Ameliya's Itineraries
Ameliya’s Great Gorilla Safari | 3N/4D
Ameliya's Great Gorilla Safari
This safari offers a rare glimpse into the lives of endangered gorillas, their natural habitats, and the local communities. Experience breathtaking wildlife encounters while contributing to conservation and community projects. Beyond gorilla sightings, hike to see the rare golden monkeys, visit Dr. Dian Fossey’s grave in Rwanda, or immerse yourself in the ancient Batwa culture and explore Bwindi Bar in Uganda.
AMELIYA SIGNATURE SAFARI EXPERIENCE:
- 3 Nights and 4 Days.
- Gorilla tracking in Parc National des Volcans (PNV), Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
- Golden monkey tracking in Parc National des Volcans (PNV) or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
- All meals & accommodations included.
- Enjoy a traditional dance from the Intore at Virunga.
- Visit the Gahinga Batwa Village at Gahinga and learn about their ancient culture and traditions.
- Exclusive Safaris, Signature Sundowner & Bush Dinner.
2024 Rates (USD$)
- Low season rates are applicable from 1st October to 14th December and 1st March to 31st May. Rates are based on a minimum of 2 people traveling.
- High season rates are applicable on bookings from 1st June to 30th September and 15th December to 28th February. Rates are based on a minimum of 2 people.
2025 Rates (USD$)
- Low season rates are applicable from 1st October to 14th December and 1st March to 31st May. Rates are based on a minimum of 2 people traveling.
- High season rates are applicable on bookings from 1st June to 30th September and 15th December to 28th February. Rates are based on a minimum of 2 people.
Please Note-
- TCS will be applicable for all Indian citizens going abroad, as per Government of India regulations.
BOOKING NOTES
- All costs are in USD. We accept all currencies – ongoing exchange rates apply.
- All costs are subject to change and we reserve the right to review published rates in the event of fluctuations or policy changes at partner lodges/reserves.
- Gorilla viewing is subject to the availability of permits, which are limited; any additional gorilla permits required should be purchased when booking. Gorilla permit prices are subject to change without warning. Current cost per person is $1200 in Rwanda and $800 in Uganda.
- All Indian Citizens are required to pay TCS for traveling abroad as per government of India regulations.
- Standard check-in time at most African camps is 12:00 PM and check-out time is 10:00 AM. Meal services begin at lunch on check-in, and end at breakfast at check-out.
- We strive to deliver the best tailor made safari experience and are happy to customize your trip as per your needs.
Inclusions
- Accommodation, all meals, tea/coffee, evening snacks
- Domestic beer & wine and select liquor, safari sundowners, bush breakfasts, and WIFI.
- Activities as indicated on the itinerary
- Domestic Wine, Beer & Liquor in National Parks (in premium & luxury options only)
- Laundry services
- Any boat trips, park fees, nature and community walk fees, one chimpanzee and one gorilla permit.
- A 50 minute complimentary massage once per stay per person.
Exclusions
- Goods & Services Taxes as applicable
- Tips, international flights & Transfers, additional activities, visa fees, travel & medical insurance, exclusive vehicle.
- National Park & conservancy fees where applicable.
- All other expenses not mentioned in the “inclusions” above will have to be borne as additional expenses by the participants
PAYMENT TERMS AND CANCELLATION POLICY:
- All tours operate on 100% advance payment.
- A 50% deposit is required to book the experience.
- An additional 50% is due 90 days in advance
- 50% is non-refundable once the payment is made. From 100 to 60 days prior: 50% will be refunded. From 60-45 days, 30% will be refunded. No refunds after crossing the 45-day mark.
- Please note that the date of written communication (e-mail) of intent to cancel will be considered for calculating the cancellation fees.
- Amendment in dates will be charged as per ongoing rates and any cancellation/rebooking charges.
- The cancellation amount is calculated based on the total booking amount and not on the advance deposited.
- No refunds in case of refusal to use a service/activity mentioned in the itinerary.
