When is the best time To Go gorilla trekking?

Gorilla trekking is one of the unique and expensive  out door activity  found in Africa specifically to Uganda, Rwanda and Congo  DRC ,refers to the best  time when weather is nice , flight fares are pocket friendly or security,   when one talks of the best time, this may refer to the most conducive  time, The peak season goes  from  early  June to  late September and  again from early December to the end of February almost  depending on the weather conditions which has changed dramatically due to effects of global worming. but we take part in the conservation and its our responsibility to take good care of these primates as is part of wildlife conservation efforts by the authorities to protect these iconic great apes and ensure their survival in the wild.

In most cases  adventure travelers may  slower  down during in the rainy season ipate to have difficulties in taking photographs, impassable roads and too much rain that might disturb the as they may anticipate some difficulties on the way how gorilla trekking exercise might be conducted  but this might not be the case  as African rain , only rains for a short time and it stops .  . Gorilla tracking can be muddier on the path through the potato fields ,

Who typically qualifies to go on a Gorilla Trek?

This is the most challenging question of the day in fact to every adventure traveler who wish to fulfil his or her childish dream “Must Die after seeing gorillas”,  this involves age restriction, disease issues, money issues. Its clear by the International Gorilla conservation programme that whoever want to see gorillas in their natural habitat must be above the age of 15 year, and this rule is for sure respected by all the 3 concerned countries  this issue doesn’t look into money issues but its just set to ensure sustainability of mountain gorillas and to pave away to other trekkers in the group  have value for their money as if they allow kids to participate , they may destroy or delay the gorilla trekking exercise.  So only those who are above the age of 15 are allowed to see gorillas  Money issue comes that the actual fee to secure a gorilla pass for Rwanda is $750 while Uganda its $600 and Congo its at $400 though all the 3 countries sale the same products but they are free to regulate their charges as per the prevailing conditions, this amount is high and not every person that can afford. All this too is a restriction to limit the number of those who can go gorilla trekking in a day  with an interest of  having a unique experience unlike any other every person who chose to go  on gorilla safari     They can be simply holiday  travelers, students, and culturalists or Photographers

Unlikely in the past,  now days every person is assigned to a group in accordance to his or her level of  fitness  and desires as most holiday seekers  going on gorilla trek always come with their specific group to be trekked,  this close  is being respected and by doing so , we advise everybody to secure a gorilla pass a head of time to avoid  last minute disappointment as each group is restricted to 8 members per day ( group size)  the group is headed by the head ranger guide and  a group of advance trackers plus the security  guys with AK47, this gun is for scaring anything that you might meet on the way in the process of gorilla trekking  how interesting to get to see your self With everything from wildlife to gorilla trekking

Where Are the Mountain Gorillas located in the world?

The mountain gorillas are one of the endangered primate species  that is only and only found on the African continent along the chain of 5 volcanoes of the greater Virunga national park  before its separation far back in 1923 these a found  along the borders of, Uganda, Rwanda .and The Congo DRC and in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in southwest part of Uganda.

What to wear while on gorilla trek?

Due to the fact that trekking these gorillas involves going through bamboo vegetation with machetes and there’s no clear path, so its advisable to put on long sleeved pants, gaiters are added advantage , gloves to avoid the impacts from sting nettles  if you have a cap its good to have one just in case, Rainy jacket as it might rain any time during the day, the dressing code is the same for Uganda/Rwanda and Congo as rain comes unexpectedly so good to have the above requirements before you go or better to travel light but good to have them into your packing list.

“What an INCREDIBLE experience!!!” (Billy ssali) on top of Nyiragongo

 

