Gorilla habituation is both a special primate adventure and a significant process in which a group of mountain gorillas are trained by a group of trackers before it is officially opened to tourism. During gorilla habituation experience, a semi-habituated group is allocated to guests to follow for a long day while observing how they behave and taking photos.
The process is intended for gorillas to familiarize themselves to human presence such that when opened officially for gorilla trekking, they do not get scared away. The long day gorilla habituation experience includes 4 hours for visitors to interact with a family of mountain gorillas and this is one factor that differentiates you from the normal gorilla trekking.
Gorilla habituation is best done in the Rushaga sector, Southern edge of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The process of initiating gorillas to human presence takes a period of about 2-3 years although other gorilla groups like Bitukura have lasted for less than a year. The group of these large apes can only be opened to visitors when the researchers are 100% sure that they can be safely visited by tourists.
Gorilla habituation often encompasses different participants including the scientists, environmentalists, conservationists, and park trackers. It is done starting from Rushaga where briefing is conducted early morning. This sector is comprised of Bweza, Mishaya, Kahungye, Rwigi, Kutu, Mucunguzi, Bikingi, and Nshongi.
Permits for gorilla habituation (2024-2026)
Valid gorilla habituation permits are essential and they can be obtained through our reservation team. Each of the Rushaga gorilla habituation permit is issued at USD 1500 per person and this is applicable to foreign non-residents. The foreign residents intending to spend quality time with Rushaga gorillas during gorilla habituation experience can book permits at USD 1000 while the rest of the citizens in Uganda/East Africa Citizens pay USD 750,000.
How to book the Rushaga gorilla habituation permits?
To take part in the gorilla habituation experience, you must adequately preparation which includes securing valid gorilla habituation permits. The easiest criterion to book a valid gorilla habituation permit in Uganda is by reaching out to the local tour operator on the ground. The permits should be reserved at least 2 to 6 months prior to your visit to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to engage in the gorilla habituation experience.
Where to stay in Rushaga sector (while on gorilla habituation safari)
The ideal accommodation options to consider a must-book for a night stay in Rushaga comprise of budget, midrange and luxury. They include Mahogany Springs Safari Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Four Gorillas Lodge, Nshongi Camp, Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge, Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge and others.
The best time to travel to Rushaga to enjoy gorilla habituation
Uganda in general lies astride the Equator and Bwindi is one destination that enjoys favorable weather and climatic conditions all year round. Each year, the park records two phases of dry season with the first phase running from June, July, August, to September and the second dry season starts from the months of December, January to February.
Less rain is experienced during the dry season making it easier to walk through the park’s dense vegetation in search for a family of gorillas. This may not be the case with the rainy or wet season which is characterized by heavy rains and occurs from March, April and May then October to November.
What to pack for a gorilla habituation vacation?
Myriad of essentials are required for your successful gorilla habituation experience and they include;
- Sturdy & waterproof hiking boots –strong, lightweight waterproof hiking boots are essential for any gorilla habituation safari.
- Toiletries including lip balm, sun cream, bite relief cream, a tin of an insect repellent.
- A wide-brimmed safari hat and sun glasses that serves best for sun protection.
- A good camera and additional lenses and long batteries.
- Gardening gloves best for protecting your hands while you search for gorillas in the rich vegetation area with thorny plants and others.
- Enough bottled drinking water and energy snacks.
- A small waterproof daypack for you to pack some of the essentials like camera, binoculars, lunch, water and additional clothes for you to use.
Gorilla trekking Vs gorilla habituation
Normal gorilla trekking experiences involve paying a visit to already habituated gorilla family and gorilla habituation encompasses visits to semi-habituated group or a family is completely not habituated.
When you come across gorillas/a family of gorillas, you have 1 hour to enjoy in the presence of these unique apes during the normal gorilla trekking. During the gorilla habituation experience allows you to spend about 4 hours with a family of gorillas.
A valid gorilla trekking permit for Bwindi is obtainable at USD 800 and for the gorilla habituation experience; you need USD 1500 per person.