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Gorilla trekking in Uganda

Located at the heart of the African Continent, Uganda is a country truly gifted by nature and well deserves the title of “Pearl of Africa”. Uganda has ten National Parks, 12 wildlife reserves and 14 wildlife sanctuaries.

Uganda is best known for viewing the endangered mountain gorillas, chimpanzees and other primates as well as being home to savannas teeming with wildlife, tropical rainforests, spectacular waterfalls, shimmering lakes and rivers as well as the glacial peaks of the Rwenzori mountains 'Mountains of the Moon'.

Visitors can also travel to the source of the Nile river, visit the serene Ssese Islands in Lake Victoria or go white-river rafting, kayaking, quad-biking or bungee jumping at Bujagali.
With a third of the country covered by water including Lake Victoria, Lake Albert, Lake Kyoga, Lake Albert, Lake George and the Nile River; Uganda offers a wonderful opportunity for those keen on sport fishing for Nile Perch.

Boasting three separate mountain destinations topping 4000m , Uganda also offers top hiking and climbing possibilities. Experienced mountaineers can be genuinely challenged by a trio of craggy 5000-plus meter glacial peaks of the Rwenzori mountains.
Uganda is Africa's most complete birdwatching destination and, with more than 1000 species recorded. These include the Shoebill, Great Blue Turaco, Black-and-White Casqued Hornbill and Green Broadbill. Many visitors have found birding to be very rewarding in this country.

People

The 56 nationalities (tribes) fall into the broad ethnic classifications of Bantu, Nilotics, Nilo-Hermites and Hermites.

Time Zone

Uganda is located at geographic coordinates 1 00 N, 32 00 E, it is within the East African time zone, which is 3 hours ahead of GMT.

Languages

English is the official language. Kiswahili is the second official language although not widely spoken.

Visa

Single entry is $50 and can be obtained before departure or upon arrival at Entebbe Airport.

Weather

Uganda enjoys one of the best climates in the world. It is sunny and green all year round with two distinct rainy seasons stretching from March to May and from September to November. However rain can occur at any time. Because Uganda is warm, light clothing is advisable. Evenings can be cooler however, so carry a couple of light sweaters too.

Medical

A certificate of yellow fever vaccination is mandatory. Visitors should take malaria prophylactic drugs and carry insect repellent with them. It is advisable to drink bottled water which is available throughout the country, rather than tap water.

Currency

The Ugandan Shilling is the legal tender. There are no restrictions on money transfers in and out of Uganda. Credit cards are not widely accepted. There are numerous forex bureaux in the main cities.

Photography

Photography is allowed in all areas apart from airports, military installations and other sensitive areas. Uganda has 220-volt power and the same plugs as in the United Kingdom with three flat prongs.

Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking

For gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, you will need stout boots, long trousers and a long sleeved shirt. Do not wear any army-style camouflage clothing. Also carry rain gear and sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars and camera. Children under 15 are not allowed to trek gorillas and children under 12 are not allowed to the chimpanzee trekking.

Do not forget

Binoculars, camera, sunscreen and a torch.

Uganda 4 days with Gorillas

Day 1

Up on your arrival at Entebbe International Airport you will meet by your safari guide who will transfer you to Kampala at your accommodation. He will help you with your luggage and once you are set up on the vehicle he can drop you at Le Petit Village in Kampala . The drive will take approximately 45 minutes depends on traffic ).

Le Petit Village's intimate rooms are decorated in safari Chic rustic elegance,which makes it the perfect place to relax in understated luxury. All rooms are self-contained and have air-conditioning , 20 inch LCD flat screen Tvs,complimentary Wireless Internet Connections, satellite, a phone line,fridge,complimentary mini bar and DVD player. Plus guests can enjoy our swimming pool , gourmet dining, shopping and much more at competitive prices that included breakfast. Overnight at Le Petit Village (BB)

Day 2

This morning after an early breakfast we will depart for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest national Park home to the few remaining mountain gorillas (the drive will take approximately 10 hours ). Bird life and primate life in Bwindi is quite superb, and there is an incredible variety of flora. Bwindi is the bird watchers haven!! it holds 348 species of birds and supports 24 of 26 Albertine Rift Endemics that occur in Uganda; and seven red data book species. Once continuous with the forests of the Virunga Volcanoes , Bwindi is now an ecological island , surrounded by cultivation on the rich volcanic soils.

