Last Minute Gorilla Trekking Safaris, Last Minute Gorilla Permit Booking Uganda & Rwanda
Looking for last-minute gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda or Rwanda? No worries—we’ve got you covered! We are experts at arranging last-minute gorilla permit bookings in Uganda and Rwanda, enabling our time-constrained tourists to enjoy last-minute gorilla safaris and tours in Africa.
You can easily book last-minute gorilla-watching tours in Uganda and Rwanda. You need to contact our expert tour company to obtain your gorilla permits and arrange a last-minute gorilla tracking tour, including accommodation, transportation, and guided tours, even with only 12 hours’ notice, as long as a mutual understanding is reached.
Tracking mountain gorillas is an incredible adventure that offers a rare and exhilarating opportunity to interact with these incredible animals in their natural habitat.
Last-minute gorilla trekking tours involve hiking through the lush forests and mountains in these game parks, Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Volcanoes in Rwanda and Uganda, to get glimpses of the majestic gentle giants, the endangered mountain gorilla, in their habituated gorilla families in their natural habitat and witness them foraging, playing, and doing other things for at least one hour.
It is worth noting that though last-minute gorilla treks are possible in Uganda and Rwanda, you are encouraged to book your gorilla permits from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or Rwanda Development Board (RDB) at least 8-12 months in advance to avoid disappointment if you don’t get one.
Additionally, for last-minute travelers on Uganda safaris, Mgahinga offers a unique opportunity for tracking mountain gorillas, with one habituated family available for visits, due to the high demand for permits in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Keep in mind that last-minute bookings may limit your choices of services, especially during peak season when amenities are in high demand. Let us delve into what this safari tour encompasses.
Majestic Mountain Gorillas
The mountain gorilla, a subspecies of eastern gorilla, is the highlight of a last-minute gorilla trekking tour in Rwanda and Uganda.
With their distinct genetic profile, sharing 98.8% DNA with humans, they are classified as Critically Endangered and protected by laws and international agreements.
Approximately 1,330 individuals are distributed across four game parks, characterized by their thick fur, silver saddle-shaped patches, large size, and human-like fingerprints.
These social, intelligent, and curious herbivores live in groups led by a dominant silverback, feeding on leaves and herbaceous materials and communicating through vocalizations, facial expressions, and body language.
They inhabit rugged, mountainous forests at high elevations, captivating the hearts of people globally who travel to witness their grandeur through last-minute gorilla safari tours.
Other Things You Can Expect to See on Last Minute Gorilla Safaris in Uganda
Here are some other things you can expect to see on last-minute gorilla safaris apart from the majestic mountain gorilla:
- In the Pearl of Africa
When visiting Bwindi Forest Park on a gorilla safari, you will luckily see over 100 species of mammals (e.g. elephants, lions), 350 bird species, other primates (chimpanzees, olive baboons, blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, vervet monkeys, etc.), 220+ species of butterflies, and various plant species (e.g., ferns, orchids, bamboo), etc.
As you embark on a gorilla walking adventure in Mgahinga, you’ll have the opportunity to spot an array of other incredible wildlife, including forest elephants, bush pigs, buffaloes, bushbucks, other primates like golden monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys, and vervet monkeys, and a vibrant array of bird species. The park’s picturesque landscape, dominated by the majestic Virunga Mountains, offers breathtaking views and a chance to explore the unique volcanic terrain through a guided hiking tour.
- In the Land of a Thousand Hills
When visiting Volcanoes National Park, you will spot some blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, vervet simians, golden monkeys, baboons, colobus monkeys, buffalos, spotted hyenas, bush pigs, and various bird species (e.g., Rwenzori turaco, red-chested sunbird).
Please note that the availability of certain species of birds and animals may vary depending on the time of year, weather conditions, and other factors.
Best Travel Destinations for Last-Minute Gorilla Trekking Tours in Uganda and Rwanda | Where Can You Do Tracking of Gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda National Parks?
