Planning Your Safari

Uganda and Rwanda can be visited year-round for gorilla trekking.

The dry seasons (June-September and December-February) are generally considered the best times as trails are less muddy and wildlife is easier to spot.

However, the wet seasons (March-May and October-November) offer fewer tourists, lower prices, and lush green landscapes. Gorilla trekking is available every day of the year.

We recommend booking 3-6 months in advance, especially if your trip includes gorilla trekking. Gorilla permits are limited and sell out quickly during peak season (June-September, December-February).

For off-peak travel, 2-3 months notice is usually sufficient. Last-minute bookings may be possible but availability cannot be guaranteed.

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Uganda offers an online visa application, while Rwanda also provides an online visa option. Where applicable, the standard tourist visa fee is US$50 for Uganda and US$30 for Rwanda.

If you are visiting Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya, you may consider the East Africa Tourist Visa, which costs US$100 and allows travel between the three countries for up to 90 days.

We recommend checking the latest visa requirements for your nationality and applying online before travel whenever possible for a smoother arrival experience.

Absolutely! Our safaris can be customized to suit your interests, schedule, and budget.

You can add activities, extend your stay, combine destinations, or create a completely unique itinerary.

There is no extra charge for customization.

Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for Uganda.

 In Rwanda, it takes place in Volcanoes National Park.

We can arrange your permits, accommodation, transportation, and other activities as part of your safari.

Gorilla trekking can range from 30 minutes to 6+ hours of hiking depending on where the gorillas are located that day.

The terrain is mountainous at 2,200-2,600m altitude with steep, sometimes slippery trails through dense vegetation.

Moderate fitness is recommended but porters are available ($20) to assist with carrying bags and providing support. Walking sticks are provided free of charge.

In Uganda, gorilla trekking is from 15 years and chimpanzee tracking from 12 years. In Rwanda, both gorilla and chimpanzee tracking are from 15 years.

Trekkers must be in reasonably good health. You cannot trek if you have a contagious illness (cold, flu, COVID symptoms) as gorillas are susceptible to human diseases.

In some cases, a medical fitness certificate may be required. People with mobility issues should discuss options with us

 

In Uganda, a standard gorilla trekking permit costs US$800 per person and allows up to one hour with a habituated gorilla family.

The Gorilla Habituation Experience costs US$1,500 per person and allows up to four hours with a gorilla family undergoing habituation.

In Rwanda, a standard gorilla trekking permit costs US$1,500 per person and allows up to one hour with a habituated gorilla family.

Health & Safety

Yes. Uganda and Rwanda are popular destinations for safari and gorilla trekking, and most visitors enjoy safe and welcoming experiences.

We recommend taking standard travel precautions, keeping valuables secure, and following your guide’s advice throughout your trip.

Vaccination requirements vary by nationality, itinerary, and recent travel history.

Yellow Fever requirements differ between Uganda and Rwanda, while vaccinations such as Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus, and Polio may be recommended. Malaria prevention is also important in both countries. 

We recommend consulting your doctor or a travel clinic at least 4–6 weeks before your trip.

Booking & Payments

Simply contact us with your preferred travel dates, number of travelers, destinations or activities, and your preferred travel style or budget.

Our team will then create a personalized itinerary and quotation for you.

Payment options depend on the booking and services involved. We can advise you on the available payment methods when preparing your quotation.

During your safari, cards are accepted at many hotels, lodges, and larger businesses, although cash is recommended for remote areas and smaller purchases.

Cancellation and amendment terms depend on your itinerary, permits, accommodation, and other services booked.

The applicable terms will be clearly provided with your booking. If your plans change, please contact us as soon as possible and we will do our best to assist, subject to the applicable booking conditions.

On Safari

Our multilingual safari guides can provide services in several international languages, including German, French, Spanish, Italian, and other languages upon request.

 Language availability depends on the destination, guide availability, and your travel dates, so we recommend requesting your preferred language when booking your safari.

Yes. Domestic flights are available for travelers who want to reduce long road journeys.

Scheduled and charter flights serve destinations including Murchison Falls, Kidepo Valley, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, Lake Mburo, and Kisoro.

Flight availability is limited, so we recommend booking in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

We offer budget, mid-range, and luxury accommodation, from eco-friendly camps and comfortable lodges to luxury tented camps and boutique hotels.

We carefully select our accommodation partners for quality, location, cleanliness, and service, and recommend options based on your preferences and budget.

Still Have Questions?

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Working together to promote responsible tourism and wildlife conservation across East Africa

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