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Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

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Gorilla Trekking Trip

A gorilla safari is one of the best African safaris you will do and fill contented after all the other safari you have done. It is a fulfilling and authentic experience to come close to mans close relative sin the world.

A gorilla is a giant ape among the five ape’s species of gorilla, chimpanzees, bonobos, Orangutan and a man. We are apes and these friendly relatives of ours are the true meaning of any African safari.

The most easily accessible apes are gorillas, yes even the others are easily accessible but if you must see an ape in plenty that is a gorilla in the forested mountains of Uganda.

Where does Gorilla Safari take place?

Uganda hosts the only half of the world’s remaining gorillas in its deep forests of Bwindi impenetrable forest national park and mount Mgahinga gorilla national park

Almost all Uganda gorilla safaris takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in west Uganda. Though they can be found in Mgahinga most people prefer Bwindi.

With about 9 hours of driving from Kampala or 2-4 from Rwanda you arrive at the impenetrable thick forests of Bwindi. From the smooth roads to the bumpy deep valley steeps.

When you get a glimpse of the forest with a very deep fog and dark trees type will understand why it was called the impenetrable forest. Trekking takes about 1-2 hours before you get to see the gorillas themselves. They will be their though they wake up moving in search for food and daily planning.

When you get to mughahing aside from having mountain gorilla, it has also very many primates their like red velvet monkeys. When getting to Mgahinga you have to be very fit in life and at least healthy if not fit. It if a very thick mountain that hiking or gorilla safari tracking needs some energy.

What to wear for Uganda Gorilla Safaris

  • Proper walking shoes or boots
  • Lightweight trousers or leggings. Shorts are not recommended as there are lots of stinging nettles.
  • A T-shirt, light jacket  in case it gets cold
  • Waterproofs for bag ,camera and you the rains here are almost everyday
  • Warm clothes for the evening.
  • Gloves are highly recommended for grabbing onto trees and plants to help keep your balance.

What to bring for a Uganda Gorilla safari

  • A smallish backpack for your stuff
  • Your camera
  • Waterproof cover for your bag
  • A snack ( as a must)

Best time to do Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is open all year round although the best time is during the dry season, that is June to September and December to mid-January. The trails of the park within this season are always dry and passable thus making the hike easy and amazing.

The rainy seasons that is March to May and November have rivers overflowing, ground soft and soggy, slippery slopes and so much more. This however doesn’t stop gorilla trekking but you need to pack a raincoat and tracking boots to walk through this.

Packing list for the Gorilla Trek

  • Safari Hat to wear when in the wilderness and protect your hair from flying insects in the jungle.
  • Flash-less camera to keep memories of your experience in the jungle.
  • Sweater or fleece to keep warm because it gets cold in the jungle
  • Pajamas to wear when going to sleep.
  • A pair of Binoculars for observing far-ranging attractions.
  • Tracking boots to protect your feet from rough surfaces in the jungle.
  • Rain Coat or Poncho just in case it rains while you are searching for the gorillas.
  • Snacks
  • A Mask to wear when in front of the mountain gorillas
  • Long-sleeved shirt and convertible trousers
  • Insect repellent
  • First Aid box with some medication in case you get injured.

In conclusion, gorilla trekking in Uganda is not just an adventure but also a deeply moving encounter that supports conservation, promotes sustainability, and connects you with one of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom. It’s ideal for travelers seeking meaningful, nature-based experiences.

Discover the Wild Patagonia

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The region of Patagonia can be found in the southern part of Argentina with the Pampas region to the north and the neighbouring country of Chile to the west. Regions of Patagonia include Chubut, Rio Negro and Santa Cruz and cities include Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, and San Carlos de Bariloche. Within Patagonia there are several national parks, what brings in a lot of tourists, these include El Chalten and the Peninsula Valdes, which has been given World Heritage Site status by UNESCO.

Reaching the region is easy as there are domestic airports at both, Ushuaia and San Carlos de Bariloche. You can also reach the area by train or bus, but you need to be prepared for a very long journey and you should expect to travel overnight.

Some of the main sights include the Perito Moreno Glacier which can be found close to the city of El Calafate. There are also penguin colonies which can be found near the city of Ushuaia. Whatever you decide to go and see, why not consider a motorcycle expedition? These are run by a tour company and you can take a tour lasting anything from ten days to five months.