Explore the travel destinations in Rwanda and Uganda where last-minute gorilla treks and tours are typically offered, and experience the comfort and beauty of these premium locations as you embark on your trip adventure.
- Incredible Volcanoes National Park
Located in Rwanda’s Musanze district, Parc National des Volcans is the only premier tourist destination and top safari spot in Rwanda, Central Africa, renowned for its last-minute gorilla treks.
Located in northwestern Rwanda, bordering the Virunga National Park in Congo and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda. This park boasts an impressive 12 fully habituated gorilla families, making it an ideal hub for unforgettable gorilla safari experiences in Africa.
Spanning 62 square miles (160 sq km), Volcanoes National Park is a vital sanctuary for over 40% of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas.
As a result, the park offers a rare chance to encounter these incredible apes up close, with gorilla permits available for $1500 from the RDB.
Notably, Parc National des Volcans provides more permit opportunities than Mgahinga Park in Uganda, making it an ideal travel destination for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience.
Beyond the unforgettable gorilla encounters, the park offers a wealth of exciting wildlife experiences for last-minute travelers.
This wildlife paradise is home to a diverse array of species, including golden monkeys, chimpanzees, forest elephants, and a vibrant variety of bird species.
Visitors can also explore the park’s unique volcanic landscapes, including crater lakes and lush forests.
For adventure seekers, the park offers golden monkey trekking, a thrilling experience that can be combined with a Rwanda gorilla safari tour for the ultimate wildlife adventure.
Rwanda gorilla permits can be obtained through the RDB or booked through a reputable tour operator. Once you’ve secured your permit, prepare for an unforgettable hour-long encounter with the majestic gorillas.
- Beautiful Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Located in southwestern Uganda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a sanctuary for endangered mountain gorillas and a diverse array of wildlife, offering breathtaking encounters on last-minute gorilla trips.
Part of the Virunga Mountains Range, the park spans approximately 33.7 square kilometers, comparable to the size of Disney World in Florida, making it the smallest park in the country, hosting around 40 mountain gorillas, divided into two groups—Nyakagezi and Hirwa—which can be tracked during short-notice gorilla trips in Uganda.
Situated on the border of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Congo’s Virunga National Park is a breathtaking destination for a gorilla safari in Africa. This stunning park is home to the most visited 9-membered Nyakagezi gorilla family, a unique transboundary group renowned for its extraordinary multi-male tolerance.
The Nyakagezi family is one of the few in the world where multiple silverbacks coexist harmoniously, making it an absolute marvel to behold. A visit to Mgahinga would be incomplete without tracking the captivating golden monkey.
To experience this, obtain a gorilla permit for $800 from the Uganda Wildlife Authority and embark on a last-minute safari adventure and spot an array of wildlife beyond gorillas, including lions, golden monkeys, colobus monkeys, buffaloes, elephants, and various bird species, making Mgahinga Park a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
During your gorilla encounter, you’ll be allowed to spend one unforgettable hour with these magnificent apes, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
- Stunning Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Enjoy the ultimate short-notice gorilla safari experience in Bwindi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and biodiversity hotspot, found in the Pearl of Africa.
This dense and vibrant, impenetrable Bwindi jungle is home to approximately 350+ endangered mountain gorillas, which is almost 50% of the mountain gorillas living on planet Earth, offering an exhilarating opportunity to track and observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Spanning 327 square kilometers in the southwestern Kanungu District, the park is a haven for primates, including monkeys and baboons.
Bwindi National Park has 4 regions for short-notice gorilla treks packed with over 19 habituated gorilla families: Nkuringo, Ruhija, Buhoma, and Rushaga. Each region has habituated mountain gorilla families for tracking, including:
- Buhoma Sector: Mubare, Katwe, Rushegura, Habinyanja gorilla family
- Ruhija Sector: Mukiza, Oruzogo, Kyaguriro, and Bitukura gorilla families
- Nkuringo Sector: Bushaho, Nkuringo, Christmas gorilla family
- Rushaga Sector: Kutu, Rwigi, Bikini, Kahungye, Busingye, Mucunguzi, Bweza, Mishaya, Nshongi gorilla family
To embark on this thrilling adventure, obtain a gorilla permit for $800 from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, allowing for an extensive and unforgettable gorilla tour in some of the most visited areas, the Buhoma and Ruhija sectors, whose permits are not in high demand.
