Cheapest way to see mountain gorillas

The cheapest and affordable way to see mountain gorillas on a budget is to travel during low season, join a group or reduce number of travel days.

Seeing mountain gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda is an adventurous experience but it can be expensive. However, there are ways to make this adventure more affordable.

In Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with 19 gorilla families and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park with 1 habituated gorilla family are prime destinations for gorilla trekking.  Uganda Wildlife Authority or Giant Holiday Safaris offers Ugandan gorilla permits at a lower cost compared to those of Rwanda.

Consider visiting during the low season from March to May and October to November when prices for accommodation and tours are reduced. You can also opt for budget-friendly lodges or guesthouses instead of luxury accommodations so that you cut costs.

Traveling in a group can also be cost saving as many tour operators offer discounts for larger parties.

In Rwanda, the Volcanoes National Park found in northwestern Rwanda in the Virunga region is the main destination for gorilla trekking. It is a 2 hours’ drive from Kigali. Since Rwanda is commonly known as a luxury gorilla trekking destination, Gorilla trekking permits are more expensive though the country has well developed infrastructure offering quicker access to the park and this potentially reduces travel expenses.

In Uganda, a gorilla trekking permit costs 300,000 UGX per person per trek for East African Citizens, 800 USD per person per trek for foreign non-residents and 700 USD per person per trek for foreign residents while In Rwanda, each gorilla trekking permit costs 1500 USD for foreign non-residents, 500 USD for residents of other African countries and 300 USD for Rwanda and East African Citizens.

Overall, it is cheaper to travel during the low season because accommodation and other services are discounted because the season has fewer tourists for gorilla trekking. The low season is for months of March to May and October to November.

A guide on how to reduce costs on a Ugandan gorilla trip

Going on a mountain gorilla trekking trip in Uganda is a memorable experience which gives travelers a rare opportunity to see these creatures in their natural environment. However, such adventures can be expensive. This article provides strategies to help you reduce expenses while giving you an educational experience.

Plan your trip during the off peak season

Another cheapest way to see mountain gorillas is to planning your trip during the low season is one of the most effective ways to cut costs on your Ugandan gorilla trip. The low season as experienced by both Uganda and Rwanda is from March to May and October to November and is usually associated with reduced prices on accommodation and flight services which makes your trip budget friendly. The parks are also less crowded providing a more private experience with the gorillas.

Number of days

The number of days spent on gorilla trip determines whether you are travelling on a budget or luxury trip because few days mean less money spent while more days mean more expenses. Consider choosing a trip of 3 days since many tour operators do not plan trips below 2 days.

Choose budget friendly accommodations

Accommodations in Uganda are categorized into 3 that is luxury, budget and mid-range accommodations. Consider staying in budget-friendly guesthouses or campsites near the trekking areas because these reduce on your costs. Around Bwindi and Mgahinga, you can find accommodations like Buhoma community rest camp, CTPH Gorilla Conservation camp, Buhoma lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest camp. Since Rwanda is a luxury destination, explain your budget to your tour operator so that they advise you accordingly. Additionally, some accommodations offer package deals that include meals and transportation which further reduces expenses.

Travel in groups

Another cheapest way to see mountain gorillas is traveling with a group lowers your costs because you can split expenses like transport, tips and accommodations among travelers. Group tours also come with added security and fun during your trip.

 Pack Smartly

Packing wisely helps you avoid unnecessary expenses on your trip. Bring essential gear for example sturdy hiking boots, rain jackets, first aid kit, sunscreen and insect repellent to avoid purchasing overpriced items on site. Additionally, packing snacks and water can save money which you would have spent on expensive park enterprises.

Do research and choose the right tour operator

A tour operator plays a crucial role in making sure that you travel on a budget. Choose a tour operator that is legally registered to avoid scammers. conduct thorough research and compare different packages and prices. Look for operators providing competitive rates without compromising on the quality of services. Giant Holiday Safaris is here to help you plan a budget-friendly gorilla trip with secured mountain gorilla trekking permits, transport and accommodation.

Rules and regulations regarding gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda

Uganda and Rwanda have the same rules and regulations that were put in place concerning gorilla trekking to protect gorillas that were about to go extinct. They include the following;

Eating, drinking and smoking around gorillas is not allowed.

Keep a distance of 7 meters from the gorillas to reduce easy transmission of diseases from human interaction.

No one is allowed to litter the national park. If you have rubbish with you, we advise keeping it until you find dustbins set up to avoid damaging the ecosystems of the park.

The minimum gorilla trekking age in Uganda and Rwanda is 15 years. There is no maximum age as long as you are fit to trek.

When you need to use the toilet, dig a 30 cm hole and then cover it properly because you will not find toilets within the jungle.

Avoid putting on sunglasses because when gorillas see their reflection, they might be tempted to attack.

Flashlights should be turned off when taking photos because they scare off the gorillas.

When gorillas approach you, do not run but walk backward and reach a crouch position to show submissiveness towards a dominant male silverback.

Follow the guidelines given to you by your tour guide.

What to pack for your gorilla trip in Uganda or Rwanda

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel date.
• Gorilla trekking permit. This is compulsory and should be secured well in advance due to limited availability.
• Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers to protect you against insects and thorny vegetation while keeping you cool.
• Waterproof Jacket. This is important in case of sudden rain showers.
• Sturdy hiking boots. Ensure they are fitting to avoid blisters.
• Hat and sunglasses to protect you from the sun.
• A waterproof daypack to carry essential items during the trek.
• Water bottle for keeping you hydrated is key.
• These enhance your viewing experience by observing gorillas from a distance.
• Insect repellant to protect you against mosquitoes and other insects.
• First aid kit including basics like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers and personal medications.
• Sunscreen to protect you against sunburn on exposed parts during the trek.
• Hand sanitizer for maintaining hygiene in remote areas.
• Food and Snacks to energize you on the journey.
• Notebook and to write down observations and experiences.

Best time to book a gorilla safari to Uganda or Rwanda

The best time to go on a gorilla safari in Uganda or Rwanda is during the dry seasons. In Uganda and Rwanda these seasons occur from June to September and December to February. During these periods, the weather is more predictable, roads are less muddy and there are less chances of rainfall disrupting your trek.

The dry season not only provides more comfortable trekking conditions but also increases your chances of spotting gorillas as they tend to stay in lower altitudes when the vegetation is less dense. However, it is essential to book permits well in advance due to high demand during these peak times.

Alternatively, Tourists can choose a wet seasons that is from March to May and October to November because it has fewer tourists and this comes with advantages like reduced accommodation costs. It is also best for those looking for a less crowded and quiet experience.

How to access gorilla destinations in Uganda and Rwanda

In Uganda, you can access Bwindi and Mgahinga using air or road transport. From Kampala to these parks using road transport, It takes 9 to 10 hours with a few stopovers along Kayabwe that has an equator monument.

Using air transport, there are charter flights from Entebbe International Airport and Kajjansi Airstrip to Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrip. flights are supposed to be booked in advance to avoid disappointments.

In Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is 2 to3 hours from Kigali International Airport which is the main entrance into the country. From here, A safari vehicle with a tour guide will drive you to the park for your gorilla trekking safari.

With the above tips, gorilla trekking that was once called an expensive activity can be enjoyed on a friendly budget in both Rwanda and Uganda.