Uganda & Rwanda Primates 12 Days

Uganda, or the ‘Pearl of Africa’, as it was famously dubbed by Winston Churchill, is characterised by relatively dry and flat savanna in the north, with verdant mountains in the West, and vast dense and remarkably lush forests in the central region. The nation is home to an astonishingly diverse range of African wildlife including the highly endangered mountain gorilla which can be found in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. A popular spot for wildlife watching is Queen Elizabeth National Park, which hosts four of the Big Five, a flock of flamboyant flamingos and the rare tree-climbing lions of Ishasha. Outdoor enthusiasts can get their adrenaline fix with plenty of whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, quad biking and horse riding facilities on offer. Add to this some friendly locals, a burgeoning cultural scene, and a capital city full of lively bars, clubs and restaurants, and it is easy to see why Uganda has gained itself a reputation as 'Africa's friendliest country'.

All visitors to Uganda require a visa and every visitor’s passport must be valid for at least six months from their departure date. Visas for Uganda can be obtained online if you want everything settled prior to arrival. There is also the East African Visa that allows you to move freely in between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.
 
Visa Fees:
Single entry visa US$ 50
Multiple entry visa (6-12 months) US$ 100
 
Uganda Visa Requirements:
Passports : You need a valid passport, one that is expiring at least 6 months from the date you enter Uganda
Sufficient Funds: No amount is currently specified by the immigration but having a Credit Card and a return ticket are good evidence to convince the immigration officer that you have enough money with you.
Return / Onward Tickets: This is your evidence to prove that you have enough money on you, however, if you posses a one-way ticket, be ready to do some explaining to the immigration officer who might think you do not have enough funds to buy a flight out the country.
You will therefore need to present a visitor's pass for your next destination outside Uganda to avoid messing up your trip. You may actually have to buy a return ticket to your country before being allowed entry into Uganda, therefore, if you plan to leave the country overland, then organize your trip with an airline where a refund can be given for the unused ticket and at such dates and in search countries where you will be able to access the refund.
International Health Certificate: You will be requested to present this document to show that have received a yellow fever vaccine shot.
 

Uganda’s unit of currency is the Uganda Shilling and you’d be advised to get some on arrival as it is far easier to buy drinks, curios and meals in the local currency when travelling between destinations. You can exchange currency at any of the many forex bureaus OR banks in the country. US Dollars are widely accepted throughout the country though note that cash is best: traveler’s cheques and credit cards can be used at most lodges and in Kampala but attract hefty transaction fees. Euros, British Pounds, US Dollars, South African Rand and other major currencies can be exchanged locally or in advance of departure. Additionally, exchange facilities are available at various bureaus de change and banks in major towns have ATMs. It's advisable to request bank notes in smaller denominations, as it can sometimes be hard to get change from large notes and smaller notes are handy for smaller purchases and gratuities.

Air: 
Main airlines: Uganda Airlines 
International Airports: Entebbe International Airport 
Domestic Airports: Various 

Road: 
Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 
Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 
Railway system: Limited 
Subway System: No 

Water: 
Ferries: Limited 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: No 

You should seek medical advice from your local health practitioner before travelling to Uganda and ensure that you receive all of the appropriate vaccinations. As a guide Polio, Diphtheria, Hepatitis A & B and Tetanus are strongly recommended. Rabies and Meningitis are also recommended. There is a risk of malaria in Uganda so it is very important to check with your doctor before you go, to see whether malarial medication is required for the areas you are visiting. Generally, it is good practice to avoid mosquito bites by wearing long sleeved, light colored clothes and wearing a mosquito repellent that contains at least 50% DEET. It is strongly recommended that prophylactics (i.e., oral tablets) be taken as a preventative precaution. Following an outbreak of yellow fever in April 2016, the Ugandan Ministry of Health now requires all travelers provide proof of yellow fever vaccination.

In general petty theft is common in Africa’s major cities and towns. Visitors should take the same care as they would normally take in any other destination worldwide. Keep a close watch on handbags, wallets, and cameras when walking in crowded places. Avoid walking at night and place your valuables in safe deposit boxes at hotels where they exist.  Whereas at safari lodges and tented camps you are typically far from human settlement and crime is virtually nonexistent. We still advise that valuables be locked away in a room safe or kept under the supervision of the camp or lodge manager while on safari.
 

