What is the Gorilla Friendly™️ Pledge, and how can I participate?
The Gorilla Friendly™️ Pledge offers visitors a chance to help protect mountain gorillas by committing to responsible trekking practices. This pledge promotes awareness of visitation guidelines that enhance your experience while safeguarding gorillas against disease and behavioral changes.
Initiated by the International Gorilla Conservation Programme (IGCP) in partnership with Conservation International, Fauna & Flora International, WWF, and the Wildlife Friendly Enterprise Network (WFEN), the Gorilla Friendly™️ Pledge is an online campaign that invites both trekkers and supporters to honor these guidelines. By taking the pledge, you’re joining a community dedicated to ethical gorilla tourism. You can also share feedback about your trek on the Gorilla Friendly™️ Pledge website to inspire future visitors.
What are the visa requirements for visiting Uganda and Rwanda?
To enter Uganda and Rwanda, a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity is required. Additionally, a valid Yellow Fever Certificate is mandatory for entry into both countries, and you may need to present this certificate during the visa application process.
Rwanda Tourist Visas
For those visiting Rwanda, single-entry visas are available both online and upon arrival. The current fee is USD 30, although new visa laws may soon adjust this to USD 50. An East African Tourist Visa—valid for 90 days and costing USD 100—is also available. This visa allows travel between Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya and can be applied for online or upon arrival. Note that the application should be made with the country of your first point of entry.
To get the latest information on Rwanda visas, please visit the Rwanda Immigration website or contact one of their diplomatic missions worldwide.
Uganda Tourist Visas
Nationals of the USA, the European Union, and Japan are required to apply for a Ugandan tourist visa, which costs USD 50 for a single entry (valid for 2 weeks to 3 months). Nationals from the East African Community, COMESA, and Ireland do not need a tourist visa to enter Uganda, but other visitors should check the Uganda Immigration website to confirm their visa requirements.
Applications for Ugandan visas can be made online, and visas are payable on arrival. For up-to-date details, contact a Ugandan diplomatic mission in your region.
Note: Immigration policies and visa costs are subject to change. For any questions on visas for Uganda and Rwanda, please feel free to reach out to us at Mucha Riverside Lodge:
Tel: +256 776 556 674
Email: info@muchalodges.com
What clothing should I pack for my stay in Uganda and Rwanda?
In Uganda and Rwanda, modest dressing is appreciated. While the plains can be warm or even hot, temperatures drop significantly in hilly and mountainous areas. If you’re staying at higher-altitude locations near Bwindi, layered clothing is essential. We recommend bringing:
- Lightweight layers for warmer days
- A rain jacket for sudden showers
- A heavy sweater for chilly evenings
- Sturdy boots for hiking
What should I know about electricity and charging at Mucha Riverside Lodge?
In Uganda, electricity is 240 volts, using 3-pin (square) sockets. At Mucha Riverside Lodge, we maintain a reliable power supply through a combination of solar, generator, and main electricity, ensuring consistent power throughout your stay. Charging facilities for phones and other devices are available in the main living area and in each banda.
We provide adaptors for guests’ convenience during their visit to our lodge. However, for added ease when visiting other locations within Uganda, we recommend bringing your own universal adaptor.
What equipment do I need for climbing the Rwenzori Mountains?
If you’re planning to hike the Rwenzori Mountains, we recommend bringing the following gear to ensure a safe and comfortable experience:
Clothing
- Mountain gloves or mittens, and overmitts for climbing; light gloves for camp use
- Hats for sun/rain protection; warm hat for high-altitude climbing
- Mountain jacket and rain gear
- Fleece jacket and sweater; moisture-wicking T-shirts and long-sleeve trekking shirts
- Hiking or climbing trousers; shorts for warmer conditions
- Lightweight long underwear for layering
Footwear
- Camp shoes or sandals for downtime
- Walking shoes (runners) for lighter trekking
- Gaiters (for both low and high altitudes)
- Mountain boots that can fit crampons for icy conditions
Equipment
- Climbing rope and harness
- Crampons and ice axe for glacier sections
- Carabiners and slings
- Day pack or climbing pack for essentials
- Tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping mat
- Waterproof sacks (such as Ortlieb bags) for packing your tent, climbing gear, sleeping bag, and clothes
Medical Supplies
- Malaria prophylaxis
- Diamox to aid acclimatization and reduce edema risk
- Non-prescription painkillers (e.g., Panadol); avoid aspirin
- Sleeping pills for altitude-related sleep issues
- Personal first aid kit
- Your regular medications
- Sunscreen (SPF 45 or 60) and dark sunglasses
What are the flight options to Mucha Riverside Lodge?
Mucha Riverside Lodge does not organize or sell international flights, but we’re happy to provide guidance on regional flight options and travel arrangements within Uganda.
