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Overview

This is Africa’s oldest forest that predated the conditions of the last ice age and it undoubtedly known to be every traveller (s) reward who wishes to visit Africa as it homes more than half of the World’s remaining Mountain Gorilla Population, butterflies, moth, Reptiles, mammals and birdlife that commonly comprise of the Albertine endemics. We make each trip to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, an expert-led trip which can be best operated from a 3 Day – Express road trip or Fly in Luxury Tracking trip – however the number of days, type of accommodation facility and mode of transport can all be customized according to each guest needs & affordability.

Location / Countries Covered

Unique Highlights

Accommodation:

Itinerary:

Day 01: 7:00 pm pickup from Hotel/Entebbe International Airport – Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Meet and greet at in Entebbe/Kampala where your Gorilla Safari starts by our representative who will warmly welcome you and facilitate seamless arrival formalities.

Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park lies in south-western Uganda on the edge of the Rift Valley. Its mist-covered hillsides are blanketed by one of Uganda’s oldest and most biologically diverse rain forests, which dates back over 25,000 years and contains almost 400 species of plants. More famously, this “impenetrable forest” also protects an estimated 459 mountain gorillas – roughly half of the world’s population, including several habituated groups, which can be tracked.

This biologically diverse region also provides shelter to a further 120 mammals, including several primate species such as baboons and chimpanzees, as well as elephants and antelopes. There are around 350 species of birds hosted in this forest, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics.

Overnight at your hotel in Travellers Rest Hotel Kisoro.

Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner

Day 02: Gorilla Tracking Experience

After an early breakfast depart to the starting point for briefing about your gorilla trekking adventure after which you will be led by experienced gorilla trackers on the slopes of the volcanoes. You will start from the site where the gorillas were encountered the day before and from here the gorilla tracking begins.

Although the hike can be physically demanding, the anticipation of the exciting experience ahead is amazing, and the beauty of the gorilla forest and its inhabitants are fascinating. One of Africa’s major highlights is when you encounter these gentle apes.

It is a humbling experience to stand just meters from man’s distant cousins as they eat rest, play and bond with their young ones. Follow the mountain gorillas as they range freely in the impenetrable forest, and discover their gorgeous natural habitual and the many species they share it with. You are allowed an hour with the gorillas before finally sloping down back to your lodge.

Don’t forget to carry your rain gear, packed lunch, plenty of water, gloves, hat, and water proof bag for protection of your camera in case of rain

Overnight at your hotel in Travellers Rest Hotel Kisoro.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Transfer to Kampala/Entebbe

Day 03: Transfer to Kampala/Entebbe with an optional stopover at the Royal drum factory or Equator

After Breakfast, transfer to Entebbe/Kampala with a stopover at the Equator for water experience, here you will too have an opportunity to stand in 2 hemispheres at the same time.  Take some photos, then another stops over at the Mpigi Royal Drum Makers where you will be able to watch the ceremonial drums being crafted using methods passed down through the generations arriving in the afternoon.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bid farewell to Kampala/Entebbe and transfer to Airport to catch your flight home.

End of Services…

Package Inclusions

• All ground transfer with a comfortable 4×4 safari popup vehicle with fuel.
• Accommodation on full board in fully ensuit facilities.
• Allowances of a Full time English speaking driver.
• Gorilla tracking permit.
• Equator water Experiment.
• Visit to the Royal Drum Factory.
• Bottled mineral water during safari.

Package Exclusions

• Anything not mentioned in “Package Inclusions”
• Domestic and International Airfare, Train Fare, Travel Visa & Travel Insurance & Medical Premium, Medical tests, etc.
• Individually extended accommodation, sightseeing, transfers, excursions pre, post or on tour.
• Cost of Optional activities
• OK to board for the airline (if applicable)
• Meals other specified in the itinerary
• Personal expenses on items such as Laundry, Juices, Sodas, Soft & Beverages Drinks, etc.

Visa Requirement and Charges:

Please check online or with our authorised representative if Travel visa is required to visit our country. It is your responsibility to submit all relevant documents and obtain a legal travel visa (as per requirement) before you travel.

In case your tour is cancelled or curtailed short due to visa issues, we will be unable to provide you any refund of the tour cost.

For E-Visa, we are happy to provide you the visa requirement charges and documents required at highly competitive rates on our portal: https://www.visadone.com

You may click the above link and check the details there*

For Sticker Visa, please check with our local branch for the costing, documents required and approximate processing time.

Travel Insurance

Travel & Medical Insurance Charges:

It is Traveller’s responsibility to obtain and be in possession of the comprehensive travel and cancellation insurance, including medical insurance with provision for air evacuation, insurance in case of accidents, sudden sickness, medical expenses or death, before embarking on a tour. Our company is neither responsible nor liable for any claims, damage or loss as a result of Client’s failing to obtain necessary insurance cover.

We are however, happy to provide you travel insurance as per the plan you select which can offer you comprehensive coverage at highly competitive costs.

Age limit to provide Insurance – Up to 75 years. For Insurance, all rates given are per person in USD.

