How much is a combined Gorilla and chimpanzee Safari in Uganda
Combined Gorilla and chimpanzee Safari in Uganda. Mountain gorillas are found in the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These gentle giants live in family groups led by a dominant male, known as a silverback. Mountain gorillas are herbivores, primarily feeding on leaves, bamboo shoots, and fruit. Weighing up to 200 kg, they are the largest living primates, but despite their size, they are peaceful and shy. Gorilla trekking in Uganda allows visitors to observe these critically endangered creatures in their natural habitat, an intimate experience due to the limited number of permits issued daily.
Chimpanzees, on the other hand, are found in the tropical rainforests of Kibale National Park, Budongo Forest, and Kyambura Gorge. Highly social and intelligent, chimpanzees live in large communities, often displaying complex social behaviors, including tool use, grooming, and vocal communication. Unlike gorillas, chimpanzees are omnivores, feeding on fruits, insects, and occasionally small animals. Chimpanzees are smaller and more active than gorillas, with males weighing up to 70 kg. Tracking them involves following their vocalizations and movements through the dense forest, providing a more dynamic and energetic encounter.
Where to see Gorillas in Uganda
In Uganda, mountain gorillas can be seen in two primary locations: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, with multiple habituated groups spread across four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga. It offers a dense rainforest trekking experience. Mgahinga, part of the Virunga Conservation Area, is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family. Though smaller, it provides stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes and cultural interactions with the Batwa people. Both parks offer limited trekking permits for an unforgettable experience.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is Uganda’s premier destination for gorilla trekking and is renowned for its dense, mist-covered rainforest and rich biodiversity. The park is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it a critical conservation area for this endangered species. Bwindi is divided into four sectors—Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga—each offering visitors a chance to track habituated gorilla groups. With approximately 20 gorilla families available for trekking, Bwindi provides one of the best opportunities to observe these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat.
Trekking in Bwindi is a unique and immersive experience, as visitors traverse the rugged, often steep terrain of the forest. The journey through the park’s lush greenery, characterized by towering trees, vines, and a diversity of plant life, offers an authentic wilderness adventure. Besides gorillas, the park is home to over 350 bird species, including many endemics, as well as other wildlife such as monkeys, forest elephants, and duikers. The combination of gorilla trekking and birdwatching makes Bwindi a fantastic destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in southwestern Uganda, is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which spans Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Though smaller than Bwindi, Mgahinga offers a unique gorilla trekking experience, being home to one habituated gorilla family, the Nyakagezi group. This park is ideal for those seeking a more exclusive and serene trekking experience, as it is less crowded compared to Bwindi.
Mgahinga’s landscape is dominated by the striking Virunga Volcanoes, offering breathtaking scenery during the trek. Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to engage with the Batwa people, indigenous forest dwellers who share their traditional knowledge and culture. This cultural aspect adds a meaningful layer to the overall experience, making Mgahinga a unique destination for both wildlife and cultural tourism.
How much does it cost to see Gorillas and Chimpanzees in Uganda?
A combined gorilla and chimpanzee safari in Uganda typically costs between $1,500 and $3,000 per person for a 5 to 7-day itinerary, depending on the level of accommodation, transportation, and additional activities included.
The main costs of such a safari are the permits:
- Gorilla trekking permit: $800 per person for international tourists.
- Chimpanzee tracking permit: $250 per person in Kibale National Park.
Budget safaris, starting around $1,500 to $2,500, typically include basic accommodations, transport, meals, and the permits for both gorilla and chimpanzee tracking. These packages usually involve group tours with shared transportation and guides.
Mid-range options, ranging from $2,000 to $2,500, offer more comfortable lodges, private transportation, and sometimes additional activities like nature walks, community visits, or birdwatching.
Luxury safaris, starting at $4,000 or more, provide high-end accommodations, private vehicles, experienced guides, and exclusive add-ons like the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience, which allows longer interaction with the primates.
An overall Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari costs from $1,900 to $4,000 including other services like accommodation, transport, meals, professional tour guide and others.
A summarized 5 Days Gorilla and Chimpanzee Tracking Safaris in Uganda
Day 1: Pick up and transfer to Bwindi Gorilla National Park
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Experience
Day 3: Drive to Kibale Forest National Park
Day 4: Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Swamp Walk
Day 5: Drive back to Kampala or Entebbe.
If you love to get a quote, send us an email: info@kenlinktours.com
