UGANDA • SEPTEMBER 23-30, 2024

Roughly 1,063 mountain gorillas exist in the wild. That’s it.

And out of the 195 countries in the world today, mountain gorillas can only be found in these three: Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The DRC is sketchy, super sketchy (even by Seasick standards), so for most people, visiting that area is not a viable option. That leaves Rwanda and Uganda. Both destinations are relatively safe, have stunning scenery, and offer great safari options. For gorilla encounters, Rwanda has an open environment which lends itself to less arduous treks, making it more accessible to the masses. Uganda, on the other hand, is more suited to the adventurous type due to its challenging terrain and thus is less frequented. Most travelers choose Rwanda, Seasick chose Uganda.

Why?

First, Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is home to the highest concentration of primates on Earth. Second, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park only receives around 20,000 tourists annually. That may sound like a lot, but it equates to only 55 people per day. Think about that for a second. Only 55 people in the entire national park. And finally (and most importantly), Uganda offers a very unique trekking permit which Rwanda does not. The standard trekking permit in both countries allows for one hour of “interaction” with the gorillas. Once a troop (gorilla family) is found, the trekkers can be present for only 60 minutes. No way Jose. That’s not nearly enough face time after flying half-way around the world (literally), hiking for hours in the jungle, and spending a small fortune. Uganda’s special permit, however, allows for four hours of interaction and is limited to only four people per day. To reiterate, only one country in the world sells this special permit and limits it to four permits per day. Only four people out of 7,888,000,000 worldwide! That’s bananas.

Seasick secured these special Ugandan permits (drop the mic).

Sold? Not yet? OK, here is some additional tantalizing information about this custom extreme adventure: small group with only eight guests, two nights at a private island lodge situated mid-stream within the mighty Nile River, white-water rafting on the Nile River, three nights in a mountain jungle lodge located at 7,000' elevation, one day special gorilla trekking permit, one day standard gorilla trekking permit, one day Golden monkey trekking permit, and a couple of nights at the head and tail of the trip to rest.

Baby Kong awaits.

AFRICA

Considered by many scientists to be the origin of mankind, Africa is sometimes nicknamed the Mother Continent. Africa is the world's second largest and second most-populous continent (behind Asia in both categories). It covers about one-fifth of the total land surface of Earth, and it is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Atlantic Ocean. It is divided in half almost equally by the equator. It is made up of 54 fully recognized sovereign states (countries), nine territories and two de facto independent states. The African continent has approximately 3,000 distinct ethnic groups, and around 2,000 different languages are spoken in Africa.

Africa also boasts of the best flora and fauna in the world. It is best known for the enormous diversity and richness of its wildlife with wild populations of large carnivores (such as lions, hyenas, and cheetahs) and herbivores (such as buffalo, elephants, camels, and giraffes) ranging freely on primarily open non-private plains. It is also home to a variety of "jungle" animals, including snakes and primates and aquatic life such as crocodiles and amphibians. What does that all mean? It means that Africa has the largest number of megafauna (large or giant animals) species of any continent. Africa has over 3,000 protected areas, with 198 marine protected areas, 50 biosphere reserves, and 80 wetlands reserves.

UGANDA

Uganda is a landlocked country geographically located in East-Central Africa, west of Kenya and east of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is also bordered to the north by South Sudan, to the south-west by Rwanda, and to the south by Tanzania. Collectively, these countries comprise a region that is often considered the safari capital of the world. Uganda is in the African Great Lakes region and is home to Lake Victoria (shared with Kenya and Tanzania). Due to the fertile soils and regular rainfall in the South, several large and notable kingdoms formed there. These kingdoms include Buganda (which is where the name came from), Muslim traders from Egypt, and Swahili merchants from the Indian Ocean, all of which became the genesis for today’s incredibly diverse ethnic population. It is also important to note that Uganda not only lies within the Nile basin but is actually the source of the Nile river, amazing huh.