Current Exclusion:

• To & from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, Nepal & Bangladesh.
• From India (However to India (Inbound) is allowed).

Insurance fees once paid is totally non-refundable. For further details you can check with us on insurance@solidarityinvest.com

*Disclaimer: Please do check with our Branch / Authorized representative about the latest requirement as visa requirement / fees / travel insurance charges are dynamic and subject to change. The consulate at their discretion may ask for additional documents also for visa processing. Visa issuance is purely at the discretion of the consulate and not us.

Payment and Cancellation Policy:

PAYMENT TERMS:

• 50% payment at the time of confirmation
• Balance 50% within 10 days of confirmation or travel date whichever is earlier.

We accept payments via bank transfer/Debit & Credit cards also. In case of a bank transfer please add USD 30 per transfer per time you transfer.

CANCELLATION POLICY:

We need to receive a cancellation request in writing for us to proceed with cancellation. The following charges will be applicable based on the cancellation request received by us.

If you cancel:

• 60 days prior to departure there will be a 10% deduction on the package cost.
• 59 – 45 days prior to departure: 25% deduction on the package cost.
• 44 – 30 days prior to departure: 45% deduction on the package cost.
• 30 – 15 days prior to departure: 65% deduction on the package cost.
• 15 – 07 days prior to departure: 95% deduction on the package cost.
• 06 days or less: 100% deduction on the package cost.

TERM AND CONDITIONS:

• Disclaimer: In view of the COVID19 situation we retain the right to adjust rates based on any changes to current operational or capacity restrictions imposed by Governments or other Authorities.
• We reserve all rights. All rooms, rates and services are subject to availability at the time of confirmation. Rates are subject to change at the time of confirmation.
• Standard check-in time at the hotel is normally 1500 hrs. And check-out 12 Noon. (Please check with the hotel for the same)
• Early check-in, late check-out is solely based on the discretion of the hotel and not guaranteed unless paid for.
• We reserve the rights to reschedule the itinerary or routing.
• Unused inclusions in a tour package are non-refundable.
• Tours will be seat in coach basis or SIC basis (Unless mentioned otherwise) where guests have to reach on time at designated pick up point.
• Any delays from your side are considered a no show.
• No refund applicable in case of no show.
• Rates are not valid during any trade fair periods, Major European Holidays, Events & festivals and blackout dates.
• Most of the Hotels may ask for a security deposit at the time of check-in, which is refundable at the time of check-out and is subject to the hotel’s policy.
• All rates are net and per person for the package.
• Rates for the extra night, if given are per person per night.
• Child rates apply for children aged from 2 to 11 years old. One child sharing a room with two adults (depending on hotel policy).
• Most hotels in Europe have occupancy policy per room. They will generally not allow more than 03 people in one room (based on the room size).
• If the hotel doesn’t have availability for family rooms, adult rates will apply for child also.
• We will endeavour to match the rates quoted in the packages.
• If certain entrances are closed during certain periods, alternative entrances will be provided.
• In view of the current situation, please be advised that whilst the information and rates quoted are correct as of today’s date – we retain the right to adjust rates based on any changes to current operational or capacity restrictions imposed by Governments or other Authorities.
• Any damages caused whilst on tour shall be borne (paid or settled) locally by the client, we will not be liable for the same.

COVID-19 SAFETY GUIDELINES

Covid Guidelines (If any): When entering Uganda you must present evidence of a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test from your country of departure from an accredited laboratory. Tests must be carried out within 72 hours of arrival.

All travellers, including children, will need to show a negative COVID-19 test certificate and also undergo a PCR test on arrival at their own expense (USD65), regardless of country of origin or vaccination status.

Please check the following website for Covid Guidelines – https://www.health.go.ug/

Mandatory Medical /Tests or Vaccination details: Please check the below website for the same

https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/uganda

Package Cost

Package rates per person for the above package:

Taxes Extra.  Above 12 years Child will be considered on adult rates only.

Please Note:

• All category services are subject to availability at the time of booking thus the earlier the confirmation the better to secure our services.

We also can book one way/Return domestic flight transfers to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, thus you need to inform us if you require a Fly -in Gorilla Tracking Safari and we will arrange it with Gladness.

Points to Note (If any)

Please do note that the below points are shared with you for your reference only. Please use them at your own discretion.

Your Health: It is your (Traveller’s) responsibility is to ensure that you are in good health and medically fit to undertake safari tour. If the tour passes through the malaria area, precautionary treatment is advised. Consultation with medical practitioner/doctor and obtaining prophylactic and precautionary anti-malaria treatment is necessary.

Local Currency: Ugandan Shilling (UGX)

As on 04 Nov 2022 1 USD = 3,784 Ugandan Shilling approximately.

• Banks and foreign exchange bureaus are available at capital cities.
• Most hotels and lodges accept Visa and MasterCard.
• In addition to credit cards, travellers should bring US dollars cash. Small denominations are recommended.
• US dollars are widely accepted; however older or high denomination notes may not be accepted.

