Know Before You Go

Know Before You Go | Uganda & Rwanda

Whether you're preparing for your upcoming gorilla trek or just want to learn more about Uganda and Rwanda, be sure to check out these useful resources. Learn about mountain gorillas and other African species, browse helpful packing tips and read thrilling travel stories that will leave you yearning to visit the Pearl of Africa and the Land of a Thousand Hills.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about Uganda or Rwanda? We've got answers! We've compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions about the wildlife, weather and more.

Wildlife Guide

Learn about mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, tree-climbing lions and the other wildlife you may encounter on your Uganda & Rwanda safari.

Uganda Photography Tips

Whether you're an experienced photographer or just getting started, you'll want to read these essential photo tips from our Natural Photographer blog before your gorilla safari.

Gorilla Conservation & Community

Read on to discover how our initiatives in Uganda and Rwanda help protect mountain gorillas, preserve culture and support community development.

Primates Trivia

Take our quiz to put your knowledge to the test, then share it with friends to see who knows the most about mountain gorillas, chimpanzees and more!

Weather & Climate

Find out the typical weather conditions of Uganda & Rwanda's ecosystems in this month by month breakdown of temperatures and rainfall.

Packing List

We've made a comprehensive list of all the clothing and gear you'll want to pack so you'll be well prepared for your gorilla safari.

8 Reasons to Celebrate—and Help Save—Gorillas on World Gorilla Day

—By Joel Centano
From fascinating gorilla facts to our sustainable mountain gorilla safaris in Uganda and Rwanda, here are eight of our favorite reasons to celebrate—and help save—gorillas, both on September 24 and beyond.

A Memorable Gorilla Trek in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

—By Nat Hab Expedition Leader Matt Meyer
Memories were made and friendships forged in what is truly one of the most remarkable and unforgettable adventures one can undertake in the natural world, to trek mountain gorillas in the rainforests of Africa.

How Gorilla Tourism Can Benefit Wildlife and People

—By WWF
WWF supports and promotes best practices for gorilla tourism. These practices ensure that the presence of tourists does not put mountain gorillas’ well-being at risk. Gorilla tourism also benefits local communities. WWF helps establish community-owned ecolodges; promotes employment of local people as porters, guides and park rangers; and invests a portion of tourist fees in community projects.

Fascinating Facts About Chimpanzees on World Chimpanzee Day

—By Mark Jordahl
Celebrate World Chimpanzee Day on July 14 with Nat Hab and learn about some fascinating things researchers have discovered about chimps in the last six decades.

A Wild Gorilla Trek in Uganda

–By John Holahan
The ascent starts immediately. You stare up at the mountainside and know that the next few hours will be a strain and exertion on your legs and chest. The heat of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is bearing down, laying a...

Seven Animals to See in Uganda and Rwanda Besides Gorillas

—By Marsea Nelson
There’s no question: Seeing mountain gorillas in the forests of Uganda and Rwanda is, for many wildlife enthusiasts, the apex of their globetrotting adventures. But that’s not the...