- All refunds will be transferred after deduction of bank charges.
Day 01:
Arrive in Kigali and be greeted by your Volcanoes Safaris guide. Drive through Rwanda’s stunning landscapes to Virunga Lodge, where you’ll enjoy lunch with views of Lakes Ruhondo and Bulera. Explore nature trails or relax with pre-dinner cocktails overlooking the Virunga Volcanoes.
The drive takes about 3 hours, or opt for a 45-minute helicopter ride. Please arrive in Kigali by 10am. Overnight at Virunga Lodge, with lunch and dinner provided.
Alternatively, travel to Mount Gahinga Lodge, near the Uganda border. Visit the Batwa Vocational Center and enjoy pre-dinner cocktails and a chat with a Gorilla Doctors vet. The drive takes approximately 5 hours. Please book flights arriving in Kigali by 10am. Overnight at Mount Gahinga Lodge, with lunch and dinner included.
In Entebbe, take a domestic flight to Kihihi and then drive to Bwindi Lodge. Enjoy pre-dinner cocktails and a fireside chat with conservation staff. The flight takes 1 to 2 hours, followed by a 2-hour drive. Overnight at Bwindi Lodge, with lunch and dinner included.
DAY 02:
Start your day early with breakfast before embarking on a gorilla trek in either Parc National des Volcans, Mount Gahinga, or Bwindi Forest. Hike through enchanting bamboo forests or steep, dense hills, and after 1 to 3 hours of trekking, spend an unforgettable hour with the majestic mountain gorillas. Return to your lodge for a late lunch. Unwind with complimentary spa treatments, including the famous Rungu massage, at Ikirunga Spa and Sauna, Gahinga Spa and Sauna, or Bwindi Spa and Sauna, depending on your location.
In the evening, enjoy drinks and a fireside chat with conservation experts from the Gorilla Doctors, Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, or local conservation partners, learning about their vital work and reflecting on your gorilla encounter.
Day 03:
Choose from exciting optional activities:
- Enjoy a second gorilla trek, or trek the Virunga foothills to see the rare golden monkey. Hike to Dian Fossey’s grave (6-8 hours) or visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
- Experience the local culture with guided birding and a community walk to Lake Bulera, or donate to a local family. Dine in the Dian Fossey Map Room, which celebrates conservationists.
- At Mount Gahinga Lodge, track golden monkeys, visit the Batwa Village, and hike the Gisozi caldera for stunning views.
- At Bwindi Lodge, consider another gorilla trek, a rainforest walk to waterfalls, or a birding walk along the Munyanga River Trail. Visit the Bwindi Community Hospital or Conservation Through Public Health, and see a local tea processing demo.
DAY 04:
Transfer from Bwindi Lodge to Kihihi airstrip for your flight to Entebbe. The journey involves a 1 to 2-hour flight and a 2-hour drive. Please book international flights departing after 8 pm. Breakfast at the lodge is included.
Alternatively, transfer from Bwindi Lodge to Kigali, with a 5-hour drive. Enjoy a city tour and visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial before heading to the airport. Please book international flights departing after 7 pm. Breakfast at the lodge is included.
From Virunga Lodge, drive to Kigali (3 hours) or take a 45-minute helicopter flight. Explore the city and visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial (entry fees are direct). Transfer to the airport for your flight. Breakfast and lunch are included.
Overnight at your lodge of choice—Virunga Lodge, Mount Gahinga Lodge, or Bwindi Lodge—according to the budget.
