(FAQs)-Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, all foreign nationals require a visa to enter Uganda. You can apply for a tourist visa online via the Uganda Electronic Visa/Permit System. An East African Tourist Visa is also available, allowing entry to Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda with a single visa.

Uganda is generally a safe destination for tourists, with welcoming locals and well-established tourism infrastructure. However, as with any international travel, visitors are advised to remain vigilant, especially in cities. Keep your belongings secure, avoid walking alone at night in urban areas, and follow the advice of local guides and authorities.

Uganda is a wildlife haven, home to an incredible array of species. Visitors can expect to see the famous "Big Five" (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino) across various national parks. Other remarkable animals include mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, and zebras. Uganda is also renowned for its rich birdlife, boasting over 1,000 species, including the rare shoebill stork.

Gorilla trekking is the thrilling experience of tracking and observing mountain gorillas in their natural environment, usually in the dense forests and mountainous regions of Central Africa. This adventure offers the unique opportunity to step into the wild habitats of these incredible creatures. To participate in gorilla trekking, you can choose from our Rwanda Gorilla Safaris or Uganda Gorilla Trekking packages, available on our website. If you prefer a customized experience, feel free to contact us for tailor-made tours.

A gorilla permit is required to trek gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Volcanoes National Park, or Virunga National Park. The trekking process typically begins with an early morning briefing at the park headquarters. Afterward, you'll embark on a guided hike through the forest, following the trails of the mountain gorillas. Once the gorillas are located, you'll have only one-hour experience observing them in their natural setting.

The duration of the trek varies, ranging from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the gorilla group's location. After your time with the gorillas, you’ll return to the base and receive a certificate commemorating your adventure.

Contact us for more information and to tailor your experience.

Yes, Uganda is one of the few places in the world where you can experience mountain gorilla trekking. This activity takes place primarily in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Gorilla permits must be purchased in advance, as they are limited to protect the animals and their habitat.

Yes, Uganda offers family-friendly safaris, particularly in parks like Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls, where there are plenty of game drives and short walking safaris. However, children must be at least 15 years old to participate in gorilla and chimpanzee trekking.

Uganda can be visited year-round, but the dry seasons from June to September and December to February are the best times for wildlife viewing. During these periods, animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking are also best during the dry seasons, as the trails are less muddy. Birdwatching is excellent from November to April when migratory birds are present.

Before traveling to Uganda, it is mandatory for all travelers to present proof of a yellow fever vaccination and COVID-19 vaccination. Additionally, it is recommended to consult your doctor about taking anti-malarial medication. Vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, and rabies are also advisable depending on the nature and length of your stay.

Tourists are advised to: Take anti-malarial medication and use mosquito repellent. Carry a first-aid kit for minor injuries and illnesses. Ensure you have adequate sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses). Follow the instructions of your guides, especially during wildlife encounters. Drink bottled water and stay hydrated. Additionally, many areas are wildlife reserves, so tourists should avoid wandering alone, especially near water bodies inhabited by crocodiles and hippos.

The official language of Uganda is English, which is widely spoken in hotels, lodges, and safari settings. Other commonly spoken languages include Luganda, Swahili, and various regional languages such as Runyankore, Rukiga, and Acholi. English and Swahili are the most common languages spoken across East Africa.

Uganda places strong emphasis on conservation and responsible tourism. Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking are strictly regulated, and only small groups are allowed daily to limit the environmental impact on the animals' habitat. Many lodges and tour operators follow sustainable practices, including waste management and wildlife conservation efforts, ensuring that your visit benefits local communities and the environment.

Uganda has a tropical climate with two primary seasons: the dry season (June to September, December to February) and the rainy season (March to May, October to November). The country’s elevated terrain means that even during the hotter months, temperatures remain mild and comfortable. In higher altitudes, such as Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, temperatures can be cooler, especially in the mornings and evenings.

Uganda is a deeply traditional country, and visitors should show respect for local customs. When visiting rural areas or religious sites, it is advisable to dress modestly. Women should cover their shoulders and knees. It’s polite to ask permission before photographing people, and handshakes are a common form of greeting. Uganda is known for its hospitality, and tourists are usually warmly welcomed.

In Uganda, a gorilla trekking permit costs USD 800 for non-residents and USD 700 for foreign residents. In Rwanda, the permit is priced at USD 1,500 for non-residents. This permit serves as your entry pass, allowing you to spend a magical hour with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda) or Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda).

All gorilla safaris in Uganda and Rwanda require you to secure a valid gorilla permit, which must be booked and paid for in advance to guarantee availability. For more details on gorilla trekking and how to book a permit, feel free to explore our resources.

It is highly recommended to secure your Rwanda or Uganda gorilla trekking permit at least three months in advance, especially during the high season, to avoid potential shortages. To ensure that your preferred date for gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda is available, please contact us with your intended travel dates for your Uganda holiday or Rwanda gorilla trekking tour. We will check permit availability for the specific day and assist you in planning an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure.

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda or Uganda requires securing a gorilla permit for Volcanoes National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This permit grants you the rare opportunity to spend an hour with the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, amidst the breathtaking scenery of these iconic parks. The permit covers park entrance fees and includes the expertise of experienced National Park guides and rangers, who will accompany you throughout the trek, ensuring both safety and an enriching experience.

To guarantee a seamless journey, Kuzora Safari Tours handles the permit process in advance, allowing you to enjoy an unforgettable, worry-free encounter with these magnificent creatures.

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda, as well as golden monkey trekking in Uganda, is 15 years. Authorities strictly enforce this rule, so all participants, including children, must be at least 15 years old to join these activities. It's crucial to adhere to this requirement to avoid disappointment, such as being denied participation in the trek. Before booking your gorilla trekking safari with us, we ensure you are informed about all age restrictions.

For chimpanzee trekking in Uganda, the minimum age is 12 years. In Rwanda, children as young as 10 years can trek golden monkeys, provided they are accompanied by an adult. Additionally, while children under 15 are allowed to visit Dian Fossey’s tomb, the hike is strenuous and is not recommended for children younger than 13-15 years.