled by their traditional dances, music performances, traditions among others.

    Budget tours in Uganda are perfect option for budget travelers or backpackers and can be perfectly conducted during the low or wet season the fact that most hotel or safari lodges tend to cut down the rates for accommodation. The wet/rainy/low season in Uganda usually occurs in March, April, May and October, November and these are the best months of the year to embark on budget gorilla trekking tour in Uganda.

    Gorilla trekking in Uganda is only conducted in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga National Park and all the two national parks are located in southwestern Uganda. They offer refuge to nearly half of all the 1004 mountain gorillas that today still thrive on earth and about 21 gorilla families are available for both tourism and research purposes.

    In Bwindi National Park budget travelers can start their gorilla treks in anyone of the park’s 4 regions; Nkuringo, Rushaga, Ruhija and Buhoma, each of which comprises of distinct gorilla families. If your plan is to trek gorillas from Buhoma region then the groups for you to explore include Mubare, Rushegura, Habinyanja and Katwe; Nkuringo region; Nkuringo, Bushaho and Christmas; Ruhija area; Bitukura, Mukiza, Oruzogo and Kyaguliro while in Rushaga area, the gorilla families include Kutu, Mucunguzi, Nshongi, Mishaya, Busingye, Rwigi, Bweza, Bikingi and Kahungye.

    To trek gorillas in Uganda whether on budget or luxury safari, you need $600 to help you secure a gorilla permit although the rates will with effect from 1st July 2020 be at $700 for you to obtain gorilla permit in Uganda. Budget gorilla trekking tours are aimed at making tourists who may not be in position to trek mountain gorillas during the peak/high season to also realize their travel dreams. To be on a safer side, we advise all our clients to always book their permits in advance at least 4-6 months prior embarking on actual trip.

    Budget safari lodges to book during budget gorilla trekking tour in Uganda

    When it comes to budget gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda, we get you a comfortable safari lodge for your stay while in Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park. The budget safari lodges to book for your budget gorilla trekking tour in Buhoma sector of Bwindi National Park include Buhoma Community Campsite, Buhoma View Bandas, Wagtail Eco Safari Camp; at Ruhija region they include Crater Bay Cottages, Bunyonyi Overland Camp among others which are mainly found around Lake Bunyonyi. Rushaga area has budget accommodation options like Gorilla Valley Lodge, Kisoro Travelers Rest Inn, Nshongi Campsite and others.

    Benefits of budget gorilla trekking tour in Uganda

    Trekking gorillas in Uganda on budget tour allows you to enjoy treks with less congestion as most trekkers avoid rainy season. You also have a chance to get the best of magical encounter with gorillas yet at low rates as most accommodation facilities cut down the prices.

    What to pack on gorilla trekking in Uganda

    Whether it is budget or luxury gorilla trekking safari, all trekkers are required to pack appropriately. The key items to consider in the packing list include waterproof hiking boots, bottled water, camera with no flashlight, long sleeved shirts, rain jacket or poncho, gardening gloves, first aid kit, insect repellents, sweaters, hat, sunscreen and others.

    Other things to enjoy on budget gorilla trekking safari

    In addition to gorilla trekking, you can also explore Queen Elizabeth National Park where you will have magical encounter at the tree climbing lions at the Ishasha sector, track chimpanzees at Kibale National Park, relax and chill around equator crossing.

  • Hiking to the Dian Fossey Grave: Pay tribute to Fossey

    If you have ever heard about Dian Fossey and you wish to explore more about her history and life as a conservationist or primate enthusiast, then count hiking to the top of Dian Fossey site a must for you while in a safari to Rwanda.

    Situated within the Volcanoes National Park, the Dian Fossey tomb site is one of a bucket list adventures for visitors on gorilla safaris in Rwanda. The hike to this amazing site aims at offering visitors opportunity to explore more about the works of the popular American primatologist and zoologist, Dian Fossey who devoted herself to research and protect the lives of the critically endangered mountain gorillas for over 18 years in the Virunga Volcanoes in Rwanda.

    Given the fact these endangered primates had been exposed to poachers, they became very fearful to humans but Dian Fossey was such exceptional person, she began to patrol the place together with her group mates and saved several gorilla babies after their family members were murdered. As she kept on, her efforts in Rwanda earned her a local name Nyirmachabelli or Nyiramacibiri which means the woman who lives alone on the mountain. She gained trust of gorillas and also got international support from various organizations like Mountain Gorilla Project, World Wildlife Fund, Fauna Preservation Society and African Wildlife Foundation.