You can take a trip to the Punta Arenas if you want to get to see the penguins at close quarters, and you will find that while there are plenty of tourists here, it is not as busy as some of the other areas. Bariloche is perfect for those who want to indulge in winter sports while they are in the area or for those who want to do some serious hiking during the summer months.

Monte FitzRoy is a must for some visitors. It is also referred to as the smoking mountain and it can be found on the border between Argentina and Chile. It is named after the captain of the Beagle and it is actually one of the most technical mountains in the region, as many of the faces are vertical. It is not unheard of for every attempt to climb it within the space of a year to fail.

The Peninsula Valdes has become a very important nature reserve in the region and here you can go whale watching. There are several tours that you can take and you also get the opportunity to observe a number of other types of wildlife at the same time.

In the Patagonia region there are many restaurants which serve unique dishes. While you will find beef on the menu in most restaurants in Argentina, in this district it is equalled by the number of lamb dishes that are available. It is considered that the lamb from this region tastes different from that found elsewhere because of the herbs that the animals eat. An Argentine speciality for desserts is Dulce de leche, a type of cream caramel which is used in many sweet dishes.

The area is very popular with backpackers and, generally speaking, it is safe for those who want to travel alone. However, if you are spending time climbing or hiking, then it is considered to be better to do this with others, for all aspects of safety. You can join organised tour groups as there are several that run regular trips. Tourism has become a very important part of industry in the region now that it attracts more than backpackers. Cruise passengers sailing around Cape Horn have scheduled stops in the area. Many come to visit the glaciers or the lake district as well as the cities.

Souvenirs that can be picked up to take home include locally made cakes and sweets, textiles, handicrafts and preserves. Those who have a lot more money to spend have been known to invest in land in the area!

It depends where you are in the region as to the quality and quantity of accommodation. In most areas this will be limited to hostels and one or two guest houses, but there are plenty of other options if you are staying in one of the cities as these are more geared up for tourists. Unfortunately, this means that the cost also goes up but the facilities that you get in return might be worth it as you can enjoy swimming pools, gyms and spa facilities if you do not want backpacker-style accommodation. If you do not mind basic, then a hostel is the way to go as you are guaranteed a warm welcome as well as clean and comfortable sleeping quarters and all this is at a fraction of the cost of a larger hotel.

Paragliding the Rockies

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Thanks to the fact that the Rocky Mountains cover a wide area of North America, taking in both the U.S. and Canada, there are plenty of locations to choose from if you want to give paragliding a go. This is an experience which is never to be forgotten but it is definitely one that is not for the faint-hearted.

In the Canadian Rockies, tandem paragliders are very popular. This trend comes hot on the heels of adventure sports such as heli-skiing and heli-hiking. This means that you do not need to be a paraglider pilot yourself but you simply go along as a passenger. This is a very good option for those who have never tried paragliding before but want to give it a go. There are also operators offering the more extreme heli-paragliding tandem flights. With these you need to go up to the mountain in a helicopter because that is the only way to get to the launch site.

Mount 7 is the best place in the Canadian Rockies for this type of activity. The Lookout is the launch point and all pilots used are fully qualified and experienced, meeting the standards which have been set by the Hang Gliding & Paragliding Association of Canada. They are also all qualified to instructor level. If you choose to take the heli-paragliding option you can spend some time enjoying a picnic lunch high in the Rockies before your flight begins.

Mount 7 can be found close to the town of Golden and it also has a launch site which can be accessed by motor vehicle, but there are also other mountains which are an option for serious paragliders. Mount Swansea can be found near Invermere and there are three launch sites here which are proving to be popular. The road on Mt Swansea will take you up around five kilometers and then you can hike to the launch site.

The Panorama Flying Site is very aptly named and is perfect for those who want to do a little flying during the winter months. There are three sites here which you can reach by making use of the ski lifts at the winter sports resort. The landing zone can be found close to the triple-chair ski lift. Alternatively you can head over to Revelstoke and try the sites at Mount Mackenzie. Also with three launch sites, this one is a little different as access to them is not easy and you will need the help of a local guide.

Alternatively further south you can spend some time paragliding in the Rockies located in the U.S. state of Colorado. Here there are opportunities for those who are completely new to paragliding and you can launch at 9000 feet, making the most of the amazing views. However, you also have the option here of doing the flight as a tandem ride.

