Uganda is a popular destination for tourists seeking a unique safari experience. With its abundant wildlife and diverse natural landscapes, Uganda offers a range of activities for travelers to enjoy, including gorilla trekking safaris, game drives, boat cruises, chimpanzee tracking tours, mountain hiking tours and many more. If you’re planning a trip to Uganda, here are some common inquiries you may have about safaris, gorilla safaris, and tours:

 

 

What is a Uganda safari?

A Uganda safari is a trip through Uganda’s national parks and game reserves to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. The safari typically includes game drives, nature walks, and other activities to explore the natural beauty of the country.

 

 

What is a gorilla safari?

A gorilla safari is a unique experience that involves trekking through the forests of Uganda to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Gorilla safaris are typically guided by experienced trackers who lead visitors to the gorilla families.

 

Where can I go on a Uganda safari?

Uganda has several national parks and game reserves that offer great safari experiences. The most popular parks include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale national park, Lake Mburo national park and Kidepo Valley National Park.

 

When is the best time to go on a Uganda safari?

The best time to go on a Uganda safari depends on the type of experience you’re looking for. The dry season would be perfect, which runs from June to September and December to February, this period is considered to be the best time for game viewing, as the animals tend to congregate around water sources. However, a Uganda is possible year-round, and some travelers prefer the greener, wetter months of March to May and October to November for their Uganda safari experience.

 

How much does a Uganda safari cost?

The cost of a Uganda safari varies depending on the duration of the trip, the level of luxury, and the activities included. A budget safari can cost as little as $200 per day, while luxury safaris can cost upwards of $1,000 per day.

 

What should I pack for a Uganda safari?

When packing for a Uganda safari, it’s important to bring lightweight, comfortable clothing in neutral colors, as well as sturdy hiking boots and a waterproof jacket. Other essential items include sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a camera with plenty of memory cards.

 

 

 

What animals can I see on a Uganda safari?

Uganda is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and hippos, as well as primates such as chimpanzees and, of course, mountain gorillas.

 

 

How physically demanding is gorilla trekking?

Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding, as visitors must hike through dense forests and steep terrain to reach the gorilla families. However, there are options for both strenuous and less strenuous hikes, and visitors can discuss their fitness level with their guide before embarking on the trek and there is also an option of hiring a porter to help you carry your stuff to make your trek easy.

Can I take photos during gorilla trekking?

Yes, visitors are allowed to take photos during gorilla trekking, but they must be careful not to use flash photography or disturb the gorillas in any way.

Do I need a visa to visit Uganda?

Yes, visitors to Uganda require a visa, which can be obtained in advance online or upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport. Visitors should also ensure that their passports are valid for at least six months beyond the date of expiration and have some blank pages for entry and exit stamps.

Are there any health concerns for visitors to Uganda?

Visitors to Uganda are advised to speak with their doctor or a travel health specialist about any necessary vaccinations or medications for their trip. Malaria is prevalent in Uganda, so visitors should take precautions such as taking anti-malarial medication and using insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.

Are Uganda safaris safe?

Uganda is generally a safe destination for travelers, but visitors should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, It’s also important to follow the guidelines and instructions of your safari guide for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Is there age limit for a Uganda safari

There is no specific age limit for a Uganda safari, as it depends on the individual’s physical ability and health. However, some safari activities have age restrictions for safety reasons, such as gorilla trekking which is required to be 15 years and above due to the challenging terrain and potential risks. It is important to consult with your safari tour operator and healthcare provider before embarking on any safari to ensure that you are physically fit to participate in the activities

GORILLA TREKKING GUIDELINES 2023/2024

Gorilla trekking is a popular activity in East Africa, particularly in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is a unique experience that allows visitors to come face-to-face with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. However, in order to ensure the safety and well-being of the gorillas, there are strict guidelines that must be followed. Here are some of the guidelines for gorilla trekking in 2023/2024:

Tracking Gorillas: Gorilla trekking is an adventurous activity that involves walking through the jungle to track gorillas. Visitors must follow the instructions of their guide, stay within the group, and maintain a safe distance of at least 7 meters from the gorillas.

Obtaining a gorilla Permit: Before embarking on a gorilla trekking expedition, visitors must obtain a permit from the relevant authorities. Permits are limited and must be purchased well in advance. Each permit costs between $700 to $1500 depending on the country and time of year.

Health Requirements: Visitors must be in good health and free of any infectious diseases such as flu . Anyone with a contagious illness will not be allowed to trek.

Do not eat or drink near the gorillas: Food and drinks should be consumed outside of the gorilla trekking area to avoid attracting the gorillas and potentially causing them harm.

Do not touch the gorillas: Gorillas are wild animals and can be dangerous if provoked or threatened. It is important to keep a safe distance and avoid any physical contact.

Group Size: Each gorilla trekking group is limited to a maximum of 8 people. This is to minimize the impact on the gorillas and their habitat.

Keep a Safe Distance: Visitors are required to keep a minimum distance of 7 meters (23 feet) from the gorillas. This helps to reduce the risk of disease transmission from humans to gorillas. Visitors are also advised to avoid direct eye contact with the gorillas as this can be seen as a threat.

Keep quiet: Loud noises can disturb the gorillas and cause them to feel threatened. Visitors should keep their voices down and avoid making any sudden movements.

Photography: Photography is allowed during gorilla trekking, but visitors must not use flash photography or make any sudden movements that could startle or disturb the gorillas.

Dress Code: Visitors should dress appropriately for the trek, including sturdy hiking boots, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts. A hat and sunglasses are also recommended.

Littering: Visitors must not litter in the jungle, and all rubbish must be carried out of the park.

Age Restrictions: The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years old. This is to ensure that visitors are physically and emotionally capable of trekking in the jungle.

Time Limit: Each gorilla trekking session is limited to one hour with the gorillas. This is to minimize the impact of human presence on the gorillas.

Respect for the Gorillas: Visitors must respect the gorillas and their natural habitat. Visitors must not make any loud noises, touch the gorillas, or feed them.