Ultimate Gorilla Photo Expedition

A very important feature of this trip is the small group size, as Africa wildlife encounters are best experienced in intimate, low-impact groups.

Our vehicles are a key component of the superlative safari experience we offer. They were designed especially for adventures in Uganda and Rwanda, with two goals in mind: offering comfort during overland drives on sometimes-rough roads, and providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. We use Nissan Patrols, Toyota Land Cruisers and Land Rovers in several sizes. Depending on our group size, we may use a vehicle that seats seven, five or three passengers, plus a driver, and each traveler will always be guaranteed a window seat. On photo safaris, we ensure extra space for gear and optimal photo opportunities. Every vehicle has roof hatches that we leave open during wildlife drives for 360-degree viewing and photo opportunities, but which can be closed for comfort on longer drives. All have 4-wheel-drive and are fitted with high-quality imported tires to ensure that we can press on through rough spots. Seat belts are three-point, instead of the typical lap belts found in most safari vehicles, for added safety. All vehicles are outfitted with a cooler box with drinks, as well as tea and coffee; guide books on mammals, birds and trees; umbrellas; and bean bags upon request for avid photographers. Each vehicle was designed with an environmentally friendly oil bypass filtration system that allows for an extended engine service period. This limits the amount of waste oil that must be disposed of, as Uganda and Rwanda do not yet have oil-recycling facilities.

To minimize long overland drives and complex logistics, we use chartered flights between key destinations. These flights provide direct access to remote regions, maximizing comfort and time in the field while ensuring a smoother overall travel experience.

• Trip price includes: Accommodations, services of Nat Hab's professional Expedition Leader(s), local guides, camp staff, gorilla trackers and porter, all meals from dinner on Day 1 to lunch on final day, some gratuities, airport transfers on Day 1 and final day, all activities and entrance fees, all taxes and service fees.
  

• Permit fee includes: Four mountain gorilla treks, two chimpanzee treks and a golden monkey trek.

Travel to and from the start and end point of your trip, alcoholic beverages, some gratuities, passport and visa fees (if any), optional activities, items of a personal nature (phone calls, laundry and internet, etc.), airline baggage fees, airport and departure taxes (if any), required medical evacuation insurance, optional travel protection insurance.

This trip is designed for those seeking exposure to the range of habitats of the mountain gorilla. NHA has been visiting gorillas in Africa since 1989, and this immersive itinerary, which features four separate gorilla treks, is the pinnacle of our primate trips. We ask our guests to understand that accommodations in this region are not, collectively, of the standard found in other more established safari countries. Some lodges are very luxurious while others are plain but clean and comfortable, yet all offer important proximity and access to wildlife.

This trip begins in Entebbe, Uganda, and ends in Kigali, Rwanda. Because this is a long international journey, we recommend that you arrive at least one night prior to Day 1 to rest from your travels and begin the trip refreshed. For guests who come in early, recommended hotels will be included in your pre-departure materials.

You must arrive in Entebbe by 5 pm on Day 1 in order to attend the 7 pm welcome dinner. Guests arriving by 1 pm may have time to visit the botanical gardens; if you are interested, please inform your Adventure Specialist, as a guided group outing is sometimes offered at 3 pm on the afternoon of Day 1.

You may depart Kigali anytime after 7 pm on the final day.

Our Natural Habitat Adventures Travel Desk can best assist with your travel reservations, as our staff is familiar with the specific requirements of this program and can help arrange the most efficient itinerary. Please call us at 800-543-8917. While we offer the best available rates to us on airfare and additional nights’ accommodations, you may occasionally find special web rates or lower fares online.