Game Drives
Conservation
Trekking
Bush Dining
Birding
Wellness
Sundowner
Helicopter Rides
Community Visits
Rwanda
Rwanda is a stunningly diverse with sprawling savannahs in the east and densely forested mountains on the west. These landscapes are home to some of the most elusive wildlife on the planet, including the famed Mountain Gorillas- of which only a few hundreds are left in the wild. Rwanda is also home to the African Big 5. The country despite its political struggles strongly advocates for the welfare of wildlife and its environment and has taken drastic steps over the years to mitigate problems such as habitat loss and poaching
Uganda
Uganda is a myriad of different ecosystems from sprawling to savannahs to dense rainforests. Uganda offers an immersive experience of its diverse wildlife. Lions, giraffes elephants and over a 1000 bird species call Uganda home; however at the heart of it all, is the elusive and endangered Mountain Gorillas. Ugand is one of the best places on the planet to come up close and personal with these magnificent primates. Uganda is nothing short of a dream come alive.
Virunga Lodge - RWANDA
Virunga Lodge - RWANDA
Virunga Lodge in Rwanda is a beloved gem, perched on a ridge with stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes, Musanze Valley, Lakes Bulera and Ruhondo. Built by Praveen Moman in 2004, the lodge is a beacon of Rwandese Afro-chic and the top choice for tracking endangered mountain gorillas.
- 12 luxury bandas. 4 doubles, 2 twins, 3 deluxe, 2 family compound twins all with a fireplace in the room and a terrace overlooking the volcanoes or the twin lakes.
- 4 larger deluxe bandas perfect for honeymoon couples or families.
- All rooms are complete with en-suite bathrooms with flushing toilets, double vanity and showers with hot & cold running water.
- Sun terrace overlooking the Virunga Volcanoes with scenic panoramic views
- Dian Fossey Map Room is available for conservation lectures.
- Complimentary laundry service. Wi-Fi in the main lodge.
Mount Gahinga Lodge - UGANDA
Mount Gahinga Lodge - UGANDA
Mount Gahinga Lodge, the first lodge built by Praveen Moman in 2002, is an ideal base for gorilla tracking in Uganda, tracking the rare golden monkey, volcano climbing, and immersing in Batwa culture.
- 8 unique handbuilt bandas (2 deluxe and standard) of which 6 doubles and 2 twins. All with a private veranda offering spectacular views of the Virunga volcanoes.
- All rooms are complete with en-suite bathrooms with flushing toilets, double vanity and showers with hot & cold running water.
- The Gahinga Lodge Gushimisha Spa is available to every guest. All massages are complimentary.
- Complimentary laundry service.
- Power sockets/charging facilities are available in the main lodge and guest bandas. Hair dryers are available in the rooms.
- Wi-Fi in the main lodge and guest bandas.
2024 Rates (USD$)
- Low season rates are applicable from 1st October to 14th December and 1st March to 31st May. Rates are based on a minimum of 2 people traveling.
- High season rates are applicable on bookings from 1st June to 30th September and 15th December to 28th February. Rates are based on a minimum of 2 people.
2025 Rates (USD$)
- Low season rates are applicable from 1st October to 14th December and 1st March to 31st May. Rates are based on a minimum of 2 people traveling.
- High season rates are applicable on bookings from 1st June to 30th September and 15th December to 28th February. Rates are based on a minimum of 2 people.
Please Note-
- TCS will be applicable for all Indian citizens going abroad, as per Government of India regulations.
BOOKING NOTES
- All costs are in USD. We accept all currencies – ongoing exchange rates apply.
- All costs are subject to change and we reserve the right to review published rates in the event of fluctuations or policy changes at partner lodges/reserves.
- Gorilla viewing is subject to the availability of permits, which are limited; any additional gorilla permits required should be purchased when booking. Gorilla permit prices are subject to change without warning. Current cost per person is $1200 in Rwanda and $800 in Uganda.
- All Indian Citizens are required to pay TCS for traveling abroad as per government of India regulations.
- Standard check-in time at most African camps is 12:00 PM and check-out time is 10:00 AM. Meal services begin at lunch on check-in, and end at breakfast at check-out.
- We strive to deliver the best tailor made safari experience and are happy to customize your trip as per your needs.
Inclusions
- Accommodation, all meals, tea/coffee, evening snacks
- Domestic beer & wine and select liquor, safari sundowners, bush breakfasts, and WIFI.