Food and water safety: 
Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: No 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: Ugandan cuisine reflects a mix of indigenous tribes and foreign influences. Staple foods include Matooke (cooked green bananas), Posho (maize meal), and Rice. Common dishes are Luwombo (steamed stew), Rolex (chapati with eggs and vegetables), and Nyama Choma (grilled meat). Ugandan cuisine is rich in flavor with a variety of spices and herbs. 

Drinks: Notable local drinks include Waragi (banana gin), Tonto (local beer), and Malwa (fermented beverage). 

Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated, typically 5-10%. 

Annual rainfall: Varies by region, averaging around 1200 mm 
Average temperature: 23°C 

Summer: 
Average highs: 27°C 
Average lows: 16°C 

Winter: 
Average highs: 26°C 
Average lows: 15°C 

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Uganda is during the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February, when the weather is cooler and ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities. 

Internet Availability 

Internet cafes: Limited 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Yes 

During the day, temperatures in Uganda are generally warm so pack plenty of lightweight clothing. If you are going gorilla trekking, pack long trousers and long-sleeved tops, long socks to wear over your trousers as protection against ants, a pair of light gloves to protect against nettles, a hat and a raincoat.
A pair of sturdy, comfortable hiking boots is most important – try to break these in before your trip rather than wearing them brand new as you’re likely to get blisters. The mountains tend to be cold and damp so pack according to the altitude - a change of clothes and a warm fleece in your day pack, along with sunscreen and insect repellent are advised

Important: Gorilla trekking can be strenuous. Physical fitness is required

Gorilla trekking packing list:

1. • - Sturdy walking boots or shoes (boots are better because they have better grip and support your ankles on hilly terrain)
2. • - Breathable waterproof jacket and trousers. Even if it doesn’t rain, the ground and vegetation are generally wet. Wearing waterproof trousers means you can kneel to get gorilla photos or slide down slippery slopes.
3. • - Long-sleeved shirt (to protect yourself from tree branches, the sun and insects)
4. • - Gaiters (or long socks) to tuck long trousers into (to correct legs from scratches and keep insects out)
5. • - A fleece or light wool sweater 
6. • - Sunglasses, sunscreen and sunhat 
7. • - Gloves to grip the vegetation (dime store or ‘pound shop’ gardening gloves are perfect!)
8. • - Camera equipment (Extra batteries, Lenses, extra film, etc 
9. • - A walking pole. Will be provided. This is a big help for climbing up and easing yourself back down steep or muddy hills
10. • - Plenty of water. Hydration is very important. Your lodge will provide you with a packed lunch and drinking water. (Don’t be afraid to ask for more than one bottle!)
11. • - Tips (at your discretion) for your rangers and porter 
12. • - Lastly and most importantly: don’t forget to take your gorilla trekking permit and your passport (or the identification you used when reserving your permit). You will need to show your ID at the pre-trekking briefing.

IMPORTANT:

*Pack all of this in a small backpack. 

• NOTE: Mornings in the mountains can be cool and nights can be cold. You will probably experience mist and quite possibly rain while you are trekking the gorillas. It can also get quite hot, from the sun and/ or the hiking uphill. Layered clothing is recommended, ideally the ‘wick-away’ moisture type. 

EXTRA PACKING LIST:

Feel free to choose / add what you need;

• 1 – 2 pairs of light weight trousers / slacks – that can dry quickly if wearing on treks

• 1 Pair of shorts 

• 1 – 2 long sleeved shirts – preferably quick drying 

• 2 – 3 short sleeved shirts – preferably moisture wicking 

Casual clothes for evenings:

• 1 – 2 pairs of light weight trousers / slacks 

• 1 – 3 sports / long sleeved shirts and / or blouse 

• 1 dress / skirt for ladies 

*Exterior clothing:

• 1 Lightweight waterproof / windproof / breathable jacket, e.g. Gortex / Event type fabrics

• 1 Fleece, sweater or sweatshirt 

• Sturdy / lightweight waterproof walking boots – trousers / pants should be tucked into socks and boots while trekking (heavy soled rain boots or gaiters also work well)

• 1 Pair of shoes for evening wear 

• 1 Pair of sports sandals will be useful, e.g. TEVA 

• Swimsuit (and a plastic bag for packing in) 

• Bush hat with a brim for sun protection 

• Underwear 

• Lightweight wool socks 

• Gloves – gardening or similar (for gorilla tracking only) 

  *Miscellaneous: 

• Towel – many lodges provide these, but if needed we suggest taking trek towels. These are lightweight, pack to a small size and dry quickly. Best to get a large or extra-large.