International Flights to Uganda
Entebbe International Airport (EBB) is Uganda’s main international gateway, served by major airlines, including:
- Emirates
- Qatar Airways
- Turkish Airlines
- Brussels Airlines
- KLM
- Egyptair
- Ethiopian Airlines
- African Express
- Kenya Airways
Domestic Flights within Uganda
For guests traveling within Uganda, Aerolink offers daily flights from Entebbe to Kisoro, providing convenient access to Mucha Riverside Lodge. Fly Uganda also operates scheduled flights to various destinations, including Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, and Kidepo.
Flights within East Africa
Traveling between Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania is straightforward with flights offered by several regional airlines, including:
- Kenya Airways
- Regional Air
- Auric Air
- Coastal Aviation
- Air Kenya
- Safarilink
- Precision Air
- Uganda Airlines
- RwandAir
Important Travel Tips
While Mucha Riverside Lodge does not handle flight bookings, please ensure that your flight times align with the start and end of your stay to avoid scheduling conflicts. Airlines may also adjust routes or schedules, so we recommend checking directly with the airline for the latest information.
For further assistance or questions, feel free to contact us:
Tel: +256 776 556 674
Email: info@muchalodges.com
What equipment should I bring for gorilla and chimpanzee tracking?
For an enjoyable and safe tracking experience, we recommend bringing the following clothing and equipment:
Clothing
- Warm, moisture-wicking clothes, including a fleece or light wool sweater, lightweight wool socks, and a long-sleeved shirt
- Strong, waterproof walking boots that are comfortable for going up and down steep hills
- Sturdy walking trousers for rugged terrain
- A breathable, lightweight rain poncho or parka with a rain hat
- Gloves for gripping vegetation (inexpensive gardening gloves work well)
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a sun hat for sun protection
- Torch for early morning starts or evening walks
Additional Equipment
- A good supply of rechargeable camera batteries and/or fast film for capturing your wildlife moments
- Binoculars for better viewing of the gorillas or chimpanzees
- A small backpack to carry water, snacks, and a packed lunch
- A walking stick, which will be provided by the guides or available for borrowing at Mucha Riverside Lodge—these are especially helpful when climbing slippery slopes
- Tips or gratuities for the guides and porters, who provide invaluable assistance during your trek
It’s best to wear layers of clothing since temperatures fluctuate throughout the day. Early mornings in the mountains can be chilly, but as the sun rises and you begin your climb, the temperatures may rise. Afternoon rain showers are common, so being prepared with waterproof gear is essential.
If you need a walking stick, the ranger guides will provide one for you, or you can borrow one from the lodge.
For any questions or assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us:
Tel: +256 776 556 674
Email: info@muchalodges.com
What are the gratuity recommendations at Mucha Riverside Lodge?
There are no set percentages for tips or gratuities, as local culture emphasizes that the level of tipping should be at the discretion of the client. Any token of appreciation is always warmly received. Here are our suggestions:
- Restaurants: 3-5% of the bill
- Lodge staff: US$5 per person per day
- Guides / drivers: US$5 per day per person
- Community walk guide / Batwa guide: US$5 per person
- Kazinga Channel boat trip staff: US$5 per person
- Gorilla tracking guides: US$5-10 per person per day for the main guide, with a smaller amount for the rangers
- Gorilla tracking porters: US$15 per person per day in both Uganda and Rwanda
- Intore dancers at Virunga Lodge: US$5 per person
- Batwa dancers at Mount Gahinga: US$5 per person
- Lodge baggage porters: US$1-2 per person
These are just guidelines, and tips can be adjusted based on the level of service and your satisfaction.
What health and medical considerations should I be aware of when visiting Uganda and Rwanda?
Before traveling, it’s recommended that you seek medical advice to ensure you’re prepared for your trip. Be sure to inquire about any vaccinations that may be required for your visit.
Currently, both Uganda and Rwanda require all visitors to present a valid Yellow Fever Certificate upon arrival, which is also necessary for the online visa application process for both countries. Make sure you have this document before you travel.
- In the UK, you can consult MASTA (The Medical Advisory Service for Travellers Abroad) at +44 9068 224100 or online at masta-travel-health.com.
- In the USA, you can check with the CDC at www.cdc.gov.
It’s also important to bring a sufficient supply of any personal medications you may need. Anti-malaria tablets and mosquito repellent are essential for your health and comfort.
Remember to drink only bottled or boiled water, as water quality can vary. Medical services in Uganda and Rwanda, particularly in remote areas, are basic, so be sure your travel insurance covers both medical care and evacuation if necessary.
For the latest health and travel security information, don’t hesitate to reach out to our sales team.
Did you know? The risk of malaria can be significantly reduced by using insect repellent, sleeping under a treated mosquito net, and taking preventive medication.
