Is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Possible from the Philippines?

Is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Possible from the Philippines? If you’re from the Philippines and you’re wondering, “Is gorilla trekking in Uganda possible from the Philippines?”, you’re not alone! Many travelers from all corners of the globe dream of experiencing gorilla trekking in the stunning forests of Uganda, home to the last remaining mountain gorillas in the world. The answer is absolutely yes—gorilla trekking in Uganda is possible from the Philippines.

Though Uganda is far from the Philippines, it is entirely feasible to travel there with just a few connecting flights. This article will guide you through the process, from flight options to the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda, and even how you can combine this unique experience with wildlife safaris in Kenya or Tanzania. As a reputable and registered Uganda tour operator, Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd is here to help you make your dream of gorilla trekking a reality.

Let’s explore how you can take the leap from the Philippines to Uganda and dive into the incredible adventure of gorilla trekking.

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Is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Possible from the Philippines?

Flights from the Philippines to Uganda

When traveling from the Philippines to Uganda, there are no direct flights. However, there are several connecting flight options that make the journey relatively easy. The primary gateway to Uganda is Entebbe International Airport (EBB), located just outside the capital, Kampala. Here’s how you can travel from the Philippines to Uganda.

Connecting Flights via Major Hubs

1. Singapore Airlines and Ethiopian Airlines: One of the most popular routes involves flying from Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to Singapore Changi Airport (SIN). From Singapore, you can take a direct flight with Singapore Airlines or connect via Ethiopian Airlines to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. From there, you’ll catch a connecting flight to Entebbe. This option typically takes around 12 to 14 hours, depending on the layover times.
2. Emirates Airlines via Dubai: Another great option is to fly with Emirates Airlines. You’ll fly from Manila to Dubai International Airport (DXB), a major hub for Emirates, and then catch a connecting flight to Entebbe. The total travel time for this route is around 14 to 16 hours.
3. Qatar Airways via Doha: For a premium option, Qatar Airways offers a route through Doha, Qatar. After flying from Manila to Doha, you’ll then fly directly to Entebbe. The total duration of this journey is also around 14 to 16 hours, making it a comfortable and convenient option for travelers.

At Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, we can assist you in booking the most suitable flights, ensuring your journey from the Philippines to Uganda is as smooth as possible.

What Is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is an extraordinary wildlife experience where you trek deep into the jungle to find and observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This unique activity takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, both located in southwestern Uganda. These parks are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, known for their biodiversity and as a sanctuary for mountain gorillas.

The Gorilla Trekking Experience

The day starts early with a briefing from your experienced guide, who will explain the rules and safety guidelines for trekking the gorillas. You’ll then head into the forest, where the trek can range from a few hours to a full day, depending on the location of the gorillas. The terrain is rugged and sometimes challenging, but the experience of seeing the gorillas up close makes it worth every step.

Once you find a family of mountain gorillas, you can spend up to one hour observing them. It’s a mesmerizing experience as you watch these incredible animals interact with each other, feeding, playing, or resting. For those interested in a more immersive experience, Uganda also offers a gorilla habituation experience where you can spend up to 4 hours with the gorillas.

How Much Is a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda?

One of the main questions travelers ask when planning a gorilla trekking trip is, “How much is a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda?” As of 2024, the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is US$800 per person. This price includes the services of a guide, the trek through the forest, and the one-hour experience with the gorillas. The permits are limited, and only a set number of visitors are allowed to trek each day, so it’s essential to book well in advance.

Gorilla Habituation Permit

If you’re seeking a more extensive experience with the gorillas, you can opt for the gorilla habituation experience. This exclusive experience allows you to spend up to 4 hours with the gorillas, which provides a deeper understanding of their behavior and a more intimate experience. The cost for the gorilla habituation permit is US$1,500.

The funds generated from these permits contribute directly to the conservation efforts for mountain gorillas and the surrounding ecosystems, making it an important aspect of the gorilla protection program.

At Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, we can handle the booking of your trekking permits and ensure you get the best experience possible.

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

Many travelers ask if they can combine their gorilla trekking experience with a safari to see the famous Great Migration in Kenya or Tanzania. The answer is yes, you absolutely can! Combining gorilla trekking in Uganda with a safari in Kenya or Tanzania is a fantastic way to experience two of Africa’s most iconic wildlife encounters.

Combining Gorilla Trekking with a Safari

After completing your gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, you can easily fly to Kenya or Tanzania to witness the Great Migration. The Great Migration involves millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles crossing the Serengeti (Tanzania) and Masai Mara (Kenya) in search of food and water. The spectacle of this migration is a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts.

From Entebbe, there are several flight options to get you to either Nairobi (Kenya) or Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), with direct flights taking around 3 to 4 hours. Once you arrive, you can explore world-renowned national parks such as the Masai Mara, Serengeti, or the Ngorongoro Crater, where you’ll have the chance to see the Big Five and witness the great wildlife spectacle.

At Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, we can help tailor your itinerary to combine both gorilla trekking and a wildlife safari, ensuring a seamless travel experience from Uganda to Kenya or Tanzania.

Health and Safety for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Before embarking on your gorilla trekking adventure, it’s essential to consider your health and safety. Most visitors to Uganda are required to have a Yellow Fever vaccination, and anti-malaria medication is recommended due to the tropical climate.

Fitness Considerations

Gorilla trekking is not a physically easy activity. The terrain in the forests is steep, muddy, and can be challenging to navigate. While the trek itself is not excessively strenuous, it is advisable to be in good health and reasonably fit. The trek can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on the location of the gorillas.

If you have any concerns about your physical fitness or health, it’s a good idea to consult with a doctor before booking your trek.

Visa and Travel Insurance for Uganda

Travelers from the Philippines will need a visa to enter Uganda. Fortunately, Uganda offers an e-visa that can be easily obtained online before your trip. The visa is typically valid for 90 days.

It’s also important to arrange for travel insurance to cover any unexpected situations, including cancellations, delays, or medical emergencies during your trip.

Why Choose Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd?

As a reputable and registered Uganda tour operator, Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd offers tailored tours to meet your travel preferences. Whether you’re planning to travel from the Philippines or anywhere else, we can assist with booking flights, securing your gorilla trekking permits, and planning an unforgettable adventure. We also offer multi-country itineraries, allowing you to combine gorilla trekking with safaris in Kenya or Tanzania.

Conclusion: Is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Possible from the Philippines?

In conclusion, gorilla trekking in Uganda is absolutely possible from the Philippines. Though there are no direct flights, multiple connecting flight options are available, and with a little planning, you’ll be trekking with the mountain gorillas in no time. A gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs US$800, while a gorilla habituation permit costs US$1,500. If you’re looking to make the most of your African adventure, you can easily combine your trek with a safari in Kenya or Tanzania to witness the Great Migration.

Let Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd help you plan and book your dream journey. From gorilla trekking in Uganda to safaris across East Africa, we’re here to ensure your experience is unforgettable.

FAQs

How much is a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda?
The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is US$800. A gorilla habituation permit costs US$1,500.

Can I combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with the Great Migration in Kenya or Tanzania?
Yes, you can easily combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with a wildlife safari in Kenya or Tanzania to witness the Great Migration.

Start planning your gorilla trekking adventure with Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd today!