Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Uganda in September
Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Uganda in September
Uganda gorilla trekking safaris in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are possible throughout the year, and the month of September is no exception. September marks the start of the wet season, marked by increased rainfall and humidity. Since Bwindi and Mgahinga experience equatorial climate, they receive substantial amounts between 100 and 150 millimeters.
Such heavy rainfall can have deep implications for gorilla trekking adventures in September. This is because the rain causes the forest trails to become muddy and slippery. Such trails are relatively challenging to traverse hence requiring extra caution and physical effort from trekkers. Despite these challenges, September offers unique opportunities for those adventurous travelers who desire a more immersive experience in the jungles of Bwindi and Mgahinga. Gorilla trekking safaris in September require that you carry waterproof clothing and hiking shoes to have a successful adventure.
Most Popular Safaris
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4-day gorilla trekking & Dian Fossey tomb visit
9 Days Congo Lowland Gorilla and Masai Mara Safari
14-Day Burundi, Rwanda, and Uganda cultural-wildlife Safari
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6 Days Whitewater Rafting and Gorilla Safari
Where to Do gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is in southwestern Uganda and covers a total land area of 331 square kilometers. Bwindi is close to the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Park is approximately 501.3 kilometers from Kampala and about 164.4 kilometers from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. With an altitude of about 1,160-2,607 meters above sea level, Bwindi is covered with dense, ancient rainforests. It is also home to over 459 mountain gorillas with 23 habituated gorilla families of 50 families in the park.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is in Kisoro, southwestern Uganda. The park is close to the borders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park covers 33.7 square kilometers and is part of the larger Virunga Massif. This is a chain of Volcanic mountains in the border region of Uganda, Rwanda, and the DR Congo. Mgahinga is the home of several iconic peaks Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabinyo. Mgahinga sits at an altitude of about 2,227-4,127 meters above sea level. It is approximately 496.7 kilometers southwest of Kampala and 135.3 kilometers north of Kigali. It has only 1 habituated gorilla family, Nyakagezi.
Vegetation at Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks in September
Since rainfall is relatively higher in September compared to the previous month, Bwindi and Mgahinga have dense vegetation cover. This provides cover and more food sources for the inhabitant wildlife species. These species include mountain gorilla, chimpanzee, L’Hoest’s monkey, golden monkey, and African elephant. The park also has bird species such as the African green broadbill, Grauer’s swamp warbler, and Turner’s Eremomela. Other bird species include Chapin’s flycatcher, great blue turaco, and Shelley’s crimson-wing among others.
During this month, both parks have mixed ecosystems. These range from montane and lowland rainforests to bamboo forests and grasslands. The tree species comprises Newtonia, pine, mahogany, and star apple among many others. Such vegetation is a source of fruits, leaves, buds, and stems for the mountain gorillas to feed.
Temperature conditions at Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks in September
During September, Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks experience relatively lower temperature conditions. The average highs at around 26oC (77oF) and lows of around 19oC (67oF). These temperatures depend on the altitude and specific location.
The drop in temperatures during the wet season in September affects gorilla behavior at both Bwindi and Mgahinga by creating chilly conditions. Since the mountain gorillas adjust to these climatic conditions, they may seek shelter in the dense vegetation or congregate together for warmth. This may also reduce their foraging or movement. However, the chances of seeing the gorillas are still high, above 98%.
The moderate temperatures in September can be quite comfortable for gorilla trekking safaris. This ensures the overall pleasantness of the experience by allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the stunning biodiversity of the parks without being significantly affected by extreme heat and cold.
How gorilla trekking safaris are done in Bwindi and Mgahinga Parks
Gorilla trekking safaris in both Bwindi and Mgahinga must start by 8 am. So by 7:00 am, you should have arrived at park headquarters for a pre-trekking briefing. You will gather at the corresponding briefing site where knowledgeable park guides will brief you. They’ll be briefing you about the proper code of conduct for the gorilla trek, including the necessary cautions and the rules and regulations.
Afterward, the trekkers will be divided into groups of 8 individuals. Then, a ranger guide and a well-trained armed guard will lead them to specific specific trails. Along the trails, the group will seek to find a specific habituated gorilla family to trek.
Meanwhile, you can spot a variety of beautiful insects and plant species. The duration of the gorilla trekking adventure may take from an hour or even a full day. The time it takes to see the gorillas depends on the location of the gorilla family or your fitness level. Once you encounter the gorilla family, you are allowed to spend no more than an hour in their presence. After the trek, you will receive a certificate indicating your successful gorilla trekking adventure.
Cost of gorilla permit and how to acquire
Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Uganda in September- how to acquire a gorilla permit. To go for a gorilla trek in Uganda, you need to have a gorilla permit. The gorilla permit will allow you a full hour with the endangered mountain gorillas either in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Each permit is for an individual per trek and only for a particular gorilla family. A gorilla habituation permit will allow you to spend 4 hours with the gorillas to help them get used to human presence. The tariffs are as follows.
- Foreign non-residents pay $800 and habituation at $1500
- Foreign residents pay $700 and habituation at $1000
- The rest of the African citizens pay $500 and habituation at $1000
- East African Community citizens pay UGX 300,000 and habituation at $200
The best and only way of acquiring a gorilla permit if you are from Germany is through a registered tour operator based in Uganda. A locally registered tour company has sufficient knowledge regarding the entire acquisition process. We will also make things more convenient for you. Safari Vacations and Travel Services is your trusted tour company. We also plan together with you the most perfect itineraries that suit your preferences and tour activities.
What to bring for a successful Uganda Gorilla Trek in September
- Insect repellent
- Lightweight long-sleeved shirt and trousers
- Broad-brimmed hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Hand gloves
- Refillable water bottle
- Sweater
- Raincoat or poncho
- Touch
- Camera
- Binoculars
- First aid kit with wet wipes, bandages, personal medication, etc
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Small backpack
- Travel documents including visa or passport
Contact us for any Uganda or Rwanda safari from your home country. We’ll answer your queries in just a matter of minutes. We organize game safaris, whitewater rafting safaris, chimpanzee safaris, hiking safaris, and many others. You can start planning by filling in the form below.
