Combine Gorilla Trekking with a Big Five Safari with Maranatha Tours & Travel

For wildlife enthusiasts, combining gorilla trekking with a Big Five safari is the ultimate African adventure, offering a chance to witness the majestic mountain gorillas and the iconic lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros in their natural habitats.

Maranatha Tours & Travel, a trusted Uganda-based tour operator, specializes in crafting seamless, unforgettable itineraries that blend these extraordinary experiences in East Africa, particularly in Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania.

Why Combine Gorilla Trekking with a Big Five Safari?

Gorilla trekking and Big Five safaris offer contrasting yet complementary wildlife experiences. Gorilla trekking involves hiking through dense rainforests, such as Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, to spend an hour with endangered mountain gorillas, a deeply emotional encounter with creatures sharing 98% of human DNA.

In contrast, a Big Five safari takes you across open savannas, like those in Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park or Tanzania’s Serengeti, to observe the raw power of Africa’s most iconic animals.

Combining these experiences allows travelers to immerse themselves in diverse ecosystems—lush jungles and vast plains—while supporting conservation efforts, as permit fees and tourism revenue fund gorilla and wildlife protection.

Uganda is the ideal destination for this combination, offering both gorilla trekking and Big Five safaris within a compact region.

Maranatha Tours & Travel leverages its expertise to create tailored itineraries, ensuring seamless logistics, expert guides, and authentic experiences that cater to budget, mid-range, and luxury travelers.

Gorilla Trekking: Where and How

Gorilla trekking is primarily available in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with Uganda and Rwanda being the most accessible and popular destinations due to their stable tourism infrastructure. Maranatha Tours & Travel focuses on Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, as well as Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, for gorilla trekking.

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda: Home to nearly half of the world’s 1,063 mountain gorillas, Bwindi offers trekking in four sectors (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo). Permits cost $700 USD, significantly less than Rwanda’s $1,500, making it budget-friendly. Treks vary from 1–6 hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location, and involve navigating steep, muddy trails.
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda: Located in the Virunga Mountains, Mgahinga is less crowded and offers a unique trekking experience with one habituated gorilla family.
• Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda: Known for less dense terrain and a shorter drive (3 hours from Kigali), this park is ideal for those seeking a more accessible trek, though at a higher cost.

Maranatha Tours secures gorilla permits well in advance, as they are limited and often sell out 6–12 months ahead, especially during peak seasons (June–September, December–February).

Their guides ensure trekkers follow strict regulations, such as maintaining a 7-meter distance from gorillas and avoiding direct eye contact, to protect both the animals and visitors.

Big Five Safari: Top Destinations

The Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros—are best observed in Uganda’s savanna parks or Tanzania’s renowned reserves. Maranatha Tours designs itineraries that maximize wildlife sightings while ensuring comfort and safety.

• Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda: Located a short distance from Bwindi, this park is ideal for combining with gorilla trekking. It hosts four of the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo) and is famous for tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector and boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel, where elephants and buffalo gather.
• Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda: Uganda’s largest park offers game drives to spot lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo, plus boat cruises to see the dramatic Murchison Falls and abundant wildlife. Rhinos can be seen at the nearby Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
• Akagera National Park, Rwanda: For those trekking in Rwanda, Akagera offers Big Five sightings in scenic savannas, with day and night game drives and boating safaris.
• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: For a multi-country itinerary, Maranatha Tours can include Tanzania’s Serengeti, famous for the Great Migration and abundant Big Five populations.

Maranatha’s 4WD safari vehicles, equipped with luxury seats and air-conditioning, ensure comfortable game drives, guided by professional drivers with extensive wildlife knowledge.

