Gorillas of Uganda Overland Safari
Gorillas of Uganda Overland Safari
$3099
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey with the Gorillas of Uganda Overland Safari, a thrilling adventure through the heart of Uganda. This tour offers a unique opportunity to track majestic mountain gorillas in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and observe chimpanzees in the Kalinzu Forest Reserve. Experience the adrenaline rush of rafting the White Nile River in Jinja, and unwind by the serene Lake Bunyonyi, known for its abundant birdlife. Discover the art of tea-making at a local plantation and enjoy a meal at the AidChild Equation Café & Gallery as you cross the equator. Travel in a custom-built overland vehicle, camp under the African sky, and immerse yourself in the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Uganda. This safari promises an authentic and exhilarating experience for nature and adventure enthusiasts alike. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Kampala
Location: Kampala
Accommodation: Red Chilli Hideaway
Accommodation Name: Red Chilli Hideaway
Meals Included: Dinner
Arrive at any time.
Tonight after a brief welcome meeting, choose to get to know your group members with an optional group dinner at a nearby local restaurant in Kampala not far from the campsite.
Additional Information: Please make sure you have all of the necessary visas for this tour by the time of the welcome meeting. It is very important to read the visa section in our trip details to confirm which visas you will need, if any. Please note: not all nationalities are able to obtain a visa on arrival.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2: Kampala/Lake Bunyonyi
Location: Kampala, Lake Bunyonyi
Accommodation: Bunyonyi Overland Resort
Accommodation Name: Bunyonyi Overland Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cross over the equator today in the Lando en route from Kampala to Lake Bunyonyi. The name Bunyonyi means ‘place of many little birds’ and the lake’s winding shores encircle 29 islands surrounded by steep terraced hillsides. Upon arrival enjoy free time to get to know your surroundings and opt to swim in the calm waters.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard our custom built ride …. overlanding G-style!
Day 3: Gorilla Trek
Location: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Accommodation: Bunyonyi Overland Resort
Accommodation Name: Bunyonyi Overland Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend the day on a mountain gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Hike deep into the jungle through volcano forests alongside a park ranger in search of these mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Please be ready for a challenge as the treks can vary in length and difficulty.
Note: Ugandan authorities are fiercely protective of this natural treasure, and currently permit only a maximum of eight people, per day, to visit a given gorilla family. The group will be split into different sub-groups for the trek, and depending on the number of travellers, different sub-groups may do their trek on different days.
Additional Information: Depending on the date of our permits, it's possible that the gorilla trek will take place on the second full day in Lake Bunyonyi.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has four areas; Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija. Depending on permit availability your group could be tracking gorillas from different areas of the park, it is all still part of Bwindi.
ACTIVITY: Take an unforgettable guided trek (1-6 hrs) deep into volcano forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for a wildlife encounter of a lifetime, and meet a family of mountain gorillas. One of Africa's major highlights, a close encounter with these amazing animals is simply breathtaking.
Get prepared before heading out: bring plenty of water and waterproof clothing (it can rain on only a few minutes’ notice), and be sure to bring protective bags for cameras and film. Dress in layers with long sleeves and long pants to protect against stinging nettles found in the forests. The trek’s often chilly, at first, until you start trekking.
Note: Ugandan authorities are fiercely protective of this natural treasure, and currently permit only a maximum of eight people, per day, to visit a given gorilla family. The group will be split into different sub-groups for the trek, and depending on the number of travellers, different sub-groups may do their trek on different days.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has four areas; Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, and Ruhija. Depending on permit availability your group could be tracking gorillas from different areas of the park, it is all still part of Bwindi.
Day 4: Lake Bunyonyi
Location: Lake Bunyonyi
Accommodation: Bunyonyi Overland Resort
Accommodation Name: Bunyonyi Overland Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Explore Lake Bunyonyi with a full day of free time. There are many optional activities to choose from like, swimming, hiking, canoeing, bird watching, or taking a motorboat tour of the lake. In the evening, relax together with the whole group at the lodge.
Please keep in mind that some members of the group will do the gorilla trek on this day and have the free day in Lake Bunyonyi the day before.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Get out and do as much or as little as you'd like around Lake Bunyonyi.
Day 5: Lake Bunyonyi/Kalinzu Forest Reserve
Location: Lake Bunyonyi, Kalinzu Forest Reserve
Accommodation: Craters Campsite
Accommodation Name: Craters Campsite
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive through the Ugandan countryside on the journey to Kalinzu Forest Reserve, which is further north in the country. The reserve is adjacent to Queen Elizabeth National Park and offers a great variety of landscapes to view wildlife. Spend the afternoon at your leisure here.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard our custom built ride …. overlanding G-style!
