AFRICA WILL STEAL YOUR HEART FOREVER
Discover unforgettable African adventures across Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Namibia. From thrilling safaris and breathtaking savannahs to majestic mountains, vibrant cultures, and stunning desert landscapes.
Your dream trip. Crafted by experts
The Namib Safaris
Difference
Based in Uganda and operating across East and Southern Africa, Namib Safaris crafts tailor-made journeys through some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.
From the misty mountains of Bwindi to the golden plains of the Maasai Mara, the volcanic peaks of Rwanda to the dramatic deserts of Namibia, we design safaris that are immersive, seamless, and unforgettable.
With deep regional knowledge and trusted partnerships across the continent, we turn your African dream into reality.
Why Choose Us
Dual-Region Expertise
Unlike many operators who stick to one corner of the continent, we have deep-rooted operational knowledge in Uganda, Rest of East Africa and Namibia. We understand the logistics of combining a lush Ugandan jungle trek with a dry Namibian desert expedition in one seamless itinerary.
Expert Guides & conservation focused travel
Our guides are more than just drivers; they are passionate naturalists and storytellers. They possess intimate knowledge of animal behavior and local cultures, ensuring that every sighting is educational and every interaction is respectful.
Tailor-Made Flexibility
We don’t believe in "one size fits all." Whether you are a solo photographer, a honeymooning couple, or a family seeking an educational adventure, we design itineraries that match your pace, budget, and specific interests.
Seamless Logistics & Safety
From 4x4 custom-built safari vehicles to hand-picked luxury lodges and boutique camps, we manage every detail. Our 24/7 ground support ensures that you are safe and supported from the moment you land until your departure.
Price Guarantee
At Namib Safaris, we guarantee competitive pricing without compromising on the quality of your adventure. Whether you’re planning a luxurious gateway or an exhilarating wildlife expedition, our commitment to fair pricing ensures that you get the best value for your money.
Explore the diverse landscapes we call home
Our Signature Attractions
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Murchison Falls National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Serengeti National Park
Sossusvlei
Volcanoes National Park
Amazing Activities
Things to Do
Explore our most celebrated safaris
Iconic African Safaris
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10 DAYS
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5 DAYS
Starting at USD 2,010 Per Person
Start planning your safari experience in East Africa
Our specialists are here to help you book or tailor-make your holiday
Narratives from the wild crafted by experts
Safari Stories & Insights
Our most frequently asked safari questions
Essential Insights
What is Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime authentic wildlife experience where you hike through the forest in Uganda, Rwanda or Congo to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Led by a well-trained ranger guide, Gorilla trekking involves hiking and walking in dense forests in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo in search for the rare great apes. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda, Uganda and Congo is sometimes a physically challenging activity and a certain level of fitness is required. On your trek, you may encounter steep climbs, muddy and slippery ground and sometimes stinging nettles and insects. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda can be strenuous but worthy any penny and rewarding at the end of it all. You might experience altitude sickness if you trek at high altitude so ensure you get clear instructions and guidelines from your booking tour operator. Please note that gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is a privilege and not a right, it is well organised to ensure that you are guaranteed of seeing mountain gorillas. Chances of seeing gorillas in Uganda is 99% since it is well organised. For more information, please contact us
About Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda
What is the difference between Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda?
When is the best time for Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda?
The best time for Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February. However, because we operate year-round, we can secure permits for your trek in any season.
Do I need a visa for Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda?
Yes. We highly recommend the East African Tourist Visa. This single visa allows you to travel freely between countries, making it the perfect solution for combined Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda itineraries
What is Gorilla habituation Experience
The Gorilla Habituation Experience in Uganda’s Bwindi impenetrable National Park is a unique and specialized extended version of gorilla trekking, where visitors have the opportunity to spend up to four hours with a semi-habituated mountain gorilla family. Gorilla habituation itself is a process where wild mountain gorillas become accustomed to the presence of humans and learn to tolerate them without exhibiting aggressive behavior. Gorilla habituation experience is more immersive and unique experience than the traditional one-hour gorilla trek. It involves trekking into the forest with well trained park rangers sometimes following fresh trails to locate mountain gorillas while observing their behaviors, naming them, collecting their droppings among others. It also involves daily visits to gradually expose these gorillas to human presence and once they a comfortable, they will be introduced to a mock exercise with scientists and journalists. After going through a successful mock exercise, these mountain gorillas are opened up for trekking by tourists. Gorilla habituation experience is limited to only for people per day and a gorilla habituation permit costs $1500 per person (foreign nonresidents) and $1000 for foreign residents with a work permit. Currently all gorilla habituation experience excursions take place in the southern part of Bwindi impenetrable National Park (Rushaga and Nkuringo) where selected gorilla families have been put aside for this exercise. Please contact Namib Safaris for more
When is the best time to trek gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda?
