How can we help you?
Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
We use our own 4WD Toyota Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs for optimal wildlife viewing and photography during game drives.
Absolutely. In addition to scheduled group departures, we offer fully customized private safaris based on your preferences, travel style, and budget.
Yes. We specialize in small group travel, typically 4 to 12 guests, with a guaranteed window seat for everyone in our 4WD Toyota Land Cruisers.
Gorilla Tours is a Uganda-based safari company with over 25 years of experience, offering budget, comfortable, and luxury safaris in Uganda and Rwanda.
Safety and Practical Information
Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended. Please consult your doctor before travel.
Commonly recommended vaccinations include DTP and Hepatitis A. Please consult your local travel clinic for up-to-date medical advice.
Yes. A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry into Uganda and will be checked at the airport before immigration.
Yes. Most travelers require a visa to enter Uganda. You can apply online in advance via the official Uganda immigration website.
The local currency is the Ugandan Shilling. US Dollars are widely accepted for tourism services. We accept USD (50 and 100 notes printed in 2013 or newer), Euros, and Ugandan Shillings.
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, evacuation, and trip cancellation is strongly recommended.
Uganda is considered safe for tourism, especially in national parks and organized safari settings. Our experienced guides prioritize your safety at all times.
Safari Essentials
Yes. Face masks are required during gorilla and chimpanzee tracking to protect the animals from human diseases.
Long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, light sweaters, and comfortable walking clothes are ideal. Neutral colors are recommended for wildlife activities.
Yes. Rain is common in rainforest areas. Lightweight, breathable rainwear or a poncho is recommended, as well as a rain cover for your backpack.
They are highly recommended. Garden gloves protect your hands while climbing, and gaiters protect your lower legs from thorns, mud, insects, and vegetation.
Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support and strong grip are essential, as trails can be steep and muddy.
Hiring a porter is highly recommended. Porters assist with carrying your bag and provide support during the trek. The porter fee is separate from tipping.
Yes. Binoculars are useful for wildlife viewing, and a camera with extra batteries is recommended.
Gorilla Trekking
You are allowed to spend one hour with the gorillas once they are located.
The trek can range from easy to physically demanding depending on the location of the gorilla family. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended. Porters are available to assist.
Once your booking is confirmed and the permit is secured, your gorilla tracking experience is guaranteed for your travel date.
The minimum age is 15 years, as required by the wildlife authorities in Uganda and Rwanda.
This depends on the specific itinerary. Some tours include the gorilla permit, while others list it separately. We clearly indicate this in each program.
Chimpanzee Tracking and Other Activities
Yes. Optional activities such as cultural village walks, bicycle tours, volcano hikes, or chimpanzee habituation experiences can be arranged upon request.
Depending on the itinerary, activities may include game drives, boat cruises on the Nile or Kazinga Channel, chimpanzee tracking, swamp walks, and guided game walks.
Besides mountain gorillas, you see chimpanzees in Kibale Forest or Kyambura Gorge, as well as several other primate species in Uganda’s national parks.
Booking and Planning
We recommend lightweight clothing, sturdy walking shoes, rain protection, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good camera. A detailed packing list will be provided after booking.
Yes. Most of our tours include airport pick-up and drop-off.
Most travelers require a tourist visa for Uganda and Rwanda. Requirements vary by nationality, so please check with the relevant embassy before travel.
We recommend booking at least 3 to 6 months in advance, especially during high season, as gorilla permits are limited.
Accommodation
Yes. Please inform us in advance about any dietary restrictions or preferences so accommodations can be made.
Most safari packages include full board while on tour. Specific details are outlined in your itinerary.
We offer different styles of accommodation ranging from simple but comfortable lodges to high-end luxury properties. Each itinerary clearly specifies the accommodation level.