In Bwindi, your accommodation options are determined by the sector where your gorilla permit is valid. Once you’ve secured your permit, you’ll have the privilege of observing these fascinating, human-like primates for a thrilling hour during your trek.
Be prepared for a challenging yet rewarding trek, making it an ideal destination for adventurous tourists seeking authentic and immersive wildlife experiences.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, other travel destinations to combine with Uganda-Rwanda gorilla tours are:
- Virunga National Park (endangered mountain gorillas)
In the African continent, other safari destinations to combine with Rwanda Uganda tours are:
- Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tarangire Game Park, and Zanzibar in Tanzania
- Masai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli Game Park, Lake Nakuru Game Park, and Nairobi in Kenya
Additionally, there are other tourist activities tourists can partake in while on Rwanda-Uganda short notice gorilla trips, such as:
In the Land of a Thousand Hills | In the Pearl of Africa | Other African Countries |
· Golden monkey tracking ·Visiting Dian Fossey’s grave ·Hiking Volcano Bisoke ·Exploring Parc National des Volcans’ twin lakes ·Immersive cultural tours to local villages ·Kigali city tours
| · Gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi National Park ·Chimpanzee tracking ·Tree Climbing Lion tracking ·Hot air balloon safari ·Visiting the source of the Nile River ·Cultural tours to local communities ·City tours in Jinja and Kampala | · Congo River boat cruises · Visits to Gombe Stream Research Center ·Hiking Mount Nyiragongo ·Exploring Virunga Mountains ·Senkwekwe gorilla orphanage visits ·Cultural tours to local villages ·City tours in Goma or Kinshasa ·Serengeti National Park’s Big Five and wildebeest migration tours in Tanzania · Ngorongoro Conservation Area visits
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Contact us today for tailor-made safari packages that will ensure you explore most of Africa’s best parks when on a last-minute gorilla safari!
When to Book Last Minute Gorilla Trekking Tours and Last Minute Gorilla Permits in Uganda and Rwanda?
To ensure a successful short-notice gorilla tracking experience, we recommend booking your gorilla permits at least six months to a year in advance, especially during the peak drier season.
While last-minute permits may be available, their limited number makes them harder to secure on your desired dates.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority and RDB sell gorilla permits on a first-come, first-served basis, with a maximum of 8 permits per family per day.
Uganda has 160 permits daily from 19 families, while Rwanda has 96 permits from 10 families.
Please note that to avoid early morning drives and potential transportation issues, it’s essential to book your permit and accommodation in the same area where the last-minute gorilla treks will start.
How To Book Last-Minute Gorilla Trekking Tours and Last-Minute Gorilla Permits in Uganda and Rwanda?
For spontaneous travelers, last-minute gorilla safari permits can be booked in Uganda or Rwanda, but be aware that accommodation options may be restricted.
Permits can be secured directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority, RDB, or via a trusted tour company.
Before booking, simply check availability!
Permit availability in Uganda or Rwanda varies by season. Peak season permits are in high demand, while low season permits are easier to secure, making last-minute gorilla trekking safari tours more manageable.
Popular reputable tour companies offering Uganda and Rwanda gorilla tours and permits include:
In the Pearl of Africa | In the Land of a Thousand Hills |
. Wild Gorilla Safaris . Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd . Safari Uganda Safaris . Gorilla Safaris & Tours . A Uganda Safari . Africa Safaris Tours . Uganda Birding Safaris . Gorilla Trekking Uganda . Self-Drive Car Hire Rentals Uganda . Car Hire Rentals Uganda Kampala | . Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd . Wild Gorilla Safaris . Gorilla Safari Rwanda . Rwanda Gorilla Tracking Safaris . Gorilla Tracking Rwanda . Africa Safaris Tours |
Last-minute gorilla trip bookings require flexibility and may involve changes or extra costs. For a smooth experience, contact a reliable tour operator or travel agency for guidance and assistance.