There’s nothing more wonderful than spending a whole night out in the bush, where the usual parameters of space and time become almost artificial, I am extremely happy to write in this expedition trail  experiences  through Nyiragongo trekking expedition. I feel that if Steve and Eileen  were not there to back me I would not have had the opportunity of seeing such beautiful sense of nature seeing Billy on top of Nyiragongo was my life time dream, the hike is a bit challenging but its worth a penny,I would strongly advise you to take advantage of the porters and walking stick (cost only a few dollars) – who will not only carry your bag, water but also are there as a helping hand when the walk/hike gets tricky. It is best to wear long sleeves, long trousers, long socks or gators and gloves as there are fire ants, stinging nettles and mud. Any walking shoes will suffice; I just used my sneakers.It’s worth it! In total we walked for about 6-7hours to get to the top The jungle is the last part and it is thick and it was slippery with 2002 eruption Volcanic stones, but its  manageable though maximum fitness is required , this would be a perfect match to combine nyiragong and Visiting the only mountain gorillas in Virunga park as it would partly gives you an added opportunity to see both the low land and mountain gorillas in the sekwenkwe gorilla orphanage home actually this would be “Best Wildlife Experience on the Planet Earth “in my own opinion and observation I would say its bsolutely Amazing!to find your self on board on this trekking to the only remaining active volcanoes on the African soils, the terrain is a bit challenging and to Billy’s attitude because I had not done any prior to the trekking. I think to those of you who would wish to go any time , please have it in mind that hiking Nyiragongo is as hard as giving birth to a baby though the happiness only comes to you when you actually make it to the top, once one falls in love with adventure, I would say it becomes  a full time job as after one trip you feel theres anew destination on your bucket list to visit. And during this type of adventure, you may not miss the activity but you miss the memories , Nyiragongo is Amazing its one of the best treks I’ve ever done. the view is incredible. For sure I’ll never forget it, the only challenge is that you will have to cope with group. My group was comprised of mixed people some in their twenties and others in their 50s elderly people would always find it a bit challenging to hike on the same pace, wishing to have the same experience in congo while on a Congo Safari with Gorilla expeditions?

If you have mobility issues it would be impossible. Footing can be tricky at times thus I recommend everyone have practice bore you go. But the hike is worth the $250 permit fee the group travels at the pace of the slowest person, and there are four designated break points but  extra breaks if you need them can be accepted. Though its advisable to have packed lunch or to book the full board hiking bag organize by mikeno lodge its $80 but worth it in the bag, If you stay at Mikeno Lodge, you can ask them to provide a backpack for for you , it has to be booked the day before . They pack plenty of snacks, sandwiches, lots of waterand a large poncho, a sleeping bag, a warm t-shirt, a fleece, a baselayer,. There’s also room left to stuff an extra clothes and a few other things. You can also hire a porter to carry $20 payable in US bills dated after 2006. I was very glad I chose to hire the porter, and it provides a good income for the local people.thus allowing me to have plenty of time to take photographs and breath taking  moments, the  stand bye  chef, who takes care of you throughout the entire time you spend on the Mountain,  normally nothing  you  need to worry about as the porter will be there at an additional fee of $20 and hiking stick is at $5 of course you need to have something for the tip.life on the top of a volcanoThe lava lake itself is spectacular.

The shelters at the top are built in the old version and being wooden ,They are small  with a frame platforms with mattresses. Some have missing doors.on the volcano, there a only 10 wooden cabin which have to be shared among those in the group, so its much advisable to have iPod headsets to plug into your ears since some members that , you may share the cabin with may have goodnightsnoring issues, Also the bathroom is challenging to get to. There is a rope placed down the slippery steep rock slope to assist you.so you have to hold yourself onto it down and up so if its night hours , its challenging to find your way both ways. our descending was simple a just had to be sure on my knees but I finally made it back to kibati, to have our ride back to,I would strongly recommend this adventure life time experience to every one to feel like spending  “Another Day in the African Bush“as i say bye bye to Virunga National Park, till another time!

By (ACTIVE AFRICAN VACATIONS) the leading escorted tour operator in the Eastern Africa  Uganda Rwanda and North kivu Congo DRC  .+256774819223

Walking with the gorillas in Rwanda it’s worth every penny!!!!

What a great way to start a week adventure in Rwanda! Walking with gorillas  Volcanoes park.  The hike is pretty easy and winds through fields to the park Once of the life time experience ever onto the African soil, is the best experience I have ever had in 50years of travelling. Anyone can do it, the guides are not only trained for this but they act as care takers while porters even carry people who can’t walk into the national park to have the experience.

This kind of unique experience is only found only and only in Africa , this was my childhood dream , and I would absolutely prove to you that gorillas are our native brothers. The gorillas go about their business and are so funny, beautiful, caring , paying attention to every member within the group, our group was assigned to only 8 pax which allowed us to roam around while taking pictures , no hassle for nice spot for pictures since the group was small , we got our selves surrounded by gorillas! Comedy began in the jungle when the juvenile gorilla almost gave a hug to one of the group members this un usual thing mad the silver back to charge onto us, it was fun!!and you get up close to them. I was lucky enough to have one brush past my leg. I couldn’t believe how close he came.