• Gaiters.

• Sunscreen and moisturizing cream 

• Sunglasses with neck strap 

• Insect repellent with DEET, please note that DEET can effect man-made fibers and plastics.

• Daypack / small rucksack 

• Binoculars 

• Alarm clock – though our staff will wake you 

• Ear plugs 

• Spare / extra batteries 

• Camera and extra lenses 

• Camera charger / converter / adapter for 220 / 240 AC voltage, plus cigarette lighter adapter is useful

• Film – particularly fast film for the primates (400 – 1600ASA) 

• Personal toiletries /Prescription medicines and the prescription itself 

• Wet-wipes / tissues 

• Back-up glasses especially if you wear contact lenses 

• Wash cloth and plastic bag (if needed) 

• Ziplocks / dry bags and other plastic bags for keeping valuables dry or storing wet clothes

• Torch / flashlight – LED models are light weight and have a good battery life

• Sewing kit (needle, thread, safety pins) 

• Small notebook 

• First Aid Kit – including anti-diarrhea medicine, rehydration sachets, aspirin, cold medication, antiseptic cream, band-aids (plasters), motion sickness pills, lip balm, eye drops and personal medication

• Photocopies of your passport, visas, credit cards and airline tickets (it is advisable to have 2 sets to keep in separate places)

Uganda Time Zone: -
Uganda is 3 hours ahead of GMT and does not observe daylight savings.

People & Culture:

Uganda is a conservative country and visitors would do well to adhere to local rules of behavior. That said, visitors often remark on the friendliness and politeness of the locals: greetings are an elaborate affair and may include inquiries as to the health of your family - perfunctory greetings and a demand for immediate action are somewhat frowned upon!

Tipping:
Tipping in Uganda is highly appreciated. It's just recognition of a good service offered, and it's completely to your own discretion. Tipping wholly depends on your personal budget and decision. 
Tipping of around 10 - 15% is customary in Uganda for good service. Tips are usually given in Uganda Shillings or US Dollars. Safari guides should be tipped the equivalent of USD $10-15 per person per day and a few dollars should be put in a communal tip jar for the driver, cook and porters. If you eat in a restaurant then 10% on top of the bill is a suitable amount to leave.
If you are doing a gorilla trek, tipping is at your discretion - your porter (if you choose to take one) should usually receive the highest tip, with a second tip distributed between your guides, trackers and security personnel.

SOUVENIRS:
Traditional African handicrafts can be found throughout Uganda at very reasonable prices and make great souvenirs. Buying carved wooden masks and sculptures made by local artists is a good way to support the community and make sure you go home with something unique and authentic. There are plenty of other items on offer that will jazz up your home such as bowls, batik paintings and woven baskets.
Those looking to spice up their wardrobe needn’t look far whilst in Uganda. Bright fabrics with stunning African patterns can be easily purchased and either taken home as they are or turned into clothes by one of the local tailors. Once again, you will be providing valuable income for locals by getting your own custom-made clothes and you can be sure no-one will walk around wearing the same thing as you back home. 

DUTY FREE ALLOWANCE:
Travelers over the age of 18 are permitted to bring the following into the country:
•    250g of tobacco products
•    1L of spirits or 2L of wine
•    500ml of perfume and eau de toilette, of which up to 250ml may be perfume
•    Goods up to the value of US$500 (for returning residents)
The following are banned from being imported into Uganda: narcotics, pornography, counterfeit items, cultural artefacts and explosives are not permitted. Some medication may also be restricted - check before you travel. You must obtain a permit to import hunting weapons, live animals, fruit, flowers, cuttings or seeds
INTERNET/ WIFI:
You will be sure to find a WiFi connection in the majority of safari lodges & hotels. Note that you may have network difficulties outside the lodges / during safari activities
CELLPHONES:
Tri - band and quad-band cell phones work in most major African cities and towns however you must check to ensure your service provider has an agreement with the local provider. Also check rates as these can be up to US $3 per minute. Cell phones work at some safari lodges and camps where there are cell phone towers. Satellite phones are a great option for travelers who must stay connected. Keep in mind most lodges and camps require guests to keep satellite phones turned off and use them only for outgoing calls so as not to disturb other guests. Also keep in the high per minute call rates.
 

