Gorilla trekking In January might perhaps be the best way to begin your year in an adventurous style. For both Rwanda and Uganda, the month of January is generally considered to be the warmest month with an almost similar average temperature of 17 °C to 24 °C (63-75 °F). It is a good time to go gorilla trekking in either Rwanda or Uganda – you could also trek in both countries if your budget allows.
Both Rwanda & Uganda share similar climate/weather patterns. The tourism seasons (peak/low seasons) are equally similar. However, the two (02) vital things Rwanda & Uganda don’t share; the price of gorilla permits and the Price of accommodation.
Price of Gorilla Permits ( Rwanda Vs Uganda): Rwanda gorilla trekking permits cost $1,500 per person, while Uganda gorilla permits cost USD700 per person to trek and spend 1-hour with a group of habituated mountain gorillas in the wild.
Related: Why is the Rwanda Gorilla Permit so expensive? | Why is Gorilla trekking only 1-hour?
Price of accommodation ( Rwanda Vs Uganda): Rwanda has set itself as a premier luxury gorilla trekking destination in Africa. Her lodges and hotels have been constructed to meet the demands of the luxurious travel communities – the prices at these hotels equally are ” up in the sky”. Rwanda’s properties like the newly opened Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Bisate eco-lodge will charge anything between USD1,750 – USD2,200 per person per night in a double room. Just so you know, the properties are surely luxurious but the price is what we find ridiculous!
Uganda, unlike Rwanda, will serve all sorts of traveller budgets. Accommodation in Uganda is categorized as budget, mid-range & luxury. Speak to us about your travel budget and we will recommend properties that meet your budget.
How to plan my gorilla trek for January
If your plan is to go gorilla trekking in December, then it is idle that you plan to book your January Gorilla Holiday at least 06 months in advance. This is because January is a Peak season month, gorilla permits are very competitive to secure, and most hotels are equally sold out well in advance.
What to pack, bring & wear on Gorilla Safari in January
The packing list for gorilla trekking In December is no different. Bring; a pair of sturdy hiking boots, a pair of long socks or gaiters, a pair of gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, trousers, a day pack to carry your valuables and lunches on the trek, a camera (with extra memory chips & batteries), a pair of binoculars, a hut/cap, and a raincoat for just in case the weather changes.
See & Print this Gorilla trekking packing checklist
Besides gorilla Trekking In January, what else can I do in Uganda or Rwanda?
Besides gorilla trekking, Uganda is equally big in chimpanzee tracking and wildlife safaris. For chimpanzee tracking, Kibale Forest National park has been named as the world capital for primates – this Ugandan park has over 13 primate species wondering within this lush forest cover. other than Kibale forest, there are a few more chimpanzee trekking destinations in Uganda: Kyambura gorge, Kalinzu Forest & Budongo Forest. where one can experience chimpanzee tracking – each of them is unique and none compares to the other.
As for wildlife Safaris in Uganda, the country has up to ten (10) National Parks with half of them being savannah parks where you can go on game drives, and or walking safaris. Uganda’s five savannah parks include Kidepo Valley, Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Semuliki & Lake Mburo National Parks.
Further reading: Top 10 things to see & do in Uganda.
Rwanda has fewer alternatives (compared to Uganda) to offer or rather add to gorilla trekking. There only four (04) National Parks In Rwanda. However, for our clients visiting Rwanda on safari, there are Top 10 recommended Experiences not to Missout on while on safari in Rwanda.
