Uganda is famous for Gorilla trekking all year round but sadly, the activity was recently put on hold due to the outbreak of COVID-19 which started in China and then spread to many nations including Uganda. The fear to spread the disease to Mountain Gorillas forced the Ministry of Tourism under the guidance of Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to halt the activity until today (25th June 2020).
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!There is still hope that after the pandemic, Gorilla trekking will resume in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park. It is important to note that no body is allowed to trek Gorillas without A gorilla permit – this is a document which authorizes some one to meet Gorillas in their National environment.
How much is a Uganda Gorilla permit?
Currently, Uganda Gorilla permit cost US$700 and 250,000 shillings for the Ugandans. Compared to Rwanda’s Gorilla permit at US$1500 each, its a big deal in Uganda to meet Gorillas at lesser cost. If you are to trek more than once, ensure the purchase of a gorilla permit for each trek.
How can i get a gorilla trekking permit?
You can visit Uganda Wildlife Authority to purchase your gorilla permit or send a trusted tour operator to buy it on your behalf. Alternatively, you can contact any officer in the reservations office by email to help you reserve your Gorilla permit and do a wire transfer to pay for the reserved permits.
What are the requirements to get Uganda gorilla permit?
You need to present your full name, passport number and country of resident to Uganda Wildlife Authority. Thereafter, you need to make payment of US$700 for each Gorilla permit.
What are Uganda’s Gorilla trekking destinations?
Uganda is gifted by two Gorilla parks namely Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga national Park which are situated in south western Uganda. You can reach the two parks from Entebbe International Airport, drive for 8-10hours OR from Kigali International Airport and drive for 3-4hrs.
What is the age limit for Gorilla trekking?
The minimum age is 15 years. At least, a 15 year old child can endure the hardships incurred while in the jungles looking for Gorilla permits. It should be noted that, Gorilla trekking is not a walk over thus children below 14years can find it impossible to meet Gorillas. In case Gorillas charge, children can not run as expected and above all they cannot fail to abide by the rules and regulations governing Gorilla trekking.
In conclusion, Uganda Gorilla trekking is done throughout the year, the fact that Uganda hosts the majority of the world’s Mountain Gorillas doesn’t mean that we recommend last minute booking. The client is supposed to book his/ her gorilla permit at least six months to the actual tracking date. Its because, Gorilla permits are on high demand throughout the year.