December Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safaris.
If you are looking for a unique wildlife encounter, December is the perfect time to visit Uganda. It is a lovely time for everyone. December gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda provide an unforgettable opportunity to see the mountain gorillas, one of the most endangered animals on Earth, while also indulging in some festive cheer.
If you’re seeking a place to get away from the winter cold and into nature, Uganda is a great choice because to its verdant forests, misty highlands, and plenty of wildlife.
What follows is a blog post outlining the benefits of going gorilla trekking in Uganda in December, as well as what to anticipate from the trip and how to improve your safari.
The Benefits of Going Gorilla Trekking in Uganda in December
The Ugandan rainforests are verdant all year round, but in December they experience a brief dry season. With fewer puddles and less precipitation likely, this improves the hiking conditions. The month of December is perfect for gorilla trekking safaris for the following reasons.
Usually lasting from December to February, Uganda has its dry season in December. Trekking through the thick woods of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park becomes much simpler when the weather is more predictable, with clear sky and decreased likelihood of severe rains.
Even though December is a busy period for travel worldwide, when compared to the most popular tourist destinations, Uganda is still surprisingly peaceful. There are usually less people in Uganda at this season, so you may have a more personal gorilla trekking experience. This is because Rwanda, a neighboring country, gets more tourists for its gorilla trekking since it is close to major international airports.
Going on a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda over the Christmas season is a once in a lifetime opportunity for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Spend your days hiking through hazy rainforests and your nights taking in the serene beauty of Uganda’s national parks—that’s a lot different from a typical Christmas.
Ugandan Destinations for Gorilla Trekking
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are the two primary gorilla trekking sites in Uganda. While both parks provide first-rate hiking opportunities, you may want to consider the following distinctions before making your choice.
The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to half of the mountain gorilla population on Earth and is renowned as the best place to undertake gorilla trekking in Uganda. You may go hiking in one of four sections of the park: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, or Nkuringo.
Hikers in Bwindi have their pick of easier, shorter excursions as well as longer, more difficult climbs. Immerse yourself in the jungle like never before in this dense and unforgiving woodland.
Pros: While trekking in Bwindi, you may see more than 20 habituated gorilla groups, take in breathtaking landscapes, and maybe even spot some birds or primates.
National Park of the Mountain Gorillas in Mgahinga Though smaller than Bwindi, Mgahinga is just as fascinating. It is inside the Virunga Mountain Range, which encompasses the DR Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda. The Nyakagezi family of habituated gorillas calls the park their home.
Expect a less crowded and more secluded experience in Mgahinga than at Bwindi. A one-of-a-kind setting for your gorilla encounter awaits you as you journey through bamboo forests and volcanic landscapes.
The Batwa pygmy village and Mount Sabyinyo are two more must-see destinations in Mgahinga, which makes it an excellent base for gorilla trekking and other adventure vacations.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda usually begins with an early morning start, since visitors are required to arrive at the park headquarters for a briefing before to venturing into the jungle. Important information on the trekking procedure, gorilla behavior, and safety measures will be provided by the park rangers during this briefing.
The location of the gorilla family you’re assigned to see determines the duration of your expedition. Treks may range in duration from an hour to six hours or more.
You will spend an hour watching the gorilla family from a distance of about 7 meters once you get there.
Behold the gorillas’ social connections, playful habits, and family dynamics in this enchanting moment.
The trek to see the gorillas in Uganda’s jungles, particularly if they’re located deep in the jungle, may be rather strenuous physically. You should be ready to deal with thick foliage, muddy routes, and steep hills.
What to Bring for a Gorilla Trekking Safari in December
In December, when the weather is sometimes unpredictable, it is very important to pack the correct clothing for a successful journey. For your gorilla trekking expedition, make sure to bring the following items.
Wearing sturdy hiking boots is a must while hiking on wet or uneven ground.
Even though it’s part of the dry season in the rainforest, December is still a good time to bring a lightweight raincoat in case it rains.
Wearing pants and a shirt with long sleeves will help keep mosquitoes and stinging nettles at bay.
When hiking on steep or slick terrain, trekking poles may be a lifesaver.
Wear gardening gloves so you can hold onto branches and plants as you hike.
Use an insect repellent to keep pesky bugs (like mosquitoes) at bay.
Remember to bring additional batteries and memory cards for your camera so you can record the wonderful experience of seeing the gorillas up close.
Stay hydrated and fueled on your hike with these essentials.
Permits for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
You must have a gorilla trekking permission in order to go on a gorilla trek. If you want to go in December, when permits may be scarce, you should reserve your permit well in advance. The price of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is $800. The protection of mountain gorillas and the local people around national parks are both supported by these fees.
More Things to Do in December while in Uganda
Although gorilla trekking is the main attraction for most tourists visiting Uganda, there are lots of other things to do on a safari in December. Think about include these activities in your schedule.
1. Rides Through Queen Elizabeth National Park to See Wildlife
Go on a traditional African safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park after your gorilla walk. During game drives in December, it is not uncommon to see lions, elephants, buffalo, and other wild animals.
2. The Kibale Forest: A Haven for Chimpanzee Tracking
Large chimpanzee populations coexist with gorilla populations in Uganda. One of the greatest sites in Africa to go chimpanzee tracking is Kibale Forest National Park, where you may witness our closest living cousins in their natural habitat.
3. Kazinga Channel Boat Safaris
Unwind with a boat safari in the Kazinga Channel, a waterway that links Lake George and Lake Edward, and see crocodiles, hippos, and a plethora of bird species up close.
4: Cultural Encounters
December is an ideal time to immerse oneself in Ugandan culture by visiting traditional villages, learning about local rituals, and exploring local communities, all of which contribute to the country’s rich cultural history.
A gorilla trekking safari in Uganda in December is an ideal opportunity to round out the year on a high note with an unforgettable experience. Visit Uganda for a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the magnificent mountain gorillas in their native environment, enjoy pleasant weather, and avoid the crowds. An exciting gorilla trek in Uganda is the perfect Christmas or New Year’s excursion that will be remembered for a long time.