Day 6: Kalinzu Forest Reserve/Lake Mburo National Park
Location: Kalinzu Forest Reserve, Lake Mburo National Park
Accommodation: Leopard Rest Camp
Accommodation Name: Leopard Rest Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Rise early this morning for an included chimpanzee tracking excursion within the lush Kalinzu Forest Reserve with a ranger. Later, the group will visit a tea plantation before arriving at Lake Mburo. Then, you can choose to book an afternoon boat cruise, or get to know the local area on foot.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a chimpanzee tracking excursion through the scenic Kalinzu Forest Reserve. Trek along the ridges and valleys of the Rift Valley escarpment to visit chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Follow forest trails, which offer amazing views over the Rwenzori Mountains, Lake Edward, the Kazinga Channel, and the Congo. The Kalinzu Forest Reserve is steeped in mystery and rich with local legends. Learn about the folklore and uses of the forest from a local guide.
ACTIVITY: Walk through a tea plantation with a local guide. View multiple varietals of tea, and learn about the process of growing tea plants from the harvesting stage to what goes into making the best cup of tea.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard our custom built ride …. overlanding G-style!
Day 7: Lake Mburo National Park/Jinja
Location: Lake Mburo National Park, Jinja
Accommodation: Nile River Explorers River Camp
Accommodation Name: Nile River Explorers River Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today the group will travel back across the equator to Uganda, which happens to be one of the few countries where it’s possible to cross over this boundary on land. Along the way, make a stop for lunch at the G Adventures-supported AidChild Equation Café & Gallery. Arrive to Jinja in the evening.
ACTIVITY: Make a stop at AidChild’s Equation Café and Gallery, located at the equator. Surrounded by paintings and other crafts made by local artists, you'll enjoy a meal made with traditional Ugandan ingredients, with a modern twist. Your lunch here directly supports AidChild, a non-profit that provides support, medical care and education to children and youth living with HIV in Uganda.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard our custom built ride …. overlanding G-style!
Day 8: Jinja
Location: Jinja
Accommodation: Nile River Explorers River Camp
Accommodation Name: Nile River Explorers River Camp
The entire day is free for you to explore Jinja on your own or with members of the group. There are plenty of outdoor and adventure activities to choose from like rafting and mountain biking.
Pre-book your rafting adrenaline rush on the checkout page to include the Jinja River Rafting optional activity on your tour or ask your GCO or travel agent for assistance.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Get out and enjoy the adrenaline capital of Uganda.
Day 9: Jinja/Kampala
Location: Jinja, Kampala
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, travel back to Uganda’s capital where the tour will finish upon arrival in the early afternoon.
Not ready to leave Africa just yet? Talk with your CEO about extending your adventure and get to know Uganda or beyond!
TRANSPORT: Move efficiently from point A to point B aboard this dependable ride.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Participation camping (8 nts). -
Meals
7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners -
G for Good Moment
Experience the AidChild Cafe & Gallery in Kayabwe.
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Welcome Moment
Meet your CEO and group upon arrival.
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Discover Moment
Explore Jinja with your group.
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Guided Mountain Gorilla Trek
Participate in a guided mountain gorilla trek with permits included.
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Chimpanzee Tracking
Entrance and chimpanzee tracking in Kalinzu Forest Reserve.
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Tea Plantation Visit
Visit a tea plantation and learn about the tea-making process.
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Transport
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities is provided.
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Travel Across Uganda
Travel across Uganda in a Lando overland adventure vehicle, complemented by minibuses and walking excursions.
What's Not Included
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Visas
Necessary visas for the tour are not included and must be obtained by the traveler.
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Bottled Drinking Water
All bottled drinking water will be at your own expense.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as rafting and mountain biking in Jinja are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, drinks, and tips are not included.
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Sleeping Bag and Pillow
Sleeping bag and pillow are not provided and must be brought by the traveler.
Accommodation
Experience the wilderness of Uganda with participation camping for 8 nights, where you'll stay in dome tents equipped with built-in insect nets and comfortable mattresses. Enjoy the rustic charm of campsites, some with basic amenities like warm showers and flush toilets, while others offer a more rugged experience. ...more ...less
Transport
Lando (overland adventure vehicle), minibuses, walking.
Meals Included
7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners
Group Size
Max 22, avg 20.
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price. ...more ...less
Meals
All included meals will be prepared from fresh local produce. The majority of the shopping for foodstuffs will be done before the trip departs, and fresh goods, such as meats, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, will be bought en route during the trip from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Please note that even though our cooks will try their utmost to provide you with a varied and interesting meals, the choices might be somewhat limited, based on what is available on the local market.
Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes.
Your CEOs will do all the meal preparation and lead the way here, but will prepare a duty schedule for ensuring a fair, rotating participation from you and your group members in the meal preparation and dish washing duties.
