Traveling as a Solo Person for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: Solo gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda creates deeply personal memories. You move freely, spending uninterrupted time with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
However, preparation is everything when traveling alone. Pack all necessary gear carefully, since borrowing from fellow travelers is unlikely. Follow recommended packing guides to avoid missing essential items. Additionally, book your gorilla trekking permit well in advance, allowing time to confirm all travel requirements and avoid last-minute panic.
Furthermore, exercise regularly before your trek to build physical strength. Mountain gorillas rank among the world’s most sought-after primates. Therefore, arrive strong, well-prepared, and ready to make every moment truly unforgettable.
Even after confirming your gorilla trekking tour, keep checking with your operator as often as you wish so that you are on the same page by the time of your departure. Inform the tour operator about your flight schedule and provide your travel details for follow-up, especially if the ground operator is to do your airport transfer. At Anthill Safaris, we may reconfirm your flights, especially the departure flights from either Entebbe or Kigali Airport, so that in case of any changes, you are in the know.
Most Popular Safari
4 Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari
8-Day Gorillas, Chimps, and Big5 Game Drive Safari
3 Day Queen Elizabeth Park Luxury Safari
5-day Uganda Gorilla & Wildlife Safari
12-Day Uganda Gorillas, Chimps, & Wildlife Safari
7 Day Rwanda Primates and Game Drive Safari
5 Day Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda & Lake Kivu Safari
3 Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour
2-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari
3 Day Akagrea National Park and Lake Kivu Safari
Where to do gorilla safaris in Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the largest home of the mountain gorillas, home to more than 19 gorilla trekking families and so far 4 gorilla habituation experience families. This tropical rainforest is a biosphere reserve that is believed to have been in existence for over 25000 years. This has enabled the forest to accumulate a long list of inhabitants.
Authorities book Bwindi gorilla trekking permits according to the forest’s four distinct areas: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.
Travelers should reserve accommodations within or near the area where they booked their gorilla permit. This is because the obstacles that separate one area from another make it quite hard to easily cross and find a briefing time.
Bwindi hosts other inhabitants, including Chimpanzees, though they are wild, grey-cheeked mangabey, red-tailed monkeys, over 88 butterfly species, 350 bird species, over 200 tree species, 51 reptiles, and others.
Sometimes the mountain gorillas spend time on the slopes of these highlands, so you need to hike to get to them.
Mgahinga National Park
The small size of Mgahinga National Park amongst the Uganda National Parks doesn’t stop it from being one of the few homes of the mountain gorillas in the world. One gorilla family called Nyakagezi lives in Mgahinga National Park, which covers an estimated area of 33.7 square kilometers.
The mysterious golden monkey, one of the highly endangered primates in the world, is also a resident of Mgahinga National Park. More than 115 bird species have been recorded as residents of Mgahinga forest, including Albertine rift endemics. Mgahinga forest is one of the untouched natural forests in the world, so if you are searching for authentic nature, this may be part of your choice.
Cost of Gorilla Trekking Permits
Gorilla Trekking for a Solo Person: The cost of a gorilla trekking permit can vary depending on the type of experience and the nationality of the traveler. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Permit Type | Foreign Non-Residents | Foreign Residents | Africans | East African Citizens |
| Gorilla Trekking Permit | $800 per person | $700 per person | $500 per person | 300,000 UGX per person |
| Gorilla Habituation Permit | $1,500 per person | $1,000 per person | $1,000 per person | 750,000 UGX per person |
Where to stay while on a Uganda gorilla safari
When planning a Uganda gorilla safari, choosing the right accommodation is crucial to enhancing your overall experience. There are various accommodation options available, ranging from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites, each offering a unique and immersive experience. For those seeking luxury and comfort, staying at exclusive lodges located near the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park can provide a lavish experience with top-notch amenities and personalized service.