Fun facts about Uganda (TheFactFile and Wikipedia 2022):

• Until 1,700 to 2,300 years ago, the people of Uganda were hunter-gatherers.
• Uganda is ethnically and culturally a diverse country. If two people were randomly picked, they would likely be of different ethnicity.
• Sir Winston Churchill called Uganda “the Pearl of Africa”. He visited the country when it was under the British rule.
• Almost half of the country’s population is under the age of 14, which makes it one of the youngest countries in the world.
• In Uganda, motorcycles are used as taxis (locally known as “boda-boda“), however they are dangerous and are not recommended for tourists.
• Agriculture is an important part of the country’s economy as it employs the majority of the Ugandans (almost 1/3rd).
• Uganda welcomes over 800,000 tourists each year.
• Uganda is under the rule of one and the same president — Yoweri Museveni – since 1986.
• The United States of America is almost 41 times larger than Uganda (Uganda is about the same size as the state of Oregon or Great Britain).
• Large families are preferred in Uganda.
• Uganda has one of the world’s highest fertility rate at 5.8 children per woman.
• Uganda is famous for its coffee.
• The first post-independence election in Uganda was held in 1962.
• Uganda is believed to have the potential to feed all of Africa if it was commercially and sensibly farmed.
• The Nile River originates in Lake Victoria, Uganda and passes through Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Sudan and Egypt.

Official Name: Republic of Uganda • Continent: Africa • Capital City: Kampala • Land Area: 93,065 sq mi • Population: 46,205,000 (2022) • Time: UTC+3 • Industries: Tourism, Steel, Agriculture, Fishing • Official Currency: Ugandan schilling (UGX) • Electricity: 240V • Official Languages: Swahili and English • Spoken Languages: 70+ • Religion: Christian (83%) and Islam (14%) • Driving Side: Left (good luck)

WEATHER AND CLIMATE

Uganda lies on the elevated basin which rises between the eastern and western branches of the Great Rift Valley. Most of the country is over 3,300' in altitude and topography is generally flat as you move west to east. The most mountainous part of Uganda is the Kigezi region in the southwest (where Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge is located). North of Kigezi, on the Congolese border, the Rwenzori Mountains form the highest mountain range in Africa with Margherita Peak (16,750'), being the third highest peak in Africa after Mount Kenya and Mount Kilimanjaro.

In general Uganda is a wet country. Some areas consist of a wet season which lasts over eight months.

Per the Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge website: From July to December (and considering the “October to December short rains”), these months are mostly dry and sunny. July to September offers the most pleasant weather in East Africa for all activities including gorilla trekking. Mild temperatures and classic dry-season game viewing make these months a popular time to visit East Africa and go into the rainforest jungle to track the gentle mountain giants. Visitor numbers peak in August. Bwindi has a wet, yet mild, climate. Temperatures remain consistent year-long due to its short distance from the equator. Daytime temperatures of around 73°F are usual, with a significant drop at night to around 52°F. Remember, this is a rainforest, and it could rain any time even during the dry seasons. Bwindi receives a lot of rain throughout the year. The months of June and July receive the least rain. From March to May and October to November the rainfall is highest.

SEPTEMBER AVERAGES

Entebbe (international airport and transit hotel) - Temp: 71°F • High Temp: 78°F • Low Temp: 66°F • Daylight Hours: 12 • Number of Rainy Days: 19 • Rain Total: 4.0 in
The climate in Entebbe is warm, muggy, and overcast. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 65°F to 81°F and is rarely below 63°F or above 85°F. In reference to cloud coverage, the clearer part of the year in Jinja begins in June and lasts until the end of September. The wet season in Entebbe lasts 8.8 months, from late August to the end of May.

Jinja (Lemala Wildwaters) - Temp: 70°F • High Temp: 79°F • Low Temp: 63°F • Daylight Hours: 12 • Number of Rainy Days: 20 • Rain Total: 4.7 in
The climate in Jinja is warm, muggy, and overcast. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 63°F to 83°F and is rarely below 61°F or above 89°F. In reference to cloud coverage, the clearer part of the year in Jinja begins in June and lasts until the end of September. The wet season in Jinja lasts 8.3 months, from late November to mid-March.

Kisoro (Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge) - Temp: 65°F • High Temp: 74°F • Low Temp: 57°F • Daylight Hours: 12 • Number of Rainy Days: 12 • Rain Total: 2.9 in
The climate in Kisoro is comfortable and overcast. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 57°F to 75°F and is rarely below 55°F or above 80°F. In reference to cloud coverage, the clearer part of the year in Kisoro begins in June and lasts until mid-September.

