Frequently Asked Questions

Common travel questions

Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page. Here, you’ll find answers to common inquiries about our tours and travel information. Whether you’re curious about our destinations, need details on what to bring, or have questions about safety and health, we’ve got you covered. If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for, feel free to contact us directly for personalized assistance.

Gorilla Quest Africa is based in Rwanda but offers tours across Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Our tours include gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, cultural experiences, and more.

We recommend packing lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good camera. For gorilla trekking, long sleeves, gloves, and sturdy hiking boots are essential.

The best time for a safari in East Africa is during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February. These months offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities, including gorilla trekking.

Yes, most travelers will require a visa to enter these countries. You can obtain an East Africa Tourist Visa, which allows travel between Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya with a single entry. Tanzania requires a separate visa.

Gorilla trekking can be physically challenging as it involves hiking through dense forests and steep terrain. We recommend a reasonable level of fitness. The actual trek duration can vary depending on the location of the gorillas.

Yes, it is generally safe to travel on a safari in East Africa. Gorilla Quest Africa ensures that all tours are conducted in safe, secure environments with professional guides. We also recommend following the guidance of your tour guide and taking general travel precautions.

Absolutely! Gorilla Quest Africa offers customizable safari itineraries to suit your preferences. Whether you want more time for wildlife viewing, cultural experiences, or relaxation, we can tailor your journey to meet your needs.

Our safari packages typically include accommodation, meals as specified, guided tours, park entry fees, and ground transportation. Optional activities, alcoholic beverages, visas, travel insurance, and personal expenses are generally not included.

Booking a safari with us is easy. You can contact us directly through our website, email, or phone. Our team will assist you in selecting the perfect itinerary and handling all booking arrangements.

A deposit is required to secure your booking, with the balance due prior to your tour start date. Our cancellation policy varies depending on the specific tour package. Please review our terms and conditions or contact us for details.

Gorilla trekking permits are essential and must be obtained in advance due to limited availability. The cost of permits varies by country: $1,500 in Rwanda, $800 in Uganda, and $1,500 for gorilla habituation in Uganda. We recommend booking early to secure your permit.

While some remote areas may have limited medical facilities, major cities and popular safari destinations typically have access to quality healthcare. We recommend purchasing travel insurance that includes medical coverage.

Gorilla trekking can take place at high altitudes, especially in Rwanda and Uganda. To prepare, it’s advisable to acclimatize by spending a day or two in a similar altitude area before your trek. Staying hydrated and pacing yourself during the hike can also help manage the effects of altitude.

The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years old in both Rwanda and Uganda. This is to ensure the safety and well-being of both the trekkers and the gorillas.

Yes, Gorilla Quest Africa offers combined itineraries that include gorilla trekking along with traditional safaris in Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. These combined tours allow you to experience the diverse wildlife and landscapes of East Africa.

Our safaris include a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges and tented camps to mid-range and budget options. All accommodations are chosen for their comfort, location, and service quality, ensuring you have a relaxing stay during your safari.

We use 4×4 safari vehicles that are well-equipped for the terrain in East Africa. These vehicles often have pop-up roofs for better wildlife viewing and are driven by experienced guides.

Yes, many of our safaris are family-friendly. We offer itineraries that cater to families, including activities that are suitable for children. However, please note that gorilla trekking has an age limit of 15 years.

While on safari, you will have the opportunity to get close to wildlife, but always at a safe distance. During gorilla trekking, you can be as close as 7 meters (about 23 feet) to the gorillas. Safety is our priority, and guides will ensure you follow proper protocols.

Yes, certain vaccinations are recommended or required when traveling to East Africa, including yellow fever, hepatitis, and typhoid. We advise consulting with your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip for the latest health advice.

Due to limited space in safari vehicles and on light aircraft flights, luggage is typically restricted to 15-20 kg (33-44 lbs) per person in soft-sided bags. We recommend packing light and using laundry services available at most lodges.

Tipping is not mandatory but is greatly appreciated as it forms an important part of the income for guides, drivers, and lodge staff. As a guideline, $10-15 per day for your guide and $5-10 per day for lodge staff is customary.

Our guides are fluent in English and Swahili, and some may speak other languages such as French or German. We can arrange for guides who speak additional languages upon request.

Yes, most lodges and camps have facilities to charge electronics. However, power can be limited, especially in remote areas, so we recommend bringing extra batteries or a portable charger. Plug types in East Africa are typically British-style (Type G).

Photographs are a great way to capture your safari experience. We recommend bringing a camera with a good zoom lens for wildlife shots. Always ask your guide if it’s appropriate to take photos, especially of local communities. Flash photography is not allowed when photographing gorillas.

We cater to various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and others. Please inform us of any dietary requirements in advance so that we can accommodate your preferences throughout the safari.

Gorilla Quest Africa is dedicated to making your safari experience as enjoyable as possible. If you have any special requests, such as celebrating a special occasion or requiring specific medical accommodations, please let us know in advance, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.