BUHOMA LODGE : the lodge has 8 comfortable cottages, each with its own private veranda and a nice view of the fores. Inside the cottages you find beds,en suite bathrooms , hot shower or bath tubs. Overnight at Buhoma Lodge (FB)

Day 3

Up relatively early for a hearty breakfast to give you the energy needed for gorilla tracking. Before 8:00 AM report to the ranger station for registration and a talk by one of the rangers;the guides will then take you trough the bush pushing your way trough the undergrowth,parting thick creepers,to track the gorillas. (please note this trek can take from half an hour to 5 /6 hours – a reasonable degree of fitness is required as well as a study pair of walking shoes ). Sit in the forest among the gorillas, listening to them grumble to each other , and marvel at the sheer size of the dominant male;the Silverback. It is an extraordinary feeling sitting in the dense rainforest knowing you are with a few of the last remaining mountain gorillas. It's amazing to think there are only about 650 of these beautiful creatures left. Overnight at Buhoma Lodge (FB)

Day 4

This morning an early breakfast , then we will depart with a packet lunch and your guide will drive you to Kampala (10 hours driving ) and once you arrive in Kampala , your guide will drive you to Entebbe International Airport for your outbound flight . Please note you have to be at the Airport 2 hours before your departure.

SAFARI PRICE

Our prices vary depending on the itinerary and the number of the people on the trip. We try to make our prices all-inclusive so that our clients are not reaching for their wallets all the time. The 4X4 Land Cruiser and the safari guide will be at your exclusive use throughout the safari which provides you with great flexibility. Your Guide will accompany you throughout your safari In Uganda, assist you with check-in at your accommodation and share his knowledge with you on Flora and Fauna of Uganda. The only things currently not included are guest drinks and items of a personal nature (souvenirs , tips, etc.). As a general rule,prices for our safaris included:

  • all ground transportation, fuel and transfers as per your itinerary
  • Gorilla Permits
  • a full time safari guide (English Speaking ) and his associated expenses
  • all meals as specified in this itinerary (except Hotels In Kampala or Entebbe which are BB )
  • accommodations as noted in this itinerary
  • water,snacks, tea and coffee in the vehicle
  • activities as indicated in the itinerary
  • all game drives in a shared 4 wheel drive vehicle
  • ranger guide fees
  • park & conservation fees
  • all applicable taxes, administration and banking fees

NOT INCLUDED:

  • Outbound Flights
  • Entrance VISA in Uganda (approximately $50 per person )
  • Drinks in the Hotels and Lodges
  • Items for a personal nature (souvenirs, tips, etc.)

Uganda 5 days Bwindi & QE

Day 1

Early morning leave Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Stop over at the Equator and for lunch in Mbarara. The road to Bwindi is long will take you approximately 10 hours and sometimes dirt road, however panoramic through Ankole region and Uganda coffee and banana plantations.

BUHOMA LODGE : the lodge has 8 comfortable cottages, each with its own private veranda and a nice view of the fores. Inside the cottages you find beds,en suite bathrooms , hot shower or bath tubs. Overnight at Buhoma Lodge (FB).

Day 2

Up relatively early for a hearty breakfast to give you the energy needed for gorilla tracking. Before 8:00 AM report to the ranger station for registration and a talk by one of the rangers;the guides will then take you trough the bush pushing your way trough the undergrowth,parting thick creepers,to track the gorillas. (please note this trek can take from half an hour to 5 /6 hours – a reasonable degree of fitness is required as well as a study pair of walking shoes ). Sit in the forest among the gorillas, listening to them grumble to each other , and marvel at the sheer size of the dominant male;the Silver back. It is an extraordinary feeling sitting in the dense rain forest knowing you are with a few of the last remaining mountain gorillas. It's amazing to think there are only about 650 of these beautiful creatures left. Overnight at Buhoma Lodge (FB)

Day 3

After breakfast , transfer you to Queen Elizabeth National Park. According to the road conditions, you might pass via Ishasha sector of the park for game drive in search for the typical tree climbing lions,a phenomenon which is characteristic of Uganda in this area as well as Tanzania. You will have the packed lunch. In the afternoon you will go for a Boat trip in Kazinga channel in the northern area of Queen Elizabeth. When you do the boat trip you can see water birds,hippos,crocodiles,fish eagles, and many other species of birds which is making Queen Elizabeth a fantastic place to visit for wilderness.

MWEYA LODGE : At Mweya Lodge there is a choice between the rooms : luxurious, deluxe, suites,triple share and double and twin accommodation. All the rooms have balconies overlooking the Kazinga Channel and lake Edward, with private bathrooms and electricity. Overnight at Mweya Lodge (FB)

Day 4

an early cup of coffee, see the sunrise as you exit the lodge for game drive along the trails of the northern sector of the park. Expect to see lions,elephants, buffaloes,spotted hyenas,waterbucks,Uganda Kobs. You will return for breakfast at the lodge and you can rest and after you can have lunch.