ROUTE AND MODES OF TRANSPORT

1. International commercial flight: U.S. or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), Kenya to Entebbe International Airport (EBB). Duration varies. Not included in Seasick package
1→2. One-way domestic commercial flight: Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to Kisoro Airport. 55min
2→3. One-way domestic commercial flight: Kisoro Airport to Entebbe International Airport (EBB). 55min
3→4. One-way land transfer: Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to Lemala Wildwaters Lodge. 3hr
4→5. One-way land transfer: Lemala Wildwaters Lodge to Entebbe International Airport (EBB). 3hr
5. International commercial flight: Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to U.S. or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Tanzania. Duration varies. Not included in Seasick package

PROTEA HOTEL ENTEBBE

The 4-star resort hotel (Uganda standards) is positioned on the shores of Lake Victoria and is adjacent to the Entebbe International Airport. The property was chosen due to its proximity to the airport (and the fact that Uganda’s Entebbe luxury hotel market is essentially non-existent), and thus will be used simply as a transit hotel. With clean comfortable beds and a restaurant that receives positives reviews, the Protea Hotel Entebbe will be a great place to rest, relax and regroup. The property is operated by the South-African based Protea Hotels Group and owned by the Marriott Hotels chain.

Year Built: 2007 • Number of Rooms + Suites: 86 • Pool: Outdoor • Spa: Yes • Fitness Center: Yes • Shuttle: NA • Onsite Dining: Tides Restaurant (breakfast, lunch, dinner) • Bar: Yes • WiFi: Included

PROTEA HOTEL ENTEBBE ACCOMMODATIONS

DELUXE LAKE VICTORIA VIEW ROOM: 1 KING BED OR 2 TWIN BEDS
These upgraded rooms average 269 sq. ft. and feature a private balcony overlooking Lake Victoria.

BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK (NKURINGO BWINDI GORILLA LODGE)

Unspoiled and untamed, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the world's last remaining intact ecosystems. The ancient rainforest spreads across steep ridges and valleys, forming a protective habitat for mountain gorillas, the region's main tourist attraction. Home to 459 mountain gorillas (about half of the world's mountain gorilla population), the area represents a conservation frontline. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is a biodiversity hot spot with a significant number of flora and fauna, including one of the richest mammalian assemblages in Africa. The park is subdivided into four sectors: Nkuringo (south), Rushaga (south), Buhoma (north), and Ruhija (northeast) with independent visitor centers for access to the park activities. From the Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge (Seasick accommodations), it is a 10-minute walk to the visitor center at Nkuringo and a 45-minute drive to Rushaga.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Stats: 120 mammal species • 10 primate species • 348 bird species • 220 butterfly species • 51 reptile species • 1000+ flowing plant species • 163 tree species
Location: Southwestern Uganda • Nearest City • Kanungu • Land Area: 128 sq mi • Acres: 81,800 • Established: 1991 • Annual Visitors: 20,000 (averages only 55 per day)

NKURINGO BWINDI GORILLA LODGE

Established in 2007 as a campsite, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge (NBGL) sits at over 7,000' on the southern edge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The result — stunning views across the rugged rift valley landscape and the entire Virunga Volcanoes chain. Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge has won the World Travel Awards “Leading Safari Lodge in Uganda” award not once, not twice, but seven times. And it’s not just the location that makes the lodge an excellent base for mountain gorilla trekking. The staff and accommodations play a large part in the property’s success. The safari lodge has three Two-bedroom Family Villas, four Luxury Forest Suites (Seasick reserved these), six Garden Cottages, and five Standard Garden Cottages, all of which reside above the forest canopy and into the lush ridge slopes. Locally sourced decor, African-styled furnishings, and wood fireplaces (for cold evenings) grace the expansive rooms. Light fills the cottage spaces through glass window walls, and spacious private viewing decks provide mesmerizing views of the uncharted rural landscape. At the highest point on the property sits the grand reception building which houses the dining, lounge, and bar spaces and feature 360-degree views. Imagine the sunrise over the misty jungle, the ever-changing Virunga views, and the sunset across the Albertine rift.

Number of Units: 18 • Spa: Yes • Camp Fire: Yes • Onsite Dining: Fully Inclusive Indoor + Outdoor Facilities • Bar: Fully Inclusive* • Electricity: 24hrs • Laundry: Included • WiFi: Included • Butler Service: Yes

NKURINGO BWINDI GORILLA LODGE ACCOMMODATIONS

LUXURY FOREST SUITES (KING OR DOUBLE ROOM)
The four luxurious forest suites are 1,050 sq. ft. and located on the hillside overlooking the jungle canopy. Each suite is individually built with volcano stone and crafted by local artisans with reusable material. The spacious bathrooms are fitted with elegant bathtubs strategically positioned for incredible views. Guests will appreciate the African decor, custom furniture, large fireplace, and private outdoor sitting area. Butler service is included with each suite.