Mountain gorillas can only be found on limited African soils not by their choice but luck prayed the role that we only get to see them well in Rwanda and Uganda , Rwanda would be the prime gorilla destination as gorillas in Rwanda are so relaxed as they roll around, wrestling with each other almost all the time due to plenty of food that gorillas don’t move a lot thus giving Rwanda an added advantage ahead of its Uganda its counter part trekkers in this area get the most amazing photos due to clear bamboo vegetation .

You can do an easy, medium or hard walk and depending where the trackers find them it can take between 15minutes and up to 6 hours to get to them and then you get your full hour with them. The best hour of any one’s life. Some guests get so exhilarated by the experience since unusual throughout their life cycle. Do yourself a favor /sacrifice and go do it! It is worth every cent and cost nothing to your life time savings. The only limitation would be age , only those who are above 18years are allowed to go gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda You can’t take young kids in though. I can only relate this unique experience to my time I spent in 2010 while I was in Zambia that I walked with lions.

Africa is made of many interesting life time experience which can never be seen any where else on planet earth. Most African people prove to be very professional they give flawless customer service and takes good care of every one on the trek being slow movers or speed walking gents not only that but guides are extremely attentive, professional and makes you feel safe at all times. Their customer service is exceptional and its clear they loves their job and loves sharing the culture and country with people. why don’t you save some $$$ and pay a visit to this country of thousand hills. Rwanda is a place to be and gorilla trekking  is “Once a lifetime and amazingly rewarding experience ,it’s worth every penny ”

Car hire and guide feedback!!!!! thank you (Active African vacations.)

Hi Billy, yes

We had an excellent time in Rwanda and much of that was down to Nicholas and Active African vacations

I would give excellent feedback for Nicholas, he was thoughtful, recommending hotels and restaurants when we asked him to and tailoring these to our budget / requests. He even treated us to a brochette! Nicholas’s driving was excellent, safety and comfort was definitely his top priority but he also made good time getting us to our destination. He accommodated all our requests and had some long days working but was always pleasant and happy to do what we asked. He acted as guide and driver for one day in Akagera and was excellent at spotting the animals and was very knowledgable about both the animals and more generally while we were driving. He also stuck a great balance in terms of conversation, talking neither too much nor too little. In short, our experience of Nicholas was little short of perfect and if any of our friends or family visit Rwanda we will recommend your company and Nicholas as driver.

My only recommendation would be regarding fuel. In Europe when you hire a vehicle you hire it with a full tank and then fill it up just before returning it. This means the person hiring the car only pays for the fuel they use. Not a big deal but we returned it with prob an extra 5,000 or 10,000 francs in the tank and your international customers would probably appreciate the fuel working the way they are used to.

Please can you pass on our thanks and positive feedback to Nicholas? We parted ways fairly quickly after a long day and I don’t think we let him now how much we appreciated him.

Many thanks,

Will

 

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Absolute gorilla trekking Tipping Travel Advice for Uganda /Rwanda

Every one would be wondering / asking him self or her self of What is the best practice for tipping in Uganda/Rwanda? and who should you tip? What is the best currency to tip in? How much should you tip, every one would want to avoid those last minute embarrassing moments when you don’t give enough, or when you give too much, that’s why I have come up with the basic tipping advise to those who qualifies a tip and what amount .
Basing our culture on the African planet, local resident don’t have it in mind that some one can be given “free money after rendering a service” this is not free money but in reality its token of appreciation but most of the Africans who have got a chance to work in any hospitality industry have adopted to the culture of tipping and being tipped . this issue has really left many people developing several questions and some remains  pending or un answered ,In the western countries it is customary to leave a $1—15 depending on what you have taken /and number of days/nights spent in a particular hotel , destination or in a restaurant. You may even tip a porter in your hotel ( some one who curries your bag)or your hairdresser if you think they have done a good job for you . basing on my observation for the number of years spent working in the tourism industry, I have realized that tipping is not a culture from clients traveling from these specific countries, Italy, Germans, Austrians, French people, Spaniards, Switzerland’s, Indians, its not guarantee that they all don’t tip, but some do but after realizing that you have done an extra work.
Well tipping is standard custom, and for tourists who in the minds/eyes of locals are all rich as matter of putting the writings on ground it seems to be expected for just about anything. People like guides, normally like th e Americans because of their custom to tip drivers, waiters ,and hotel staff. This tip you give takes a small portion of your income.