The first thing that springs to most people’s minds when thinking of Rwanda is its turbulent political history. But today’s Rwanda is a far cry from the nation it was in the mid-90s: the country has emerged from the shadows and has much to offer visitors, most notably the tracking of endangered mountain gorillas in the lush Virunga National Park, which extends across the peaks and jungle-covered slopes of the volcanic Virunga Mountains. Other major tourist attractions include expansive Lake Kivu, ancient Nyungwe Forest with its rich population of primate species, and the game-rich savannah lands of Akagera National Park.

PASSPORT AND VISAS

A valid passport is mandatory. Visas are required by some nationalities, but they can be issued on the

Spot at most ports of entry. Before you travel be sure to contact the nearest Rwandan embassy or

Consulate to obtain the latest information on visa Requirements or apply online at

www.migration.gov.rw

Currency

Rwanda Franc (RWF) = 100 centimes. Notes are in denominations of RWF 5,000, 2,000, 1,000 and 500. Coins are in denominations of RWF100, 50, 20, 10 and 5.

The import and export of local currency is limited to RWF5000. The import and export of foreign currency is unlimited, but must be declared upon arrival and exchanged within 8 days.

Banking

Banking hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1200 and 1400-1700, Sat 0800-1200.

Credit cards are only accepted at a few hotels in Kigali. MasterCard and Visa are the preferred cards.

International Visa cards are accepted at the ATMs at Ecobank head office in Kigali and at Kigali airport. They can also be used at the ATMs at Access Bank head office in Kigali. However, these ATMs are often affected by power cuts. It is best to travel with US dollars, some banks won’t accept pound sterling.

It may be difficult to change traveller's cheques outside Kigali.

Akagera Aviation (+250 788 308 382 / +250 252 580 234) provides helicopter flights all over the country. Rwandair flies internally to the southeastern town of Cyangugu.

There is a lot of work being done to improve the roads, and in some places you will find smooth tarmac, while in others you will be going along pot-holed dirt paths.A 4-wheel drive vehicle is needed for some local roads. There can be landslides on some of the major roads during annual rainfall in spring and autumn.Extra care should be taken at night, as headlight use is erratic. During rainy season some roads can become impassable.

There are no international car hire companies operating in Rwanda, but there are several local companies. You will find these listed in the Eye magazine given away at the airport and in hotels (www.theeye.co.rw)

Taxis can be found in large towns and cities. Look for the official orange stripe. Fares are reasonable, but should be agreed in advance (ask a local if you think you are being overcharged). Tipping is not expected.

Bicycle and scooter taxis are the quickest and cheapest way to get around in the towns, however they are risky.

Minibus taxis provide links to and from all towns and some villages. Although it is not common for foreigners to travel this way, they are quite safe and efficient. However you will have to wait until they are full before departure if you get on at the start of the route. The Virunga Express (www.virungatravel.com) and Onatracom Express provide more direct intercity links.

Rwandans drive on the right. It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving unless with a hands-free set. Seat belts must be worn in the front. It is advised not to drive after drinking, breathalisers are in use and if found to have more than 0.8 mg of alcohol per 1 litre of blood, you are likely to face imprisonment. Speed limits are 40km/per hour in the city and 60km outside the city. If the car in front is using the left indicator it often means it is not safe to overtake, the right indicator tells you the road ahead is clear.

An International Driving Permit is required. An entry permit is needed if you have travelled from outside the country, insurance document and driving licence.

You can hire a boat to take you from Gisenyi to Kibuye if you ask at one of the lakeside hotels.

HEALTH

A certificate of yellow-fever vaccination is required. Much of Rwanda lies at too high, an elevation for Malaria to be a major concern, but the disease is Present and prophylactic drugs are strongly recommended. It is advisable to drink bottled Mineral water, which can be bought in all towns. Hospitals are located in all major towns. There are medical facilities of Western standards in Kigali; elsewhere facilities are rudimentary. It is generally wise to you are be up-to-date on vaccinations for typhoid, tetanus, polio and diphtheria. Many travellers also have the Havrix vaccine to guard against infection by hepatitis A. Malaria is widespread throughout lowland Rwanda, so malaria precautions are generally essential. That said, it's vital that you always check the latest recommendations with your own doctor or travel clinic before you travel.