There are a number of advantages to the tandem ride. The pilot will be the one thinking about the conditions of the flight and will be doing all the hard work while all you have to do is sit back and relax. The pilots will ensure that you have all the safety equipment that you need and talk you through every step of the flight.

Spring Activity in Vancouver

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Spring time in the metropolis of Vancouver implies that there is newness after winter. The temperatures are mild and are a welcome change from the snow and ice experienced during the winter season. It is normal for people to wait eagerly for the first signs of spring as they are usually fed up of the extreme conditions that are presented during winter.

Once the initial signs of spring starts becoming eminent then they are numerous activities that one can engage in as they enjoy there stay is Vancouver.

1.The VanDusen Gardens

These gardens are located in the central part of the city. It is a beautiful park and is full of life during spring. There are numerous activities that the whole family can enjoy. They hold a festival which is commonly known as the Cherry Blossom. This park is very popular and highly rated by the residence of Vancouver.

2. The Museum of Anthropology

This museum is situated in the UBC campus and it provides indoor and outdoor exhibitions of art. For the history and art lovers then this museum would be the best place to go. At the museum, there is an outdoor copy cat creation of the Haida village that comes along with the beautiful coastal ambience.

3. The seawall

The seawall is also another ideal destination in Vancouver. It is twenty kilometers long and is simply an amazing place to visit. The seawall commences from the Canada and stretches up to the Coal harbor. There are numerous signs of the spring season that can be spotted in this area.

4. Whytecliff Park

This park is located in West Vancouver. This park has got numerous traffic during the spring season and has got a great view that includes ferries and ships. This park is highly frequented during spring and it takes just a few weeks for the snow to be melted down.  On sight one can enjoy the view of the tiny flowers and bird nests.

5. Lynn Canyon Park

This park is located in the North Vancouver. The melting snow creates waterfalls that are evident along the mountains on the North Shore. This is a beautiful destination with many visitors taking the opportunity to enjoy the perfect spring ambience.

6. Capilano Regional Park

This is yet another park that is located in the North Vancouver area. The park is definitely worth the visit as one is exposed to various activities. Many fishermen are known to visit the park just to get a glimpse of the huge salmon as it jumps the fish ladder or even as it relaxes in the pool.

7. Children’s Farmyard

The kid’s farmyards that are located in Stanley Park are also ideal destinations to go during the spring. There are numerous baby animals of all types and most certainly the children will enjoy getting to know more about the animals.

Vancouver has got much more to offer with other destinations such as the lost lagoon, heronry, and the Ted and Mary Grieg gardens among many others. Spring is a refreshing time to have fun and thus getting the right activities to engage in would be encouraged.

Weekend Escapes: The Much Needed Break

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t is that time when you feel exhausted and need that break. The challenge though is that you do not have enough cash or time to spare. This is the time when that weekend escapade would really do. There are just so many activities that one can engage in during the weekend. The weekend escapades are a great way to relax and focus for the challenges of the coming week.

One major advantage of the weekend escapades is the fact that you can have fun and not miss out on work or any of the children’s activities. For those who do not have enough funds to have that holiday a great weekend escapade would do. It is worth taking a few weekend escapades consistently through out the year.

There are numerous activities that one can engage in to make that weekend perfect.  Some of these activities are common worldwide. There are some destinations that will be the main focus of this article. One should use their creativity to come up with locations that are in the vicinity and are affordable.

Romantic Spots

There are the most popular destinations and have been used tome and again for people celebrating certain mile stones in their lives that include; holidays, anniversaries and even romantic events. These places are just in the neighborhood and will guarantee that perfect getaway to get ones love life on track. It is advisable that one should book a motel in a quite town that is away from the hassle and Basle of the city. Romantic venues are as many as one can even imagine and create.

Games

There are various sporting activities that can provide the much needed entertainment for one after a hectic and stressful period. For instance, it can be quite romantic to attend a sporting event like the world cup finals as the thrill and spill of sport will get the couple very excited. There are many sporting activities that one can choose to attend depending on their fancy for the divergent sport. These events include football, baseball, basketball, horseracing among many others.