On the other hand, for travelers on a tighter budget, some affordable guesthouses and campsites offer basic yet comfortable lodging options while still allowing you to be close to the gorilla trekking activities. No matter your preference, choosing the right accommodation can truly enhance your Uganda gorilla safari experience and create lasting memories in the heart of nature.
When is the best time to visit Uganda for a solo gorilla safari experience?
Gorilla Trekking for a Solo Person: The best time to visit Uganda for a solo gorilla safari experience is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to September. This time of year offers the best weather conditions for trekking through the lush forests in search of mountain gorillas. The dry season also provides better visibility and hiking conditions, making it easier to navigate the rugged terrain and spot the gorillas in their natural habitat. Additionally, the dry season coincides with the peak tourist season, so you may have better chances of securing permits and accommodations for your solo adventure. Be sure to plan your trip well in advance to ensure a memorable and successful gorilla safari experience in Uganda.
How do I get to the Gorilla trekking?
Gorilla Trekking for a Solo Person: It is possible to get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park either by road or by domestic flight. To get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. It is around a nine-hour drive from Entebbe/Kampala, and to get to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is around a 10–to 11-hour drive. By domestic flight, you fly from Entebbe to arrive in towns near the mountains (Kihihi or Kisoro, depending on where you are trekking). And then you are driven the last bit up into the mountains.
What to pack for a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda.
Gorilla Trekking for a Solo Person: Packing for a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda refers to preparing and bringing the necessary essential items. When packing for a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, essentials include sturdy hiking boots or shoes, comfortable clothing, and layers for changing weather conditions. Trekkers should also bring a waterproof jacket, hat, and gloves, as well as a backpack with snacks, water, and a packed lunch. Additionally, items including a camera, binoculars, and a charger, as well as sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first-aid kit, are essential. Moreover, you should pack a trekking stick for the challenging terrain, along with a portable toilet seat or personal hygiene wipes. Lastly, carry your important documents like a passport, visa, and permit, as well as cash and a tip for the guides and the porters.
What to Expect During Your Uganda Gorilla Trek
Gorilla Trekking for a Solo Person: Your Uganda gorilla trekking adventure begins with an early morning briefing at the park headquarters. Here, experienced guides will provide essential information about gorilla behavior, safety guidelines, and what to expect during the trek.
The trek itself is an exhilarating journey through the dense rainforests of Bwindi or Mgahinga, following trails that wind through lush vegetation and across varying terrain. The duration of the trek can range from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family you’ll be visiting.
Once you encounter the gorillas, prepare to be mesmerized. You’ll have one precious hour to observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. Watch as the gorillas of Africa play, groom each other, and forage for food. Witness the silverback’s gentle leadership and the playful antics of the youngsters. This is an experience you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Suggested 5-day Gorilla Trekking for Solo Gorilla Trekking In Uganda.
Start Day One Road Trip To Bwindi Forest National Park, Uganda
Get into your vehicle, preferably a 4×4, because the nature of roads close to Bwindi’s Impenetrable Forest turns boggy, especially during the severe rainy seasons. The route to Bwindi forest to do gorilla trekking is entertaining. Several landforms make up the way, especially the volcanic area. Visitors can see numerous crater lakes at the base of the highlands. Arrive late evening and check into your lodge.
Day Two Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest
After breakfast, carry your gorilla trekking gear to the ranger briefing point. Do not forget to pack an extra clean mask to change into as you approach the mountain gorillas.
You will be divided into groups of 8 clients to trek each gorilla family. Follow your ranger guide because he is more familiar with the forest. Although the ranger guide follows the slowest trekker, try not to delay the rest of the group because you do not know when to locate the mountain gorillas.
Watch out for other troupes of monkeys like olive baboons, black and white colobus, blue monkeys, vervet monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and L’hoest, to mention but a few.
The rich avian life in the forest is like the life of the party. It makes your trek even more interesting. Several birds make their way into the forest, including those on the IUCN red list.
