What you must know about Gorilla Tracking in Uganda
Acquiring a Gorilla Permit for Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo
It is highly advisable to pay for your Gorilla permit in advance because a limited number of gorilla permits are issued by Ugandan authorities based on gorilla families. In rare cases, you may be disappointed upon arrival in Uganda if the permits are not available. Please note that you will need a permit for each Gorilla tracking location. Below are the most attractive gorilla tracking locations: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga National Park, Volcanoes National Park, and Virunga National Park.
There are three key destinations for Gorilla tracking: Uganda, Rwanda, and The Democratic Republic of Congo.
Acquiring a Visa to Uganda
Once you have your Gorilla Permit, you are now set to arrive at the Pearl of Africa. Uganda offers a friendly migration policy where visitors can acquire a visa on arrival at their port of entry.
Choosing Accommodation for Your Gorilla Trip
At this point, you will need to coordinate with your tour operator to choose perfect accommodation for your Gorilla tour. Your accommodation is determined by the group of Gorillas you have been assigned to track by the Gorilla Permit issuing authority. Always get confirmation for your accommodation booking from your tour operator. You may also find the address of your accommodation on Google Maps for better mental preparation during your trip.
Packing for a Trip to Uganda
Clothing: Uganda has a unique climate, ranging from hot to cold. Pack long-sleeved shirts, shorts, scarves, and trousers to cater to all seasons. Avoid white and black clothes due to weather conditions and dust stains.
Strong Hiking Shoes: Essential for Gorilla trekking, choose waterproof and durable hiking shoes to navigate steep and muddy terrains.
A Camera: Gorillas are captivating, so pack a high-quality camera for stunning photos. Note that flash photography is not allowed.
Back-up Medication: Consult with your doctor for essential medications such as those for stomach issues, vomiting, and malaria.
Personal Health: Consider anti-venom injections and insect repellents. Carry sunscreen to protect against sunburns.
Leisure Time Devices: Pack devices like headphones, tablets, iPods, and more for leisure time.
Extra Gadgets: Include extra camera lenses, memory cards, chargers, adapters, and USB cables.
Other Protective Gears: Besides hiking shoes, bring sunglasses, hats, gloves, nose caps, body covers, and insect repellents for Gorilla trekking.
Gorilla Trekking Rules & Regulations – Uganda
Once you arrive at Entebbe International Airport, your guide will take care of you. During Gorilla tracking, adhere to the following regulations:
- If you show signs of infectious diseases, you are not allowed to track the Gorillas.
- Move slowly and keep your voice at a low tone in the jungles.
- Maintain a distance of seven meters from Gorilla individuals.
- Do not run after the Gorillas.
- Do not touch the Gorillas without permission.
- Avoid eating in the presence of the apes.
- Do not litter the park with your rubbish.
- If you need to ease yourself, dig a hole up to one foot high, dispose of your waste, and backfill it with soil.
- You must have a valid Gorilla permit to participate.