Are you physically fit and an adventurous traveler and planning to travel to the Pearl of Africa for a combined gorilla and mountaineering safari and looking for the best destination for the experience? Primate Safari Experience Limited has got you covered with the best destinations for the encounter. With a total area of approximately 241,038 square kilometers, Uganda offers a unique opportunity for combining gorilla trekking and mountaineering, allowing you to explore its stunning landscapes and encounter its incredible wildlife. Here are some destinations to consider for a combined gorilla and mountaineering safari in Uganda:
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Found in the southwestern part of Uganda, Bwindi impenetrable national park is part of Bwindi Impenetrable forest and is located along the Democratic Republic of Congo border next to Virunga national park on the edge of the Albertine Rift. Composed of 321 square kilometers of both montane and lowland forest, the park is renowned for its high population of endangered mountain gorillas that are found in four sectors of Buhoma, Ruhijja, Rushaga and Nkuringo. The species can be watched during the gorilla trekking experience that involves trekking through the dense forests of Bwindi to observe these magnificent creatures. The park is also surrounded by stunning mo. untains and offers various hiking trails, including the challenging ascent of Mount Muhavura.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Located in southwestern Uganda, Mgahinga is another excellent destination for gorilla trekking and mountaineering. It is home to the Virunga Volcanoes, including Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabyinyo, and Mount Gahinga. You can climb these peaks while enjoying breathtaking views and also have the chance to encounter golden monkeys in the park. Also, it is a home to one gorilla group – Nyakagezi where one can enjoy an up-close encounter with the mountain gorillas for a full hour during a gorilla trekking experience and 4 hours during a gorilla habituation activity.
Rwenzori Mountains National Park
Lying along the border of Uganda and Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwenzori mountains national park protect the mighty Rwenzori mountains in the distracts of Bundibugyo, Kabarole and Kasese. Legendary known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” the Rwenzori Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offer a remarkable mountaineering experience. These mountains boast stunning glaciers, alpine vegetation, and diverse wildlife. Climbing Margherita Peak, the highest peak in the Rwenzori range of Stanley at 5,109m, is a challenging but rewarding endeavour. Other ranges include Mount Speke, Baker, and others.
Mount Elgon National Park
Located on the border between Uganda and Kenya, Mount Elgon is an ancient volcano with the largest volcanic base in the world. The park offers various trekking routes, including the Sasa Trail and the Piswa Trail. Mount Elgon provides breathtaking views, beautiful waterfalls, and unique flora and fauna, making it an excellent option for mountaineering safaris in Uganda.
Mount Sabinyo
Situated on the border of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mount Sabinyo is an extinct volcano in eastern Africa part of the Virunga Mountains. Known as the oldest volcano of the range, the mountain offers an exhilarating climb, and its summit is divided between the three countries. The trek involves traversing challenging terrains and often includes a section where you step on the borders of all three countries. The slopes of the mountain are a habitat to several wildlife species including the mountain gorillas and different birdlife.
Remember to plan your gorilla trekking and mountaineering safaris in advance, as permits and guide services are necessary for both activities. These permits have limited availability, so it’s advisable to book well in advance to secure your spot. Additionally, ensure you are physically prepared for the challenges of mountaineering and follow all safety guidelines provided by the park authorities and your guides.