    She also established Karisimbi research centre within Mount Karisimbi and Bisoke where it derived its name. Her great work is credited that the mountain gorillas got known to the world. She fought against poaching for long period but unfortunately she was mysteriously murdered in 1985 and buried near Digit her lovely silverback gorilla at a time. The hike to Dian Fossey tomb site offers amazing opportunity to also explore other stunning attractions within the national park especially the mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, several primates as well as distinct bird species.

    Dian Fossey hike is conducted in the morning. Visitors are required to be at Kinigi park headquarters at 7:00am for briefing from the park guide and then set off at 8:00am. You will drive off for about half an hour to the base of the Mount Bisoke where the treks start from. The hike is strenuous and you are advised to come with a walking stick at a free cost to give you support while hiking and if you do not trust your strength, make sure you hire a porter who will help you to carry your luggage.

    You will catch a glimpse of the spectacular views of the Virunga Mountains while you are still outside the park. After you by pass the stone wall that marks the demarcation of the park and also acts as barrier for elephants and buffaloes that may want to cross to the local community. The trek then leads you to Mount Bisoke through a place where mountain gorillas tend to be and amazingly you will have a chance to catch a glimpse of them and several wildlife species like buffaloes, duikers, golden monkeys and many more.

    Around 2967 meters, Dian Fossey tomb trail then breaks off from Mount Bisoke hiking trail and then you will have another episode of hiking to mount Karisimbi which comes with spectacular stretch of Hagenia hypericum forested zone at elevation of 2900 to 3000 meters. This elevation means the hike is breathtaking but rewarding. It comes with amazing mountain sceneries of Virunga Mountain ranges from Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo. The en-route offers visitors with sightings of incredible bird species and for bird lovers, this is the best spot for you to catch a glimpse of the Albertine rift endemics.

    The trek usually takes about one to three hours but this depends on visitors’ level of physical fitness. You need waterproof hiking boots that are light weight and make you feel comfortable while hiking, long sleeved shirts or T-shirts to guard you from the stinging insects as well as thorny plants, snacks and water to keep you strong, camera, gardening gloves and many more.

    Dian Fossey left a legacy with Gorilla Fund that monitors the ten (10) gorilla families out of the 15 that are found in the Rwanda Volcanoes National Park as well as other tourism and conservation projects that all aimed at protecting mountain gorillas and their habitats. Hiking permits for Dian Fossey tomb are always obtained at the park headquarters at $75 per visitor and this includes fee for the guide.

    In conclusion, Dian Fossey was such a great primatologist whose legacy still counts in conservation of mountain gorillas in Virunga Mountain ranges. Trekking to the Karisimbi mountain slopes rewards hikers with not only her story as a conservationist but also other spectacular sightings of the Virunga Mountains, birdlife, primates, plant species and many more which all make the experience memorable.

  • Gorillla Trekking with Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

    Travel to Rwanda with technical Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund in an exclusive expedition Dian Fossey Gorillas to meet the. Track mountain gorillas in the misty forest that is home to more than half of the nearly 900 remaining mountain gorillas in the wild.

    Private Expeditions and Extensions

    Many travelers enjoy the combination of a visit to the gorillas with other activities in the region, such as chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda or a safari in Tanzania or Uganda. Working with one of our experienced travel experts to design a unique program specific to your interests and dates of travel. For better weather conditions, we recommend traveling to Rwanda from June to September, and December to March. To sign up for the departure of the group, or for an expedition or fully customized private extension, contact our travel partner, Global Adrenaline, in travel@gorillafund.org or 1-312-863-6300.

    Experience Required

    No experience is necessary, but in order to fully enjoy the activities of the gorilla safari, the trip participants should be reasonably fit, in good health, and have a spirit of adventure. Gorilla tracking in dense forest at elevations ranging up to 10,000 feet can be difficult, arduous, wet, and often includes walking on uneven terrain and dense woods. Please do not forget to wear a pair of sturdy boots while gorilla tracking and expect to walk at least 3-5 miles. Please note that the law of Rwanda does not allow any person under 15 years to participate gorilla tracking. The law is strictly enforced for the safety of the gorillas.