- Activities as indicated on the itinerary
- Domestic Wine, Beer & Liquor in National Parks (in premium & luxury options only)
- Laundry services
- Any boat trips, park fees, nature and community walk fees, one chimpanzee and one gorilla permit.
- A 50 minute complimentary massage once per stay per person.
Exclusions
- Goods & Services Taxes as applicable
- Tips, international flights & Transfers, additional activities, visa fees, travel & medical insurance, exclusive vehicle.
- National Park & conservancy fees where applicable.
- All other expenses not mentioned in the “inclusions” above will have to be borne as additional expenses by the participants
PAYMENT TERMS AND CANCELLATION POLICY:
- All tours operate on 100% advance payment.
- A 50% deposit is required to book the experience.
- An additional 50% is due 90 days in advance
- 50% is non-refundable once the payment is made. From 100 to 60 days prior: 50% will be refunded. From 60-45 days, 30% will be refunded. No refunds after crossing the 45-day mark.
- Please note that the date of written communication (e-mail) of intent to cancel will be considered for calculating the cancellation fees.
- Amendment in dates will be charged as per ongoing rates and any cancellation/rebooking charges.
- The cancellation amount is calculated based on the total booking amount and not on the advance deposited.
- No refunds in case of refusal to use a service/activity mentioned in the itinerary.
- All refunds will be transferred after deduction of bank charges.
GENERAL QUERIES
WHAT ARE THE MODES OF PAYMENT?
We accept wire transfers, debit/credit cards, and UPI payments. Please note that a 2% gateway fee is applicable for cards.
Can I customize the experiences I've seen on your website?
Yes, please feel free to reach out to us in case you want to get a customized itinerary according to your preferred destinations, accommodations, interests, and requirements. For e.g. number of days or friends and family members you want to travel with.
How far in advance do I need to book a safari?
While Ameliya’s travel advisors do their best to accommodate our guests’ last-minute needs and requests, we strongly advise booking as far ahead in advance as possible to ensure the availability of accommodations. The best thing to do is to get in touch with us as soon as you think of a safari experience, whether it is this year or the next. Here’s a general advisory that will help you with the decision-making process:
For Indian parks, we recommend at least 4 -12 months notice, especially for a tiger/snow leopard experience, but lower lead times are possible depending on the locations and activities. Parks in India are regulated by the government and each reserve has a cap on the number of vehicles that can enter the park. If tickets are sold out, we are unable to book the safaris.
For Africa, we recommend 6-10 months for the high season (June – October), and 2-4 months for the low season (November – April).
Is it safe to travel to Africa?
Despite most African stereotypes of a warn-torn, poverty-stricken continent, Africa is as safe as any other international travel destination. Just remember that African countries are poorer in contrast to first-world countries and therefore you should be conscious of flashing or leaving money & jewelry lying around.
Guests are advised to leave valuables in a safe or with the camp/lodge manager for safe-keeping. African people are very friendly, warm and hospitable and their guests will always feel safe in the care of the camp/lodge staff.
Their job is to ensure the safety and comfort of their clients at all times. Properties in Africa will always have an emergency/ evacuation plan if anything were to go wrong
Should I purchase travel health insurance?
We strongly recommend that our travellers buy comprehensive travel and health insurance prior to coming on an Ameliya Safari experience. Should you require any assistance with purchasing such policies, our travel advisors will be happy to assist you.
Visa & Vaccination
A valid passport with a minimum six months of validity is mandatory. Single entry tourist visas are available without difficulty. Multiple-entry tourist visas are difficult to obtain. You will need a valid Yellow Fever Certificate to enter Uganda and Rwanda. If you require a visa, you will need to show your Yellow Fever certificate during the visa application process.
Is there Wi-Fi available?
All of our camps do have basic Wi-Fi available in certain areas.
It is important to note that while wifi is available, it is more than likely not at the same fast speeds that you may be used to, but sufficient for checking emails and keeping in touch with home.
What does a typical day look like on safari?
