. What is the best time to go on this safari?

• The best time to visit Uganda for a safari is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February. This is the ideal period for gorilla trekking and game drives as the weather is more favorable, and wildlife is easier to spot.

2. Is gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park guaranteed?

• Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is subject to availability of permits. It is highly recommended to book your permits in advance (at least 3-6 months before travel) as they are limited and in high demand.

3. What should I pack for the safari?

• For gorilla trekking, pack sturdy hiking boots, a rain jacket, long-sleeved clothing, gloves, a hat, and insect repellent. For the game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, pack lightweight clothes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Don’t forget your camera, binoculars, and a daypack for personal items.

4. What is the level of difficulty for the gorilla trek?

• Gorilla trekking in Bwindi involves walking through dense forest, and the trek can be physically demanding, depending on the gorilla family you are trekking to. Some treks may take 2-3 hours, while others can be longer (up to 6 hours). It is recommended to have a reasonable level of fitness, though guides will assist throughout the trek.

5. How far is Bwindi from Queen Elizabeth National Park?

• The distance between Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park is approximately 3-4 hours by road (roughly 150-200 kilometers), depending on the road conditions.

6. Are the accommodations on this tour comfortable?

• Yes! The tour includes stays at luxury lodges such as Gorilla Heights Safari Lodge, Buhoma Lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge, and Elephant Plains Lodge, all of which offer high-end services, comfort, and scenic views.

7. How many people are typically on the tour?

• This is a private safari, which means you will travel with your own group (family, friends, etc.). The group size is typically small, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience.

8. Are children allowed on the safari?

• Yes, children are allowed, but for gorilla trekking, the minimum age requirement is 15 years. For the game drives and other activities, children of all ages are welcome, though younger children may not fully enjoy the trekking experience.

9. Is there a risk of malaria on this safari?

• Yes, Uganda is a malaria-endemic country. It is advisable to take anti-malarial medication as prescribed by your doctor and use insect repellent, especially when staying in areas close to forests and wildlife reserves.

10. Do I need a visa to visit Uganda?

• Yes, most visitors to Uganda need a visa. You can obtain a tourist visa either through an online e-visa application or on arrival at the airport (depending on your nationality). It’s advisable to check the visa requirements well in advance of your trip.

11. Is travel insurance required for this safari?

• Travel insurance is not mandatory but strongly recommended. It should cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies, evacuation, lost luggage, and other unforeseen events during your safari.

12. Can I extend my stay in Uganda after the safari?

• Yes, you can extend your stay. Many travelers choose to explore other parts of Uganda, such as Murchison Falls National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, or Kidepo Valley National Park. Your tour operator can help arrange additional tours or accommodations for an extended stay.

13. Will I see a lot of wildlife during the game drives?

• Yes, Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s best-known wildlife destinations, offering a high chance to see elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, hippos, and a variety of antelope species. The Kazinga Channel boat cruise also offers excellent wildlife sightings, particularly of aquatic species like hippos and crocodiles.

14. What kind of wildlife will I see in Bwindi?

• While Bwindi is primarily known for its mountain gorillas, the forest is also home to other wildlife species such as colobus monkeys, baboons, and various bird species, including the African green pigeon and the white-tailed blue flycatcher.

15. Can I combine this tour with other destinations in Uganda?

• Yes, you can customize your trip to combine the 6-day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth tour with other destinations like Kibale National Park for chimpanzee tracking, Lake Bunyonyi for relaxation, or Murchison Falls for a longer safari experience. Speak with your tour operator about extending or modifying the itinerary to fit your preferences.