Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda

Gorilla Trekking Tips

To visit the gorillas, you need to acquire gorilla trekking permits to visit their habitats in Uganda and Rwanda. These permits are critical for incentivizing conservation and supporting sustainable tourism. So plan ahead, because these permits are few and far between and very much sought after.
By buying permits you are directly contributing to wildlife conservation, anti-poaching initiatives and local community projects. It’s a guarantee that your visit has a real, positive impact on protecting endangered mountain gorillas.
Permits come in different varieties (standard trekking/ habituation permits), providing different experiences. Learn about each option to help you choose the one that’s right for you.
To avoid scams, ensure legitimacy, and make the process easier, book your permits through official authorities or licensed tour operators. This is a major reason why early bookings are very strongly advised, particularly during peak seasons.
Trekking conditions depend on the season. The dry season offers easier trails and better visibility, while the wet season provides fewer crowds and unique wildlife safaris. Select according to what you value most.
Both Uganda and Rwanda have their own special gorilla trekking experiences to share. Consider permit costs, terrain, accessibility, and cultural aspects to determine which destination matches your primary objectives most closely.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is by far the most great way to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitats. Along with spotting these magnificent creatures, you’ll get to hike through otherworldly, green rainforests. Experience dramatic landscapes such as Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.

Led by expert trackers and guides, you’ll trek along green trails covered in thick underbrush, bringing you face-to-face with magnificent gorilla families. It’s an experience that marries wildlife conservation with eco-tourism, positively impacting local communities and playing a part in the protection of these endangered species.

Every trek is led by park rangers, who not only keep everyone safe, but explain gorilla behavior and what to expect. Permits are strictly enforced and regulated, allowing for the management of visitor numbers while using permit fees to subsidize conservation initiatives. Distances and terrain can vary a lot, so a moderate level of fitness is suggested.

There’s no better or more unforgettable way to connect with nature than through exploring these parks.

What Are Gorilla Trekking Permits

Gorilla trekking permits are essential documents required for anyone wishing to visit the natural habitats of mountain gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda. These permits provide you with legal access to see these magnificent animals up close. They are important to conservation efforts and help create a better visitor experience.

Why Permits Are Required

Gorilla trekking permits are necessary to monitor and control the visitor quantity in easily disturbed ecosystems, where the presence of humans can directly impact gorilla living environments. They prevent gorillas from threats such as stress or disease from contact with humans.

Those fees go directly back into local conservation programs, anti-poaching efforts, and community development projects. Permits further ensure compliance with wildlife tourism best practices, creating a safe and respectful trekking experience.

How Permits Support Conservation

Permit money is directly reinvested in protecting gorillas and the environments they live in. For example, $800 in Uganda and $1,500 in Rwanda support initiatives such as habitat restoration and anti-poaching patrols.

Buying a permit directly supports local communities, giving them the economic incentive to protect these animals and their habitats.

Types of Gorilla Trekking Permits

There are two types: standard trekking permits, allowing one hour with gorillas, and habituation permits, which enable a four-hour, more engaging experience. Regular permits go for $700 for foreign non-residents in Uganda and habituation permits are more expensive because of their longer experience.

These permits are limited to parks such as Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

How To Get Gorilla Trekking Permits

Regardless of your choice, getting a gorilla trekking permit is an essential part of planning your dream trip to Uganda or Rwanda. These permits provide you access into the protected habitats of mountain gorillas, so you can experience the thrill of trekking in an appropriately organized, regulated and protected manner.

Read on as we demystify the process and break things down into manageable steps to help you secure your coveted permit with ease and confidence.

1. Booking Through Official Authorities

To ensure a legitimate and smooth process, it is recommended to book your gorilla trekking permits directly through official authorities. In Uganda, you will work closely with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

On the ground in Rwanda, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) controls the permits. Their official websites are the safest, most secure means of communicating, booking and making payment. Protect yourself by checking the authenticity of your permit by cross-referencing information with these authorities.

Payments are usually accepted via secure bank transfers or through government authorized payment platforms indicated on these respective sites.