Basically all tourists the first question to ask would be “how much is normal salary for social worker”this gives a client an estimate of how much he/she should tip some whom you have been n safari with for more than 12 days trip, its of no sense for some one to take care of you for all those days and at the end of the trip he/she give $10 this will leave the guide to think that my service to this client was poor.dont leave this the minimum salary in Uganda is equivalent to $100 depending on the exchange rate , currently $1 =750FR ( Rwanda francs or UGX 3300. So this is not static, it depends on the exchange rate available in the market.
Of course the level you tip also depends on what that person has done for you. A driver that has carefully taken you to the rugged terrain on a number of days starting at 8 or 9am and getting home late at night obviously deserves a little more, just to add more value to his service rendered .

Tipping in the right currency is also important. Rwanda uses Rwanda francs as the only official currency while in Uganda the Ugandan shillings is the Uganda official currency so you can tip in any of the official currency.
In reality put in mind that tipping in any of the above countries is not mandatory but it just adds value to the person rendered the service.
1. Guides on the gorilla trek or chimpanzee trekking,
These are people who actually take you on the actual gorilla trek , you trek with then until you get to reach where the gorillas are, you walk while following them for the entire 1 hour spent with the gorillas, in addition to the 3-4 hours walk taken to find them , this activity is restricted to 8 members per day, the number can be less than 8 pax but it cant be more than 8 pax such group at least each person is would be nice if at least there’s $15 or more from each person, as this person is seen to be with you for the entire day. If its chimpanzee trekking $10 and above would be okay depending on how the professional guides skills of guiding has been. Honestly if you tip , too little and it seems that you didn’t think the guide was very good, and at the end they will stay laughing to stay on right track tip according to your feeling and out of your satisfaction going on gorilla trek is not just a box to be ticked but potentially pocket minded to those who can afford the $750 for Rwanda and $600 for Uganda gorilla permits a tip to your guide would add more value to your safari.
2. Driver guides
These are the most influential in the tourism industry as they are part of your traveling companion as you stay with them for most of your time in the car, enjoying their funny Jokes, laughs, If you only have the driver for one day $20 – 25$ per person in the jeep is fairly a good tip. Your tour guide/driver guide should not only be knowledgeable about the flora and fauna but also extremely knowledgeable about the Uganda/Rwanda society and the life of the common people. Some one who is communicative throughout your entire tour and eager to show you as much different wildlife as possible. Deserves a reasonable tip at the end of your safari I think $150 would be worthwhile. If you have the driver for a few days at a time then you might want to reduce this amount at least to $50, Driver guides in Uganda or Rwanda , are pretty much concerned about the safety of clients an Often and more concerned about getting to the next destination as soon as possible( time management is their priority, at least leaving such a person with just only a “thank you” would not be right .
3 gorilla trekking Porters
Porters are group of local site helpers or shepherds, /porters trek with you , carry your bags and assist you through the terrain. The porters also play the role to carry anyone who would tired or could not hike to the trekking point where gorillas are, this service is given at an official fee of $10 except one decides to give a tip such person would be nice if a tip of $40 is give to him the same fee applies for Uganda and Rwanda . porters work on rational basis as its one way to support the local community as they too participate in the conservation role of these primates, I think giving them a reasonable tip would be worth while as behind one porter there’s 10-15 dependents on him. So just make his day by editing a tip to

4 .Rwenzori  mountain Guides
In reality this is 7 day central circuit hike to the summit of margarita peak ,You are going to spend 7day with your guides. These people will be your traveling companion and they all the equipments to be used by you on your hike including food , hiking gears, much as they are paid taking all this load up and down through all those portal peaks , at the end of the tour such person should be given some thing out of Breathtaking experiences and knowledge shared with you.
All this Research is by Bill Ssali

+256774819223 (ssalibilly@gmail.com)
Your travel analyst.

