Gorilla trekking
Enter into the world of the Apes
Gorillas are one of the rare primates in the world. This earns them a spot on the critically endangered list. These majestic primates are found in the Virunga massif in the nations of Rwanda, Uganda, and DR Congo. Your gorilla trekking safari takes you further into the lush tropical forests for close interactions with the gorillas. The majestic stroll of the dominant silverbacks and the playful babies make these interactions a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Unlike conventional game viewing in savanna parks, gorilla encounters offer close interactions in their natural habitat.
Gorilla trekking permit costs in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo
The gorilla trekking permit costs vary according to the three countries. These permits allow you to spend an hour with the gorilla family allocated you. Gorilla permits in Rwanda cost $1,500, $700 in Uganda and $400 in DR Congo. These costs are used in conservation efforts and giving back to the local community. Community projects like water projects, education and self-help projects add value to these local communities that have been a part of the conservation process and deter them from poaching.
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How difficult is gorilla trekking?
Gorilla trekking like any Africa safari activity is unpredictable. This is because these gorilla families move in search of food. Depending on their location, the hike can take from 30 minutes to 4 hours before locating them. You would need to be in relatively good physical shape for an enjoyable experience. Furthermore, different gorilla destinations have different terrain. Bwindi for example is more strenuous due to the hilly terrain and thick undergrowth while Mgahinga is relatively less dense. Before the trek, trackers are sent ahead in search of the gorillas. This is to ensure that you don’t endlessly trek through the forest looking for them. This also provides more chances of spotting the gorillas.
Is gorilla trekking worth it?
Gorilla encounters are some of the most exhilarating safari activities in Africa. Being in close proximity to these gentle giants, looking at those intelligent eyes, the shaggy gorilla babies is an adventure like no other. The trek through the primeval forests is rewarding. The sights and sounds of the forest, the chirping of the birds, and the sweet smell of the morning grass is transcending. The 1 hour spent with the gorillas is never enough. It comes as no surprise when tourists either request another trek or return just to spend more time with the gorillas.
Is gorilla trekking safe?
Gorilla trekking is safe. All gorilla groups trekked have been habituated for a period of around 3 years. That means they are used to being around humans and don’t perceive them as a threat. However, like all wildlife, they can be unpredictable. Before your trek, you will be taken through the guidelines and the rules of gorilla trekking. Be keen. In case you are charged by the silverback, crouch in the submissive position. Avoid prolonged eye contact with the silverback since it can be perceived as a threatening gesture. Keep in one group and avoid finding yourself in the middle of the gorilla group.
Are gorilla sightings guaranteed?
Sightings of gorillas are 95% guaranteed. Since trackers are sent ahead to locate them, you will trek toward the gorilla family. The 5% is reserved for the rare disruptions in the gorilla’s group. In case there are fights among the gorilla family, you will not be able to trek them since they are already agitated and can easily attack.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda
Where can I trek gorillas in Uganda?
Uganda has two gorilla trekking destinations: Bwindi Impenetrable national park and Mgahinga gorilla national park. Bwindi is by far the most popular destination. With a staggering 21 gorilla families found in the 4 gorilla sectors, Bwindi attracts more tourists. A group of 8 people are allowed to trek each gorilla family per day. 168 permits are issued per day in Bwindi while Mgahinga issues 8 permits. Mgahinga on the other hand offers other activities. These include cultural interactions with the Batwa, golden monkey trekking, and hiking the 3 ranges of Gahinga, Muhabura or Sabinyo.
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The Gorilla Treks in Bwindi.
Gorilla treks in Bwindi begin from any of the 4 trails heads of Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija, and Nkuringo. Here, the local communities offer an entertaining traditional dance. You are invited to join in as the Bakiga people jump and vigorously thump the ground with their feet. This creates a rumbling sound that cuts across the dance floor. This is followed by a briefing by the head ranger. Here, you get to learn about the history of the park, the gorillas in the park, and their composition. More importantly, you will be taken through the rules and regulations of gorilla trekking. Pay close attention as they will come in handy during your encounter with these primates.
You will then be divided into groups of 8 and allocated different gorilla families. This will be determined by your preference for family composition and your level of fitness. Then off your go. Depending on your gorilla family, you may start from the park headquarters or drive to a certain point nearer to the gorillas. Arm yourself with a walking stick, and get a porter if you need one.
The trek through the forest is something short of a primeval movie scene. The sun rays sipping through the forest canopy, the sounds of the birds, and the sweet smell of the morning grass is an experience like no other. As you draw close to the gorillas, the head guide will motion you to stop, leave your luggage behind, and finally clear the thick grass for better views of the gorillas. As your heart thumps in your chest, your adrenaline pumps as you stare at the 400-pound silverback. His cool gaze is intelligent. One of the most amazing facts is their resemblance to humans. The hour allocated is never enough. Take pictures and videos but remember to switch off the flash mode of your camera or phone.
Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga
Mgahinga gorilla national park is located right at the border of Uganda and Rwanda. The Nyakigazi group (the only gorilla family in Mgahinga) occasionally crosses into Rwanda’s Volcanoes national park. Besides gorillas, the park is home to golden monkeys. Mgahinga offers exclusive gorilla treks since it receives less tourists. But it is a popular destination for those who would like to explore Rwanda but trek gorillas in Uganda where permits are $700 compared to the $1,500 in Rwanda. The lava lakes of Mutanda and Bunyonyi offer a nice relaxation before and after your gorilla safari. The 3 volcanoes of Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabinyo offer excellent day hikes