MOUNTAIN GORILLAS

There's something unquestioningly fascinating about the great apes of tropical Africa. A visitor gets to appreciate the combination of remarkable strength with profound gentleness, the depth of primitive social bonds, living in harmony with their environment, vulnerability, and struggle to survive. There is no doubt that gorilla tracking has contributed immensely to the survival of these magnificent primates. And the experience of watching the mountain gorillas on these trekking excursions is endearing and incredibly intense; that's why it has become a “dream encounter” on African safaris.

Ten facts about mountain gorillas (World Wildlife Fund 2022):

1. Around 1,063 exist in the wild
There are two gorilla species in the world: the eastern gorilla and the western gorilla. The mountain gorilla is a subspecies of the eastern gorilla. Mountain gorillas are endangered - there are an estimated 1,063 in the wild according to the latest census results (which come out every 5-10 years). 

2. They live in two isolated groups
Mountain gorillas live in east-central Africa in just two isolated groups – one in the Virunga Volcanoes (a region spanning 3 national parks in Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo aka DRC) and one in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda, which connects to Sarambwe Nature Reserve, DRC. They’re found in high altitude bamboo forests and moist woodlands, which are surrounded by agriculture and settlements. 

3. Humans share around 98% of their DNA with gorillas
This means that exposure to human illnesses (even a cold) can have potentially detrimental impacts on gorillas as they are so genetically similar to humans but haven't developed the necessary immunities. 

4. They are one of the biggest, most powerful living primates
An average silverback gorilla can weigh up to 400 lbs, and measure over 5'5" tall on all fours. In contrast, female mountain gorillas weigh 200 lbs., and measure up to 4'9".

5. They can eat all day long
Mountain gorillas spend about a quarter of their day eating, mainly plants. Around 85% of their diet is made up of leaves, shoots and stems, but gorillas can also eat larvae, snails, ants, and even roots, barks and rotting wood (a good source of sodium/salt).

6. They cozy up at night
At night, mountain gorilla groups sleep together in nests on the ground, or in trees, that they make from foliage. Infants will share their mother’s nests, staying safe and warm.  

7. They have 16 different types of call
This includes short barks when they’re mildly alarmed or curious. To intimidate rivals, male gorillas strut with stiff legs, beat their chests, and use vocalizations like roars or hoots. 

8. They live in family groups
Most mountain gorillas live in stable family groups of around 10 individuals, with one dominant male and several females. Both males and females in the group care for their infants; hugging, carrying and playing with them. When they get older, most males and around 60% of females then leave their birth group to join another troop. This helps prevent inbreeding. 

9. In the wild, gorillas can live to over 40 years old
Gorillas are classed as infants until they reach around three-and-a-half years old, and adults from around 8 years. Males between 8-12 years are called 'blackbacks'. Then from 12 years old, they develop a silver section of hair over their back and hips, earning them the name 'silverback'.  

10. They are under threat
The main threat to mountain gorillas is the degradation of their habitat. As the region’s population grows, the land is increasingly converted for agriculture and competition for limited natural resources leads to deforestation. With little other choice, people enter mountain gorilla forests to collect water and firewood, putting gorillas at risk from human contact and illnesses. People may also lay snares intended for bushmeat, which can accidentally injure the great apes. Gorillas don’t just stay in their forests. They venture onto farmland to eat crops like maize and bananas, which can cause conflict with people who need to make a living. Gorilla tourism that isn’t well managed is another potential issue, as it can impact the behavior and health of mountain gorillas. 

GORILLA TREKKING

Uganda offers two distinctive gorilla tour experiences. The standard guided gorilla trekking excursion is the most popular and allows visitors to spend one hour with a fully human-habituated gorilla troop. The alternative is the Gorilla Habituation Experience (Seasick refers to this experience/permit as “special”), allowing visitors to spend four hours with a semi-habituated (wild) gorilla troop in the company of researchers and rangers. Each tour requires booking a permit that comes with tracking and guide services. The Seasick package includes both gorilla tour experiences.

Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge provides a prime access point to the world-renowned Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to the iconic mountain giants, the elusive mountain gorillas. The lodge basically sits on the south-west buffer zone of the park and the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) trail head is within a 5-minute walk. This section of the forest is home to 3 habituated families (24 standard permits issued per day) that can be tracked from Nkuringo trail head and the Rushaga trail head with 6 habituated families and 2 under habituation (48 standard permits and 4 “special” habituation permits issued per day); the drive from the lodge to Rushaga trail head is approximately 60 minutes.

On the morning of each trek, a park warden will brief trekkers about the basic rules that must be observed during the trek and in the presence of gorillas. They will then assign the trekkers (groups of four or eight based on permit type), two armed rangers, and a tracker guide based on the number of gorilla families in the area. Seasick has hired local porters who will carry guests’ pack and provide a helping hand (literally). The trek to the gorillas is tough, steep and muddy terrain, humid and dense forest, and heavy high-altitude air. Porters are saviors when a guest starts struggling.

Up, down, near, far. The assigned gorilla troop could be anywhere, as in a 16 square mile area. So, the time it takes to reach the troop can be anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours; it is completely unpredictable. Each group’s guide will be cutting through impenetrable vines and bushes with a sharp-edged machete to create a path while following GPS coordinates on a walkie-talkie with other rangers. When the dark-furred apes are finally found, they're usually taking their mid-morning foraging break and lounging in an area as big as half a football field.

The rangers and guides will select an ideal position to watch and take photos of the troop without upsetting the silverback (the big boss man). One prized hour will be spent silently observing the troop. The minimum allowable distance from guest to gorilla is 32', but there's no guarantee that the gorillas will abide by that safe-distance rule. If this happens, guests will follow the guide's instructions (and not panic).

Guests will witness the gorilla’s social characters and intimate connection with nature. They groom each other, have light moments, macho moments, fornicate, fart, and the young ones get homeschooled in everything instinctual. One hour will seem like 10 minutes. When the party’s over the guide will lead the group out of the 25,000-year old Eden.

JINGA (LEMALA WILDWATERS LODGE)

Located on the northern shores of Lake Victoria, Jinja is Uganda’s second biggest city (the capital of Kampala is first). The city and its surrounding area are considered the adrenaline capital of East Africa. The Nile River offers a host of activities and day tours including kayaking, river safaris, river rafting, fishing, tubing the Nile, bungee jumping, water skiing, and canoeing. Bird watching, ATV safaris, rock climbing and horseback riding are also popular. River rafters can tackle ‘wild or mild’ courses, taking class 5 rapids (perilous to say the least) or more relaxed family-friendly affairs where guests sit back and bask as guides take over. Kayakers can choose between an exciting full-day white-water rapids tour (yeah right) or a chill cruise drifting among the tropical islands on a calm section of the famous White Nile.

Location: 50 mi east of Kampala • Region: Eastern • Land Area: 260 sq mi • Established: 1901 (British settlers) • Population: 300,000 • Elevation: 3,950' • Spoken Languages: Soga (Lusoga) and English

LEMALA WILDWATERS LODGE

Beach front, lakefront, or even over-water bungalows — been there, done that? No worries because here is something fresh. Lemala Wildwaters Lodge is uniquely situated on a private 15-acre island mid-stream within the mighty Nile River. Not “near the river”. Not “along the river”. Lemala Wildwaters Lodge is built “in the middle of the Nile River”. Crazy! Completely reimagined and renovated in 2021, it’s in a sublime location and can only be reached by boat which makes it a very adventurous place to stay. The property is perched on granite rocks with dramatic and exciting rapids roaring all around. Lemala Wildwaters Lodge is also a perfect platform for viewing some of the 1000+ bird species that Uganda is so famous for – from turacos and cuckoos to hawks and eagles.

There are also delicious sunrise breakfasts, candle-lit three-course dinners, and a lovely swimming pool cantilevered above the river in the attractive main communal lodge area.

Number of Suites: 10 • Pool: Outdoor • Massages: Yes • Onsite Dining: Fully Inclusive Indoor + Outdoor Facilities • Bar: Fully Inclusive* • Electricity: 24hrs • Laundry: Included • WiFi: Included

LEMALA WILDWATERS LODGE ACCOMMODATIONS

RIVER SUITE: 1 KING BED OR 2 TWIN BEDS
Each of the ten secluded river suites are nestled in the rainforest with amazing river views. The suites feature glass-fronted windows, locally handmade furniture, stylish bathrooms with rain showers, wooden decks with daybeds, and free-standing open-air bathtubs. The standalone units offer 990 sq. ft. of living space and are linked by raised wooden walkways to the restaurant, bar and library.