While it is possible to trek mountain gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda year-round, the periods of June, July, August, and early September, as well as December through February, are generally considered more favorable due to drier weather conditions. It’s essential to note that despite these recommendations, there is no absolute assurance of avoiding rain, given that Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a tropical rainforest, is subject to microclimatic variations. Consequently, weather conditions may vary even during the suggested months. During the high season, gorilla permits for visiting gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Bwindi National Park are priced at USD 1500.00 and USD 700.00 per person, respectively. For budget-conscious travelers, taking advantage of Rwanda’s low season gorilla permits at USD 1050.00 provides an opportunity to experience Rwanda gorilla trekking at a more affordable rate. Planning the trek during the low season can be a strategic approach for those mindful of costs while still seeking an enriching gorilla encounter. For more information about Uganda and Rwanda gorilla treks, get in touch on whatsapp or email. Read More about best time for gorilla trekking.
How much is a gorilla permit in Uganda or Rwanda?
In Uganda, a gorilla permit costs USD 800.00 for non-residents and USD 700.00 for foreign residents. In Rwanda, the gorilla trekking permit is priced at USD 1500.00 for non-residents. This permit is like your special card that allows you to spend an hour with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda) or Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda). All Gorilla safaris to Rwanda and Uganda require you to hold a valid gorilla permit which must be booked and paid for in advance. Read more about gorilla tracking and permit booking.
When should I book my Rwanda or Uganda gorilla permit?
It’s recommended to secure your Rwanda or Uganda gorilla permit at least three months in advance, particularly during high season, to avoid potential shortages. To ensure availability on your preferred date for gorilla tracking in Uganda or Rwanda, please reach out to us with your intended booking date for Uganda holidays or Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris. We will provide guidance on permit availability for that specific day and assist you in planning your unforgettable gorilla trekking experience.
How many people are allowed to trek a gorilla family?
Does DR Congo have discounted gorilla permits?
Yes, the Democratic Republic of Congo offers discounted gorilla permits. The regular gorilla permit to trek mountain gorillas in Congo’s Virunga National Park is priced at USD 400.00. This fee covers park entry fees, one hour of observing gorillas, and the services of a ranger guide during the trek. However, Congo also provides discounted gorilla permits at a reduced rate of USD 300.00. These discounted permits can be arranged for you when booking an all-inclusive tour with Namib Safaris. For more details about Congo’s discounted gorilla permits and affordable Congo gorilla safaris, you can contact Namib Safaris through phone or email. They will be able to provide you with the necessary information and assist you in planning a memorable and budget-friendly gorilla trekking experience in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Is it possible to track Uganda gorillas via Kigali Airport?
Yes, it is indeed possible to track Uganda gorillas via Kigali, Rwanda. By flying into Kigali International Airport, travelers can significantly reduce the drive time to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which takes approximately 5-6 hours. This is a more time-efficient option compared to using Entebbe International Airport, where the drive time can range from 8-9, and sometimes up to 10 hours from Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The introduction of the East African tourist visa has further streamlined travel between Uganda and Rwanda. With this visa, costing USD 100.00, you can easily visit three East African countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya. Additionally, travelers can now apply for a Rwanda visa upon arrival, simplifying the visa acquisition process. For more details about Bwindi gorilla safaris through Kigali Airport and assistance with travel arrangements, feel free to contact Namib Safaris. They can provide you with the necessary information to plan a seamless and enjoyable gorilla trekking experience.
What to pack for a gorilla trekking trip?
When planning for your gorilla safari in Rwanda and Uganda, thorough preparation is key. We recommend packing trousers, long-sleeved shirts or blouses, and long socks to tuck into your trousers for added protection. Don’t forget to bring garden gloves, a hat, sunglasses, and hiking boots for comfort and safety on the trek. Insect repellents are essential to ward off bugs in the forest environment. Additionally, pack some energy-giving foods to keep you fueled and energized throughout the trek. Being well-prepared ensures a more enjoyable and comfortable gorilla trekking experience.
