General Information
Please find below some useful travel information to help you plan your visit to Uganda. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you require any further information or have any queries.
Climate
Equatorial climate (25 – 30°C) but nights can be cold (especially at lodges near the high altitude rainforests). Chance of rain in the Bwindi region is high so bring rain gear.
Gorilla Tickets
In order to minimise human contact with the gorilla groups the Ugandan authorities issue Gorilla Permits – ensuring that a limited number of visitors can observe them each day. These permits are in high demand, so do book early to secure your chosen date/s.
Gorilla Rules
Eco-tourism is nature-based tourism that meets conservation objectives. Gorilla tourism depends largely on the conservation of these magnificent animals. Some rules have been developed to protect the gorillas and the park rangers will brief you before the trekking. Please respect them.
What to Bring with you
With changeable weather conditions and dense forest vegetation it is advisable to take layers of protective clothing. We recommend wearing the following:
- t-shirt
- long-sleeved top
- warm fleece / jumper
- thick trousers
- thick wool socks (and gaiters preferably)
- strong lightweight, water-proof walking boots
- hat with brim
- garden gloves to aid scrambling up banks
And carry a small rucksack with:
- water
- pack lunch and snacks
- binoculars
- camera / video camera with spare battery, memory cards or film
- light-weight rain mac / poncho
- Walking sticks are available at the Park headquarters and porters can be hired for approx US$10.
A sealed plastic bag around camera / lenses will help keep them dry on the trek.
Pockets are useful for valuables and spare camera batteries / lenses etc as all other equipment must be left with porters approx 200 metres away from the gorilla groups.
Health Requirements
The recommendations regarding vaccinations and anti-malarial drugs constantly change so please ask your G.P. / medical centre for up-to-date details.