WHAT MAY BE SEEN IN UGANDA

SAMPLE ITINERARY

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 (OPTIONAL)
PRE-SAFARI DAY: ENTEBBE
• Arrive Entebbe International Airport (EBB) via USA or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), Kenya (Individual commercial flights. Carriers and times vary)
• On arrival at Entebbe International Airport (EBB), guests will be met and transferred to Protea Hotel Entebbe
• Free day. No group activities scheduled
• Protea Hotel Entebbe overnight
• Seasick package includes: September 22 Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to Protea Hotel Entebbe transfer
• Seasick package does not include: September 22 Protea Hotel Entebbe overnight or meals
• Seasick package officially starts on September 23
• Kenya Guests (September 14-22): Seasick package includes Entebbe International Airport (EBB) transfers and Protea Hotel Entebbe hotel night on September 22

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23
DAY 1: ENTEBBE
• Arrive Entebbe International Airport (EBB) via USA (Individual commercial flights. Carriers and times vary)
• On arrival at Entebbe International Airport (EBB), guests will be met and transferred to Protea Hotel Entebbe
• Free day. No group activities scheduled
• Protea Hotel Entebbe overnight (1 of 1)
• Dinner included
• Night 1

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24
DAY 2: ENTEBBE, MGAHINGA NATIONAL PARK, AND BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK
• Transfer Protea Hotel Entebbe to Entebbe International Airport (EBB)
• Depart Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to Kisoro Airport
• Transfer Kisoro Airport to Mgahinga National Park (45min)
• Golden Monkey standard trek
• Transfer Mgahinga National Park to Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge (2hr)
• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge overnight (1 of 3)
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included
• Night 2

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25
DAY 3: BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK
• Mountain Gorilla standard trek (8 trekkers: 4 Seasick guests + 4 non Seasick guests)
• Mountain Gorilla habituation trek (4 trekkers: 4 Seasick guests)
• Late afternoon community walk
• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge overnight (2 of 3)
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included
• Night 3

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26
DAY 4: BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK
• Mountain Gorilla standard trek (8 trekkers: 4 Seasick guests + 4 non Seasick guests)
• Mountain Gorilla habituation trek (4 trekkers: 4 Seasick guests)
• Late afternoon community walk
• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge overnight (3 of 3)
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included
• Night 4

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27
DAY 5: BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK, ENTEBBE, AND WILDWATERS RESERVE
• Transfer Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge to Kisoro Airport (1hr 30min)
• Depart Kisoro Airport to Entebbe International Airport (EBB)
• Transfer Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to Lemala Wildwaters Lodge (3hr)
• Free day. No group activities scheduled
• Lemala Wildwaters Lodge overnight (1 of 2)
• Dinner included
• Night 5

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28
DAY 6: JINJA AND WILDWATERS RESERVE
• Morning river rafting
• Nile River sunset cruise
• Lemala Wildwaters Lodge overnight (2 of 2)
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included
• Night 6

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
DAY 7: JINJA, WILDWATERS RESERVE AND ENTEBBE
• Morning ATV safari
• Transfer Lemala Wildwaters Lodge to Protea Hotel Entebbe (3hr)
• Protea Hotel Entebbe overnight (1 of 1)
• Breakfast and Lunch included. Dinner on own
• Night 7

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
DAY 8: ENTEBBE
• Transfer Protea Hotel Entebbe to Entebbe International Airport (EBB)
• Depart Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to USA or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Tanzania (Individual commercial flights. Carriers and times vary)
• Breakfast included

PACKAGE INCLUDES

*Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge and Lemala Wildwaters Lodge include house wines + spirits, local beers, soft drinks, juices, water. Premium brands not included.