When you finally approach the gorillas, you may hear them murmur at each other, and so come into view as per the instructions of the ranger. Keep a distance of about 8 meters away from the gorillas and watch. Take pho,tos, but try not to touch the gori,llas, even if they are adorable to be around.
Exhaust every minute you are with the mountain gorillas and take as many pictures as you can to keep.
Return to your lodge to relax.
Day Three: Drive To Queen Elizabeth National Park
A combo of gorilla trekking and wild game drive makes the African trip more exciting. Nothing can do this better than touring Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda.
The distance between the two parks is about 4 to 5 hours on the road, but as you get into Queen Elizabeth National Park, you may drive through the Ishasha sector. Ishasha sector is the famous home of the tree-climbing lions that you may be able to see relaxing in the figs.
Other animals you may have a chance to see include herds of buffalo, elephants, leopards, waterbucks, and beautiful landscapes, to mention but a few.
Check into your lodge.
Day Four: Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Start your day early to witness the park awakening. Nocturnal animals return to their hideouts while daytime wildlife begins moving, creating a spectacular sight.
Head to the Kasenyi area, where Uganda Kobs graze throughout the day. Lions actively hunt here, making it the best spot for watching exciting predator drama.
Additionally, explore the Lake Edward Flats, where marshy grounds attract rich birdlife year-round. Look out for the shoebill, papyrus gonolek, and white-winged warbler among many others. Finally, visit the Ishasha sector in the southern part of the park, famous for its unique tree-climbing lions resting on fig branches.
Get back to your lodge for lunch.
Launching a trip after a morning game drive is like a cherry on top of the icing. Get to relax on the boat that sails from Mweya pier on the Kazinga channel. The amount of wildlife that graces the shores is amazing, and the birds that flock to the shores are unbelievable.
Even foreign migrant birds like lesser and greater flamingos, Egyptian geese, and others find their way to the shores. Watch a clear view of the rift valley floor and surrounding features like the Rwenzori ranges that stand up to make a beautiful backdrop.
Return to your lodge to relax.
Day Five departure date
Having enjoyed the wilderness of Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Park and game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, drive to Entebbe Airport. Catch up with your departure flight.
What to wear for a gorilla trek in Uganda?
Gorilla Trekking for a Solo Person: The trek can take between 1 and 6 hours, and you need to be comfortable throughout. Below are the essential clothing items recommended for a gorilla trek in Uganda.
- Long-sleeved shirts protect your skin from thorny plants, critters, and insect bites.
- Good, strong, waterproof, and knee-length hiking boots. They should be well-prepared to avoid blisters and discomfort during the trek.
- Long, thick socks.
- Trekking trousers. If possible, get lightweight, waterproof pants and avoid wearing jeans because they will slow you down when they get heavy.
- Waterproof adjustable gaiters.
- A waterproof rain jacket or coat is to be carried during the dry and wet seasons.
Some of the Gorilla Trekking Rules in Uganda
Gorilla Trekking for a Solo Person: Before you start gorilla trekking, you will be given a simple briefing about the rules and guidelines to follow when trekking with gorillas. It would help if you listened closely to the rules and regulations laid out because they protect the already endangered Mountain gorillas so that they can still be available for trekking for other tourists to participate in the activity. The trekking rules and regulations include:
If you wish to spend more time with the gorillas, you can opt for the habituation process, which takes about 4 hours.
- Under no circumstances is flash photography allowed.
- If you feel unwell, you will not be allowed to trek, so you should only volunteer to trek.
- You are to keep a distance of 7 meters between you and the gorillas at all times.
- The national parks must be kept clean throughout, and all the rubbish must be disposed of properly in the bins.
- Ensure that as you go to the toilet, you dig a hole 30 cm deep, cover it up properly, and use a biodegradable toilet.
- Noise should be limited when trekking and with the gorillas to avoid disrupting the peace of the primates.
- The minimum trek age in Uganda is 15 years. Anyone above 15 years can trek gorillas as long as they are fit.
