Is it safe for Americans and other Europeans to go gorilla trekking during COVID-19 times? Yes, it is very safe to go gorilla trekking during COVID-19 times if you adhere to the set COVID-19 travel guidelines including the onsite Gorilla Trekking Rules. Is it safe for Americans to go gorilla trekking
Rwanda & Uganda are among the latest top tourist destinations to receive the world’s first-ever global safety and hygiene stamp, launched recently by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
The safety stamp means both Uganda & Rwanda have adopted the global standardized health and hygiene protocols that were devised following the experience of WTTC members dealing with COVID19. They are also based on guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Bwindi Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park remain very safe for gorilla trekking during COVID-19 times.
Where can I see Mountain Gorillas?
To the world, there are three (03) known gorilla trekking destinations, however, to Us there are only two destinations; Uganda & Rwanda that we consider safe for gorilla trekking for both our clients and the guides who will accompany you on the trek.
Whether you choose to trek gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda, the common rule is only 08 tourists are allowed to trek a specific family. Learn why Gorilla Trekking is limited to only 08 persons.
Where to see Gorillas in Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are the only places where to go gorilla trekking in Uganda. Bwindi Forest, however, stands out as our favourite mountain gorilla trekking destination. Bwindi has 19 Habituated mountain gorilla families spread across four (04) official gorilla trekking regions. Gorilla Trekking permits in Uganda cost $700 per person. Alternatively, if the budget allows, one can opt to do gorilla habituation where you spend 4-hours viewing and photographing a group of semi-habituated mountain gorillas. Gorilla habituation in Africa can only be done in Bwindi Forest in Uganda. Gorilla Habituation permits cost USD1,500 per person.
Where to see gorillas in Rwanda: unlike Uganda where gorillas can be tracked at two locations, mountain gorillas in Rwanda can only be seen at Volcanoes National Park. Gorilla permits in Rwanda cost USD1,500 per person. There are 10 habituated gorilla families in Rwanda.
Where is the Best Place to see Gorillas? Is it Uganda or Rwanda?
Uganda still ranks top as the best place to go gorilla trekking. To be specific, we like to recommend Trekking gorillas in Bwindi Forest National Park which is home to 18 habituated mountain gorilla families spread across four (04) gorilla trekking regions. Gorilla Permits In Uganda Cost USD700 ($400 until 31st/March/2021). Accommodation in Uganda is moderately priced with our favourites luxury lodge selections (Bwindi Lodge, Nkuringo Lodge and Buhoma Lodge ) charging from USD300 to USD600 per person sharing on full board basis.
Related: Other than Gorilla trekking, what else can I do on a Safari to Uganda?
If sheer luxury is your style of travel, then Rwanda might be the best pick for you. Rwanda gorilla permits cost USD1,500 per person and luxury accommodation at Singita’s Kwitonda lodge, Wilderness’s Bisate Lodge and Virunga Lodge range from $1,750 – $2,550per person sharing on a full board basis.
Related: Besides Gorilla Trekking What else can I do on a Rwanda Safari?
When is the best time to go gorilla trekking?
The best times to go gorilla trekking is from June to August or December to February. At these times, the forest trails are drier and therefore less slippery. Also, your chance of a dry gorilla viewing experience is higher during these months. This might result in a better experience and photography will be easier.
What to pack, bring & wear on your Gorilla trekking Safari.
- Sturdy Lightweight walking shoes. the lighter the better. Extra weight on the trek is not good.
- Long-sleeved shirt and trousers to provide extra body protections against thorny shrubs.
- Long socks that allow you tuck you pants in to avoid bugs from climbing into your pants while on the trek.
- Rain jacket in case it rains. Remember you are trekking in a tropical rain forest.
- Gaiters (Optional). Don’t spend On new ones. These can well be substituted with long socks to serve the same purpose.
- A camera for your photographic needs. Don’t spend BIG on a camera. if you own an iPhone, they too take amazing pictures especial under limited forest light.
- Binoculars (optional). They might come in handy when spotting some forest birds. Your ranger guide will have a pair that he is willing to share.
- A hat (optional). This is to keep branches and leaves let alone bugs from falling into your hair.
- Drinking water. Realm Africa Safaris™ will provide adequate bottled drinking water for the entire trip.
- Packed Lunch. Realm Africa Safaris™ will take care of this. All our trips include meals unless agreed otherwise
- A Day Pack to carry all your personal items while on the trek. ** We recommend using a porter to carry your day pack for you (see: why use a porter for Gorilla trekking)
Uganda Gorilla Safaris for 2021 – 2022 Is it Safe for Americans to go gorilla trekking
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safaris for 2021 – 2022 Is it Safe for Americans to go gorilla trekking
