Tulabagane
Crafting Memories Across Africa
Everything you need to know before booking your East Africa adventure.
The best time for gorilla trekking is during Uganda's two dry seasons: June–September and December–February. Forest trails are drier, making the trek easier and more comfortable. That said, gorillas can be tracked year-round — Uganda's misty rainforests are beautiful in every season, and the wet seasons often mean fewer crowds and lower permit costs for some habituation experiences.
Most nationalities require a visa. You can apply conveniently through Uganda's e-Visa portal before you travel, or obtain one on arrival at Entebbe International Airport. An East African Tourist Visa is also available, giving you multiple-entry access across Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda — ideal for a combined safari itinerary. We advise sorting your visa at least two weeks ahead of travel.
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry into Uganda — you will be asked for it at the airport. We also strongly recommend vaccinations for typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and tetanus. Malaria prophylaxis is essential throughout the region. Visit your travel health clinic at least 4–6 weeks before departure to allow time for full courses.
Gorilla trekking is rated moderate to strenuous. Hikes through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest can last between 1 and 8 hours depending on where the gorilla family is located that day. Terrain is dense, steep, and can be muddy. A reasonable level of fitness is advised. Porters are available to carry your bag and offer physical support on steep slopes — we highly recommend hiring one. Rangers set a pace that suits the group, and no one is left behind.
Gorilla trekking permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and cost $800 USD per person per trek. Only 8 visitors are allowed per gorilla family per day, making permits extremely limited. They sell out months in advance, especially for the peak June–September season. Tulabagane Expeditions handles the entire permit booking process on your behalf as part of your safari package — just contact us early.
Pack neutral-coloured clothing (khaki, olive, tan) — avoid bright colours and camouflage patterns. You'll need long-sleeved shirts and trousers for forest treks, sturdy waterproof hiking boots, a warm fleece (mornings in Bwindi can be cold), a rain jacket, insect repellent (DEET-based), sunscreen, and binoculars. Don't forget your Yellow Fever certificate, a valid passport, and a good camera. We provide a full packing list with your booking confirmation.
Yes — game drives at national parks such as Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, Kidepo Valley, Kenya's Masai Mara, and Tanzania's Serengeti are suitable for all ages and are wonderful family experiences. However, gorilla trekking requires a minimum age of 15 years as per Uganda Wildlife Authority regulations (to reduce disease transmission risk to the gorillas). We can design family-friendly itineraries that combine wildlife drives, boat safaris, and cultural encounters.
Uganda uses the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). US Dollars (preferably clean, post-2006 bills in $50 and $100 denominations) are widely accepted for major expenses including park fees and accommodation. ATMs are available in Kampala and Entebbe. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and lodges but are less reliable in rural safari areas. We recommend carrying some cash for tips, souvenirs, and small purchases.
We recommend booking at least 3–6 months in advance, especially if your itinerary includes gorilla trekking. Peak season (June–September) fills even earlier — some popular lodges and permits book out 12+ months ahead. Last-minute gorilla permits are rarely available. Contact us early so we can secure permits, accommodation, and flights in your preferred window without compromise.
Our safari packages typically include airport transfers, accommodation, national park entrance fees, gorilla or chimpanzee trekking permits, expert English-speaking guide services, game drives, boat safaris, and all ground transport in a comfortable 4x4 vehicle. International flights and travel insurance are generally excluded. Every itinerary is fully itemised and customised to your budget, travel dates, and interests. Contact us for a personalised quote.
Our team has first-hand knowledge of every destination we offer. We're happy to help you plan the perfect itinerary — from gorilla permits to the best lodges in the Serengeti.