101: Gorilla Tracking break by road

Ref: 101, 4 days

101: Gorilla Tracking break by road

$2820 per person

Experience gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and spend an hour with a gorilla family. You’ll also visit Lake Mburo and see a host of African wildlife.

SUMMARY

This gorilla tracking break by road takes you to south western Uganda to see the amazing endangered mountain gorillas – a very special experience. Although the initial drive is quite long, there are plenty of interesting stops along the way including the equator. On your return, you will break the journey with an overnight visit to Lake Mburo National Park. You’ll have chances to see zebra, various antelope, giraffe, buffalo and hippo among others. There are also a wide variety of birds to look out for. In addition, you will enjoy a boat ride on the lake – watch out for the crocodiles. All-in-all, an action-packed few days.

 

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Gorilla Tracking – track and then spend an hour with a gorilla family
  • Enjoy abundant wildlife and spectacular views in the national park
  • Boat ride on Lake Mburo
  • Stop at the equator

 

OVERVIEW

Day 1: Leave for Bwindi, the home of the endangered mountain gorillas

Day 2: A lifetime experience with thrilling gentle giants

Day 3: Drive to Uganda’s smallest savannah park. Game drive

Day 4: Boat ride and return to Entebbe/Kampala

 

When is the best time of year to visit Uganda?

 

Although Ugandan seasons have become less predictable in recent years, peak tourist seasons usually coincide with dry seasons. When choosing your dates consider:

  • Uganda is an all-year round destination with a pleasant climate and temperatures averaging in the mid 20s0C. The huge variety in altitude means temperatures vary around the country (but this also means increased biodiversity)
  • Flight prices often increase in European/American holiday seasons
  • There are fewer tourists in low seasons so you can have the place to yourselves!
  • Many hotels offer all-year prices so the price of your visit may not change much between seasons
  • Most major roads going from the capital, Kampala, up-country are tarmac. Conditions on murram roads may worsen, to varying degrees, in rainy season
  • Rainy season can be good for birding as there is more food (bugs) available
  • If you are targeting certain birds, ask our advice on breeding and migration seasons
  • Should you plan to climb the Rwenzori mountains, dry seasons are best
  • Hiking may be better in rainy seasons when it is cooler

 

Please note

Permits are required to track gorillas. The minimum ages is 15 years. Gorilla permits are limited to eight people per gorilla family. Permits are also required to track chimps and the minimum age is 12 years.

 

Please read the information about primate tracking on our primates web page and remember to look at our suggested packing list.

 

View similar itineraries

  • Included
    Boat cruise
    Equator
    Game drive
    Gorilla Tracking
    Ref: 101
  • Not Included
    Adventure
    Birding
    Chimpanzee tracking
    Culture
    Domestic flights
    Hiking
    Photography
    Ref: 103
    Ref: 104
    Ref: 105
    Ref: 106
    Ref: 107
    Ref: 201
    Ref: 202
    Ref: 203
    Ref: 301
    Ref: 302
    Ref: 303
    Ref: 304
    Ref: 401
    Ref: 402
    Ref: 403
    Ref: 404
    Ref: 501
    Ref: 502
    Ref: 601
    Ref: 602
    Ref: 701
    Ref: 703
    Ref: 802
    Ref: 901
    Ref: 902
    Ref:102
    Rhino Tracking
    Rwenzori Mountains
    Shoebill
    Wildlife
    Wildlife photography
    Work retreat
    Zanzibar
1
Day 1: Travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
08:00 am Your guide will collect you from your hotel in Entebbe or Kampala and will remain with you throughout your safari. You will drive to Bwindi, 8 hours away, passing through the beautiful Ugandan countryside. There will be plenty of breaks en route, including one at the Equator.
Accommodation:  Engagi Lodge – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Meal plan: B, L, D
2
Day 2: A lifetime experience with thrilling gentle giants
08:00 am After a short briefing at the park headquarters with your small group, your ranger will lead you through the tropical rainforest in search of your gorilla family. Join them for an hour, observing their behaviour in their natural habitat.
Accommodation:  Engagi Lodge – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Meal plan: B, L, D
3
Day 3: Travel to Lake Mburo National Park. Afternoon game drive.
After an early start, enjoy a drive to Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda’s smallest savannah park. After lunch, take an afternoon game drive in search of the animals. Relax and perhaps enjoy a sundowner by the side of the lake before settling in for the evening at your lodge.
Accommodation:  Rwakobo Rock – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Meal plan: B, L, D
4
Day 4: Boat ride and return to Entebbe/Kampala
Start your day with a leisurely boat ride along the shores of the lake, where you may find hippos, crocodiles and lots of wonderful birds. Then have a last look for animals as you leave the park and make your way back to Entebbe/Kampala, stopping for lunch and perhaps some craft shopping en route.
Meal Plan: B, L
Please note: all timings and routings are approximate and subject to change at short notice.
We can provide additional accommodation at the beginning and end of your holiday, depending on your requirements.

Guide price: from US$ 2,820 per person

Based on 2 adults sharing a double room, in mid-range accommodation and travelling in a safari Land Cruiser (all our safaris and tours can be adapted to high-end, mid-range or budget versions)

 

The price for every safari depends on the number of people travelling, their ages, the time of year, whether or not international flights are included, the type of transport and accommodation used and the activities undertaken.

 

We calculate according to the specific dates of your booking because after we publish our itineraries some things may change. For example, hotels may increase their prices, exchange rates fluctuate, the government may introduce new taxes or some discounts may become available. Unfortunately, we also have to pass on surcharges imposed on us by, for example, airlines when fuel prices or airport taxes are unexpectedly increased.

 

We would be happy to prepare a quotation, based on your requirements. We normally include most costs in the price so all you need to bring with you is ‘pocket money’ for items like drinks, tips and personal shopping e.g. souvenirs.

Price includes

1 gorilla tracking permit each

A double room in mid-range, non-air-conditioned accommodation with a full board meal plan

Private safari vehicle with driver and fuel for this itinerary

All entrance and other fees for the activities included in the itinerary

Mineral water in transit

All government taxes

Price does not include

International flights

Visas

Travel insurance

Personal expenses: alcohol, laundry services and souvenirs

Tips (normally 5–10% and around $10 per day for your guide).