2. Using Licensed Tour Operators

Using a licensed tour operator provides a reliable, stress-free option to ensure you receive your permit. Reputable operators like Gorilla Trek Africa and Primate Safaris specialize in gorilla trekking.

They tend to offer guided tours that can round out your more adventurous experience. These operators take care of logistics, from transportation to accommodation, making your planning seamless.

Reviews and testimonials are a window into their reliability and services, helping you to make the best informed choices. They will email you scanned copies of each permit receipt for confirmation, so you can be assured of transparency.

3. Online Booking Options

Online booking systems, particularly those available on platforms operated by UWA and RDB, create both efficiencies and considerable accessibility for booking permits. This is a tedious process and you must provide all your personal information as you go.

Then select your desired date of trekking and pay securely with your credit card through our payment portal. After we finalize your reservation, you’ll receive a stamped receipt or e-permit documentation.

Be sure to print it and save it for your records! To prevent being scammed, always ensure you verify the website’s authenticity and steer clear of third-party platforms that aren’t approved by official bodies.

4. Booking in Advance Tips

So, book your gorilla trekking permits as far in advance as you can! Demand increases dramatically during peak seasons from June to September and December to February.

A lead time of at least 2 to 3 months is advised, although some travelers book up to a year ahead to secure their preferred dates. So make sure to book as early as you can!

It allows you the freedom to pick from the best trekking destinations such as Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks in Uganda.

5. Handling Last Minute Permit Requests

For anyone who needs permits on short notice, that flexibility is essential. You can look at other trekking dates or even other countries where demand is not as high.

Here, local tour operators can be key in locating last-minute alternatives, using their relationships with park authorities to your advantage. It’s important to understand the dangers, like lack of availability or inflated pricing.

If your itinerary changes at the last minute, this method provides a user-friendly option for you to still take part in this one-of-a-kind experience.

Cost of Gorilla Trekking Permits

Gorilla trekking permits are the biggest expense for anyone trekking gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda. These permits are no small matter, as they not only provide you access to the protected habitats of mountain gorillas, they directly fund conservation efforts. Knowing what dictates the cost, what to expect, and whether the price will increase or decrease can help you plan your trip budget accordingly.

Country	Permit Cost (Foreign Non-Residents)	Permit Cost (Foreign Residents)	Permit Cost (East African Citizens)
Uganda	$700	$600	$70
Rwanda	$1500	$500	$200
Congo (reference)	$450	Not specified	Not specified

Permit Prices in Uganda

In Uganda, a gorilla trekking permit costs $700 for foreign non-residents, $600 for foreign residents, and $70 for East African citizens. These lower rates cater to the budgets of many travelers, making Uganda the more budget-friendly option than its neighbor Rwanda.

Extra costs, like park entry fees, might be incurred based on your tour operator. It is important to remember that any of these countries could announce price increases, so securing one’s permits at the earliest opportunity protects against future increases.

For budget travelers, a two-day Uganda gorilla tour will still run around $1400 per person.

Permit Prices in Rwanda

Cost of Gorilla Trekking Permits:Foreign non-residents $1500Foreign residents $500East African citizens $200

The increased cost underscores Rwanda’s focus on high-end tourism and a desire for exclusivity. This tourism strategy has resulted in Rwanda being a much more expensive destination for international travelers.

By contrast, Rwanda’s rates are much higher than Uganda and Congo. Sometimes, group discounts or special packages may provide little savings for travelers booking through specific suppliers.

Factors Influencing Permit Costs

There are a handful of things that influence gorilla trekking permit prices. Like any good travel industry, seasonality is a huge factor, with demand skyrocketing during peak months driving up prices.

Conservation funding is a key component in protecting endangered gorillas. Three-quarters of all permit fees collected directly fund ranger salaries, research, and habitat protection activities, making the high cost of permits justifiable.

15% of the income supports government projects, with local communities receiving 10%. Currency fluctuations further compound costs for international travelers, particularly when converting dollars to local currencies.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking

The timing significantly influences weather conditions, trail accessibility, gorilla visibility, and overall comfort, shaping how memorable your adventure will be.