SECURITY

As it is the case in most regions of the world, security is a topic that should be kept in mind. In Kigali city Hub it’s generally safe during the day, as long as narrow alleys or isolated streets are avoided. We advise you not to walk in the streets in the dark. If you wish to travel by night, always call for a taxi. Don’t carry a lot of money with you when you go out; only the amount you think you will spend. While walking in the streets, don’t wear jewellery or valuables that bring attention to you.

Please leave all valuables (jewellery, travel documents, cameras etc.) in the safes or safety deposit

Boxes of the hotel you are staying at. Please don’t leave anything of value lying around your hotel room.

Food is generally safe to eat if well-cooked and hot. If in doubt, veer towards larger restaurants in cities and those aimed at tourists, which will have undergone government safety checks. Avoid buying food from the side of the road and don’t drink tap water. Use bottled water or otherwise boil or sterilise. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised. Avoid dairy products that are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

The majority of the population in Rwanda live off subsistence farming and so their meals rely heavily on starchy crops such as potato, maize and cassava. This is generally served with kidney beans and cabbage and where meat can be afforded it is most often goat. However, the restaurants of Kigali and other towns will generally serve grilled meat with french fries and sometimes rice with spicy stews.

Hotels generally serve a reasonable choice of European dishes, and there are Chinese, Greek, Indian, Italian and Middle Eastern restaurants. Some restaurants also serve Franco-Belgian cuisine and African dishes. A fairly good selection of beers, spirits and wines is available. Beer is also brewed locally.

You will see brochettes on most menus, these are basically a skewer of your chosen meat or fish served with rice or chips. Other local specialities include: tilapia, a white fish found in Lake Kivu and also farmed locally and appears often on menus; Matoke, cooked plantain, which may be served when you are expecting potatoes (and usually tastes a lot like potatoes!)

Primus is the local beer of choice. Mutzig is very similar but more expensive and often comes in large 700ml bottles. The local banana wine is for the brave, it is called urwangwa and you should be able to pick up a bottle in a supermarket to try in the privacy of your room.

There is no clear principle on tipping in Rwanda, but most staff in the bigger hotels have come to expect it, as have guides and trackers. A general rule is to tip 10% in restaurants if you feel inclined and give $5 - $10 to guides, trackers and porters.

Annual rainfall: Varies by region, averaging 1200 mm 
Average temperature: 21°C 

Summer: 
Average highs: 27°C 
Average lows: 15°C 

Winter: 
Average highs: 25°C 
Average lows: 15°C 

Best time to visit: 
The best time to visit Rwanda is during the dry seasons from June to September and from December to February, which are ideal for trekking and wildlife viewing, especially for seeing mountain gorillas. 

CLOTHING

Dress codes are informal. Daytime temperatures are generally warm, so bring lots of light clothing, supplemented by light sweaters for the cool evenings and heavier clothing for the Volcanic and Nyungwe National parks. When tracking gorillas, wear sturdier clothing to protect against stinging nettles, and solid walking shoes. A hat and sunglasses provide protection against the sun, and a waterproof jacket may come in handy in the moist mountains.

Internet cafes: Yes 
Accommodation options: Yes, with good connectivity 
Restaurants: Yes, in major cities 
Cafes: Yes, in major cities 
Shopping malls: Yes, in major cities 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Yes 

Electrical sockets (outlets) in Rwanda are one of the two European standard electrical socket types: The "Type C" Europlug and the "Type E" and "Type F" Schuko. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in. Travel plug adapters simply change the shape of your appliance's plug to match whatever type of socket you need to plug into. If it's crucial to be able to plug in no matter what, bring an adapter for both types.

Electrical sockets (outlets) in the Republic of Rwanda (République du Rwanda) usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need.

But travel plug adapters do not change the voltage, so the electricity coming through the adapter will still be the same 220-240 volts the socket is supplying. North American sockets supply electricity at between 110 and 120 volts, far lower than in most of the rest of the world. Consequently, North American appliances are generally built for 110-120 volts.