Vegetarian meals and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival. Please note all bottled drinking water will be at your own expense.
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Mode of Transport
Travel across Uganda in a Lando overland adventure vehicle, complemented by minibuses and walking excursions. This journey offers a mix of overland travel and on-foot exploration, ensuring you experience the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Uganda up close.
Important Notes
1, In the instance that you are a parent or guardian traveling with a minor under the age of 18 and you do not share the same gender as the minor child, you will accommodated together in a private room instead of the multi share option.
2. An essential part of your safari is participation. The group is usually divided into small groups and given different tasks which change on a day to day basis, from kitchen duty group (helping in prepare meals and clean up afterwards), the packing group (sets up all tables and chairs outside) and the cleaning group (which cleans the truck by emptying the rubbish bin and brooming). it is all part of your adventure and when everyone puts in a little effort the trip will run smoothly. Your CEOs will do all the meal preparation, but we do ask the clients to help with the washing up. Team spirit is part of the fun! All camping equipment (with the exception of your sleeping bag and pillow) is supplied. We supply dome tents and assembly/disassembly takes only 5 minutes. All tents have built-in insect nets. Mattresses are also available, which are approximately 4cm thick, warm and comfortable.
3. Sleeping bags cannot be rented on any of our Africa overland or safari trips
4. Travelling can be difficult, as long drives and poor road conditions are the rule as opposed to the exception in both Kenya and Uganda. This overland camping trip is about travelling to see what the region is like, to see animals in national parks, to trek to the mountain gorillas, and many other sights in between. As such, we cover long distances and have long, bumpy travel days to to get to some of these amazing locations. Despite this, the diversity and scenery of the African landscape, the local culture and abundant wildlife are all well worth the experience.
5. G Adventures can never guarantee the sighting of wildlife, especially when it comes to mountain gorillas. However, the mountain gorilla trek is organized to ensure success. Before heading into the jungle, our local guides receive coordinates from trackers on the whereabouts of the gorillas, and the trackers stay with the gorillas until the group arrives.
Please note that if you are unwell with anything contagious, even a common cold, you may be denied any of the treks to ensure the safety of the gorillas and chimps. This is a national park regulation, and trekking permits will not be refunded if you are denied entrance due to illness.
6. Visitors to Uganda should be in excellent physical condition, without any heart problems and prepared to spend strenuous days in humid rain forests, steep terrain and high altitude trekking for chimpanzee and gorillas, as well as other primates. As it is very dark in the jungle; only high speed film (ISO 400 or higher) will give good results. Those preferring to remain at base camp in Bwindi may do so, however, there is no price reduction.
7. Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes.
8. The use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited.
9. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has four areas; Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija. Depending on permit availability your group could be tracking gorillas from different areas of the park, it is all still part of Bwindi.
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Group Leader
On this journey, you will be accompanied on your trip by 2 crew members - a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and a driver.
The Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will be the group manager and leader. He/she organizes the trip, and will be there to assist you when needed. He/she will take care of the small things so you can concentrate on enjoying your adventure. All of our CEOs in southern and East Africa are experienced group leaders, with a broad knowledge base of the region’s history, cultures, and wildlife. Your leader will be from either southern or East Africa depending on which part of the tour you are on.
All of our overland adventure vehicle (OAV) drivers are experienced in the routes travelled, and highly skilled in dealing with different terrains. All of our cooks will organize and lead the meal preparation, and have experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.
During the gorilla trek, we use an experienced and certified local mountain guide, expert gorilla trackers, and armed guards to accompany us for our safety. We also use local guides for some included activities where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting.
Please note that the transfer on Day 9 from Jinja to Kampala is unaccompanied by a CEO.
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About Accommodation
Camping in East Africa is truly an adventure. You will be able to get off the beaten track to get a first-hand experience of the beautiful wilderness and nature. We stay at designated campsites inside of and nearby the national parks. These campsites generally are very basic, and we carry tents to pitch at the public campsites.
The campsites in East Africa are generally good, but basic. Luxury here will mean electricity for charging, warm showers, flush toilets, shelter for eating. Rustic camps have no electricity, simple or no bathing facilities, and squatting long-drop latrines. Expect to see both extremes, though most fall somewhere within that spectrum.
All camping equipment (with the exception of your sleeping bag and pillow) is supplied, including camp mattresses, which are warm and comfortable. We supply dome tents and assembly/disassembly takes only 5 minutes. They are good quality, durable, industry-standard 2-person safari canvas tents. Please note that most adults will not be able to fully stand up inside the tents, though most travellers find these more than adequate, as they have a base area of approximately 4 square meters. These tents are regularly treated with a waterproofing agent, but under certain rainy conditions, the tent fabric may become saturated to the point where seepage or leakage may occur. All tents have built-in mesh insect netting on the windows and doors.