Dry Season Advantages

The dry seasons, which stretch from June to September and December to February, offer the best overall conditions for trekking. The weather conditions mean trails are not as muddy and easier to navigate, making hiking more enjoyable.

Transparency across the canopy is improved with the reduced vegetation during these months, increasing the likelihood of observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. This milder weather makes the trekking conditions more amenable as opposed to the wet season.

These months also make up the peak season, creating additional demand for permits and accommodations. Booking at least 3-6 months ahead is required, especially during the peak months of June-August when permits are only 70% available. If you’re looking for more accessible gorilla groups or a less strenuous trek, this timeframe may not be best.

Wet Season Considerations

The two wet seasons, March to May and October to November, have disadvantages such as slippery trails and thicker vegetation. All of these factors contribute to a more strenuous trekking experience.

However, the rainy season has its own distinctive advantages. The greenery is stunning, and the parks are much quieter and less crowded with tourists. This provides a unique, close experience with nature.

Wildlife is more active during this time, and hotels typically drop their rates, making it a more budget-friendly option. While the trails are definitely more challenging, the peace and quietness, as well as the cheaper price, attract people who want a less congested, more spiritual trek.

Seasonal Permit Availability

Gorilla trekking permits are few and far between, booked months in advance, and very much in demand, particularly during the two peak dry seasons (June through August and around Christmas).

That’s why booking your permits months in advance is key to ensuring you get that experience. Shoulder seasons, like immediately after the rains, provide a happy medium of more favorable weather and fewer people competing for desired permits.

Since prices and availability change with seasonal patterns, early planning means a more enjoyable experience both in the field and in the planning stages. Peak season is definitely the most popular, but traveling off-peak will provide some flexibility and potential savings.

So do your homework when choosing your trekking dates to prevent being disappointed.

Top Locations for Gorilla Trekking

Experiencing gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is truly the opportunity of a lifetime to see these magnificent primates up close in the wild. Choosing the best park to trek in will be determined by your trekking preferences, with every location showcasing amazing landscapes, wildlife, and cultural experiences.

Here are the best parks for gorilla trekking, including what makes them unique and what you need to know.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi’s green rainforest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to over 400 plant species and a multitude of wildlife, including 120 mammal species.

Gorilla Families: The park is home to almost 50% of the planet’s mountain gorilla population, with 19 habituated families to choose from when trekking!

The park’s elevation ranges from 3,800 to 8,553 feet, offering challenging yet rewarding treks. Nearby communities, such as the Batwa, provide an interesting glimpse into local culture and history.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Nestled in-between three of the Virunga volcanoes, it is filled with stunning landscapes, amazing biodiversity, and unique ecosystems.

Golden Monkey Tracking: Unique to this park, it allows visitors to spot these rare primates. Mgahinga contributes significantly to preserving endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.

More adventurous trekkers will find more challenging trails, such as the Mount Sabinyo hike.

Volcanoes National Park

Known for its habituated gorilla groups, the park is a cornerstone of Rwandan tourism.

It’s fundamental to protecting mountain gorillas, strictly regulating tourism and allowing extensive research. The indigenous Batwa people offer insight into their ancient forest traditions here.

The park’s bamboo forests and alpine meadows further enhance the trekking experience.

Safety Guidelines for Gorilla Trekking

Responsible gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is an unforgettable adventure. You’ll get to experience up close one of nature’s most magnificent creatures. Yet, to protect both human and gorilla lives, we need to do better and follow these guidelines to the letter.

Below, we discuss the most important things to know about safety, preparation, and how to conduct yourself while on your trek.

Health Precautions Before Trekking

As you can see, preparing for gorilla trekking starts with knowing the health requirements. Vaccinations for yellow fever, tetanus, and hepatitis A are recommended, and COVID-19 protocols might still be in effect.

As trekking is often quite physically demanding with long hikes, participants must be healthy enough to manage the trek. If you are sick, you will not be permitted to attend. This, paired with the fact that gorillas are very susceptible to human illnesses, helps protect the gorillas themselves.