Going out on a camp

This activity is multifaceted in the sense that it is romantic, fun, adventurous and even very cheap. An integration of camping with white water canoeing or even strolling would provide the ideal activities that will keep the couple entertained all the way. It is advisable that one should hire out a cabin that is located in the middle of the forest and this will provide the much needed seclusion.

Concept Parks

The concept parks are the perfect getaway that fulfills all expectations that one may have. One can visit the Cedar point in Sandusky, Ohio, USA and sample the wonderful aura and fauna that the place has to offer. Kings Island in Cincinnati, Ohio also ranks highly and is greatly appreciated as a wonderful theme park. However, it is worth mentioning that there are numerous theme parks that are located all over the USA and one should not stick to the above two.

Renown vacation areas

There are many holiday destinations but when it comes to the very best and the most appreciated then Las Vegas ranks highly. This vacation destination is packed with a cabin, shopping area, food joints that will ensure that one is comfortable. Another known holiday spot is New York San Diego. However, one should not limit his or her travel to only these two areas as he or she may be surprised to discover that they could be a wonderful vacation area in the radius of six kilometers from their home.  It is important for one to select one area in the neighborhood and try it out.

The Ibiza Boat Cruises

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The Ibiza Boat Cruises are the faithful professionals in Ibiza and it is offering boats for private charters, clubbing boat parties and day outing to suit everyone. This location has very beautiful cruises in the afternoon, sightseeing or cruising in the evening to experience the world-famous Ibiza sunsets. It has also mini-cruises of one and two hours visiting some beaches and San Antonio’s aquarium is very enjoyable, especially for the kids. It has various types of boats.

Speed boats and power yachts

If you are a speed expert, this private speed boats and power yachts are calling your name.

With the rental of one our swift speed boats or luxury power yachts, that are based in the south of the island. Youcan arrive at FormenteraIsland in less than 20 minutes. That practically leaves you all day to enjoy the beautiful white sand beaches and the delicious restaurants.

Boat trips in Ibiza

  • Ibiza Boat Cruises has a route around the best beaches in Ibiza and the nearby island of Formentera. The transparent waters and memories waiting to be made for groups smaller than 6 people. They would like to offer you a nice discount for the larger boats so you too could receive the experience you are looking for.
  • They are also more than happy to offer you a good deal for this boat tours in Ibiza if you are a loving couple or a small family.
  • Youcan book half day trip lasting 3.5 hours. Feel free to select between the more economical morning half day trip for a short tour of Ibiza’s amazing beaches or the afternoon half day trip for a sunset that will leave you in wonder.
  • These fees include fuel,tax, and this lovely captain that will unquestionably show you a great time. Outings to admire the sunset while this catamaran is anchored in front of Cafe del Mar and Cafe Mambo are also offered. You can select to take a half day trip of 3.5 hours to enjoy the sunset or select just a quick sunset trip that typically takes place from 20:30 to 22:00.

Boat trips in Ibiza beaches

These are boat tour of the best beaches in Ibiza and they will begin at San Antonio. The city of San Antonio is not the most eye-catching part of Ibiza and the bay of San Antonio is truly an outstanding natural shelter and ideal for incredible boat trips around the best beaches in Ibiza. The beauty of its islands, islets, coves, and cliffs are one of the last havens for endemic forest vegetation. They are the perfect spots for sailing during the summer days. You are going on a boat trip to Ibiza beach you are contacting this Ibiza Boat Cruises.

Catch a Variety at Key West Fishing

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Is your idea of recreational fishing one where you go on a large boat, exploring deep seas and catching some really big fish to make amazing cover photos? Then, we are the perfect companions for you. FKF Charters has some of the best fishing charters that are sure to grant you a memorable holiday catching fish of different types. Let us now look at some of the charters that you can enjoy with Key West fishing:

Backcountry Fishing Charter

This is the Key West in the Gulf of Mexico. Surrounded by shallow waters, this place gives you a variety of fish like mangrove snappers, jewfish and sharks. Apart from this, you can also enjoy the mangrove islands and deserted beaches. This can be a good choice if you like to fish in freshwater lakes or rivers.

Shark Fishing Charters

On the other hand, if you like challenges, shark fishing charters are more likely to be a good option for you. You can find sharks on the reef, the wrecks, the harbour and the flats. You’ll find lemon sharks, bull sharks and various other types that you can learn about.