How Long Does Last-Minute Gorilla Trekking Take?
On the day of the tracking, it’s challenging to predict the exact time it may take to trek mountain gorillas. However, a typical last-minute gorilla tour can take around 2-5 days to arrange, i.e.
To acquire a short notice permit can take about 1-2 days from the Uganda Wildlife Authority or RDB.
Traveling to the respective parks, whether Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, or Parc National des Volcans, can take you 1-2 days depending on the transport option used.
Tracking gorillas can last about 1 hour and can be done in 1 day.
It is worth noting that the duration of last-minute trips can vary greatly due to several factors, including:
- Closeness of food sources and mountain gorilla movement
- Dominant silverback’s adventurous spirit
- Weather conditions, especially during rainy seasons
- Gorilla family traits and dynamics, such as fights, celebrations, or somber moods
- Permit availability and efficiency of the tour operator
Don’t wait—secure your last-minute gorilla permit and book your safari today!
Rules And Regulations for Last-Minute Gorilla Trekking and Last-Minute Gorilla Permit Booking Uganda & Rwanda
It was worth noting that in both countries, Rwanda and Uganda, the gorilla walk age limit is 15 years and above because of the unpredictable time required to locate the gentle giants, potential inability to withstand challenging jungle conditions, insufficient physical fitness for the hike, and risk of delaying the group or provoking the gorillas.
Other Dos and Don’ts:
Keep a distance of 8 meters. |
No provoking the gorilla so maintain a low voice. |
Only one hour is allowed with the gorillas. |
No eating or smoking near the wild gorillas. |
Follow the ranger’s instructions. |
Wear face masks and sanitize. |
No flash photography |
No hiking if sick or ill |
Carry a valid gorilla permit. |
Maximum of 8 visitors per group |
No touching or feeding the gorilla |
Respect the gorillas’ habitat and environment. |
Check permit availability with RDB (Rwanda) or UWA (Uganda) and pay for the permit and tour in full. |
Book with a licensed tour operator. |
Have valid travel insurance and health certificate |
Allow for 2-3 hours of tracking. |
Be prepared to walk for 2-3 hours. |
Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. |
Follow the guidance of park rangers or ranger guides to ensure a safe and successful gorilla tracking experience.
Is Uganda or Rwanda Better for Gorilla Trekking?
Both Rwanda and Uganda offer unforgettable gorilla tracking experiences, but here’s a comparison to help you decide:
1) Uganda’s gorilla permits cost $800, while Rwanda’s cost $1,500.
2) The Pearl of Africa has two gorilla tracking sites (Bwindi and Mgahinga National Park), while Rwanda’s tours take place only in Parc National des Volcans .
3) Uganda offers gorilla habituation experiences, but Rwanda does not.
4) The Pearl of Africa is home to more gorilla families than Rwanda.
5) Rwanda offers 1-day safaris, while Uganda’s tours typically take longer.
If planning a Rwanda-Uganda gorilla tour, consider applying for an East African Visa. All countries offer last-minute trip options. Research and read recent traveler reviews to make an informed decision.
Costs Of Last-Minute Rwanda-Uganda Gorilla Trekking
The major costs incurred are for the last-minute gorilla permits, which go for $800 in Uganda and $1,500 in Rwanda per trek for foreign residents, among other categories.
- The price caters to guide fees, one hour of viewing, security, medication, and park entrance fees.
- Please note that it excludes porter costs, drinks, lunch, tipping, transport, accommodation, and personal items.
- You can purchase permits through a reputable Uganda or Rwanda tour company or directly from the authorities of the Uganda Wildlife Authority or Rwanda Tourism Board.
- It is worth noting that refunds are managed by the authorities’ policies or you can reschedule your permit to a future date, but it must be fully paid.
- Installment payments are allowed 90 days before the activity.
Therefore, on average, the average cost of a gorilla walking package in Rwanda and Uganda is around $2,000.