Travel insurance for adventure activities is a must, protecting you in case of unfortunate events like accidents or altitude sickness. This can make trekking in high-altitude areas such as Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park dangerous due to altitude sickness. Control those risk factors by acclimating gradually and drinking plenty of water.

Rules for Interacting with Gorillas

There are detailed rules that govern how visitors should interact with mountain gorillas, both for safe and respectful encounters. Keeping at least 23 feet away ensures that no stress or aggression is displayed.

No matter how inquisitive a gorilla becomes, if a silverback—a 397-pound leader of the group—takes control and shows his strength by beating his chest, rangers are on high alert. Don’t scare the gorillas by making loud noises or quick movements.

Please do not feed or touch them because human contact can expose them to dangerous human diseases. That’s why it’s so important to follow your guide’s instructions. They have the knowledge and experience to handle unexpected encounters and put both trekkers and animals to safety.

Staying Safe in the Forest

Dense forests and steep mountainous terrain can create hazards, but many can be prevented and easily prepared for. Waterproof, ankle-high hiking boots and long-sleeved clothes will be key for traversing rugged, bushy terrain.

Trekking trails can be muddy and slippery, particularly following rainfall, so it is important to stick close to your group and stay on marked paths. To wander off trail risks getting lost or having an undesired interaction with wildlife.

Weather in these mountainous areas can be unpredictable. A lightweight rain jacket or poncho will keep you dry when the skies open up. The safety records of Bwindi and Mgahinga Gorilla Parks for the last two decades underscore the efficacy of these precautions. It is important to remain vigilant.

Additional Safety Guidelines

Follow your guide’s instructions at all times.
Maintain an appropriate distance of at least 23 feet, even if gorillas are coming closer.
Don’t trek when you’re sick to ensure the safety of the gorillas.
Wear appropriate gear, including boots and rainproof clothing.
Stay with your group and avoid wandering off.
Be prepared for uneven terrain and sudden weather changes.
Be mindful of the 15-year age limit to keep gorillas safe from disease.

Preparing for Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda provides an great opportunity to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. With the right preparation, you can have a safe and immensely rewarding experience. This means being in good physical condition, having appropriate equipment, and knowing what you should expect in the wilderness you’ll be entering.

Fitness Requirements for Trekkers

Gorilla trekking is not extremely strenuous but does require moderate fitness levels. Trails can include a lot of steep elevation gain, challenging footpaths, and thick bush. Hikes can last anywhere from two hours to a full day, depending on the gorillas’ location and your group’s pace.

Those who are older or not as physically fit will surely struggle but it is entirely doable with the right mental preparation. General conditioning exercises, such as walking uphill and other forms of cardio, are strongly encouraged. Hiring a porter is a good way to alleviate the load of carrying supplies, reducing the strain of the trek significantly.

Essential Gear and Clothing

Durable hiking boots with ankle support
Lightweight, waterproof jacket and pants
Long-sleeve shirts and pants for protection
Wide-brim hat and sunscreen
Gloves for gripping vegetation
Daypack with rain cover

Wearing clothes in layers helps keep you warm or cool when the weather changes unexpectedly. Waterproof clothing keeps you dry if you encounter dew or rain.

Packing Tips for Trekking

Traveling light is key, but make sure to have things like bottled water, packed snacks, and a camera. A good, durable backpack with padded shoulder straps goes a long way in making your day comfortable.

Gorillas are susceptible to human diseases, so bring hand sanitizer. Getting your permits — which can run from $400-$1,500 — shouldn’t be left to chance, months in advance of the trek.

Comparing Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda provides one of the most wonderful wildlife experiences on earth, watching these great apes in their natural environments. The two countries present different accessibility, costs, and unique experiences. It’s very important to know these differences before you plan your trip!