FLIGHTS

SAMPLE ITINERARY AS OF JANUARY 20, 2024

LOS ANGELES - ENTEBBE
DEPARTING: FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 • RETURNING: MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
ESTIMATED COST: $1,940

NAIROBI - ENTEBBE*
*GUESTS ON SEASICK KENYA ADVENTURE
DEPARTING: SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22
ESTIMATED COST: $240

ENTEBBE - KILIMANJARO*
*GUESTS ON SEASICK TANZANIA ADVENTURE
DEPARTING: MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
ESTIMATED COST: $200

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

DEFINITIONS: “Company” is defined as Underwater Exposures, Inc. dba Seasick Productions, incorporated in terms of the laws of California, United States of America. "Company Affiliated Parties" is defined as the Company, its directors, members, partners, employees, agents, consultants, suppliers, and contractors. “Guest” is defined as any person or persons placing a booking (whether provisional or confirmed) with the Company and who contracts with the Company for any of the Services together with his/her spouse, dependents and companions. “Services” is defined as the provision of accommodation, transport, transfers, scuba diving and snorkeling activities, tours or any other activities or services provided by the Company and the procurement by the Company of the provision of accommodation, transport, transfers, scuba diving and snorkeling activities, tours or any other activities or services by any Third-Party Contractors.

GENERAL: Price based on double occupancy group rate. Single supplement, extensions, additional services, and all other items not listed in itinerary are not included. All prices subject to change without notice. A $3,000.00 deposit per person is required with each Guest reservation. Company reserves the right, without advance notice, to make changes or cancellations, in part or in whole, as circumstances dictate. Any deposit or payment made to Company or any representative of Company shows acceptance and acknowledgement of the terms and conditions as stated herein.

CHANGES TO RESERVATIONS: Any request by Guest to amend or change a booking once it has been confirmed, may be accommodated by Company subject to availability. If Company is able to assist, a reasonable administrative fee may be charged. Any such administrative fees shall be invoiced to the Guest and must be settled as per the standard terms applicable to the booking. If the invoice is not paid within such time, Company may construe such non-payment as an act of cancellation on the part of the Guest and the provisions of the cancellation clause shall apply. All reservations, confirmed bookings, and Company’s services are non-transferable.

CANCELLATIONS TO RESERVATIONS: Refund (less cancellation fee) may be issued if reservation is cancelled four months prior to departure date and if another Guest can fill the vacancy. All authorized refunds will be assessed a $1000.00 cancellation fee. No refund or credit will be made for Services not utilized by Guest. No cancellations shall be accepted within 30 days of trip departure.

FORCE MAJEURE: “Force Majeure Event” is defined as any event which is beyond the control of the Company, including, but not limited to a national strike, act of war, armed conflict, insurrection, civil commotion, terrorism or the threat of terrorism; any act of God including but not limited to epidemic, pandemic, lightning, earthquake, flooding, fire, cyclone, hurricane, typhoon, tidal wave, storm, volcanic eruption and other unusual and extreme adverse weather or environmental conditions; any event which falls within any of these categories that is suffered by Third-Party Contractors of the Company, who are involved in the receipt or provision of the Services; and or any other cause or contingency beyond the control of the Company. The Company shall not be deemed to be in breach of any of its obligations to Guest due to any Force Majeure Event. If the Company is affected by a Force Majeure Event, it may in its sole and absolute discretion, amend or cancel any of the Services or the remainder thereof, or to make any alteration in route, accommodation, transportation or arrangement in the event of the Services or any part thereof being rendered impossible, illegal or inadvisable.

GUEST INSURANCE: If scuba diving is a Service used by Guest, Company requires Guest to possess a dive accident insurance policy prior to using any of Company’s Services. If scuba diving is not a Service used by Guest, Company requires Guest to possess an international accident and medical evacuation insurance policy prior to using any of Company’s Services. Information on dive accident insurance can be found at the Divers Alert Network’s website: www.diversalertnetwork.org. In addition, Company recommends trip insurance in the event a Guest must cancel the trip. Information on trip insurance can be found at the Divers Alert Network’s website: www.diversalertnetwork.org or the DiveAssure website: www.diveassure.com.

RESPONSIBILITY: Company acts only as agents for the Third-Party Contractors providing transportation, accommodations, diving and other Services. All tickets and vouchers issued constitute the sole contract between the Guest and Company. Company or its representatives shall not at any time be responsible in any way for loss, injury, or damage arising from any Force Majeure Event, act of government, theft, sickness, customs regulations, delay, cancellation error, or any cause beyond its control. Company or its representatives accepts no liability for the consequences of the personal activities of any Guest who is personally responsible for decisions concerning health, safety, fitness for diving and snorkeling, or any other circumstances beyond its control.