    Travel to Rwanda with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

    Join the team of Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund on a unique expedition to Rwanda. Track mountain gorillas in the misty forest that is home to more than half of the nearly 900 remaining mountain gorillas in the wild. Meet our staff and researchers working to continue the legacy of Dian Fossey in Karisoke Research Center. Track the golden monkeys little known, in a beautiful bamboo forest. Take in the lush landscapes of Rwanda and experience the warmth and strength of its people.

    Expeditions Dates: Dian Fossey’s Gorillas
    To register or for more information contact our travel partner, Global Adrenaline, in travel@gorillafund.org or 1-312-863-6300.

    ITINERARY

    Day 1 – Kigali, Rwanda
    Arrive in Kigali, one of the most prosperous and progressive capitals in Africa.
    Overnight in Kigali Serena Hotel

    Day 2 – Kigali / Volcanoes National Park
    Visit the Kigali Memorial Centre, where a moving exhibition recalls the mid-1990s genocide in Rwanda and witness the remarkable resilience of the country. Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, home to mountain gorillas of Rwanda. Enjoy an orientation and welcome reception, followed by an intimate dinner with a background researcher Dian Fossey Gorilla Karisoke Research Center.
    Overnight: Virunga Lodge or Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (B, L, D)

    Day 3 – Volcanoes National Park
    Spend the day tracking the mountain gorillas, in the wooded hills of the Volcanoes National Park. Sit among these gentle giants, watching their interactions, listening to their distinct grumbling, and seeing one of the most endangered creatures on the planet from an inspiring perspective closely. In the Volcanoes National Park, there are about 480 mountain gorillas than 11 groups are monitored by Karisoke Research Center Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

    Enjoy a special visit to Karisoke Research Center Fund Dian Fossey Gorilla. Get a behind the scenes look at the installation, including laboratories, research center and special projects. Meet the staff and researchers who are performing on the legacy of Dian Fossey.
    Overnight: Virunga Lodge or Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (B, L, D)

    Day 4 – Volcanoes National Park
    Venture back to the jungle for an optional second morning of gorilla tracking. Alternatively, take an optional hike to Dian Fossey Memorial and the original site of the Karisoke Research Center where Dian Fossey conducted mountain gorilla research for 18 years and is now buried near Digit, her favorite gorilla. Visit a local school supported by the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and assist children in their classrooms. Enjoy a traditional Rwandan dance performance tonight.
    Overnight: Virunga Lodge or Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (B, L, D)

    Day 5 – Volcanoes National Park
    Spend a final morning following the golden monkeys threatened by bamboo forest. Transfer to Kigali. Departure for Home.
    Overnight: Aloft (B, L)

    Include;
    • Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Host Research
    Dian Fossey Gorilla • Composition Fund
    • English-speaking guides in Rwanda
    • Accommodation as indicated in the itinerary
    • Bottled water at meals and on vehicles
    • Meals as indicated in itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
    • A gorilla tracking permit and allow tracking of golden monkey as indicated in the itinerary
    • Activities as indicated in the itinerary (order of activities may vary by day of the week)
    • Entrance fees to National Parks and sites as indicted in itinerary
    • Airport Transportation
    • Ground transportation as indicated in the itinerary

    Does not include;
    • International flights
    • International Airport Departure Taxes (included in most international tickets)
    • Optional second day of gorilla tracking at day 4 ($ 775)
    • Optional walk Dian Fossey Memorial on day 4 ($ 125)
    • Meals not noted as included (discretionary)
    • Beverages (discretionary)
    • Travel insurance (discretionary)
    • passport fees, visas and photographs seen as necessary
    • Phone calls, laundry and other items of a personal nature (discretionary)
    • Tips and gratuities (discretionary – tipping guidelines will be provided before departure)

    Responsible Tourism
    We strive for environmentally sustainable and culturally sensitive travel and work with partners who share our vision. We make every effort in every expedition to help the local communities we visit. We are committed to the preservation of habitats in remote regions explored by our travels. Our programs are designed to promote understanding of these delicate ecosystems.

    Experience Required
    No experience is necessary, but in order to fully enjoy the activities of the trip, the trip participants should be reasonably fit, in good health, and have a spirit of adventure. Gorilla tracking in dense forest at elevations ranging up to 10,000 feet can be difficult, arduous, wet, and often includes walking on uneven terrain and dense woods. Please do not forget to wear a pair of sturdy boots while gorilla tracking and expect to walk at least 3-5 miles. Please note that the law of Rwanda does not allow any person under 15 years to participate gorilla tracking. The law is strictly enforced for the safety of the gorillas.