Planning a gorilla trekking safari is an exciting journey that combines adventure, conservation, and cultural discovery. At In Motion Gorilla Safaris, we are committed to providing well-organized, responsible, and unforgettable safari experiences across East Africa. These terms and guidelines explain how our safaris operate, what travelers should expect, and the responsibilities shared between our company and our guests. By confirming a safari booking with us, travelers acknowledge that they have read and accepted the conditions outlined below.
Our safaris focus primarily on exceptional wildlife encounters, particularly mountain gorilla trekking in renowned destinations such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, as well as adventure experiences like mountain hiking in Rwenzori Mountains National Park. Each journey is carefully arranged to balance adventure, safety, and environmental responsibility.
Booking Your Safari
When planning a safari, travelers normally begin by reviewing a proposed itinerary and quotation prepared by our team. Although we strive to maintain stable pricing, safari costs may occasionally change due to adjustments in park permit fees, accommodation rates, or government regulations. For this reason, all prices are confirmed at the time of booking.
To secure a safari with In Motion Gorilla Safaris, a deposit of approximately forty percent of the total safari cost is typically required. This deposit allows us to begin confirming accommodation, transport arrangements, and other services included in the itinerary. However, safaris that include restricted wildlife activities such as gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, or mountain hiking often require immediate payment of the full permit fees. These permits are issued by wildlife authorities and must be secured in advance, and their cost may exceed the normal deposit amount.
The remaining balance of the safari cost is usually due at least thirty days before the departure date. For travelers booking closer to the travel date especially within sixty days of departure, the full amount may be required at the time of booking in order to guarantee availability.
Unless specifically stated in the itinerary, international flights are not included in the safari package.
Accommodation During the Safari
Accommodation arrangements depend on whether a traveler is joining a group safari or booking a private tour. Guests who join group safaris sometimes share rooms with another traveler of the same gender. While we always try to arrange compatible sharing arrangements, this cannot be guaranteed. If sharing is not possible or if a traveler prefers additional privacy, a single room may be arranged at an additional cost.
For private safaris, accommodation is shared only among members of the same travel group. Solo travelers on private tours are usually provided with their own rooms unless they request otherwise.
Airport Transfers and Regional Flights
To ensure a smooth start and finish to every journey, In Motion Gorilla Safaris normally provides airport pickup and drop-off services when guests arrive and depart according to the scheduled safari itinerary. Travelers arriving earlier or departing later than the safari schedule may require additional transfers.
In addition to ground transportation, we can assist travelers with booking domestic or regional flights that help connect remote safari destinations. These may include flights between major hubs and national parks, as well as regional flights linking East African countries for travelers exploring more than one destination.
The Gorilla Trekking Experience
Gorilla trekking is one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences. Because mountain gorillas are critically protected species, the activity is strictly regulated by national park authorities to protect both the animals and visitors.
Participants must be at least fifteen years old to take part in a gorilla trek. During the trek, visitors hike through forest terrain accompanied by experienced rangers and guides who track the gorilla families. Once a gorilla group is located, visitors are allowed to spend up to one hour observing them from a safe distance.
To protect the health of the gorillas, guests must maintain a minimum distance from the animals and follow the instructions of park rangers at all times. Visitors who are ill or showing symptoms of contagious disease may be asked not to participate in the trek, as gorillas are highly susceptible to human illnesses.
Photography is permitted, but flash photography is not allowed. Respectful behavior toward wildlife and the natural environment is essential throughout the experience.
Changes and Cancellations
Travel plans can occasionally change, and we understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise. If a safari must be cancelled, travelers are requested to notify us in writing as soon as possible so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
When cancellations occur well in advance of the safari typically more than ninety days before departure, we attempt to refund deposits after deducting any non-recoverable expenses such as gorilla permit fees. As the departure date approaches, higher cancellation charges may apply because accommodations, permits, and other services have already been secured.
Gorilla trekking permits issued by wildlife authorities are generally non-refundable, although in some cases the dates may be rescheduled if changes are requested early enough.
Travel Insurance
All travelers are strongly advised to obtain comprehensive travel insurance before beginning their safari. A suitable insurance policy should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellation, trip interruption, evacuation, and loss or damage to personal belongings.
Because safaris often involve travel in remote regions and participation in outdoor activities, insurance provides important protection for both travelers and tour operators.
Health and Physical Preparation
Gorilla trekking and other safari activities usually involve moderate physical activity such as walking, hiking, or spending extended periods outdoors. While professional athletes are not required, travelers should be prepared for varying terrain and changing weather conditions.
Before traveling to East Africa, guests are encouraged to consult their doctor or travel clinic regarding vaccinations, malaria prevention, and general travel health advice. Travelers should also inform our team in advance if they have any medical conditions that could affect their participation in safari activities.
Passports and Travel Documents
It is the responsibility of each traveler to ensure that their passport and visa requirements are fully met before departure. Passports should remain valid for at least six months after the planned return date and contain sufficient blank pages for entry stamps when visiting multiple countries.
Safety and Responsibility
Safaris are carefully organized to ensure safety and comfort, but they also take place in natural environments where wildlife and changing conditions are part of the experience. Travelers are expected to follow the guidance of professional safari guides, park rangers, and local authorities at all times.
While In Motion Gorilla Safaris makes every effort to provide a safe and well-managed journey, the company cannot be held responsible for events beyond its control such as weather conditions, travel delays, or unforeseen circumstances that may affect the itinerary.
Photography and Media
Safaris often provide incredible opportunities for photography. From time to time, images or videos captured during tours may be used for promotional purposes to showcase the beauty of East Africa and the experiences we offer. Guests who prefer not to appear in such material may inform our team in advance.
Our Commitment to Your Journey
Every safari organized by In Motion Gorilla Safaris is designed to create meaningful connections between travelers, wildlife, and local communities. By following these guidelines, travelers help us maintain responsible tourism practices while ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the extraordinary experience of encountering mountain gorillas in the wild.
We thank you for choosing In Motion Gorilla Safaris and look forward to guiding you through one of Africa’s most remarkable adventures.