Do I need insurance for my stay at Mucha Riverside Lodge?
Yes, it is a condition of booking that all guests must have adequate insurance for the duration of their stay at Mucha Riverside Lodge. You will be asked to provide proof of this insurance prior to your arrival.
Your insurance should cover a variety of potential risks, including medical emergencies, personal accidents, and trip cancellations. We recommend ensuring your policy covers activities such as trekking or any other adventure activities you plan to do while staying with us.
What security measures are in place at Mucha Riverside Lodge?
Uganda and Rwanda are generally safe countries to visit, but we recommend using common sense and taking the same basic safety and security precautions that you would in any other destination.
While the rooms at Mucha Riverside Lodge do not have safes, you can leave your valuable possessions with the lodge administration for safekeeping. We have a secure safe where your valuables, including travel documents, can be kept safe during your stay.
For your personal security, we also recommend:
- Avoid carrying excessive jewelry or large amounts of money and refrain from leaving valuables lying around.
- Do not walk unescorted at night. Staff at the lodge are always available to escort you if needed.
If you have any concerns or need further assistance, feel free to contact us:
Tel: +256 776 556 674
Email: info@muchalodges.com
Child Care Policies at Mucha Riverside Lodge
Mucha Riverside Lodge aims to provide a peaceful and comfortable environment for all guests. While we welcome families, there are certain guidelines regarding children and their stay at the lodge, particularly concerning activities like gorilla trekking.
- Children under 12 years old are not allowed to stay at the lodge.
- Children between 12 and 15 years are welcome, but they are not permitted to participate in gorilla trekking, as this activity is only available for guests 16 years and older. Children in this age group may remain at the lodge, provided they can take care of themselves during the trek.
- Child care services are not available at the lodge. Therefore, parents or guardians must ensure their children can manage independently or make alternative arrangements.
We want to ensure all our guests have a safe and enjoyable stay. If you have any questions or special requirements regarding your stay with children, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
What is the time difference in Uganda and Rwanda?
- Uganda is three hours ahead of GMT.
- Rwanda is two hours ahead of GMT.
Please keep this in mind when planning your activities or coordinating with local services. If you need assistance with time-related inquiries during your stay, feel free to contact us.
What is the telephone and internet situation at Mucha Riverside Lodge?
International telephone communication is generally reliable in cities like Kampala and Kigali, but it can be more challenging in remote areas such as Kisoro. The mobile telephone network is expanding rapidly, and most European or American mobile phones with a roaming agreement will work in both Uganda and Rwanda. Local SIM cards can be purchased easily upon presentation of your passport.
Internet facilities are widely available in major towns like Kisoro, but the quality and speed of the connection can vary. Free Wi-Fi is available at Mucha Riverside Lodge; however, due to our remote location, internet connectivity may be slower or less reliable.
What is the weather like at Mucha Riverside Lodge?
Uganda and Rwanda both enjoy an Equatorial climate, with temperatures on the plains ranging from a very pleasant 21°C to 30°C. This relatively stable climate makes both countries ideal holiday destinations throughout the year.
In the mountainous areas where Mucha Riverside Lodge is located, such as Kisoro, temperatures are generally cooler than on the plains, especially at night. Kisoro can experience temperatures as low as 10°C during certain months, particularly at higher altitudes. The region also experiences higher rainfall compared to the plains.
The rainy seasons typically occur from March to April and October to November, but rainfall can happen throughout the year, especially in the gorilla park areas. Travel may be slower during the rainy season, but the air is often clearer, offering better views. Gorilla trekking can be muddier during this time, but with proper gear and a helpful porter, the experience remains accessible to visitors.
Our advice is to travel when it’s most convenient for you. Many visitors find that short bursts of rain add to the charm of their experience, and the lush environment enhances the beauty of the area.
How do I get to Mucha Riverside Lodge?
From Kampala to Mucha Riverside Lodge (Bwindi-Kisoro Road, Kisoro, Uganda):
The drive from Kampala to Mucha Riverside Lodge takes approximately 8-9 hours by road. The route will take you through scenic landscapes and villages, offering a glimpse into the heart of Uganda. It’s a good idea to stop for breaks along the way, especially if you’re traveling for the first time.
From Kigali to Mucha Riverside Lodge:
If you’re coming from Kigali, the drive to Mucha Riverside Lodge takes about 4-5 hours. The journey is relatively straightforward, with stunning views of the countryside as you cross into Uganda from Rwanda. You’ll travel via the Gisoro border before heading to Kisoro.
By Air:
You can fly to Mucha Riverside Lodge by booking a flight with Aerolink from Entebbe to Kisoro, which operates daily flights. Upon arrival in Kisoro, the lodge is just a short drive away.
For more information or if you need assistance with your travel arrangements, feel free to contact us.
In case of emergency: Please call +256 776 556 674.