Tarpon Fishing Charters

If you are into game fishing, you just can’t not love tarpons. A must catch fish, tarpons are huge and usually found in water that is knee to waist deep. They are also easy to catch, even in low lighting conditions, which makes them a good choice for night fishing. They are best to fish for in spring and early summer.

Reef Fishing Charters

If you like fast and furious, this is the kind of fishing for you. With dozens of small fish, this can be fun. The different sizes and types of fish here make it a good choice if you want variety. This is a kind of fishing that is usually done on an anchored boat.

Wreck Fishing Charter

Again, if you like variety, wreck fishing is an option for you. Wrecks are found in different depths and areas. The kind of fish that you get depends on where and when you fish here. Here, your gear too depends on where you fish.

Offshore Fishing Charter

If you like fishing in the blue waters, this is the best for you. Here you will find green-blue fish that are very large. Apart from this, you’ll also find vahoo, black fin tuna and triple tail to name a few.

And it’s not just this. At the Key West, you can also enjoy a range of other activities depending on where you would like to fish. And not to forget, we have one of the best fishing fleets that makes fishing exciting and luxurious too. So, join us for one of the best fishing experiences of your life on some of the cleanest and most attractive charter boats and you are sure to return for another experience in the next holiday season.

Best Gorilla Safari Ideas for Luxury Travelers

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Uganda was nicknamed the “pearl of Africa” by Winston Churchill in 1902 because it is home to half of world’s mountain gorillas, 50% of birds in Africa, rich plant life, insects, reptiles, beasts, and the natural beautiful lakes, rivers and snowcapped Rwenzori mountains. Add in the diverse culture of more than 55 indigenous tribes each with amazing heritage, traditions, arts, music, food and much more.

As a result of this biological and cultural diversity, Uganda today is an outstanding travel destination where visitors can participate in many activities ranging from traditional cultural dance performances, village walks to wildlife safari, gorilla tracking,  primate viewing, birding, nature walks, hiking, mountain climbing and adrenaline white water fating.

Bwindi impenetrable forest national park and Mgahinga gorilla national park are the top destinations for gorilla safaris in Uganda. Today the mountain gorillas are the greatest attraction for travelers to Uganda. We present to you ideas you need to look for if you’re a luxury travel visiting Uganda for gorilla trekking safari.

Choose a Great Tour

There are many tour options for travelers looking to luxury gorilla treks in Uganda. It is recommended to choose from 3 Days to week long safaris. The most popular is the 3 Days Bwindi Gorilla Safari from either Kampala or Kigali with 2 nights stay at a luxury lodge. Please note that most luxurious lodges are in the Buhoma Sector. There are also several luxury safari lodges in other sectors.

Stay in Luxury accommodation

Most luxury/ high end lodges are found in Bwindi gorilla trekking sectors of Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija and Nkuringo while few are in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Visitors need to ask from their operators the kind of service and amenities they want. It is advisable to book your room in advance especially during high season December to February and June to September.

Lodges with hospitable staff will always win hearts of visitors by serving meals in rooms, putting hot water pots to warm beds during cold nights and attending to personal needs.

Lodges that are located close to gorilla centers are most preferred for those who want to wake up at their own pace. However those that are 15km from the gorilla center like chameleon hill, jungle lodge are found on lake shores and offer outdoor activities like canoeing and boat rides. Most luxury rooms will at least single, double or triple beds, en suit bathrooms, private veranda, mosquito nets, dressing tables, drinking water. Apart from the bar lounge, restaurant, dining area, fireplace, some lodges offer extra facilities and services. For instance Lodges like sanctuary gorilla forest camp in Buhoma offer massage and mini spa treatment while clouds mountain gorilla safari lodge in Nkuringo has unique design and art work plus the best views of Bwindi and virunga volcanoes.

Luxury transport

Transfers from Entebbe airport to Bwindi or Mgahinga take 9-10 hours drive while those from Kigali airport to volcanoes national park in northern Rwanda take 1-2 hours drive.

In Uganda, you need the right transfer taking into consideration that from the main tarmac highways, the roads to the lodges and tracking centers are dirt and bumpy. A comfortable 4*4 vehicle with air conditioning is a must have. On board guests can be provided with drinking water, hot meals and the en route attractions such as equator monument, Igongo cultural museum, Bakiga museum will ensure satisfaction and less stress despite the journey being long.