We travel with our own portable camp chairs with a comfortable back-rest, and we utilize our own cooking equipment to provide the group good quality camp meals.
In camping within the national parks and conservation areas, some camp sites are enclosed for keeping the resident wildlife out. Other camps are open to the natural environment – care must be taken, especially at night, when a torch/flashlight is recommended when walking around the camp area.
Despite the challenge that a few days “roughing it” may pose to some, the experience of being that close to nature, camping under the African stars, and seeing incredible wildlife at your tent door-step is not just gratifying but ultimately an experience of a lifetime.
Please be note that where we use multi-share accommodations, rooming requests of any kind cannot be taken. For private accommodation please see tours in our Classic/Standard Travel Style.
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What to Take
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labelled and restricted to one soft compact suitcase, sports bag, or backpack, no larger than 30cm(height) x 30cm(width) x 60cm(length), maximum 15kg, plus a daypack. Luggage limits on airlines are strictly enforced, and due to limited vehicle capacity, the cost of transporting any luggage beyond these restrictions is the responsibility of the client.
We suggest you take something warm eg tracksuit, fleece or pullover for the mountainous areas i.e. Bwindi National Park. It is at a higher altitude and will therefore be cooler in the evenings - a jersey, anorak/wind jacket and tracksuit pants would be suggested. It will also be necessary to take some wet weather gear as it does rain in the mountainous areas of Uganda on a regular basis. We suggest lightweight rain gear for the walk to see the gorillas.
While gorilla trekking you will need a comfortable, hard wearing, pair of walking shoes or boots. Conditions are generally very muddy/slippery. There are uphill sections which may be quite steep and strenuous. It is also advisable to wear a long sleeve cotton shirt and lightweight long pants to protect yourself from the undergrowth, stinging nettles and biting ants. (Tracksuit pants often get caught on bushes, thorns, etc and jeans can get very heavy when wet). Gloves are also highly recommended – just cheap gardening gloves will do. Tuck your long pants into your socks/boots to avoid biting insects. Also take a water bottle, and a day pack for camera gear and to carry your jacket if it’s too warm.
Your clothes will in all likelihood get very muddy and may not recover to their original state - therefore take old clothing for the gorilla trekking. Hard wearing clothes, no bright colours, or no army camouflage clothing should be worn. Greens, khaki and similar neutral clothes are recommended.
Please be advised that if you plan to bring a drone with you, the use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited.
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Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is used during the Gorillas of Uganda Overland Safari?
The tour uses a Lando overland adventure vehicle for travel across Uganda, complemented by minibuses and walking excursions to ensure you experience the diverse landscapes and wildlife up close.
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What type of accommodation is provided on this safari?
Participants will experience participation camping for 8 nights, staying in dome tents equipped with built-in insect nets and comfortable mattresses. Campsites vary, with some offering basic amenities like warm showers and flush toilets, while others provide a more rugged experience. ...more ...less
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What should I bring for the gorilla trek?
For the gorilla trek, it is recommended to bring plenty of water, waterproof clothing, protective bags for cameras, and dress in layers with long sleeves and long pants to protect against stinging nettles. Comfortable, hard-wearing walking shoes or boots are essential due to muddy and slippery conditions. ...more ...less
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Are there any age restrictions for this tour?
Yes, you must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on this tour. Minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old must be at least 12 years old.
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What meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 6 dinners. Meals are prepared from fresh local produce, with breakfasts generally consisting of breads and cereals, light lunches such as sandwiches or salads, and freshly-prepared hot evening meals.
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What is the group size for this safari?
The maximum group size is 22, with an average of 20 participants.
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What activities are included in the tour?
Included activities are a guided mountain gorilla trek, chimpanzee tracking in Kalinzu Forest Reserve, a visit to a tea plantation, and a meal at the AidChild Equation Café & Gallery. Optional activities such as rafting and mountain biking in Jinja are available at an additional cost.
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What should I know about the physical demands of the tour?
Participants should be in excellent physical condition, prepared for strenuous days in humid rain forests, steep terrain, and high altitude trekking for chimpanzee and gorilla tracking. The tour involves long drives and potentially bumpy travel days.
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What is the role of the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) on this tour?
The CEO is the group manager and leader, organizing the trip and assisting participants as needed. They handle logistics so you can focus on enjoying your adventure. The CEO is experienced in the region's history, cultures, and wildlife.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this operator
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Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Gorillas of Uganda Overland Safari
9 Days Starting and ending in Kampala, Uganda
Visiting: Kampala, Lake Bunyonyi, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kalinzu Forest Reserve, Lake Mburo National Park, Jinja ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26072
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 22
Age range:
12-
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
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