3 Days gorilla habituation experience tour takes you to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda where the Gorilla habituation process is done. Bwindi has the highest population
of Mountain gorillas in the world and this enables reasarchers to intract with various groups for their habituation program. This has derived Bwindi to having the highest number of
habituated Gorilla groups to upto 15 families. Bwindi is the only gorilla park where one can take part in the gorilla habituation experience. Mountain gorillas are wild and are naturally
in wary of human beings and If a group is approached without undergoing the full habituation process, they could become aggressive and attack.
The gorilla habituation process involves exposing the gorillas to prolonged human presence around them. This
process takes between two to three years. Naming of the gorilla group and individuals is part of the habituation
process. The entire process is led by a team of researchers and experienced local trackers. They approach the
gorillas in a careful and controlled manner until they are comfortable with their presence. The first step during
the habituation process is to gain the acceptance of the dominant male. Once the dominant male is okay with the
human intruders, the rest of the group members will follow his lead. When the process is complete, there are several
tests that are done before tourists can be allowed to start visiting the group
Itinerary
Day 1: Pickup from Entebbe or Kampala – Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
A driver guide will pick you from Kampala or Entebbe Airport and begin the journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
after briefing. Prepare for stops midway to check out the beautiful countryside and take great photos at the equator
crossing. The western part of Uganda is blessed with amazing scenery. The Gorilla habituation process takes place in
the southern sector of Bwindi. The journey towards this sector involves passing through the rolling hills of Kigezi
and valleys of Kisoro. Arrival time is late in the afternoon.
Accommodation Options;
Nkuringo Gorilla Camp, Lake Mulehe Lodge or Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge.
Day 2: The Gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi
You should wake up early and take breakfast before heading for briefing at the park offices. While there, you will join
other tourists and be informed about what to expect during the gorilla habituation experience. You will be told what not to
do and what to carry along during the activity. After the briefing, you will start trekking into the forest accompanied by
Rangers, Trackers and Researcher. Unlike standard gorilla tracking where visitors are allowed only one hour with the gorillas,
with the habituation experience, you will be with the primates for four hours. As you track the gorillas, you will encounter
several forest creatures including birds, butterflies, smaller primates and insects. Listen and observe what the researchers
are doing. You may be asked to participate in making gorilla calls, gathering samples or naming group members. After spending
your four hours with the primates, you will go back to the lodge for rest and relaxation.
Accommodation Options;
Nkuringo Gorilla Camp, Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge or Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
Day 3: End of Tour
Wake up early and take your breakfast as you wait for the Guide/Driver to start the long journey back to Kampala or to Entebbe Airport.
You will once again have stops at the equator crossing and also for lunch.
Health
Yellow fever & malaria prophylactics are required.
Visas
Most nationalities require a visa to enter Uganda which can be
obtained on arrival for USD50 per person, single entry. Passports must be valid for a minimum of 6 months.
Flights
It is important that you reconfirm your onward/return flights. We can assist you with this service as well.
Price Includes
- Gorilla Habituation Permits
- Airport Transfers
- 4×4 Transports
- English Speaking Local Driver/ Tour Guide
- Shared Accommodation & Meals (Full Board)
- Meals (Full Board)
- All Park Entrance Fees
- All Activities Mentioned on The Itinerary
Price Excludes
- Any Private Expenses as Porters, Drinks, Tips
- Visas
- Travel insurance
- Personal activities and services
- Meals on arrival and departure