Is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Possible from Serengeti National Park?

If you’re planning a wildlife safari in East Africa, you might wonder whether it’s possible to combine the iconic experience of gorilla trekking in Uganda with the incredible safari experience of visiting the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. The good news is, yes, gorilla trekking in Uganda is absolutely possible from Serengeti National Park, and many travelers do exactly this. The combination of these two incredible experiences—gorilla trekking and witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti—makes for an unforgettable East African adventure.

In this write-up, we will explore how you can make this dream trip a reality, including flight options, permit information, and the logistics of combining these two incredible destinations. We’ll also address some of the commonly asked questions like how much is a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda and whether it’s feasible to combine gorilla trekking with a safari to witness the Great Migration. Let’s dive in!

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Gorilla Trekking in Africa

How to Travel from Serengeti to Uganda for Gorilla Trekking

While Serengeti National Park and Uganda’s gorilla trekking parks (like Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park) are located in different countries, traveling between these two destinations is relatively simple with proper planning. Although there are no direct flights between Serengeti and Uganda, there are convenient options for connecting flights.

Possible Flight Routes from Serengeti to Uganda

By Air – The most common and efficient way to travel from Serengeti to Uganda is by taking a flight. There are flights available from Seronera Airport (in Serengeti) to Entebbe International Airport in Uganda, typically with a layover in Nairobi or Dar es Salaam. The total flight time can range from 5 to 7 hours, depending on layovers. Airlines like Kenya Airways, Precision Air, and Ethiopian Airlines offer convenient connections between Tanzania and Uganda.
By Road and Air – For those looking for a more adventurous route, travelers can also drive from Serengeti to Arusha (a major gateway city in Tanzania) and catch a flight from there to Entebbe, Uganda. The road drive from Serengeti to Arusha takes around 4 to 5 hours. Then, a short flight from Arusha to Entebbe will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

At Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, we can assist you in planning the best route and booking your flights, ensuring a smooth transfer from Serengeti to Uganda.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: The Adventure of a Lifetime

Now that you know how to get from Serengeti to Uganda, let’s dive into what makes gorilla trekking in Uganda such a unique and rewarding experience.

The Best Gorilla Trekking Locations in Uganda

Uganda is home to the world’s mountain gorillas, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are the best locations to encounter these incredible animals. Both parks are located in southwestern Uganda, offering stunning views, lush rainforests, and the opportunity to trek through remote and rugged landscapes.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its large population of mountain gorillas. It is one of the most famous spots for gorilla trekking in the world, and its dense, hilly terrain adds a sense of adventure to your journey.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Located near the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mgahinga is a smaller, quieter park, but it’s no less stunning. Visitors to Mgahinga can also trek to see the golden monkeys in addition to the mountain gorillas.

Both parks provide an amazing opportunity to witness endangered mountain gorillas up close. A trek typically lasts between 2 to 8 hours, depending on how far the gorillas are located. Once you find the gorillas, you’ll spend an incredible one hour observing them in their natural habitat.

How Much is a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda?

When planning your gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, the cost of the gorilla trekking permit is an essential consideration. As of 2024, the cost for a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is US$800 per person. This fee covers park entry, a trained guide, and the opportunity to spend up to one hour with a mountain gorilla family.

Gorilla Habituation Experience

If you’re looking for a more extended and intimate experience, Uganda also offers a gorilla habituation program, which allows you to spend up to four hours with a gorilla family. This option provides a deeper understanding of gorilla behavior and is perfect for those who want to observe the gorillas in greater detail. The price for a gorilla habituation permit is US$1,500.

It’s important to note that both gorilla trekking and gorilla habituation permits are limited in number, so it’s recommended to book well in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak season (from June to September).

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

One of the most exciting things about traveling to Uganda for gorilla trekking is that you can easily combine it with a safari to witness the Great Migration in Kenya or Tanzania. The Great Migration is one of the most extraordinary wildlife events in the world, where millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles make their annual journey across the plains in search of fresh grazing grounds and water.

Combining Gorilla Trekking and Safari

You can combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with a safari in either Kenya’s Masai Mara or Tanzania’s Serengeti, both of which are prime locations for witnessing the Great Migration. A flight from Entebbe, Uganda, to Nairobi, Kenya, or Arusha, Tanzania, typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours. This makes it quite feasible to visit both destinations within the same trip.

If you plan to visit during the migration season, which usually occurs between July and October, you will be able to witness millions of animals crossing the plains in search of better grazing areas. A combination of gorilla trekking and the Great Migration provides a unique and unforgettable wildlife experience.

At Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, we can assist you in creating a custom itinerary that includes both gorilla trekking and a migration safari, ensuring you don’t miss any of East Africa’s spectacular wildlife offerings.

Health and Safety Considerations for Gorilla Trekking

When embarking on a gorilla trekking journey in Uganda, there are a few health and safety considerations you should be aware of.

Vaccinations and Health Precautions

One of the most important health requirements for travel to Uganda is the Yellow Fever vaccination, which is required for entry into the country. You’ll need to present your Yellow Fever vaccination certificate upon arrival in Uganda. It’s also recommended to take anti-malaria medication, as malaria is common in many parts of Uganda and Tanzania.

Additionally, it’s advisable to be in good physical condition for gorilla trekking, as the terrain can be challenging, with steep inclines and muddy paths.

Visa Requirements for Uganda

Travelers visiting Uganda from Tanzania will need a visa to enter Uganda. Fortunately, Uganda offers an e-visa system that allows you to apply online before your trip. The e-visa process is straightforward and ensures that you won’t have to worry about obtaining a visa upon arrival.

Conclusion: Is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Possible from Serengeti National Park?

In conclusion, gorilla trekking in Uganda is absolutely possible from Serengeti National Park, and the journey is quite manageable with proper planning. Whether you choose to fly from Serengeti to Entebbe or take a road transfer followed by a flight, there are several convenient options to reach Uganda for a gorilla trekking adventure.

As a trusted and registered Uganda tour operator, Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd is here to help you plan the perfect trip that combines both gorilla trekking and a safari to see the Great Migration. From securing your gorilla trekking permits to booking flights and creating a tailored itinerary, we’re here to ensure your East African adventure is as seamless as possible.

FAQs

How much is a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda?
A gorilla trekking permit costs US$800 in Uganda as of 2024. If you choose the gorilla habituation experience, the cost is US$1,500.

Can I combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with the Great Migration in Kenya or Tanzania?
Yes, it’s very possible to combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with a safari to see the Great Migration in Kenya or Tanzania. Flights between Uganda and these destinations are short and easily accessible.

Book your gorilla trekking adventure with Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd today and make your dream East African safari a reality!

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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.