Going beyond limits is extraordinary and unforgettable; especially when it comes to escaping the busying streets, fixed schedules, just to reunite with your special relatives in their natural kingdom at the heart of central tropical forests of Africa. Now than never do people prefer to do the trekking in a low season; the time when tourist numbers are low? It is a great time to pay a visit because of the space, discounts and flexibility among others.
Uganda, which half of the world’s mountain gorillas call home is very fascinating and unique; with variety of flora and fauna, very hospitable people, breathtaking landscapes, cool climate, and unrivaled security. It is a tiny landlocked country situated east of the continent of Africa, neighbored by Rwanda, Tanzania, South Sudan, Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo
Low season gorilla trekking happens during the months of April, May and November. It is a perfect chance to have your lifetime safari adventure without breaking your bank account or getting financially stressed.
More than 150 Gorilla permits are on sale per day for about 20 habituated gorilla groups, several permits that are always less during the peak season, but in abundance during the low season.
Trekking during the low season is still 1-6 hours of drama, anxiety, and great encounters, though in most cases coinciding with rains. The activity starts with a pre trekking briefing by the park ranger who explains trekking rules and procedures, assign each group of trekkers to a gorilla group to be visited, and as well offer accompaniment during the search, from where the apes were last seen. Good enough, during dry low seasons, the park is less congested and gorillas don’t move a lot because of abundant availability of feeds and so much more.
Where to Go for Low season gorilla trekking?
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Located in the southwestern part of Uganda, Bwindi is a top trekking destination just outside of the Virunga Mountain Network, with the highest concentration of individual mountain Gorillas in its four sectors – Ruhija, Nkuringo, Rushaga, and Buhoma. The park is always open for visitors all year round.
Mgahinga National Park.
This is one of the smallest yet most rewarding home of the endangered mountain gorillas. About three-quarters of mountain gorillas call Mgahinga home, previously known for moving from one territory to another but now stay here permanently. One famous habituated family is open for trekking by 8 persons aged 15 years plus.
Where to get Low season Gorilla trekking Permits?
Gorilla trekking permits are available at Uganda Wildlife Authority headquarters in Kampala, but can also be easily booked through a registered tour company that will ensure your money is safe and used for the right purpose. Permits are for only those aged 15 years and above, and healthy.
The standard rates for gorilla permits are categorized according to nationalities, including; Foreign Non-residents – 700 USD, foreign residents – 600 USD, and East African residents / Ugandans inclusive – 250,000 UGX.
This cost is per person per day, with only 8 people allowed to encounter a gorilla family on a given day.
Except with a very strong reason, once sold, a gorilla trekking permit is not refundable and a trekking date may not postponed. Money earned from the sale of permits is dedicated to the conservation of these endangered species, payment of ranger guides and a fair share with the local communities.
After securing a gorilla trekking permit, it is important to get good hiking boots, a waterproof raincoat, stockings, water container, and gloves to protect the hands, insect repellent, a hat, camera, and stockings, among others for the trekking exercise.
Low season gorillas permits in Uganda are available and the way to go for budget travelers, and those whose safari falls in the low season months.