GEOGRAPHY

Rwanda is a landlocked republic in Equatorial Africa, Situated on the Eastern rim of the Albertan Rift, a Western arm of the Great Rift Valley, on the Watershed between Africa’s two largest river systems:

The Nile and the Congo. Much of the country’s 26,338km2 is dramatically mountainous, the highest Peak being Karisimbi (4,507m) in the volcanic Virunga Chain protected by the Volcanoes National Park. The Largest body of water is Lake Kivu, but numerous other lakes are dotted around the country, notably Burera, Ruhondo, Muhazi and Mugasera, all of which have erratic shapes following the contours of the Steep Mountains that enclose them.

ENVIROMENT

Rwanda has strict environmental laws. The use of plastic bags (polythene papers) has been banned. Beware not to carry such since they will not be allowed into the country at the border checkpoints. Kigali is a clean and green city. You are expected to throw your litter in rubbish cans which are fitted all over. Walk along the provided foot paths. Do not step on the grass.

WE RECOMMEND YOU CARRY

. Binoculars (INDISPENSABLE).

Many more rolls of film than what you thought enough! Up to 100 Photos per day. (It

· Doesn’t weigh much, and could be slightly more expensive here).

· A torch

· Insect repellent.

· Lip balms and sun creams.

· Coloured biro pens, pencils, pictures, small books, balloons, etc. to give out as presents in case you visit a local village (they are more appropriate than sweets, and are more appreciated).

· Disposable lighters, caps, scarves, T-shirts, etc. as “barter material” in souvenir shops (although in reality, no “barter” without some money changing hands, exists!).

· Waist pouches for carrying money, passports and small valuables are very practical.

LANGUAGE

Rwanda’s official languages are Kinyarwanda, English and French. Kiswahili, spoken throughout East Africa, Is also widely spoken throughout the country.

WHEN TO VISIT

Rwanda can be visited throughout the year. Gorilla Tracking and other forest walks are less demanding during the drier months. The European winter is the Best time for birds, as Palearctic migrants Supplement resident species.

GETTING THERE & AROUND

Rwanda is well served regionally and internationally by several airlines, including Rwandair, Kenya Airways, Brussels Airlines and Ethiopian Airlines. All International flights arrive at Kigali International Airport; 10km from central Kigali. Rwanda has possibly the best roads in East Africa. Most visitors who have booked through a tour Company will be provided with good private vehicles, Usually 4 wheel drive. All of the major centers are connected with local and luxury bus services. Air Charter and helicopter services are available anywhere in the country and are well advertised.

GORILLA TREKKING SAFARIS & PERMITS

Gorilla permits are most easily arranged by a travel Operator or they can be purchased directly through Rwanda Tourism at their information office in central Kigali. Gorilla trekking safaris can be done throughout the year. The hiking itself can be more arduous in the rainy seasons from April – May and in November, but at an altitude of 2000m and more, it can of course rain here at any time of the year. For more detail, see Rwanda’s climate. The most popular times for gorilla tracking are during the drier months, between December and February, and from about June to mid-September.

PERMITS FOR GORILLA TREKKING

Inevitably, securing permits for trekking gorillas over these popular periods can be difficult at short notice, so you should plan well ahead. We will make all the arrangements for buying your permits.

A maximum of 80 gorilla tracking permits are available each day. Permits cost US$ 1,500 per person per visit, which may seem a lot but don't begrudge it; this money provides Rwanda with a compelling economic reason to conserve the park and, amongst other things, pays for a 24-hour guard for each gorilla group. There is some talk of reducing the cost of gorilla permits in the future during the low, rainy season so contact us for further information on this if you’re thinking of taking a gorilla trekking safari in April, May and November.

PHOTOGTRAPY ON A GORILLA TREKKING SAFARI

If you’re a keen photographer, taking your own pictures of mountain gorillas is one of the most magical photo sessions you’ll ever experience. Do bear in mind that the light can be poor in the rainforest and that use of flash is not permitted. You might also need to protect your camera against heavy rain. However don’t take photos of The President and/ or his entourage, Military installations, ministers, official and military buildings, airports, border posts. Permission must be obtained from any person you wish to photo, and some sort of payment for this is generally required.

IT IS CONVENIENT TO TRAVEL LIGHT:

The safari vehicles do not have a lot of luggage capacity and for this reason, we recommend soft, light luggage. In any hotel with a stay of 2 days or more, laundry service is available.

DON’T CARRY:

Your gold Communion medal, diamonds, Grandmother’s pearls, gold watches, $200 sunglasses, etc.

In other words, carry things that will not be sorely missed in case of loss.