Feature	Uganda	Rwanda
Accessibility	More remote, longer travel times	Easily accessible from Kigali
Permit Costs	$600 for trekking, $1,500 for habituation	$1,500 for trekking, $1,500 for habituation
Gorilla Population	Over 600 gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest	Fewer gorillas in Volcanoes National Park
Additional Wildlife	Chimpanzee trekking, canopy walks	Golden monkey hikes ($100)

Accessibility to Trekking Spots

Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park hosts just over 600 mountain gorillas. The difficulty of getting there—its remote location often involves a mix of flights and overland travel, leading to longer travel times—becomes a pain point.

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is just a 2.5 hour drive from Kigali International Airport. This great location makes it perfect for travelers short on time. The country’s infrastructure, with beautifully paved roads, makes for a more comfortable trip to the trekking locations as well.

Uganda, though it has more gorillas permits available each day, requires more planning for logistics. Chartered flights or road transfers are often used to get to either Bwindi or Mgahinga parks. For travelers focused on the easiest experience, Rwanda’s closeness to major global urban centers offers a more direct travel route.

Differences in Permit Costs

Permit fees are a big difference, with Uganda being the far more affordable choice. A gorilla trekking permit in Uganda only costs $600 compared to Rwanda’s $1,500 permits. Both countries have gorilla habituation experiences, where you can spend longer observing these great primates.

Uganda’s habituation permits are attractively priced at $600, while Rwanda’s habituation permits equal their trekking permit price of $1,500. Pricing structures reflect each country’s attitude toward conservation.

While Rwanda issues a limited number of permits to create exclusivity and support conservation, Uganda issues more daily permits, making the experience more accessible. This is a significant difference in cost that travelers should take into consideration when planning their trip. Additionally, tour operators often provide packages that bundle permits with accommodations and transportation, lowering the overall cost.

Unique Experiences in Each Country

Ultimately, Uganda and Rwanda offer very different trekking experiences influenced by each country’s unique landscapes, culture, and wildlife. Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its thick vegetation and treacherous terrain.

Uganda is more than just gorilla trekking. You can go chimpanzee trekking in nearby Kibale National Park and experience amazing forest canopy walks, deepening your experience further.

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park has dramatic open bamboo forests that offer views of towering volcanic peaks. It offers an opportunity to see golden monkeys for $100, a great budget-friendly addition to the itinerary.

Rwanda is known for its rich cultural experiences, far outweighing the wildlife. You can visit local communities and the Kigali Genocide Memorial to learn more about the country’s tragic history and great resilience.

Other Primate Trekking Experiences

More than just gorilla trekking, Uganda & Rwanda have some amazing primate trekking experiences beyond the great apes that shouldn’t be missed. This beyond diverse region is home to a number of endemic primate species and is a paradise for nature lovers. Here are some of the most amazing experiences you should seek out on your visit.

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest

Chimpanzee tracking is an unforgettable experience, bringing you up close with these intelligent, peaceful creatures in their natural habitat. Guided tours offer an close glimpse into their unique social structures, behaviors, and vocalizations.

The forest is a vital refuge for more than 13 primate species, including the rare colobus monkeys and olive baboons. It’s a thrilling chance to catch a glimpse of beautiful, exotic birds and butterflies. Its ecological importance helps to protect Uganda’s rich wildlife diversity.

Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park

Golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park is an exuberant and colorful experience. These fabulous primates are famous for their playful antics and beautiful golden-orange coloring.

Such focused conservation efforts are essential to protect this endangered species. Guided tours educate visitors about their specialized habitat and feeding habits. Children aged 10 and up, as long as they’re with an adult, are welcome to join too, making this a great family-friendly activity.

The experience is an excellent addition to gorilla trekking, providing a wider view of Rwanda’s primate diversity.

Wildlife Safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Trekking in Queen Elizabeth National Park gives you an opportunity to see diverse wildlife outside of the primate experience. Spotting elephants, lions, Cape buffalo, and more on game drives and hippos and crocodiles on famous boat safaris along the Kazinga Channel are just the beginning.

The park’s ecosystems include everything from savannas to wetlands, giving home to great biodiversity. As such, a great many travelers combine gorilla trekking with a safari here to experience the best of Africa’s wildlife.