Explore the culture of local communities around the gorilla parks

Batwa pygmies and Bakiga

Most travelers are attracted to Bwindi and Mgahinga or volcanoes national park because of the gorillas. But after the gorilla trek, one can discover the rich culture of Bantu tribes including the BaTwa pygmies and Bakiga communities of southwestern Uganda as well as Banyarwanda and Bafumbira in Rwanda. A village walk offers an opportunity to participate in cultural activities and enjoy traditional entertainment, banana beer brewing, craft making and food preparation.

Some of the interesting sites are the Batwa trail in Mgahinga and the Iby’Iwacu cultural village around volcanoes national park. It will give you an idea in modern world that ancient traditions of both Uganda and Rwanda including that of the BaTwa forest hunter gathers which date back 5000 years are still relevant.

Knowledgeable and helpful safari Guides

Most tour operators use driver who also acts as a guide for visitors on a safari to Rwanda or Uganda. English language is the widely spoken. It is possible to hire a guide that can speak French, Spanish and German. The first thing to consider for a good guide is being registered/ licensed by tourism boards and secondary ensuring safety and security of tourists. The right safari guide will ensure a memorable and educative safari

Mountain Gorilla Vs. Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Africa

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Instead of trying to make your life perfect, give yourself the freedom to make it an adventure, the best adventure you can have is to experience a primate safari to visit the mountain Gorillas & Eastern Lowland gorillas in Africa. 

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Africa

From my Experience traveling to the gorilla destinations in Africa, mountain gorilla trekking is expensive compared to the Eastern lowland gorilla trips, this is because the permits are more expensive. Gorilla permits are the only factor that makes gorilla tours expensive compared to wildlife adventures.

The gorilla trekking destinations are divided into three destinations by Country and National Park. There are 4 Places in different countries that you can experience this and each destination comes with it’s own unique adventure. Mountain Gorillas can be visited only in Uganda, Rwanda & Democratic Republic of Congo, and there are only 1060 remaining in the world.

Mountain Gorillas in Uganda

Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa, it’s diverse landscape encompasses the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains and immense Lake Victoria. Uganda is commonly known as the pearl of Africa, and being a British colony the most spoken language is English yet other local Languages are spoken more broadly. Uganda is ranked high when it comes to primate safaris as well as Wildlife sightings and is among the top destination known for a combination of Gorilla & Wildlife Safari.

All mountain gorilla destinations are located in the south western part of Uganda, we call this the Switzerland of Africa. Here there are two destinations for Mountain Gorilla trekking,  Bwindi Forest National Park and the Mgahinga National Park.

Bwindi Forest National Park.

The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is in south-western Uganda and it is the best destination for Mountain Gorilla Trekking. The park is part of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest which is situated along the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) border, next door to the Virunga National Park and also on the edge of the Albertine Rift.

Bwindi park is a sanctuary for colobus monkeys, chimpanzees, and many bird species such as hornbills and turacos. It is most notable for the 340 Bwindi gorillas that live there, this is approximately half of the world’s population of the critically endangered mountain gorillas.

Four habituated mountain gorilla groups are open to tourism: Mubare; Habinyanja; Rushegura near Buhoma; and the Nkuringo group at Nkuringo. An added feature of trekking in Bwindi is that the lodges are located within the jungle.

Population: The number of mountain gorillas has increased from the 2010 estimate of 786 after a count in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Mgahinga National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a national park in the far south-west of Uganda near the town of Kisoro, it forms part of the Virunga Massif.

Mgahinga National park is located in the Virunga Mountains and is contiguous with the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the smallest national park in Uganda (about 33.7 km). It is very important as it hosts both the endangered Mountain Gorillas and the Golden Monkey.

Population: There is only one Gorilla Family to be visited in Mgahinga National Park, we can’t estimate the Gorilla population in this region because they are cross boundary Primates.

Costs of the Gorilla Permits

Mountain Gorilla Trekking permits in Uganda are cheaper compared to those in Rwanda for the Volcanoes National Park experience.

The Cost of the trekking permit in Uganda differs depending on whether it is peak season or low season.

The permits costs USD 450 for April, May and November and in other months of the year they will costs USD 700.