However, prices can vary depending on the safari package, duration, and time of year.
Some safari packages can start as low as $1,290 for a 3-day safari, while others can cost up to $2,600 for a 3-day safari.
It’s best to research and compare prices to find the best option for your budget.
Best Transport Options Used on Last-Minute Gorilla Safaris in Rwanda and Uganda: How to Go for Last Minute Gorilla Safaris in Rwanda and Uganda?
To get to Rwanda and Uganda’s Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Volcanoes National Parks to embark on gorilla tracking tours, you have several options:
1) Fly into Kigali International Airport (KGL), Rwanda, and then take a
- 4–5-hour drive to Parc National des Volcans
- 5–6-hour drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda (via Katuna border crossing)
- 6–7-hour drive to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda (via Katuna border crossing)
2) Fly Into Entebbe International Airport (EBB), Uganda, and Then Take A:
- 8–9-hour drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- 9–10-hour drive to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- 10–11-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda (via Katuna border crossing)
3) Chartered Flights Are Also Available from Kajjansi Airstrip (Near Entebbe) To:
- Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips (near Bwindi and Mgahinga)
- Akagera Airstrip, or Musanze Airstrip (near Volcanoes National Park), is authorized by Akagera Aviation.
4) Shuttle services and private transfers can be arranged from airports to the parks by tour agents.
Liaise with a reputable tour company now and book the best option for your last-minute trips in Rwanda and Uganda.
Exquisite Last-Minute Accommodations | Where to Stay When on Last Minute Gorilla Trekking Tours, Last Minute Gorilla Permit Booking Uganda & Rwanda? – H2
Here are some exquisite accommodation options for a gorilla trek tour in Rwanda and Uganda near Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Volcanoes National Parks:
In and Near Rwanda Volcanoes National Park
1) One&Only Nyungwe House
A luxury safari lodge with a modern African design, private decks, and stunning views. Offers private butler service and exclusive nature walks. Has top facilities like a pool, spa, and fitness center. It goes for about $1,000-$1,500 per night.
2) Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
A rustic-chic safari lodge with fireplaces and mountain views that is community-owned, supporting local conservation. Top facilities are a bar, restaurant, and garden. Costs range between $300 and $500 per night.
3) Virunga Lodge
An eco-lodge with solar power and rainwater harvesting. It uniquely offers stunning views and community engagement. Offers the best facilities like a restaurant, bar, and lounge. Costs range from $200 to $300 per night.
4) Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
A modern hotel with an African-inspired design. It offers volcano views and personalized service. Has comfortable facilities like a pool, spa, and fitness center. The prices range from $200 to $300 per night.
5) Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
A bamboo-built safari lodge with African decor. It is uniquely eco-friendly and community-based. Facilities offered include a restaurant, bar, and garden. Costs range from $150 to $250 per night.
6) One&Only Gorillas Nest Lodge
One of the best lodges offering luxury suites, personalized service, and gorilla-watching opportunities. Facilities offered include a pool, spa, fitness center, and private decks, and prices range from $1,000 to $1,500 per night.
7) Singita Kwitonda Lodge
A unique safari lodge featuring luxury suites, private pools, and stunning views with a spa, fitness center, and private decks costing about $1,500-$2,000 per night.
8) Bisate Lodge
A uniquely eco-friendly, community-based lodge, offering stunning views of surrounding landscapes with restaurant, bar, and lounge facilities. It costs about $500-$800 per night.
9) The Retreat by Heaven
Adorned with luxury villas and private pools, offering personalized service with a spa, fitness center, and private deck facilities. It goes for about $800-$1,200 per night per person.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Uganda, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
10) Mahogany Springs Lodge
A luxury safari lodge with private decks and river views. It offers personalized service and exclusive nature walks. The top facilities are a pool, a spa, and a fitness center. It goes for $500-$800 per night per individual.
11) Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
A chalet-styled safari lodge with fireplaces and stunning views of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. It is community-owned, supporting local conservation. The top facilities are a bar, restaurant, and garden. Costs range between $300 and $500 per night.
12) Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
A luxury lodge with private decks and stunning views. It uniquely offers exclusive nature walks and personalized service. Has facilities like a pool, spa, and fitness center. Costs range from $500 to $800 per night per person.
13) Mount Gahinga Lodge
An eco-lodge with solar power and rainwater harvesting. It uniquely offers opportunities for community engagement and stunning views of surrounding landscapes with facilities like a restaurant, bar, and lounge. It costs about $200-$300 per night.
14) Mgahinga Safari Lodge
A chalet-styled lodge with fireplaces and Mgahinga Park views. It is community-owned, supporting local conservation with facilities like a bar, restaurant, and garden. Costs range from $200 to $300 per night per individual.
15) Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Lodge
A safari lodge with luxury suites, private decks, and exclusive nature walks with facilities like a spa, fitness center, pool, restaurant, and bar. It goes for about $500-$800 per night.
16) Silverback Lodge
A community-owned lodge, supporting local conservation, stunning views of surrounding landscapes with a restaurant, bar, garden, and private decks costing about $150-$250 per night.
When choosing a hotel or lodge for a gorilla tracking safari, consider factors such as distance to park gates, recent tourist reviews, level of comfort and amenities, availability of gorilla permits, and tour company partnerships and packages to ensure a convenient and memorable experience.
Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda at the Last Minute
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is best visited for gorilla treks during the dry seasons of June to September and December to February. These periods offer ideal trekking conditions, with less rainfall and drier trails, but last-minute permits can be harder to come by during these times.
The best time to visit Bwindi for gorilla tracks is during the dry season (June to August and December to February), when the weather is dry and sunny and trails are easier to hike. Alternatively, consider visiting during the shoulder season (March to May and September to November) for smaller crowds and lower prices.
The best time to visit Mgahinga in Uganda is during the drier season (June to August and December to February), when the weather is dry and sunny and trails are easier to hike. Alternatively, consider visiting during the shoulder season (March to May and September to November) for smaller crowds and lower prices.
Therefore, it is safe to say Rwanda and Uganda offer gorilla tracking year-round, but
- Best time for gorilla tracking: Drier season (June-Aug and Dec-Feb) for easier hiking and better access.
- Best time for a budget-friendly, personalized experience: Rainy season (Mar-Apr and Oct-Nov), but be prepared for muddy trails.
Please note that gorilla permits may be more readily available during the rainy season, but book your gorilla tour and accommodations in advance to ensure availability.
Most Famous Gorilla Safaris for Short-Notice Gorillas Tours in Uganda and Rwanda
The following are some of the most notable tours for short-notice tracking of mountain gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda:
- 3 days Uganda gorilla trekking
- 3 days fly in gorilla Habituation experience
- 3 days chimp and gorilla Habituation
- 3 days Rwanda gorilla tracking
- 4-day Mountain Gorilla and Golden Monkey trip
Gorilla Permit Refund Policies: What You Need to Know!
In the unlikely event that you don’t spot these creatures during your trek, or if you need to cancel your trip, the Uganda Wildlife Authority and Rwanda Development Board have refund policies in place.
1) Uganda’s Refund Policy:
If you fail to see gorillas, you’ll receive a 75% refund, and if you cancel your trip due to other reasons, the refund policy is as follows:
- 0-8 days before tracking: no refund
- 9-45 days before tracking: 25% refund
- 46-90 days before tracking: 50% refund
- 91 days or more before tracking: 75% refund
Please note that if you fall ill before your tracking date, you’ll receive a 50% refund.
2) Rwanda Refund Policy:
If you fail to see these gentle giants during your trek, no refund will be given, and in case you cancel your gorilla walk due to illness, a refund of 50% of the permit cost will be given, provided you provide a medical certificate.
If you cancel your gorilla walk for any other reason, the following refund policy applies:
- 0-30 days before tracking: no refund
- 31-60 days before trekking: 50% refund
- 61 days or more before tracking: 75% refund
3) Payment Terms:
Both Uganda and Rwanda allow payment in installments for gorilla permits, provided you make the payment within 90 days before tracking.
