Can I Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda from Australia?

Can I Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda from Australia? Yes, You Can Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda from Australia! Are you based in Australia and dreaming of embarking on a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda? The answer is yes! With proper planning, it’s entirely possible to travel from Australia to Uganda and experience one of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences. Uganda is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it a top destination for gorilla trekking enthusiasts.

As an Australian traveler, you may have many questions about how to plan your trip, how to get there, and the cost of the gorilla trekking permits. In this guide, we will take you through the essential details of how to go gorilla trekking in Uganda from Australia, including flight routes, visa requirements, the cost of trekking permits, and how to combine your gorilla adventure with other African safaris, such as the Great Migration in Kenya or Tanzania.

Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, a reputable Uganda-based tour operator, specializes in creating customized gorilla trekking safaris. Whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or with family, we provide expert guidance to ensure your journey from Australia to Uganda is as smooth and exciting as possible.

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Can I Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda from Australia

How to Travel from Australia to Uganda

To reach Uganda from Australia, the first step is booking your international flights. As there are no direct flights from Australia to Uganda, your journey will include at least one stopover in major international hubs. Most commonly, flights will take you through Middle Eastern or European cities, with connections to Entebbe International Airport (EBB) in Uganda.

Flight Options from Australia to Uganda

Qantas Airways & Emirates: You can fly from major Australian cities such as Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), or Brisbane (BNE) to Dubai (DXB). From Dubai, you can connect with Emirates or Ethiopian Airlines to Entebbe.
Singapore Airlines & Qatar Airways: Another option is flying with Singapore Airlines from Sydney to Singapore (SIN), then connecting with Qatar Airways to Entebbe, with a layover in Doha (DOH).
Cathay Pacific: You can fly from Australia to Hong Kong (HKG), then connect to Qatar Airways or Ethiopian Airlines for flights to Entebbe.

Flight times from Australia to Uganda generally range from 24 to 30 hours, depending on the number of stopovers. You’ll be welcomed in Entebbe, where Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd will be waiting to assist with your transfer to your gorilla trekking destination in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

How Much Is a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda?

One of the most common questions travelers ask is: How much is a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda? As of 2024, the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is US$800 per person. This fee grants you a one-hour opportunity to trek and observe one of the habituated mountain gorilla families in their natural habitat.

Gorilla Habituation Experience Permit

For those seeking a more exclusive experience, Uganda also offers a gorilla habituation experience. With the gorilla habituation permit, you can spend up to 4 hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family. This is an amazing opportunity for those looking to engage more deeply with the gorillas and understand their behavior. The cost of the gorilla habituation permit is US$1,500 per person.

These permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), and availability is limited to only eight permits per day per gorilla group, so it is highly recommended to book your permit well in advance, especially during the high season.

Can I Combine Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with Great Wildlife Migration in Kenya or Tanzania?

Another question travelers often ask is: Can I combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with the Great Wildlife Migration in Kenya or Tanzania?

The answer is a resounding yes! Many travelers choose to combine their gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda with a safari in Kenya or Tanzania to witness the Great Migration, a spectacular natural event where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move across the savannas of the Masai Mara and Serengeti in search of food and water. This combination provides a thrilling opportunity to experience the diversity of Africa’s wildlife, from the iconic mountain gorillas to the vast herds of wild animals in the plains.

Sample Itinerary Combining Gorilla Trekking and Safari

Day 1-5: Start your journey with gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Spend a few days trekking, learning about the gorillas, and exploring Uganda’s rich culture.
Day 6-7: Fly from Entebbe to Nairobi (Kenya) or Arusha (Tanzania) and begin your safari. You can choose to stay at iconic wildlife parks such as the Masai Mara or Serengeti, depending on the time of year and your preferences.
Day 8-12: Enjoy game drives and witness the Great Migration or other fascinating wildlife in Kenya or Tanzania.
Day 13: Return to Entebbe or Nairobi for your return flight to Australia.

This itinerary can be customized to your interests and travel dates, and our team at Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd will help you plan a seamless journey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

What Is the Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

The best time to visit Uganda for gorilla trekking is during the dry season, which typically lasts from June to September and December to February. During these months, the trails in the forests are less muddy, making trekking conditions more comfortable. However, Uganda is a year-round destination, and even during the rainy season, you can still go trekking, with the added benefit of fewer tourists.

What Should I Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

When preparing for gorilla trekking, it’s essential to pack the right gear. The forest terrain can be muddy and challenging, so make sure you bring:

Sturdy hiking boots with good grip
Long-sleeve shirts and pants to protect from thorns and insects
Rain gear, such as a poncho or jacket
Binoculars and a camera for wildlife viewing
Insect repellent to ward off bugs

We at Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd will provide you with a detailed packing list to ensure you are prepared for your trek.

Why Choose Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd for Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure?

At Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, we are committed to providing personalized, high-quality safaris to Uganda. As a reputable and registered tour operator, we take pride in offering expert guidance, seamless travel arrangements, and unforgettable experiences. Here’s why you should choose us for your gorilla trekking adventure:

Experienced Local Guides: Our knowledgeable guides ensure your trek is educational, exciting, and safe.
Custom Itineraries: We tailor-make your trip based on your preferences and desired activities.
Seamless Transfers: From flights to local transfers, we handle all the logistics for you.
Dedicated Support: Our team is available to assist you at every step of the way to ensure your trip runs smoothly.

Final Thoughts: Can I Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda from Australia?

In conclusion, yes, you can go gorilla trekking in Uganda from Australia! While the journey may take some time, the rewards are beyond worth it. With the right planning and the help of Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, your adventure will be seamless, from booking flights to securing permits, and from trekking with the gorillas to exploring other parts of Africa, like the Great Migration.

Book your gorilla trekking adventure today, and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to witness one of nature’s most majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Contact Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd Today!

📞 Call/WhatsApp: +256 762 204670
📧 Email: trips@dekstours.com
🌍 Website: www.dekstours.com

Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd

Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd is a Uganda-based safaris tour operator. We operate with a high passion for taking you through the beautiful nation of Uganda – the Pearl of Africa. A destination that offers you the best jungle adventures in Africa. We will help you experience East Africa at large with insight from a local tour guide.