Suggested Gorilla Safari Packages

Gorilla safari packages come in different forms to suit the interests of each type of traveler. Experience leisurely day trips or join in multi-day wildlife odysseys. Our gorilla safari packages guarantee you an unforgettable experience observing mountain gorillas in the wild. Below, we compare each option to help you figure out which one is the best option for your needs.

Short Gorilla Trekking Tours

Short gorilla trekking tours like these are perfect for weeklong travelers to East Africa. These tours are usually 1–3 days, providing an close but in-depth experience. A short, one-day tour would likely involve an early morning hike to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.

For a just bit longer alternative, a two- or three-day itinerary easily allows for more travel time, extra activities, and overnight stays. You will have a 99% chance of seeing at least one gorilla. Additionally, with the trek being 1 to 8 hours long, you’re guaranteed to have a pleasant and profound experience in nature.

Perfectly timed for efficiency yet packed with impactful experiences, these short tours make the most of your limited time.

Combined Wildlife and Gorilla Safaris

For travelers looking for a larger-than-life experience, our combined wildlife and gorilla safaris combine gorilla trekking with some of the other iconic African experiences. These packages usually include exciting game drives in Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park or Rwanda’s Akagera National Park.

There, you can see towering elephants, thunderous lions, and an entire world of exotic animals! This unique combination lets travelers experience the region’s great biodiversity without having to book multiple trips.

These suggested packages are meant to maximize your time and increase efficiency. Packaged with meticulously designed itineraries that highlight thrilling gorilla treks and diverse wildlife safaris.

Luxury and Budget-Friendly Options

Gorilla safari packages can be tailored to suit any budget. Luxury choices usually include exclusive use of high-end lodges, private specialist guides, and bespoke itineraries guaranteeing a luxurious experience. For example, a 3-day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tour costs between $1,300 – $2,800 per person, sharing.

In Rwanda, comparable packages cost at least $1,900. As for budget-minded travelers, there are budget accommodations and shared tours available that do not skimp on the experience while saving money.

Meal inclusions, permit inclusions, transport inclusions — all important to compare which package offers better value. Perks include that most operators will even let you create a customized itinerary for a fully tailored experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is gorilla trekking?

Gorilla trekking is an unforgettable, guided hiking experience that brings you face to face with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. It’s an amazing experience to take part in, and it usually occurs in Uganda, Rwanda, or the DRC. Seeing these endangered animals up close encourages conservation and generates millions of dollars in tourism benefits.

Do I need a permit for gorilla trekking?

Are permits required for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda? They control the number of visitors, keep tourists and gorillas safe and help funnel profits to local conservation efforts. Without a valid permit, you will not be allowed to join a trek.

How much do gorilla trekking permits cost?

Gorilla trekking permits are $700 per person in Uganda and $1,500 per person in Rwanda. Prices are subject to change, so double check the listed price when you go to book. Those steep fees are put towards wildlife conservation and local communities.

When is the best time to go gorilla trekking?

The ideal time for gorilla trekking in general is during the dry seasons, between June – September & December – February. Trails are drier and less muddy, making trekking easier. That said, permits are very much in demand, so be sure to book well in advance.

How do Uganda and Rwanda compare for gorilla trekking?

Uganda has cheaper permits and double the number of gorilla families, whereas Rwanda has easier accessibility and luxury. Both are fantastic experiences, though Uganda is a better fit for budget travelers, and Rwanda is the place to go for premium experiences.

Is gorilla trekking safe?

Yes, gorilla trekking is dangerous, but only if you don’t follow the rules. Accompanied by highly trained guides and trackers, you’ll be kept safe and any disturbances to the gorillas will be kept to a minimum. Remember, never approach too closely or make sudden movements.

What should I pack for gorilla trekking?

Pack items such as tough hiking boots, long-sleeved clothing, gloves, waterproof clothing, insect repellent, and loads of water. A small daypack and a camera with a good zoom lens are highly suggested for ensuring you capture those once-in-a-lifetime memories.