Time of Travel

Mountain Gorilla Trekking can be done throughout the year, these dense jungle destinations don’t experience dry seasons, it rains throughout the year, meaning gorilla Trekking tours can be done from January all the way through to December.

Rwanda

Rwanda is a landlocked East African country with a green, mountainous landscape. It is renowned for mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in the famous Volcanoes National Park, home also to 4,507m-tall Mt. Karisimbi and 4 other forested volcanoes. It is also known as the land of thousand hills.

Rwanda is bordered by Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Rwanda is in the African Great Lakes region and is highly elevated; its geography is dominated by mountains in the west and savannah to the east, with a number of lakes throughout the country.

Volcanoes National Park.

The Volcanoes National Park lies in north western Rwanda and borders Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. This national park is known as a haven for the mountain gorillas. It is home to five of the eight volcanoes of the Virunga Mountains (Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga and Sabyinyo), and spans 160 sq km covered in rainforest and bamboo. The park was the base for the zoologist Dian Fossey.

Cost of the Gorilla permit

The Rwandan Gorilla permit is fixed to USD 750 from January to December due to the fact that they don’t have seasonal discounted prices.

Time of Travel

Gorilla Trekking can be done throughout the year and just be aware that it rains the entire year.

Virunga National Park in Congo

In the Congo you can visit the centre for orphaned gorillas which is located in the Greater Virunga National Park.

Many travel guides will advise you not to visit the Congo as it can be unsafe, but it is ranked as the best experience for mountain gorillas and also offers the opportunity to hike the active Volcano of Nyiragongo which can be summited in just two Days .

In Democratic Republic of Congo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo – abbreviated to DRC, is a country located in Central Africa. The DRC borders the Central African Republic, with South Sudan to the north; Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania to the east; Zambia and Angola to the south; the Republic of the Congo to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the southwest. There are two sites for Lowland gorilla Trekking Adventures in the Congo.

Eastern Lowland gorilla trekking in Kahuzi Biega and Maiko National Park

Eastern Lowland gorilla Trekking can be experienced in the Kahuzi biega National Park as well as the Maiko National Park.

The Kahuzi-Biega National Park is a protected area near Bukavu town in the eastern area of the DRC. It is situated near the western bank of Lake Kivu and the Rwandan border. Many travellers visiting Kahuzi biega national park use the Ruzizi Border of Rwanda. The park is the best destination for Eastern lowland gorillas and there are a number of Gorilla families that tourists can see.

In Kahuzi Biega National Park the eastern lowland gorilla is a subspecies of eastern gorilla, which is endemic to the mountainous forests of eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Eastern lowland gorillas that live in the Kahuzi-Biega and Maiko National are important populations for their species.

Cost of the Gorilla Permit

Congo Gorilla Permits are the cheapest at USD 400 per person.

Don’t miss to the opportunity to see for yourself the difference between these gorillas groups.

Established in 1970 by the Belgian photographer and conservationist Adrien Deschryver, the park is named after two dormant volcanoes, Mount Kahuzi and Mount Biega, which are within its limits. With an area of 6,000 square kilometres (2,300 sq mi), Kahuzi-Biega is one of the biggest national parks in the country. Set in both mountainous and lowland terrain, it is one of the last refuges of the rare species of Eastern lowland gorilla (Gorilla beringei graueri), which are listed as endangered under the IUCN Red List.

Car Rental with Rooftop Tent in Rwanda

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Rooftop tents are typically mounted to 4X4 expedition or over landing vehicles. Smaller and lighter rooftop tents are available that can be mounted on most cars. Rooftop tents sleep from 2-4 people depending on the size.

Rooftop tents are hailed as one of the best inventions to happen to camping, making it easy to travel around with your bed on your roof. Rooftop tents are very safe, and make perfect travel companions when you’re making a road trip in Rwanda. With a rooftop tent you can travel wherever you like with the tent on your roof.

Despite all of the amazing benefits, many people worry that rooftop tents could harm their car, their luggage and themselves however the reality is that rooftop tents are often much safer than ordinary ground tents.

MERITS OF ROOFTOP TENTS

Better view

Rooftop tents put you 5-6 feet off the ground, depending on the height of your vehicle. This allows you to enjoy an unobstructed view of your surroundings while you’re in your tent. There is nothing better than laying back and taking in the view of a towering mountain or beautiful beach. When you’re sleeping in a ground tent, even a small hump, shrub, or boulder can block your view of the landscape.