KENYA VISA APPLICATION GONE DIGITAL ONLINE VISA APPLICATIONS

KENYA INTRODUCES MANDATORY
As the world is changing from the analogue system and paper application system , many of the African countries are changing visa application system, kenya is among these, So I would advise all our clients going for gorilla trekking to Uganda and Kenya with an idea to connect to Kenya , they should put it in mind if they want to visit Kenya , an advance application is required otherwise you will miss a visit to your favourite Masai mala wild life.
It has been approved Starting from 2nd July 2015, the government of Kenya will introduce electronic visa application. Tourists wishing to visit Kenya need to apply as follows:
Visit the electronic visa page at http://www.ecitizen.go.ke
Select Register as a Visitor
As part of this process, you will receive a confirmation email that you need to click on to verify and confirm your registration
At this point, you will be asked to UPLOAD A DIGITAL PASSPORT PHOTO (Maximum size 500 px by 500 px)
Once logged in, select Department of Immigration Services
Select Submit Application
Select Kenyan Visa
Select the type of visa (visitor) and read the instructions carefully
Complete the application form – please note that incomplete applications will be rejected and you will lose your processing fees
You will need a scan of the main page of your passport (with your name, date of birth and other information)
You will need to re-upload your passport photo
Pay using your Visa card, MasterCard or other debit card
Await your approval which will be sent to you by email. This could take up to 7 days so ensure that you plan in advance
Once you have received the email advising that your visa is approved, log back into your ecitizen account and download your visa.
Print a copy of your visa to present to the immigration officer at your point of entry into Kenya

Some things to remember:
The visa process takes up to one week and must be completed in advance
You will need a scan of your passport and passport photo
Approval and issuance of the visa does not guarantee entry into Kenya
Any form of business or employment on a visitor’s visa is an offense
GRACE PERIOD
As the introduction of this visa process was only this past week, there is a two month grace period whereby visas may still be purchased on arrival. This grace period expires on 31 August 2015.
Effective 01 September 2015, you may be denied boarding of your flight to Kenya or denied entry to Kenya if you do not have your printed copy of your e-visa with you.on the other Hand some countries have been excepted to apply for visa to travel to Kenya, bellow is the list of those residents who are free to travel to Kenya with out visa application.

To all our guest going for gorilla trekking trips in Rwanda and Uganda with an intention to combine the holiday with visit to Masai mala, you have to know this before you travel.

those to apply click here http://www.kenyaembassy.com/pdfs/visa.pdf

Nationals (Passport holders) of the following countries do not require visas to enter Kenya:

Barbados	Maldives	St. Lucia
Belize		Swaziland
Botswana	Mauritius	Seychelles
Brunei Darussalam	Namibia	The Gambia
Burundi	Nauru	Tanzania
Cyprus	Papua New Guinea	The Bahamas
Dominica	Rwanda	Tonga
Fiji Island		Trinidad and Tobago
Ghana	Samoa	Tuvalu
Grenada	St. Kitts and Navis	Uganda
Jamaica	Sierra Leona	Vanuatu
Kiribati	Singapore	Zambia
Lesotho	Solomon Islands	Zimbabwe
Malawi	South Africa (For less than 30 days stay)	St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Malaysia (For less than 30 days stay)

