How Many Days Do You Need for a Gorilla Trek?
The number of days needed for a gorilla trekking adventure depends on your travel logistics and the overall experience you want. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Minimum Duration: 3 Days
- Day 1: Travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
- Day 2: Gorilla trekking day. This includes a morning briefing, the trek itself (which can last 2–8 hours), and an hour with the gorillas.
- Day 3: Return to your starting point (e.g., Kampala, Entebbe, or Kigali).
2. Recommended Duration: 4–5 Days
- Why Add Extra Days:
- To account for travel delays or rest after long drives.
- To explore additional activities like nature walks, birdwatching, or cultural visits to the Batwa community.
- To enjoy a more relaxed pace and soak in the surroundings.
3. Extended Trips: 7+ Days
- Why Go Longer:
- Combine gorilla trekking with other Ugandan attractions, such as Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls, or Lake Bunyonyi.
- Include a Gorilla Habituation Experience, which allows up to 4 hours with the gorillas.
Tips for Planning
- Book permits and accommodations early, especially during peak seasons (June–September and December–February).
- Consider your fitness level, as trekking can be physically demanding.
- Allow for flexibility in your itinerary to make the most of your trip.