Tailor made gorilla and chimp tracking safari, Uganda

Planet

This Gorilla Safari involves trekking mountainous terrain up to 2,500 m above sea level, so each visitor is advised to carry at least 1 liter of drinking water and a packed lunch. Food is packed in paper bags or reusable containers, and plastic bottles are collected at the assembly point after the trek and sent to recycling plants.
In Bwindi’s mountainous regions, water is sourced from valley streams, making collection costly and time consuming. Visitors are encouraged to use water sparingly, as it supports bathrooms, cooking, and washing in the surrounding communities.

Most lodges selected for this safari rely on solar power for lighting, charging, and heating water. Many also use dry compost toilets, reducing reliance on conventional systems.

Bwindi Forest, locally meaning “muddy swampy place,” is home to over 10 primate species, including the endangered Mountain Gorilla. Tourism revenue directly supports conservation: 60% of park fees go to community projects, 20% to park management, and 20% to ecological monitoring and research. By joining this trek, visitors contribute financially to protecting wildlife and supporting local livelihoods.

People

In Bwindi regions such as Nkuringo and Buhoma, visitors can explore local libraries and craft shops, purchasing items directly from artisans at lower prices than in urban centers. Cultural centers like Igongo in Mbarara showcase traditional artifacts, offering insight into Uganda’s heritage.

During gorilla tracking and village walks, visitors are encouraged to hire local porters to carry luggage. This provides direct employment and income to community members. Village guides are also engaged to lead walks, ensuring authentic experiences and supporting local expertise.

A portion of safari payments is allocated to community needs such as school books and warm clothing for children in colder forest areas. Visitors personally deliver these items, creating opportunities for meaningful interaction with local families. Guides coordinate these exchanges to ensure respectful and smooth engagement between guests and communities.