Tour Operators

Go Gorilla Trekking
Room 03B Najja House
Entebbe Road, Kampala
Tel:+250 772 072909
E-mail:info@gogorillatrekking.com
Web: www.gogorillatrekking.com

Africa Tours Adventure
Address : Block 203, Plot 8593, Busaato Road, Masanafu
Off Northern ByPass P.O.Box 24184 Kampala
Tel: +256 750 953 684
Office: +256 782 186 562
Website: www.africatoursadventure.com

Gorilla Tours
Plot 934, Victoria Loop, Lubowa Estates
Kampala -Uganda
PO Box 29333
Kampala, Uganda
Fax.  (0)414 267055
Email: info@gorillatours.com
Website: www.gorillatours.com

Gorilla Safaris
Room 03C Najja Shopping Centre
Entebbe Road, Kampala
Tel: +256 772 072909
Email: info@gorillasafaris.net
Website: www.gorillasafaris.net

Gorilla Safaris Adventure
Entebbe Road,
Kampala-Uganda
Tel:+256 700785751
E-mail:info@gorillasafarisadventure.com
Web: www.gorillasafarisadventure.com

Best Uganda Safari
Masaka Road, Nalukolongo
Tel: +256704538374
Email:info@bestugandasafari.com
web:www.bestugandasafari.com

Dolphin Tours & Travel
Visit: 2nd Floor, Raja Chambers,
Plot 3 Parliamentary Av. Kampala
Tel: +256772455610 / +256392943898
Email: info@ugandagorillatrekkingtrips.com
Website: https://www.ugandagorillatrekkingtrips.com

Gorilla Encounters
Entebbe Road, Najjanankumbi, Kampala
Phone: +256 701 595075
E-Mail: info@africagorillatreks.com
Website: www.africagorillatreks.com

Gorilla Tracking
Lukuli Road, Makindye,
Kampala – Uganda
T: +256 782 198000; +256 704 463244
E: info@gorilla-tracking.com
Website: www.gorilla-tracking.com

Gorilla Trekking
Namasuba Kikajjo
Kampala – Uganda
Phone: +256 (0)392159498
Email: info@gorillatrekking.com
Website: www.gorillatrekking.com

Uganda Gorilla Safaris
Masanafu, Lubaga Division
Kampala – Uganda
T: +256 782 186 562
E: info@ugandagorillassafari.com
Website: www.ugandagorillassafari.com

Gorillaland Safaris
Namasuba, Entebbe Road, Kampala
Phone: +256 701146189
Mobile: +256 701146189
Email: info@gorillalandsafaris.com
Website: www.gorillalandsafaris.com

Explore Uganda Tours
Block 203, Plot 8593 Busaato Road,
Masanafu Off Northern ByPass
Tel: +256 750 953 684
Email info@exploreugandatours.com
Website: https://www.exploreugandatours.com/

Jungle Safaris
Hoima Road,Nansana
Kampala
Tel: +256 772 561508
Email: info@junglesafarisuganda.com
Website: www.junglesafarisuganda.com

Magical Gorilla Adventures
Office: Universal Apartments,
Spine Road – Naalya, Kampala, Uganda
Email: info@africangorilla.com
Tel: +256787230575
Website: https://www.africangorilla.com/

Mission Africa Safaris
Address :Africa Shoppers Village
Sseguku Kampala
Website: www.silverbackgorillatours.com
E mail: office@silverbackgorillatours.com
Tel: +256 781451207

Primate Safaris
Najja Shopping centre Room Number 2C
Telephone +256392159498
Email: office@primatesafaris-rwanda.com
Website: www.primatesafaris-rwanda.com

Vizuri Africa Safaris
Masaka Road, Nalukolongo
Tel:+256704538374
Email:info@silverbackgorillasafaris.com
web:www.silverbackgorillasafaris.com

Important Advice

• What is the best time to book gorilla safaris?
• Gorilla Permits – Costs and Booking Information
• Guide to How Gorilla Safaris are Priced
• What to Expect from a Fully Inclusive Gorilla Safari

Key Factors to consider when choosing a Tour Operator

Tour Packages and Pricing

Choosing the right tour package requires careful examination of its inclusions, pricing structure, and overall value. Gorilla trekking packages vary widely, from luxury experiences to budget-friendly options, and understanding what is offered in each tier is key to making an informed decision.

Key Components of a Tour Package

A comprehensive tour package typically includes gorilla trekking permits, accommodation, meals, transportation, and guide services. High-quality operators ensure clarity in their pricing, breaking down costs to help visitors understand what is included. Some packages also bundle additional activities, such as cultural tours, visits to nearby national parks, or excursions to landmarks, offering a well-rounded itinerary.

When evaluating a package, confirm whether the price covers essentials like airport transfers, park entry fees, and porter services. Hidden costs, such as tips for guides or charges for extra services, should also be clarified in advance.