Sample Itinerary with Maranatha Tours & Travel

Maranatha Tours & Travel crafts customized itineraries, typically spanning 6–10 days, to combine gorilla trekking and Big Five safaris. Below is a sample 7-day itinerary starting in Uganda:

• Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe, Uganda
  Arrive at Entebbe International Airport, where Maranatha’s team welcomes you. Transfer to a mid-range or luxury lodge for a briefing on the adventure ahead. Overnight in Entebbe.
• Day 2: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and Murchison Falls
  Drive to Murchison Falls National Park (5–6 hours), stopping at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to track rhinos on foot, completing the Big Five checklist. Enjoy an evening game drive in Murchison Falls to spot lions, elephants, and buffalo. Overnight at a lodge like Paraa Safari Lodge.
• Day 3: Murchison Falls Game Drive and Boat Safari
  Embark on a morning game drive to seek leopards and other wildlife, followed by a boat cruise to Murchison Falls, where hippos, crocodiles, and elephants abound. Overnight in Murchison Falls.
• Day 4: Transfer to Kibale Forest
  Travel to Kibale Forest National Park (6–7 hours), known for chimpanzee trekking. An optional Bigodi Swamp walk offers birdwatching and primate sightings. Overnight at a lodge like Primate Lodge.
• Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth
  Trek chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, then drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park (2–3 hours). An evening game drive in the Ishasha sector may reveal tree-climbing lions. Overnight at a lodge like Mweya Safari Lodge.
• Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
  Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (5–6 hours). After a morning briefing, trek to a gorilla family, spending an hour observing these gentle giants. Overnight at a lodge like Gorilla Valley Lodge.
• Day 7: Return to Entebbe or Kigali
  Drive to Entebbe (8–10 hours) or fly from Kigali (shorter option via Rwanda) for your departure, concluding an unforgettable journey.

This itinerary can be tailored to include Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park or Tanzania’s Serengeti, depending on your budget and time. Maranatha handles all logistics, including permits ($800 in Uganda, $1,500 in Rwanda), accommodations, and transfers.

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Places to Stay

Maranatha Tours & Travel offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets, ensuring comfort and proximity to key attractions. Here are recommended options near gorilla trekking and safari locations:

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda)

• Luxury: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge (from $400/night) offers upscale cottages with forest views, private bathrooms, and gourmet dining, blending local aesthetics with modern comforts.
• Mid-Range: Gorilla Valley Lodge ($150–$250/night) provides cozy cottages with private bathrooms, ideal for budget-conscious travelers seeking comfort.
• Budget: Bakiga Lodge ($50–$100/night) offers simple rooms and community-driven experiences, supporting local conservation efforts.

Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)

• Luxury: Bisate Lodge ($800–$1,000/night) features stunning villas with views of the Virunga Volcanoes, offering guided walks and cultural immersion.
• Mid-Range: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel ($150–$300/night) in Musanze provides comfortable rooms and personalized service.
• Budget: Kinigi Hotel ($50–$100/night) offers basic but clean accommodations near the park entrance.

Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda)

• Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge ($300–$500/night) overlooks the Kazinga Channel, with premium rooms and game-viewing decks.
• Mid-Range: Ishasha Wilderness Camp ($100–$200/night) is perfect for spotting tree-climbing lions in the park’s southern sector.
• Budget: Pumba Safari Cottages ($40–$80/night) offer simple yet comfortable stays near the park.

Murchison Falls National Park (Uganda)

• Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge ($250–$400/night) provides riverfront views and modern amenities.
• Mid-Range: Murchison River Lodge ($100–$200/night) offers cozy tented camps with Nile River access.
• Budget: Red Chilli Rest Camp ($30–$60/night) provides affordable lodging with shared facilities.

Preparation for the Adventure

Gorilla trekking and Big Five safaris require physical and logistical preparation due to the demanding terrain and wildlife regulations. Here’s how to prepare:

