Can I Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda from China?

For adventure seekers in China, the idea of trekking through the misty jungles of Uganda to see the mountain gorillas is an exciting and unforgettable experience. But you may be wondering, “Can I go gorilla trekking in Uganda from China?” The short answer is yes—it’s absolutely possible to travel from China to Uganda for a life-changing gorilla trekking experience.

In this article, we’ll explain how you can easily travel from China to Uganda, provide insights on the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda, and whether it’s possible to combine gorilla trekking with a Great Migration safari in Kenya or Tanzania. Additionally, we’ll explore some key considerations for your gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda and offer helpful tips for planning your dream vacation.

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Gorilla Trekking in Uganda from China

Flight Options from China to Uganda

When traveling from China to Uganda, there are no direct flights, but there are multiple options with one or two stopovers. The most common connections for travelers from Beijing, Shanghai, or Hong Kong are through major international hubs such as Doha, Dubai, Addis Ababa, or Istanbul. Here’s a look at some popular flight routes:

Flights from China to Uganda

Qatar Airways

Step 1: Fly from Beijing (PEK), Shanghai (PVG), or Hong Kong (HKG) to Doha (DOH) with Qatar Airways.
Step 2: From Doha, take a connecting flight to Entebbe (EBB), Uganda’s main international airport.
Flight Duration: Approximately 15 to 17 hours, including layovers.

Emirates Airline

Step 1: Fly from Beijing, Shanghai, or Hong Kong to Dubai (DXB) with Emirates.
Step 2: From Dubai, take a connecting flight to Entebbe (EBB).
Flight Duration: Roughly 16 to 18 hours, including layovers.

Ethiopian Airlines

Step 1: Fly from Shanghai (PVG) or Beijing (PEK) to Addis Ababa (ADD) with Ethiopian Airlines.
Step 2: From Addis Ababa, take a connecting flight to Entebbe (EBB).
Flight Duration: Around 13 to 14 hours, including the layover in Addis Ababa.

Turkish Airlines

Step 1: Fly from Shanghai, Beijing, or Hong Kong to Istanbul (IST) with Turkish Airlines.
Step 2: From Istanbul, take a connecting flight to Entebbe (EBB).
Flight Duration: Approximately 16 to 18 hours, including the layover in Istanbul.

Although the flights require at least one layover, there are frequent connections from China to Uganda, making it relatively easy to plan your gorilla trekking trip. Once you arrive at Entebbe, Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd will take care of your transport to the gorilla trekking locations like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

How Much Is a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda?

One of the first things you’ll need to consider when planning your gorilla trekking experience is the cost of the gorilla trekking permit. As of 2024, the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is US$800 per person. This permit allows you to spend up to one hour with a gorilla family in one of the national parks. The permit also covers several services, including park entrance fees, guide services, and ranger fees.

What Does the Permit Cover?

The US$800 gorilla trekking permit includes:

Entrance to the National Park: The fee grants you access to the national parks where mountain gorillas are located, such as Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Experienced Guides: You’ll be accompanied by expert guides and trackers who are knowledgeable about the gorillas and the forest environment.
Rangers: Armed rangers accompany you during your trek to ensure your safety and protect the gorillas from poaching or other threats.
Conservation Contributions: A portion of the permit fee is allocated to gorilla conservation, which supports the protection of mountain gorillas and their habitats.

For those seeking a more extensive experience, you can opt for the gorilla habituation experience, which allows you to spend up to four hours with the gorillas. The gorilla habituation experience costs US$1,500 per person and is available in select locations within Uganda.

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

Many travelers wonder if they can combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with a Great Migration safari in Kenya or Tanzania. The answer is yes! Combining gorilla trekking with a safari is one of the best ways to make the most of your Uganda and East Africa trip.

How to Combine Gorilla Trekking and Safari

You can easily combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with a safari in Kenya or Tanzania. Here’s an example of how you can plan your trip:

Days 1-3: Begin your adventure with gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Spend your first few days in Uganda trekking the gorillas, learning about their behavior, and enjoying the beautiful landscape.
Days 4-6: After your gorilla trekking experience, take a short flight from Entebbe to Nairobi (Kenya) or Arusha (Tanzania). From Nairobi, it’s a quick flight to Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya) or Serengeti National Park (Tanzania) for an amazing Great Migration safari.
Days 7-9: Spend a few days in the Masai Mara or Serengeti and witness the Great Migration—the annual movement of millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles, accompanied by predators like lions and cheetahs.
Day 10: After an unforgettable safari, fly back to Entebbe for your return flight to China.

Best Time to Combine Gorilla Trekking and Safari

The best time to combine gorilla trekking and the Great Migration is during the dry season, from June to September or December to February. During this time, both the gorilla trekking conditions in Uganda and the safari in Kenya or Tanzania are optimal. The Great Migration peaks in July to October, offering the perfect opportunity to witness the migration in full swing.

Preparing for Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure

When planning your gorilla trekking experience in Uganda, there are several things to keep in mind to ensure a successful and enjoyable trek. Here are some essential preparations:

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking

Sturdy Hiking Boots: The terrain can be muddy and rugged, so ensure your boots are waterproof and provide ankle support.
Lightweight, Long-Sleeve Clothing: To protect your arms and legs from the dense forest, long sleeves and pants are ideal.
Rain Gear: Since Uganda’s weather can be unpredictable, be sure to bring a rain jacket and waterproof pants.
Insect Repellent: Protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects.
Camera (Without Flash): You’ll want to capture these unforgettable moments, but remember, flash photography is prohibited around gorillas.
Water and Snacks: It’s essential to stay hydrated during your trek, especially as some treks can last several hours.

Fitness and Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is physically demanding, requiring a good level of fitness. You’ll be hiking through the forest at altitudes of up to 2,000 meters (6,500 feet). While it’s not overly strenuous, you should be prepared for an active day. The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years, so make sure all participants meet the age requirement before booking.

Conclusion: Can I Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda from China?

In conclusion, gorilla trekking in Uganda is a highly attainable experience for travelers from China. With multiple flight options available, an affordable gorilla trekking permit priced at US$800, and the option to combine your gorilla trekking adventure with a Great Wildlife Migration safari in Kenya or Tanzania, you can easily craft a dream trip to East Africa.

Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, a reputable and registered Uganda tour operator, is here to help you plan the perfect gorilla trekking experience in Uganda. Reach out today to start planning your once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

Contact Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd Today!

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

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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.