Details by Billy Ssali

Mountain Gorillas and Local Communities Around Gorilla Destinations

Having visited gorillas and done numerous research with other gorilla agencies , I found out that gorillas are lovely creatures which share almost the high percentage of what humans poses, many just like in the beginning humans used to share the same territories or call it home steads with the gorillas in the jungle, in my own opinion, these areas are within the Virunga regions in congo this park stretches all the way to Volcanoes park and to the mgahinga national park, the Virunga park is very protected against any Intruder with fence and small sub section of the oasis sekenkwe tourist centre this place host all the administration role of the Virunga park with only a gorilla orphanage and chimp trek can as well be done from mikeno lodge , this is the only activity here where even the disabled person can do as chimps roams within the lodge and for this chimp trek $160 minus the 16% VAT. The surrounding communities around the park are mostly the former refugees from Rwanda , Ntarahamwe and the language spoken here has mixed feeling of the French , Congolese Swahili and Kinyarwanda, people here have benefited in form of Medical facilities, power extension, road I mprovement ,and communication extension due to the presence of the Mountain gorillas within the Virunga region. Protect your closest Ape today to have a beautiful living of the gorillas in their ancestral eco system We’ve all wanted to see these primates and, inevitably, at some point we’ve actually been part of primate before we evolved to where we are. So we need to protect gorillas. .
In the Volcano region , there has been a great improvement between the gorillas and the local communities who live almost in the same vicity with the gorillas, Rwanda poses many different gorilla groups which at times roam within the potato fields but because of the good relation ship that the RDB Rwanda development board put in place we find that the local instead of killing the gorillas , they chess them back to their eco system ,because these are migratory species with no limit of movement within the jungle, we find that some wild gorillas if they get mixed up with the habituated gorillas they tend to destroy people potato fields and at the end the government .since the government has paid to them back in form of improving the road network within the volcanoes region right from Ruhengeri to kinigi, except the Susa group which is in farther distance but at least power and water is in place due to the benefit from gorillas as gorilla permit fee and from my Experience i recommend 3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Safari and it can even be the same in Uganda
Within the Mgahinga region ,comprises of Mount muhavura, Mt Mgahinga, and Mount Sabinyo which all joined make up the Mgahinga national park of Uganda but all within the Virunga region which is chain of the many volcanic mountains that accommodates all the gorillas in the territory have too benefited positively though roads, clean gravity floor water , power extension, and good medical facilities to the community, all in all gorillas and communities have established a symbiotic relationship within the ecosystem, Believe me or Not, No body would have known in Uganda and in outside world sthat Bwindi exists without the presence of these great apes, the fancy lodges in place local people too smell the value of dollar which wouldn’t have been in place in other wards the drastic transformance of Bwindi people to modernity is due to gorillas presence in the region. And in return school around Nkwenda, Buhoma, Nkuringo, Rushaga,Ruhijja, and other neighbouring villages have really been so much developed .Therefore on my own opinion and observation, gorillas have linked the communities to much better way of life It isn’t that much to make sure they are properly protected.

Am sure some people would criticize Billy  but others would absolutely agree with what I write about …… It is easy to miss details about particular information online and while reading my posts travelers might be inclined to read about a particular destination before visiting it and this is exactly what they look for while doing research. In reality Most, if not all holiday makers will always appear to be perfect in their interests in order to entice possible feelings taking their loved ones on holiday. People, like me, when choosing a destination to visit online, tend to look at the official website, travel blogs, Travel reviews and also other sites where previous holiday makers can read about the pros and cons, sometimes see the pictures taken by previous visitors to the place before   deciding on the best option for me to take.

Author SSali Billy a Tour Guide at Active African Vacations

What Makes an African Safari a Mazing even for the Disable

Sing on my physical experience as guide for Rwanda and Uganda, having travelled with thousands of great adventurous travellers to the extent to believe that we really had ” Best experience in our lives “This is reached via a combination of factors as it must be a joint hand between all the prayers, factors like hotel facilities, the person in the reservations, selection of the attractions and activities beyond all these your driver guide is the last prayer in the game, as client the level of flexibility of the driver guide will too have a smooth transition of the Gorilla safari,
Whether your sole traveller or group traveller you want to feel safe and comfortable and this can only be certainly achieved if your guide is friendly you feel protected wherever you go . for example if you get to have a disappointing guide you may hate the destination visited, finally end up having sour trip and worst experience in life,
However if a guide doesn’t talk with you much and decides to keep quiet , you may not feel happy some times its not good to see it as a necessity to have a guide that is always laughing and joking, you would expect a guide to talk with his clients, explain things, point out attraction, be interactive. But a guide who is always on the quiet and grumpy side is not so good you have to create A FEELING to this guide that he is part of your life for the limited time your with him just to enable you experience So much more than you expected or amazing Trip “during to those who go for gorilla trekking which is the best-selling activity for Uganda /Rwanda the trackers are part of this gorilla trekking journey The trackers a amazing, they have the best eyes for the hidden gorillas, and make you feel safe even though your heart is beating a thousand miles an hour with excitement. The hike up the mountain is treacherous You need BOTH hands free to climb and balance your porter helps you navigate through steep muddy areas and literally PULL you back up the mountain as your head guide always identifies points of interest while on the trek, all these would be part of the complete awesome African journey to be called life time top nortch , at the end many travellers will express their feelings with a feed back review either positively or negative according to the level of ones expectation, that why iat this level I may bring to you some of the gorilla trekking reviews from independent travellers who have experienced an African safari based on hand written reviews

Adventure Uganda on a Safari Vacation with Gorilla Expeditions

Planning to Visit Uganda for Gorilla Safari or Wildlife Viewing ? Gorilla Expeditions team has been Viewing the Best Ways to explore Uganda on a Safari and What to See, we have written these Tips to Have a Great Safari to Uganda with the Experts in Uganda & Rwanda.
These tips are for first time travelers to Uganda. Many seem obvious, One has to do some homework if one’s trip will be one of pleasure and have less stress.
Buy a book about travel to Uganda. Read it and decide what parts of Uganda interest you and which destination you want to visit.