What To Wear for A Last-Minute Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda and Rwanda
For Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trips, you need to wear:
Comfortable hiking boots/shoes | Long trousers/pants | Long-sleeved shirts/blouses |
Waterproof rain jacket/coat | Insulating layers (fleece, sweater, or jacket) | Waterproof pants (optional) |
Hat and gardening gloves (for cold weather) | Scarf or neck gaiter | Quick-drying socks |
Dress in layers for gorilla treks, as mountain weather can be unpredictable. Wear neutral/earth-toned clothing to blend in with nature, and check with your reputable tour company for specific dress code requirements.
What to Pack for A Last Minute Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda and Uganda
This is a list of items to pack for last-minute gorilla tracking tours in Rwanda and Uganda:
Waterproof Backpack or daypack | Drinking water bottle or hydration pack | Insect repellent |
Sunscreen | First-aid kit | Camera and charger |
Binoculars | Snacks (energy bars, nuts, or dried fruits) | Valid Passport |
East African Visa (if required) | Travel insurance documents | Valid gorilla permit (arranged by your tour company) |
Cash (Uganda Shilling or Rwandan Francs and Visa credit cards) | Travel adapter and charger | Portable power bank |
Earplugs and eye masks (for better sleep) |
Remember to check with your licensed tour company for specific packing requirements and recommendations to avoid additional fees at airports.
Last Minute Gorilla Trekking Tours and Gorilla Permit Booking in Uganda & Rwanda FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Where Is the Cheapest Place for Gorilla Trekking? Where Is the Cheapest Place to See a Gorilla?
Uganda offers the cheapest gorilla safari experiences in Africa, with permits costing $800 per person in Bwindi and Mgahinga National Park.
In comparison, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park charges $1,500 per person, while the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Virunga National Park costs $450, although safety concerns exist in the latter.
All three parks offer last-minute gorilla safari options.
What Is the Easiest Gorilla Trek? | Where Is the Easiest Place to See Gorillas?
Located in Uganda’s Bwindi Park, the Buhoma sector offers the most straightforward gorilla treks due to its relatively lower altitude.
This area is ideal for families with children under 15 who want to experience mountain gorilla walking.
Is Gorilla Trekking Worth the Money?
Witnessing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience that is well worth the investment of time and money.
This unforgettable encounter is a highlight of many African safari bucket lists.
Moreover, a significant portion of the gorilla permit fee supports conservation efforts to protect the gorillas’ habitats, making your adventure a contribution to their preservation.
How Much Does a Gorilla Safari Cost? How Much Does a Gorilla Permit Cost in Uganda?
The cost of a gorilla safari tour varies based on several factors, including permit prices, air tickets, group size, transportation, and accommodation choices. Here are some estimated costs:
- 3-day Uganda gorilla safari: $1,300 (budget) to $3,900 (luxury) per person
- 1-day Rwanda gorilla safari: $1,700 per individual
Travel style and preferences can impact these rates. For a personalized quote and more information, consult a reliable tour company.
How Do I Book A Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda? | How Do I Book A Gorilla Permit?
To book a last-minute gorilla trekking permit in Uganda, you can either:
- Contact a reliable tour operator
- Purchase directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, which sells permits year-round
While last-minute bookings are possible, it’s recommended to book your permit in advance to ensure availability.
Tracking gorillas in Uganda typically takes place in Bwindi Forest, but Mgahinga also offers this experience.
How Much Does It Cost to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?
The average cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda is approximately $2,000-$5,000, depending on the tour company and duration of the activity.
Which Month Is Best for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?
The best months for gorilla treks in Rwanda are between June and August or December and February, which is the dry season.
How Much Does It Cost to Trek with Gorillas in Rwanda?
The average cost to trek gorillas in Rwanda is about $1,500-$3,000, depending on the tour company and duration of tourist activity.
Why hesitate? Contact us today to help you get customized safari packages for your last-minute gorilla trekking safaris and last-minute gorilla permit booking in Uganda and Rwanda!