Frequently asked questions

You can pay online by MTN Mobile Money, Airtel Money or card (Visa/Mastercard), or by bank transfer. Depending on the tour you can pay a deposit to confirm and settle the balance before departure.

Our standard policy: free date changes up to 30 days before departure; cancellations more than 30 days out are refunded minus permit costs (gorilla/chimp permits are non-refundable once purchased). See our Terms page for details.

Treks range from 30 minutes to 6+ hours over steep, muddy terrain at 1,500-2,600 m altitude. A reasonable level of fitness helps, but porters are available and sedan-chair evacuation can be arranged for reduced-mobility travelers. Tell us your needs and we will request an appropriate gorilla family.

Most nationalities need a visa. The easiest route is the online e-visa at visas.immigration.go.ug (USD 50, single entry) or the East Africa Tourist Visa (USD 100) covering Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda. Apply at least two weeks before travel.

Uganda is a year-round destination. The dry seasons — December to February and June to September — are best for gorilla trekking and game drives. The green seasons bring lush scenery, fewer visitors and lower lodge rates.

Yes — tourism areas are stable and Ugandans are famously welcoming. Use normal city precautions in Kampala. All our vehicles carry first-aid kits and our guides are in daily contact with park authorities.

Neutral-coloured clothing, a fleece for cool mornings, sturdy waterproof boots for forest treks, gardening gloves for gorilla trekking, insect repellent, sunscreen and binoculars. Laundry is available at most lodges.