After lunch you can go for another trip trough the trails of the National Park will bring to you to the explosion crater lakes area for beautiful sceneries and the panorama of the Albertine Rift valley. Overnight at Mweya Lodge (FB)

Day 5

After an early breakfast drive to Kyambura Gorge in the national park. This is a natural gorge created along the escarpment of the Rift Valley and it is fully forested and crossed by the river Kyambura. The gorge is home to a lively population of chimpanzee and many other monkeys, like black and white colobus and red tailed monkey. You will have a trekking down into the gorge following the ranger to see the chimpanzee after hearing their sound. After we will depart for Kampala. And your guide will drive you back to your accommodation.

SAFARI PRICE

Our prices vary depending on the itinerary and the number of the people on the trip. We try to make our prices all-inclusive so that our clients are not reaching for their wallets all the time. The 4X4 Land Cruiser and the safari guide will be at your exclusive use throughout the safari which provides you with great flexibility. Your Guide will accompany you throughout your safari In Uganda, assist you with check-in at your accommodation and share his knowledge with you on Flora and Fauna of Uganda. The only things currently not included are guest drinks and items of a personal nature (souvenirs , tips, etc.). As a general rule,prices for our safaris included:

  • all ground transportation, fuel and transfers as per your itinerary
  • Gorilla Permits
  • a full time safari guide (English Speaking ) and his associated expenses
  • all meals as specified in this itinerary (except Hotels In Kampala or Entebbe which are BB )
  • accommodations as noted in this itinerary
  • water,snacks, tea and coffee in the vehicle
  • activities as indicated in the itinerary
  • all game drives in a shared 4 wheel drive vehicle
  • ranger guide fees
  • park & conservation fees
  • all applicable taxes, administration and banking fees

NOT INCLUDED:

  • Outbound Flights
  • Entrance VISA in Uganda (approximately $50 per person )
  • Drinks in the Hotels and Lodges
  • Items for a personal nature (souvenirs, tips, etc.)

Uganda Itinerary 10 days

Day 1

Up on your arrival at Entebbe International Airport you will meet by your safari guide who will transfer you to Kampala at your accommodation. He will help you with your luggage and once you are set up on the vehicle he can drop you at Emin pasha Hotel in Kampala . The drive will take approximately 45 minutes depends on traffic ).

EMIN PASHA HOTEL: The Superior rooms are on the upper level with French doors opening to views over gardens or courtyards. All are air-conditioned. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms. All have internet access , with mosquito nets,television,direct dial telephone. Some of the rooms have a small outside sitting area facing a courtyard. Overnight at Emin pasha Hotel (BB)

Day 2

This morning we will leave Kampala at around 8: 00 AM and we will drive through the famous Luwero Triangle. On the way we will stop at Masindi , having lunch and then continue for Murchison Falls National Park.
On arrival at the park we will stop at the top of the falls which will be a fantastic sight. Here the Nile, the longest river in the world, is forced through a narrow gap in the rock (only 7 meters wide ), before ferociously plunging down 43 meters. From here we will continue on , taking a ferry across the river to Paraa Safari Lodge. Overnight at Paraa safari Lodge (FB)

Day 3

This morning an early Game Drive, in this National Park you can see Hippos,elephants,buffalos,giraffes and many other animals.

After Lunch we can go for a Boat Trip along the Nile. On this trip you can see the crocodiles, Hippos and a lot of birds. If you are lucky you can even see the rare and prehistoric looking Shoebill, which is a cross between the dodo and a dinosaur. The boat takes you to the base of the falls which only adds to their impressiveness. Overnight at Paraa safari Lodge (FB)

Day 4

This morning enjoy your breakfast and then we will depart with a packed lunch for Kibale National Park. The drive will take approximately 7 hours and you will drive through Fort Portal and once you arrive your guide will drive you to Mountains of the moon.

MOUNTAINS OF THE MOON: Mountains of the moon got 33 well designed rooms,characterized with homespun touches. 3 modern conference rooms with unmatched facilities will meet your everyday meeting needs or relax and enjoy a massage in well equipped Health Club of the Newly Renovated Uganda Hotel. Overnight at Mountains of the moon (FB)