• Physical Fitness: Gorilla trekking involves 1–5 hours of hiking through steep, muddy, and dense forests. A moderate fitness level is sufficient, but practice hiking or walking for 2–3 hours to build stamina. Less fit travelers can request easier gorilla groups or hire porters ($20/day) to carry gear or assist with mobility. Safaris involve long game drives, so ensure you’re comfortable sitting for extended periods.
• Packing Essentials:
  • Clothing: Waterproof hiking boots, long pants, long-sleeve shirts, a rain jacket, and a hat for sun protection. Layered clothing is ideal for cold mornings and warm afternoons.
  • Gear: A daypack, insect repellent, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, snacks, and a good camera with a zoom lens (e.g., 55–210mm) for photography. Gaiters and gardening gloves help with muddy trails and prickly vegetation.
  • Health: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for Uganda and Rwanda. Bring malaria prophylaxis, as both regions are in malaria zones. Masks are mandatory during gorilla trekking to protect the animals from human diseases.
• Permits and Visas: Gorilla trekking permits must be booked 6–12 months in advance through Maranatha Tours, as only eight visitors per gorilla family are allowed daily. An East African tourist visa ($100) covers Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya for multi-country trips.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Dress modestly in rural areas and respect local customs. Engage with communities respectfully during cultural visits.
• Best Time to Go: The dry seasons (June–September and December–February) offer easier trekking conditions and clearer wildlife sightings. However, gorilla trekking is possible year-round, and the wet season (March–May, October–November) may offer shorter treks due to abundant gorilla food sources.

Costs for Gorilla Trekking and Big Five Safari

Costs vary based on itinerary length, accommodation, and group size. Maranatha Tours & Travel offers transparent pricing, with no hidden fees, and tailors packages to fit budget, mid-range, or luxury preferences. Below are estimated costs for a 5–7 day trip per person (based on two sharing):

• Gorilla Trekking Permits:
  • Uganda: $800 per person (Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park).
  • Rwanda: $1,500 per person (Volcanoes National Park).
• Safari Park Fees: $40–$150 per person per day, depending on the park (e.g., Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls).
• Accommodation:
  • Budget: $50–$100/night.
  • Mid-Range: $150–$300/night.
  • Luxury: $400–$1,000/night.
• Transportation:
  • International flights to Entebbe/Kigali: $500–$2,400 round trip.
  • Domestic transfers (4×4 vehicle): $80–$150/day, included in Maranatha’s packages.
  • Optional chartered flights to Bwindi: $600 per person.
• Meals and Drinks: $30–$50/day if not included in the package. Most lodges provide meals, and Maranatha’s tours cover food and water during activities.
• Additional Costs:
  • Porters: $20/day for gorilla trekking.
  • Optional activities (e.g., chimpanzee trekking, boat safaris): $50–$150 each.
  • Visa: $50 (Uganda/Rwanda) or $100 (East African tourist visa).

Booking early (6–12 months) secures permits and preferred lodges, especially during peak seasons.

Why Choose Maranatha Tours & Travel?

Maranatha Tours & Travel, a Ugandan-owned company with over a decade of experience, stands out for its commitment to personalized, sustainable tourism. Here’s why they’re the ideal choice:

• Expertise: Their professional guides, like Alan or Frank, are highly knowledgeable, ensuring you maximize wildlife sightings and cultural experiences.
• Customization: Maranatha offers budget, mid-range, and luxury packages, tailoring itineraries to your preferences, group size, and schedule.
• Conservation Focus: By partnering with local communities and adhering to ecotourism guidelines, Maranatha ensures your trip supports gorilla and wildlife conservation.
• Seamless Logistics: From securing permits to arranging flights and 4WD transfers, Maranatha handles every detail, including visa requirements ($50 for Uganda, $100 for East African tourist visa).
• Positive Reviews: Clients praise Maranatha’s prompt responses, flexibility, and exceptional service on platforms like TripAdvisor.

Practical Tips for Planning

• Best Time to Travel: The dry seasons (June–September, December–February) offer easier trekking conditions and better wildlife sightings. Shoulder seasons (March–May, October–November) are less crowded and more affordable.
• Fitness Requirements: Gorilla trekking requires moderate fitness for 1–6 hours of hiking on steep, slippery trails. Game drives are less physically demanding but involve long hours.
• Permit Booking: Book gorilla permits 6–12 months in advance through Maranatha to secure your spot.
• Health Precautions: A yellow fever vaccination card is mandatory for Uganda and Rwanda. Bring insect repellent and sturdy hiking gear.
• Budget Considerations: Uganda offers more affordable gorilla trekking ($800 vs. $1,500 in Rwanda) and diverse safari options, making it ideal for budget travelers.