Gorilla Trekking in Uganda from France

Embarking on a gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in the Pearl of Africa is a very unforgettable experience. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you need to plan ahead of time with a professional tour operator to embark on this trip from France.

Steps to follow in preparation for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda from France

Obtain the Necessary Documents:  

• A valid Passport

You should ensure that you have a valid passport that is 6 months ahead of your planned dates of travel

• A tourist visa

You should check for Uganda’s travel requirements. People from France require a tourist visa to enter Uganda. You can easily apply for a Uganda visa via the Ugandan Embassy in France however you can get the visa on arrival at Entebbe International Airport. The visa allows you up to 30 days stay in Uganda. If you are in need to visit another East African country besides Uganda, you need to apply for an East African visa

• A valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Card

Most countries require a passenger to have a valid yellow fever vaccination card. Yellow fever is a killer disease that can affect mountain gorillas hence making it very crucial for one to get vaccinated.  

• Plan your Itinerary 

This is the point where you decide on the days to spend on your trip and the activities to do. You can do gorilla trekking for 2- 3 days and this depends on your gorilla trekking permit availability and gorilla family.  You should consider booking with Jewel Safaris. We can help with permits, transportation, accommodations as well as the guides. 

• Gorilla Trekking Permit

For any traveler in need of gorilla trekking activity, you should be able to book a gorilla permit prior to the needed dates. A gorilla trekking permit is an essential travel document that you require for gorilla trekking. You should know that if you don’t have one, you can not participate in gorilla trekking. Gorilla trekking permits are provided by respective governing bodies that regulate the national park. You can have your gorilla trekking permit booked by a tour operator since they are on the ground. Gorilla trekking permits cost 700usd for Foreign Non-Residents, 600usd for Foreign Residents, and 250,000ugx for East African Residents citizens. Read more about pricing.

• Travel Insurance 

You should consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers any medical emergencies that you might have such as trip cancellations and evacuations.

• Currency and Finances 

You should exchange some of your money into Uganda shillings upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport or in Kampala the capital city of Uganda. Credit cards are widely accepted in Uganda, especially in our major cities. However, you are advised to carry some cash with you when traveling in remote parts of the country.  

• Pack appropriate clothing

Pack appropriate clothing and gear for the trek, including sturdy hiking boots, long pants, a rain jacket, and layers for varying weather conditions. You should also remember to pack a binocular and a camera

• Briefing and Permit 

On the morning of your trek, you will attend a mandatory briefing conducted by park rangers. Here, you will receive important information about the gorilla trekking experience, which includes safety guidelines and how to behave around the gorillas including keeping a 10-meter distance away from the mountain gorillas. 

• Allocating trekkers to a Specific Gorilla Family

You’ll be assigned to a specific gorilla trekking group based on your physical fitness and preferences. Some groups may require more strenuous hikes than others, so be sure to communicate your preferences with your guides.

• The Trekking experience

Gorilla trekking can range from a few hours to a full day, depending on the location of the gorilla family you’re visiting. You’ll hike through dense rainforest, muddy terrain, and sometimes steep slopes, guided by experienced trackers and rangers.

• Gorilla Encounter

The moment you find a gorilla family is exhilarating. You’ll have a maximum of one hour to quietly observe and photograph these magnificent creatures from a respectful distance. It’s a remarkable opportunity to witness their social interactions, grooming, and play.

• Photography 

Photography is allowed during Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park however, it’s crucial to follow the guidelines provided during the briefing Keep your distance, don’t use a flash, and avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that could disturb the gorillas.

• Return to Base 

After one hour of interacting with the gorillas as you enjoy their way of life like playing moments, feeding moments, mating, and many more, you’ll trek back to the starting point. The journey can be tiring but incredibly rewarding, with chances to spot other wildlife and enjoy the lush forest surroundings.

• Certificate Issuing

Completing a gorilla trek is a momentous achievement which is awarded with a certificate by the staff from Uganda Wildlife Authority. After the issuing of certificates, many visitors celebrate their success with their guides and fellow trekkers. It’s an opportunity to share stories and reflect on the experience.

• Responsible Tourism 

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is subject to strict regulations aimed at protecting the gorillas and their habitat. It’s essential to follow these rules and practice responsible tourism to ensure the long-term survival of these endangered animals. Departure 

• Once your gorilla trekking adventure is complete, you can either continue exploring Uganda by traveling to other destinations like Queen Elizabeth National Park for a game drive safari then continue to Kibale Forest National Park for Chimpanzee trekking, or return to France through Entebbe International Airport
• Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers a unique opportunity to connect with these incredible animals in their natural habitat that you will be able to see along the trails while on your trek doing gorilla trekking including; antelopes, African civets, giant forest hogs, and forest elephants. It’s a life-changing experience that allows you to appreciate the importance of conservation efforts and the beauty of the African rainforest. Make sure to plan your trip well in advance, as permits are limited especially in high season, and often sell out months in advance.

New gorilla trekking packages 2023 12-days luxury gorilla trekking safari 3-day gorilla tracking tour safaris 4-days uganda gorilla safari Book now