Day 5

A relatively early morning start, to report to the ranger station in Kibale National Park at 8:00 AM to track habituated chimps-these delightful apes,more closely related to humans than to any other living creature,are tremendous fun to watch as they squabble and play in fruiting trees. The Incredibly diverse forest is home to over 13 species of primates including red Colobus Monkey,the rare L'hoest, blue monkey, grey mangabey,pottos,black faced vervet monkeys,baboons and also bushbabies. A network of shady forest trails provides much to delight botanists and butterfly lovers,while birders are in for a treat with 335 species recorded including the endemic Prirogrine's ground thrush. The elusive forest elephant,smaller and hairier that its Savannah counterpart, moves seasonally into the developed part of the park,while other terrestrial mammals include buffalo,giant forest hog and half dozen antelope species. After this wonderful experience, we will depart to Queen Elizabeth National Park (the drive will take approximately 4 hours )

MWEYA LODGE: At Mweya Lodge there is a choice between the rooms : luxurious, deluxe, suites,triple share and double and twin accommodation. All the rooms have balconies overlooking the Kazinga Channel and lake Edward, with private bathrooms and electricity. Overnight at Mweya safari Lodge (FB)

Day 6

This morning you will leave for an early morning game drives. Expect to see various mammals like buffalo , hippo,lions antelopes,hyenas among other species. We will return to the lodge for lunch and a chance to relax before taking an afternoon boat trip along the Kazinga Channel. This will give you the opportunity to view wildlife up close : hippo's huff and spray mere feet away from the boat ,buffalo linger in the shallows. The shores of the channel are also home to an array of birds including pink backed pelicans,pied and malachite kingfishers,saddle billed stork and many others. After this wonderful afternoon , a slow drive back to the lodge. Overnight at Mweya safari Lodge (FB)

Day 7

This morning after breakfast we will depart for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest national Park. You will drive through the seasonal southern sector of Queen Elizabeth called Ishasha. Here we will take lunch by the Ishasha River and try to find the famed Ishasha tree-climbing lions before continuing to Bwindi , home to the few remaining mountain gorillas. Bird life and primate life in Bwindi is quite superb, and there is an incredible variety of flora. Bwindi is the bird watchers haven!! it holds 348 species of birds and supports 24 of 26 Albertine Rift Endemics that occur in Uganda; and seven red data book species. Once continuous with the forests of the Virunga Volcanoes , Bwindi is now an ecological island , surrounded by cultivation on the rich volcanic soils.

BUHOMA LODGE: the lodge has 8 comfortable cottages, each with its own private veranda and a nice view of the fores. Inside the cottages you find beds,en suite bathrooms , hot shower or bath tubs. Overnight at Buhoma Lodge (FB)

Day 8

Up relatively early for a hearty breakfast to give you the energy needed for gorilla tracking. Before 8:00 AM report to the ranger station for registration and a talk by one of the rangers;the guides will then take you trough the bush pushing your way trough the undergrowth,parting thick creepers,to track the gorillas. (please note this trek can take from half an hour to 5 /6 hours – a reasonable degree of fitness is required as well as a study pair of walking shoes ). Sit in the forest among the gorillas, listening to them grumble to each other , and marvel at the sheer size of the dominant male;the Silverback. It is an extraordinary feeling sitting in the dense rainforest knowing you are with a few of the last remaining mountain gorillas. It's amazing to think there are only about 650 of these beautiful creatures left. Overnight at Buhoma Lodge (FB)

Day 9

This morning an early breakfast , then we will depart with a packet lunch and your guide will drive you to Kampala (10 hours driving ) and once you arrive in Kampala , your guide will drive you to Entebbe International Airport for your outbound flight . Please note you have to be at the Airport 2 hours before your departure.

Cost includes

Our prices vary depending on the itinerary and the number of the people on the trip. We try to make our prices all-inclusive so that our clients are not reaching for their wallets all the time. The 4X4 Land Cruiser and the safari guide will be at your exclusive use throughout the safari which provides you with great flexibility. Your Guide will accompany you throughout your safari In Uganda, assist you with check-in at your accommodation and share his knowledge with you on Flora and Fauna of Uganda. The only things currently not included are guest drinks and items of a personal nature (souvenirs , tips, etc.). As a general rule,prices for our safaris included:

  • all ground transportation, fuel and transfers as per your itinerary
  • Gorilla Permits
  • a full time safari guide (English Speaking ) and his associated expenses
  • all meals as specified in this itinerary (except Hotels In Kampala or Entebbe which are BB )
  • accommodations as noted in this itinerary
  • water,snacks, tea and coffee in the vehicle
  • activities as indicated in the itinerary
  • all game drives in a shared 4 wheel drive vehicle
  • ranger guide fees
  • park & conservation fees
  • all applicable taxes, administration and banking fees

NOT INCLUDED:

  • Outbound Flights
  • Entrance VISA in Uganda (approximately $50 per person )
  • Drinks in the Hotels and Lodges
  • Items for a personal nature (souvenirs, tips, etc.)