Get an idea of the geography of Uganda.

In Uganda, it is possible to travel every time of the year. Though there rainy season and dry seasons. The months of April, may and November are regarded as low season and other months are regarded as high season.. This is becouse of summer and winter seasons in Europe. In Uganda, in low season, they offer discounted gorilla permits at $350 and in high season the permits costs $600 USD.

The best way to travel in Uganda to different tourism destinations is by a safari van. You can book through a local tour operator to arrange for you every thing like Ground transport, Gorilla permits and hotel booking. Besides that, there are also self drive services for those with international driving permits who which to travel by them selves.

The best way to get currency in Uganda is to use an ATM machine. In Uganda there are many ATM machines especially in the city center. Be sure to contact your bank that you will be using your ATM in Uganda.

If you plan to rent a car and drive, read the Driving Guide for Foreigners. You will need an International Driving Permit. Be aware that it is almost impossible to find free parking on the street in city. Rental Cars are available at the airport and most tour companies offer such services.

Uganda is a safe country to travellers,though a visitor to Uganda should know that there is some pickpocket theft in the city and in crowded places.

At night you should not walk on a street where you are the only one. It is safe when there are many others on the street.
General safety tips for tourists
Don’t keep all your credit cards and cash in the same place. Especially when you’re walking around in unfamiliar surroundings; take only what you need for the day.

If there are two of you, divide your cash and cards when you’re out and about.

f you travel overseas more than twice a year, save with an annual travel insurance policy rather than buying for each individual trip.

Renting a car? You might collect your vehicle in a dim and dark undercover car park, without a hope of spotting unrecorded damage. As soon as you hit daylight, stop and take a walk around your vehicle and head straight back to the car hire depot if you see anything worrying.

When you check in to a hotel, reception staff will usually block an amount against your debit or credit card as a deposit, and it can be substantial. Your available credit is reduced and you might have

problems when you use your card later on. When you check in, find out how much is blocked and make sure you use the same card when you settle your bill or it might take longer to unblock the original deposit.

Finding a decent cup of coffee in an unfamiliar airport can be a challenge. If in doubt, look for where airline staff are queuing.

Don’t flop into bed as soon as you hit your hotel room. Rehydrate, eat and sleep by local time and if you arrive in the morning, take a brisk walk in the sunshine to help reset your circadian rhythms.

If you have any reason to believe that your hotel room security might not be up to scratch, hang the “Do Not Disturb” tag on the door when you leave the room.

If your hotel room isn’t up to standard, if the airline loses your bag, if a cruise operator doesn’t deliver on its promises, document their shortcomings. Take photos, get the facts in writing and take down names. If you need to seek compensation, the process will be a whole lot easier if you can back your case.

Avoid the traveller’s trots. Keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer in your pocket and use it every time you sit down to eat.

If you’re looking to save money, choose your accommodation with care. An island resort or a similarly isolated location offers no possibility of dining out, and chances are the price of meals at your resort won’t be low.

If you travel with several devices that need to be recharged regularly, throw in a double adaptor as well as an adaptor plug for your destination and you have hassle-free multi charging.

Good travellers check their bags every time they’re loaded into a vehicle, at airports, hotels and railway stations. Mistakes happen and so does mischief. Don’t rely on your driver or porter to do this, lest you part company with your bags forever.
If you want to be sure of a good night’s sleep in a hotel room,check that your alarm has not been set by a previous guest checking out in the wee hours ,housekeeping don’t always reset the clock.

Kids in the Third World will often ask you for sweets or pens, but neither will make a meaningful contribution to their education or oral hygiene. If you want to help them to a better life, donate to a charity such as World Vision or better still sign up for ongoing support.