What is the age limit for gorilla tracking?
We are delighted to assure you that the likelihood of encountering gorillas in either Bwindi National Park or Volcanoes National Park is an impressive 98%. It’s common for some tourists to consider booking multiple gorilla treks, fearing they might miss out on seeing gorillas during the first trek and hoping for better luck on subsequent treks. The reality is that gorilla trekking in Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Volcanoes in Rwanda is well-organized. Every day, an advanced team of trackers sets out early to locate the gorilla groups. Once located, they communicate the whereabouts of the gorillas to the park headquarters and your assigned ranger guide for the day. Your trek then begins from the area where the gorillas spent the previous night until you find them. Throughout the trek, the advanced team maintains communication with your guide to ensure you stay on the right track. If the gorilla family is on the move at a rapid pace, the team will coordinate with your guide. If necessary, and to ensure your safety and enjoyment, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) may decide to redirect you to another gorilla family. For more detailed information and personalized advice, please feel free to contact us.
What are the chances of seeing a mountain gorilla?
Only a maximum of 8 people are allowed to trek or visit a given gorilla family in Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Volcanoes National Park in Uganda and Rwanda. In Bwindi, where there are about 14 habituated gorilla families, each family is limited to hosting a maximum of 8 people per day for one hour. While this is the standard guideline, there may be rare circumstances where park management allows more than 8 people, and if such situations arise, the park authorities will provide explanations. For gorilla habituation experiences, which involve spending an extended four hours with mountain gorillas under habituation, only 4 people are permitted to be present. This smaller group size ensures a more controlled and intimate experience for those participating in the gorilla habituation process.
How long does a gorilla trek in Uganda or Rwanda take?
The duration of a mountain gorilla trek in Uganda or Rwanda can vary widely, ranging from a brisk twenty minutes to a substantial three-quarters of the day. It’s essential to be prepared for a range of possibilities. Several factors influence the trek’s duration, including the movement patterns of the mountain gorillas, the location where they spent the previous night, and the mood of the gorillas. Additionally, the pace of the trek can be influenced by the individuals in your group, as guides and rangers move at the pace of the slowest person. Namib Safaris is more than happy to provide you with all the necessary advice and information to ensure you are well-prepared for this unique and captivating experience.
What is included with the gorilla permit?
Rwanda gorilla trips or Gorilla safaris in Uganda can only be guaranteed if one has secured a gorilla permit for Volcanoes National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga. Your gorilla permit grants you the unique opportunity to spend one hour with mountain gorillas in the breathtaking surroundings of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda), Mgahinga, or Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda). The permit cost includes entry fees for the respective parks, giving you access to the gorillas’ natural habitat. Additionally, the services of experienced National Park guides and rangers, who will accompany you through the forest and enhance your gorilla trekking experience, are also part of the package. To ensure a seamless adventure, Namib Safaris will take care of securing your permits well in advance, ensuring a hassle-free and unforgettable encounter with these magnificent
Do Rwanda and Uganda have discounted gorilla tours?
Yes, Rwanda offers discounted gorilla tours during the low season months of May and November. While Uganda low-season discounted gorilla permits is from April, May and November. To benefit from Rwanda’s discounted gorilla permits, you are required to book at least three additional days in one of Rwanda’s National Parks. These parks include Akagera National Park and Nyungwe Forest National Park. The cost of Rwanda’s discounted gorilla trekking permits is USD 1050.00 per person per trek to experience gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. This fee covers the Volcanoes National Park entry fees, the opportunity to spend one hour observing habituated mountain gorillas, and the services of a well-trained gorilla ranger or guide. Taking advantage of these discounted permits allows you to enjoy the incredible experience of gorilla trekking in Rwanda at a more affordable rate. While in Uganda Foreign Non Resident (FNR) rate is USD600 and Foreign Resident (FR) rate is USD500.
Is Low Season Gorilla trekking worth it?
April, May and November are considered traditionally low seasons due to increased rainfall. However these months also offer several advantages: Reduced permit cost under the discounted structure, fewer visitors; creating a more relaxed atmosphere, lush green rainforest scenery ideal for photography, greater accommodation availability and potential off peak lodge rates. Gorilla trekking operates year around, and experienced rangers ensure safe navigation even during wetter months. For travellers who don’t mind occasional rainfall, low season can offer both value and beauty.