High off the ground

There are so many benefits to being off the ground, and safety is definitely one of them. In being high up, you’re much safer from things like wildlife, theft and even just the cold ground which can make you more prone to getting sick. 

Weatherproof

In being weatherproof, the Tent is able to keep you warm and dry as opposed to wet and freezing, as can sometimes be the case with ground tents. Being in a rooftop tent is safer for you and your possessions, as it protects you more fully from the elements. 

Ladder friendly

Your Tent comes with a handy ladder for safe entry and exit into your rooftop tent, which makes it a lot safer than trying to scramble up by yourself. The ladder is compact and collapsible, making it perfect for a safe drive.

Solid and secure

Many people worry that a roof top tent will blow away in the wind, or become detached from the bars on your car. When secured properly, this simply can’t happen. Rooftop tents are very solid and secure, and will stay on your car with no trouble.

Cleaner

Because rooftop tents are elevated off the ground, they tend to stay cleaner than ground tents. You can set a doormat at the base of your ladder so you can wipe your feet before you climb in. This way, you don’t track as much mud, sand, water, or dirt into your tent. Because the tent is elevated, it is less likely for the wind to blow dirt in. The inside tends to stay cleaner. Also, rain can’t splash mud onto the sides of the tent. In addition, you don’t have to deal with debris getting stuck to the bottom of the tent.

You can store your bedding and some gear inside a rooftop tent

Many rooftop tents are designed in a way that leaves a bit of space inside when they are closed. This way, you can leave your sleeping bag, blanket, pillow, and sleep pad set up at all times. This saves you a great deal of time and effort when setting up camp. To me, this is one of the biggest advantages rooftop tents offer. Rolling and unrolling a sleeping bag and sleeping pad is my least favorite part of setting up camp.

In addition, pop-up models often offer enough space inside to store some extra gear. For example, you could leave a book, some clothes, a map, a flashlight, a tablet or laptop, etc. in the rooftop tent while you drive. It’s nice having everything already in place and ready to go when you’re ready to crawl into bed.

Faster and easier to set up

Generally, rooftop tents take less time and effort to set up than ground tents. A well-designed hard shell rooftop tent can be set up by one person in less than 60 seconds. You simply unlock some latches, pop the tent up with the help of some gas struts, and then lock it in place with safety supports. This is faster and easier than setting up any ground tent because you don’t need to mess with a footprint, poles, stakes, guy lines, etc. It practically pitches itself.

Maybe the biggest advantage rooftop tents offer in terms of setup is time and difficulty is the fact you can leave your bedding in place when the tent is collapsed down. You don’t have to mess with stuffing and unstuffing your sleeping bag and rolling and unrolling your sleeping mat every time you camp. This saves a considerable amount of time and hassle every time you set up and tear down camp.

Easier to Find a Campsite

It is generally easier to find a suitable campsite when you’re using a rooftop tent. All you need to look for is a flat place to park. It doesn’t matter if the ground is wet, rocky, muddy, lumpy, or covered in snow or vegetation. You don’t need to worry about puddles or water flowing into camp if it rains. Because you’re raised off the ground, you don’t have to worry about getting muddy or wet.

If your site is a bit uneven, you can drive a tire over a rock or dig a small hole to even things out. You don’t have to pound stakes into the ground to use a rooftop tent. If you can drive there, you can camp there with a rooftop tent.

Warmer/Better Insulated

Rooftop tents are generally warmer than ground tents. There are several reasons for this. First, rooftop tents use higher denier (thicker) fabric for the walls. Some rooftop tent models offer a quilted insulating insert as an optional accessory. With the extra insulation, less heat escapes in the night and the interior stays warmer. Next, you’re not sleeping on the cold ground in a rooftop tent. The floor is thicker so it provides some insulation from the outside. You don’t lose as much heat to the cold ground. Finally, rooftop tent heaters are available for extremely cold nights.

Conclusion

Renting a car with Rooftop tents in Rwanda is an ideal option for tourists who are on the move to a different camp every day. The fast setup and the fact that you can leave your bedding in place makes it easy to set up and tear down camp. This saves you time every day and cuts down on the hassle of camping.