Important travel tips
Getting there
Entebbe international Airport, which lies 40km from the capital kampala, is serviced by a number of international airlines, including SN Brussels, Britain Airways, south African Airways, kenya Airways, Air Tanzania, Rwandair Express, Egypt Air and Ethiopian Airlines. Uganda can also be reached overland from Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania.
On arrival
Customs and immigration officials are polite and efficient, and a visa for those who require one can be purchased on the spot at the International Airport or at any overland border. Foreign exchange and ATM facilities are available at the airport, which is also serviced by several shops and restaurants. Most midrange to up market hotels in kampala and Entebbe will arrange airport transfers by request, as will any tour operator based in or around the capital.
Health
A certificate of yellow fever vaccination is required. All visitors should take malaria prophylactic drugs. It is advisable to drink bottled rather than tap water.
Money
The unit of currency is the Uganda shilling. The US dollars is traditionally the hard currency of preference, but Euro and pound sterling are also widely accepted. Hard currency cash can be changed for local currency at banks and private bureaux de change in all large towns, but travellers’ cheques are not widely accepted outside kampala. Local currency can be drawn against visa and other major credit cards at selected ATMs in kampala, at Entebbe international Airport, and in a few other large towns.
Language
Educated Ugandans are generally fluent in English, which is the official language. Of 30 plus different indigenous languages Luganda serves as something of a lingua franca.
When to visit
Uganda can be visited at any time, though mountain hikes, gorilla tracking and other forest walks are more challenging during the rains, which generally peak over mid September to November and March to may.
What to wear
Day time temperature are generally warm to hot, so bring lots of light clothing.Evening are cooler, especially at high altitudes, so carry a couple of light sweaters too. Those who intend to hike on the mountains will be exposed to alpine temperatures and should pack accordingly. Solid walking shoes and sturdy clothing are ideal for forest walks. Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunglasses and a waterproof jacket.
What to bring
A valid passport is mandatory, and visa requirements should be checked before you travel. To make the most of the game reserves and national parks, carry binoculars and field guides. Photographers will need a zoom lens for wildlife (70-300 or similar). Print film and developing is available in kampala. Toiletries and other essentials can be bought in the cities.
Driving
Driving is on the left side. Visitors without experience of African roads are advised to organise a vehicle with a driver rather than self drive.
Tipping
Tipping is not standard practice at local hotels and restaurant, but it will always be appreciated. It is normal to tip 5-10% at tourist oriented restaurants. Guides and drivers should always be tipped.
Food and drinks
Tourist oriented hotels and restaurants serve good western style meals, while a wider range of cuisines being available in the capital and some larger towns. Local restaurants serve Ugandan dishes, typically ugali (a stiff maize porridge) or matoke (cooked banana) eaten with a stew.
What to buy
A wide selection of local handcrafts are available as souvenirs. These include musical instruments,such as the hide drums made in the vicinity of mpigi,as well as excellent local basket work, paintings,batiks and pottery.

Fantastic and a amazing Tour experience!!!!!!

Fantastic and a amazing Tour experience!!!!!! Gorilla Trekking and Tour guide made the trip even better. Since I was travelling by myself,( areview from our previous traveler who we took on gorilla trekking with Gorilla Expeditions Official Site www.Gorillaexpeditions.com but felt safe all the time, the organization of this life time adventure, this expedition arrangement for the trip for my even when it says minimum 8persons for a little amount And since I was the only person that day, I got to take my time up and the porters almost carried me up as I got sore knees. English speaking kind people(both the porters and sephas were all so kind to me and guide). Very highly recommended!!! awesome trekking & perfect organization” you can’t get a rainbow without the rain”!The hike path is steep and scrabbly in parts but the real challenge lies in doing descending and when it has rained as the case was to me – as was evidenced in the comparative ease of descending the volcano in broad daylight Our guide Brian was terrific – knowledgeable, enthusiastic without being overbearing, took great photos using the panoramic function on our phone cameras and I pads . I was blessed with a cloudless sky to watch the magical sunrise, and lucky as it had apparently been either cloudy or rainy on the preceding 4 dawns! In normal days due to my observations, I realized that this gorilla trek into the volcanoes is worth a visit as it makes you feel the difference of what happens to primates in their natural habitats Although the place is warm during the hike it is cool at the summit, so it’s a good idea to bring a fleece. Shoes with a good tread are also advisable, and rain jackets as are a reasonable level of fitness, a porter is advisable so that you have both hands free for balance as he will assist to carry your belongings lie cameras and carrying minimal extras – all you really need is to carry a little cash to purchase souvenirs and tipping your guide and porters who carry your camera, and a bottle of water. The activity is worth enjoy full this is really worth getting up early for! I loved this trip, although my travelling companion wouldn’t come along to trek, I never felt alone. I learnt so much about the real people and life style of Rwanda and their customs