Helpful items for your packing list:

• Light weight shirts/blouses with long sleeves as protection from the sun and mosquitos
• T-shirts / Shorts / Jeans or safari trousers / Pajamas / Socks /Underwear
• A light weight water-proof jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes/sneakers / Comfortable walking sandals or flip flops for warmer days
• A wide brimmed hat with under-chin tie to prevent it from flying away
  Swimsuit
• A warm windproof jacket (winter) / A fleece jacket that will go under the warm jacket (winter) /A warm polo neck shirt (winter) A beanie (winter)
• Gloves (winter) / A warm scarf (winter)
• Sunglasses / Spare prescription eye glasses/contact lenses
  Binoculars
• Cameras and related paraphernalia like lenses etc and plenty of memory cards and spare batteries
• A small powerful flashlight and extra batteries
• Travel alarm clock / Small purse size umbrella can come in handy
• Small lint roller / A light packable backpack or tote to carry equipment and stuff on game vehicles
• A supply of Ziploc bags in different sizes may come in handy for dust or water proofing cameras, wet bathing suits etc.
• Chargers for cell phones, iPads, cameras, computers and you may want to invest in a mini travel charger surge protector with dual USB ports and five charging outlets.

Photography: Please be sure to bring sufficient memory cards and batteries as these are not readily available in Uganda and Rwanda. Please ask permission before taking a photograph of any residents.

Please be advised that the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (Drones) is not allowed in any of the conservation areas we manage until such time as their impact on wildlife and anti-poaching initiatives can be assessed. This rule will apply throughout Africa, as our partners in various countries and regions have adopted a similar stance.

People and Culture: There are a wide range of ethnic groups in Uganda with many different languages spoken, namely Luganda (most common), English (only a small portion speak it), Bantu, Swahili, Nilotic and Lumasaba. Christians make up 85.2% of Uganda’s population, there are a certain amount of Sikhs and Hindus, and 12% are Muslims.

In a recent survey of African Nations, Uganda ranked in the top ten friendliest and welcoming countries in Africa. Visitors to both Uganda are often concerned are about their safety and well-being. … Visitors often feel safer, more secure, and more welcomed in the Pearl of Africa than in their own country.

Climate: Uganda’s tropical climate is a little different in the north and south of the country. From March to November, the north experiences a rainy and warm Wet season, followed by an almost equally warm Dry season from December to February. The south, on the other hand has a pair of Dry seasons (December to February, and June to July) broken up by a pair of Wet seasons.

Safety and Security:  Opportunistic crime like burglaries, muggings, drive-by bag snatches and thefts from vehicles occur in Uganda. There have been a few cases of individuals being drugged and robbed on public transport and in bars. Don’t accept food and drink from strangers. Foreign visitors and residents may be targeted by scam artists. Leaving your belongings unattended is not advisable. Be with your driver / guide and/or group to avoid unnecessary issues.

• It is advisable to check with your guide – they will know if there are any potentially unsafe areas you should avoid.
• Avoid deserted areas, particularly at night. Dress-down (i.e. don’t wear excessive jewellery) when exploring the city. Concealed travel wallets are recommended.
• Ugandans are a very warm and hospitable nation – please do not hesitate in asking for assistance at any time.
• Avoid taking pictures of anything connected with the government or the military, including army barracks, land or people close to the army barracks, government offices, post offices, banks, ports, train stations and airports.

Staying safe on Wildlife Viewing Activities: Your safari guide will ensure your safety at all times – listen carefully to instructions and follow the park’s rules at all times. When on a self-drive safari, don’t drive too close to wildlife and only leave your car in designated areas where it is safe to do so.

Elephant, hippo, buffalo and zebra are plentiful in Uganda. Lion, giraffe and white rhino are more localized but easily seen in the right location. Leopard are less certain. The birding is a real highlight with more than 1,000 species recorded. So is the tracking of primates, in particular gorilla and chimp, but there are many other species worth watching. The antelope known as the Uganda kob is found in most savannah reserves and is a favourite prey of lion.

Staying safe in Cities and Towns:

A nationwide, daily curfew from 7pm to 5.30am is in place currently

When in public, anyone aged six or above must wear masks and maintain social distancing.

Inter-district travel by private vehicle is allowed but vehicles can only carry a maximum of three people, including the driver. Public transport can carry 50% capacity. Bodas-bodas (motorbike and scooter taxis) can move until 6pm and can only carry one passenger at a time. Food markets, retail shops, malls, arcades and other business centres are open under strict COVID-19 guidance. All schools are closed. Bars and dance halls remain closed.

Enhanced health screening is in place. If you have COVID-19 like symptoms, you will be placed in a government isolation centre until you test negative for COVID-19. Monitor the media for latest developments on COVID-19 and follow the advice of local officials.

If you’re staying in Uganda:

• follow the advice of local authorities
• make arrangements for an extended stay
• take care to protect yourself from exposure to COVID-19
• Stay in touch with friends and family so they know you’re safe and well.