Uganda Overland: Gorillas & Chimps - 9 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the age range for participants on this tour?

  This tour is designed for travellers aged 18 to 39 years, aligning with the '18-to-Thirtysomethings' travel style.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation is primarily participation camping for 8 nights. All camping equipment, including tents and comfortable mattresses, is supplied (excluding sleeping bags and pillows). Campsites can range from basic to those offering electricity, warm showers, and flush toilets. You will participate in setting up and taking down tents and assisting with meal preparation and dishwashing.

• What kind of transportation will be used during the tour?

  We primarily use a custom-built 24-seat overland adventure vehicle (OAV) named the 'Lando' for travel across East Africa, which offers elevated views for wildlife spotting. For the gorilla trek in Uganda, the group will be split into smaller vans to reach the trailheads more efficiently. Walking is also a mode of transport for treks and exploring.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 6 dinners. Meals are prepared from fresh local produce by your Chief Experience Officers (CEOs), and you will be part of a duty schedule to help with meal preparation and dishwashing.

• What are the main activities and wildlife encounters on this trip?

  The main highlights include an unforgettable guided mountain gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and chimpanzee tracking in Kalinzu Forest Reserve. You will also visit a tea plantation and have the opportunity to opt for white water rafting on the Nile River in Jinja.

• What is the group size for this tour?

  The tour operates with a maximum group size of 22 travelers, and the average group size is 20.

• Do I need a certain level of physical fitness for this tour?

  Yes, this tour has a physical rating of 4. Visitors to Uganda should be in excellent physical condition, without heart problems, and prepared for strenuous days trekking in humid rainforests, steep terrain, and high altitudes when tracking chimpanzees and gorillas.

• Are there any health requirements or restrictions for the gorilla and chimpanzee treks?

  Yes, it is a national park regulation that if you are unwell with anything contagious, even a common cold, you may be denied entry to any of the treks to ensure the safety of the gorillas and chimps. Trekking permits will not be refunded if denied due to illness.

• What clothing is recommended for the gorilla trekking?

  Neutral-colored, old clothing (greens, khaki) is highly recommended as your clothes will likely get very muddy. Bright colors and army camouflage clothing should not be worn. Gardening gloves are also highly recommended for protection during the trek.

• What optional activities are available on this tour?

  A variety of optional activities are available, including swimming, canoeing, hiking, motorboat tours, and bird watching at Lake Bunyonyi; a day trip to Kigali, Rwanda; Kansenene Hill Hike and a local coffee tour in Kalinzu Forest Reserve; a boat safari and nature walk in Lake Mburo National Park; and in Jinja, you can choose from Nile River kayaking, quad biking, bungee jumping, a Nile River sunset cruise, or Jinja River rafting.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join the group without evidence of travel insurance, which must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD $200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue.

• What currency should I bring, and how do credit/debit cards work in Uganda?

  The local currency in Uganda is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). US Dollars are the easiest foreign currency to exchange, but notes older than year 2006 are not accepted. Visa/Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards, while Mastercard/Cirrus cards are harder to use. Credit cards can be used in major cities but are not widely accepted and may incur a 5-10% fee. A combination of foreign currency cash and debit/credit cards for cash advances is best, along with at least USD $200 for emergencies.

• What should I know about health and vaccinations for this trip?

  It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever Certificate if you are traveling to Uganda from a Yellow Fever endemic country. Malaria is present in some regions, so it is recommended to speak to your doctor about preventative medication (prophylaxis) and use insect repellent. Always consult your family physician or local travel clinic for the most up-to-date health information and recommended inoculations.

• How does accommodation work for solo travelers?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Single travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex. If you book the 'My Own Room/Tent' option, you will receive your own single room/tent for all night stops.

• What is the tipping etiquette on this tour?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour. It serves as an expression of appreciation for exceptional service. Suggested guidelines per person: CEO $5-8/day, local guides $2-3/day, safari guide/driver $2-3/day, restaurant staff 10-15% of the bill, and gorilla trekking guides $2-4/day.

• Are drones allowed on this trip?

  No, the use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited.

• What general safety precautions should I be aware of in Uganda?

  It is advisable to leave passports and valuables in hotel safe deposit boxes, avoid flaunting expensive jewelry or cameras, and take taxis when moving around cities at night. Be cautious of strangers approaching you on the street with unusual offers. Also, refrain from taking photos of police stations, airports, bus stations, immigration/border crossings, military personnel, or any government buildings, as it is against the law.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to turning travel into positive impact by helping local communities earn income from tourism. They develop and support community-owned businesses, empowering indigenous people, women, and youth, and protecting the environment. You can contribute to their 'Dollar-a-day Program' to support these initiatives.