Uganda, described by Winston Churchill as ‘The Pearl of Africa’ is a relatively small country, but it has there is a lot on offer, home to the tallest mountain ranges in africa, Rowenzori Mountains the source that feeds the worlds longest river & the continents largest lake. Uganda is also home to 50% of the worlds remaining gorilla population.
Uganda and Rwanda are two of the best destinations in Africa for safaris, gorilla treks and other amazing experiences. These two countries share the Virunga Mountains, home to the endangered mountain gorillas that can only be found in this region and in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda. Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that allows you to encounter these gentle giants in their natural habitat and observe their behaviour and interactions.
You need a gorilla permit to join a guided trek that lasts from 2 to 8 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family. Uganda has 18 habituated gorilla groups, 17 in Bwindi and one in Mgahinga National Park, while Rwanda has 12 groups in Volcanoes National Park. Gorilla permits cost $/£700 in Uganda and $?£1500 in Rwanda.
Besides gorilla trekking, Uganda and Rwanda offer other exciting safari activities such as wildlife viewing, chimpanzee tracking, golden monkey tracking, birdwatching, cultural tours, hiking and more. You can visit some of the most diverse and scenic national parks in Africa such as Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, Akagera, Nyungwe Forest and Lake Mburo. You can see the Big Five animals (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo), as well as other species like giraffe, zebra, hippo, crocodile, antelope and more. You can also enjoy boat cruises on the Nile, Kazinga Channel and Lake Ihema, or go for a hot air balloon ride over the savannah. You can also learn about the rich culture and history of the local people by visiting their villages, museums and genocide memorial sites.
Uganda and Rwanda are both safe and friendly countries that welcome visitors with open arms. They have good infrastructure, accommodation options and transport services that make travelling easy and comfortable. You can choose from a variety of safari packages that suit your budget, time and interests. You can also combine your safari with a beach holiday on Lake Kivu or Lake Victoria, or extend your trip to other neighbouring countries like Kenya, Tanzania or Congo. Uganda and Rwanda are truly remarkable destinations that will leave you with unforgettable memories and stories to tell.
The best time to go to Uganda and Rwanda on a gorilla trek or safari depends on your preferences and budget. Generally, the dry seasons from June to August and December to February are considered the best time for gorilla trekking, as the trails are drier and easier to hike, the weather is cooler and drier, and the visibility is better for photography. This is also the peak season for tourism, so you can expect higher prices and more crowds in the parks. However, you can also enjoy other safari activities such as wildlife viewing, birdwatching and cultural tours during this time.
The wet seasons from March to May and September to November are also possible times to go on a gorilla trek or safari, but you should be prepared for more rain, mud and humidity. The rainforest is greener and more lush during this time, and you can see more flowers and birds. The gorillas may also be easier to find as they don’t move far in search of food. The wet seasons are also low seasons for tourism, so you can benefit from lower prices and less crowds in the parks. However, some roads may become impassable and some lodges may close during this time.
Share this tourTuesday to Thursday 10:00 – 20:00
Friday – Saturday 10:00 – 17:00
Sunday / Monday – CLOSED