Your mornings will begin with a wake up call before sunrise – classic for any safari experience. Once you are fresh and ready, you will be met by your guide for a briefing over a hot cup of coffee, and a light breakfast, before you head out. The crisp and cool air of the early morning will flow through you as you drive into the bush, the sun coming up from the horizon, casting a godly glow on the savannah and the everything around you coming to life – Africa in all its glory.
During the safaris, you will learn how to identify and track different species of animals, learn their behavior and best ways to observe/photograph them, conservation communities that live in the area, and much more.
After the morning safari, you have some time to unwind, enjoy the bush library, get a massage, or just take in the sights and smells of Africa from your deck.
In the evening you will head out for another game drive, and have an iconic African sundowner. In most locations, we drive back after the sunset for a night safari experience looking out for nocturnal creatures.
Back at camp, a hot fire awaits along with drinks and a three course meal.
What to pack on safaris in africa
Safari Shirts x 3
T-shirts × 3
Pants x 3
Shorts x 2
Rain Coat x 1
Warm Jacket × 1
Light Sweater × 1
Light Safari Boots x 1
Room Slippers x 1
Undergarments / socks
Cap, Hat, Sunglasses, Sunscreen
Personal Medication & Toiletries
Personal electronics, camera equipment, binoculars etc.
Mornings and evenings can be cold while afternoons will be warm and sometimes rainy. We recommend carrying a comfortable jacket and raincoat.
Please wear neutral colors in the bsuh: black, navy blue, khaki, green, beige, grey etc. Please avoid bright colors. Please also avoid strong perfumes.
Please carry comfortable shoes/boots that you can walk in.
National Parks vs Private game reserves/Concessions/ Conservancies.
- Africa, unlike India, has many great private game reserves and private concessions. Parks in Africa are pretty large so sections of these parks are given to private companies or communities.
- All areas offer good wildlife experiences but private concessions & conservancies offer greater exclusivity, less crowd, off-roading, and even night safaris. For this reason, camps located in these areas are often more costly.
Weather
The Equatorial climate of Uganda and Rwanda is a major attraction with temperatures on the plains ranging between a very agreeable 21°C and 30°C. The climate does not change much, meaning both countries are ideal holiday destinations throughout the year.
In the mountainous areas it is colder than on the plains (especially at night) and the rainfall is greater. Temperatures in the mountainous areas can go down as low as 10°C in certain months.
The rainy seasons tend to be from March to April and October to November, but this varies and it can rain any time of year, especially in the gorilla park areas. Travel can be slower in the rainy season but the views are often better as the rain clears the air of dust.
Gorilla tracking can be muddier during the rainy season but with the right equipment and a helpful porter to guide you, gorilla tracking still remains open to visitors.
Our advice is to travel when it is most convenient for you. Visitors generally agree that the rain, which is usually just for short periods of time, is part of the great travel experience.
EQUIPMENT FOR GORILLA AND CHIMPANZEE TRACKING
We recommend the following clothing and equipment for tracking the gorillas and the chimpanzees:
- Warm ‘moisture-wicking’ clothes, including a fleece or light wool sweater, lightweight wool socks and a long-sleeved shirt
- Strong waterproof walking boots (comfortable for going up and down steep hills)
- Sturdy walking trousers
- A breathable lightweight rain poncho or ‘parka’ with a rain hat
- Gloves to grip vegetation (inexpensive gardening gloves work well)
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and sun hat
- Torch
- A good supply of rechargeable camera batteries and/or fast film
- Binoculars
- A small backpack to carry water and a packed lunch
- Walking stick
- Tips or gratuities for the guides and porters
It is best to wear layers of clothing as temperatures fluctuate. Early mornings in the mountains can be cold, although as the sun rises in the sky, and you climb, you will start to feel the heat. It rains often, generally in the afternoons.
The ranger guides will make you a walking stick if needed, or you can borrow one from your lodge. You will find the walking sticks come in very useful when climbing up and down slippery slopes.