Luxury, Mid-Range, and Budget Options

• Luxury Packages: These cater to visitors seeking high-end amenities, such as stays in exclusive lodges, private transportation, and personalised services. Luxury operators often provide perks like gourmet dining and premium trekking gear, ensuring maximum comfort throughout the trip.
• Mid-Range Packages: These balance cost and quality, offering comfortable accommodations and standard services at reasonable prices. Mid-range packages are often a practical choice for those seeking a memorable experience without excessive spending.
• Budget Packages: Designed for cost-conscious visitors, these typically involve basic lodging, shared transportation, and fewer frills. While budget packages are more affordable, verifying the company’s reputation and commitment to safety and professionalism is essential.

Safety and Security

Safety is a paramount concern when planning a gorilla safari experience, particularly in regions that involve remote wilderness, variable terrain, and, in some cases, political instability. A well-chosen company should prioritise the safety of its clients at every stage, from initial planning to the completion of the trek.

Trekking Terrain and Physical Safety

Gorilla trekking often requires navigating dense forests, steep trails, and sometimes slippery or uneven terrain. Reputable operators prepare visitors for these challenges by providing detailed pre-trip information, including fitness recommendations and appropriate gear lists. They also employ experienced guides trained to assess trail conditions, manage group safety, and respond to medical emergencies.

Porters, offered as part of many packages, can be invaluable in ensuring physical safety by assisting with carrying gear and providing support on challenging sections of the trail. Choosing a company that includes porter services or gives them as an option demonstrates a commitment to visitor welfare.

Political and Regional Stability

While Rwanda and Uganda are considered politically stable and tourism-friendly, parts of Congo may present security risks due to ongoing political and social issues. Tourists considering Congo for their trek should select a company with a proven safety record and established protocols for navigating these complexities. Such operators work closely with park authorities and local communities to ensure safe passage and provide real-time updates on conditions in the area.

Emergency Preparedness

Reliable tour operators have contingency plans for emergencies, ranging from medical issues to unexpected weather conditions. These include access to first aid, trained staff capable of administering medical assistance and established evacuation procedures in the rare event of a serious incident. In some cases, companies may also recommend or arrange travel insurance with coverage for trekking activities.

Ensuring Security of Personal Belongings

Safety isn’t limited to physical well-being; it also extends to the security of personal belongings. High-quality operators provide secure storage options during treks and advise visitors on how to safeguard valuables while in transit or at accommodations.

Transparency in Safety Measures

An operator’s approach to safety should be communicated during the booking process. They should be transparent about the measures they have in place, any potential risks involved, and how these are mitigated. Visitors are encouraged to ask questions and evaluate the thoroughness of the company’s responses.

Sustainability and Ethical Practices

Gorilla trekking is an adventure and an opportunity to contribute to conservation and the well-being of local communities. Selecting a company that prioritises sustainability and ethical practices ensures that your visit positively impacts the environment, the endangered gorilla populations, and the people living near these habitats.

Conservation-First Approach

Reputable operators understand the delicate balance between tourism and conservation. They actively support efforts to protect gorilla habitats through financial contributions, partnerships with conservation organisations, and adherence to strict trekking protocols. By enforcing rules such as maintaining a safe distance from gorillas and limiting the number of visitors per group, these companies help minimise human impact on the animals and their environment.

Community Engagement

Sustainable tour operators often involve local communities, creating economic growth and cultural exchange opportunities. This may include hiring local guides, employing porters, or sourcing supplies from nearby businesses. Sometimes, a portion of the tour fees is allocated to community projects, such as schools, healthcare facilities, or clean water initiatives. Supporting operators with these practices ensures that your visit benefits the gorillas and those who live alongside them.

Minimising Environmental Footprints

Environmental sustainability is a key consideration for ethical operators. This includes minimising waste during tours, using eco-friendly accommodations, and adhering to leave-no-trace principles. Visitors should inquire about a company’s environmental policies and confirm their commitment to sustainable tourism.

Promoting Awareness and Education

Ethical companies often go beyond organising treks by fostering awareness about conservation challenges and the importance of protecting gorilla habitats. Their guides are well-trained to educate visitors about the region’s ecology, the threats facing gorilla populations, and the efforts required to ensure their survival. This educational component enriches the trekking experience, transforming it into a meaningful contribution to global conservation.

Certifications and Recognition

Many sustainable operators carry certifications from recognised organisations such as the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) or local conservation bodies. These certifications signal a commitment to ethical practices and give visitors additional assurance when choosing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Company

Planning a gorilla trekking experience requires careful decision-making to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Avoiding common mistakes when selecting a tour operator can save time, money, and unnecessary stress. Here are some of the most frequent pitfalls and how to steer clear of them:

• Neglecting Thorough Research
• Ignoring Permit Details
• Overlooking Transparency in Pricing
• Prioritising Price Over Quality
• Underestimating the Importance of Safety
• Choosing Operators Without Local Knowledge
• Ignoring Flexibility and Customer Support
• Rushing the Booking Process