Gorilla trekking is an exciting adventure attracting millions of travellers through the dense forests of East Africa to encounter the magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The endangered creatures arrange themselves in small family groups and can be found in the forests of Uganda , Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo . Gorilla trekking is a process that offers trekkers to encounter these gentle giants, observing them closely as they feed , play , interact, and live their day-to-day lives in the wild . The experience is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that is not only amazing but supports vital conservation efforts helping protect these endangered species from the threats they face while in their habitat. Gorilla trekking can be a challenging activity involving walking through the dense forests, making a unique adventure as compared to the soft adventure like game drives; however, its an unforgettable experience for all nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
What is gorilla trekking ?
Gorilla trekking is an amazing wildlife adventure where travellers hike through the dense forests searching for gorillas in their natural habitat. The gorillas are among the endangered animals on earth, which can be located in the dense forests of East Africa, including Bwindi impenetrable national park , volcanoes, and the Virunga mountains. The gorillas love the very high altitude places that have cold temperatures, and gorilla trekking provides a unique opportunity to witness these gentle giants up close . Gorilla trekking is a process that involves several steps , including walking through the forests with the lead of a professional ranger who will lead you to the gorillas . The hike can last from 1 to 6 hours or even the whole day depending on where the gorillas are. With guided experts, you have a 95% success rate to see the gorillas in their families .
Gorillas
There are several types of gorillas, including mountain gorillas and lowland gorillas , and the endangered ones we look at that are found within the highlands and forests of East Africa are the mountain gorillas . Gorillas are endangered primates that have a DNA 98% like that of human beings with behaviours that are similar with that of human beings as they are observed in their groups .They are not solitary animals; they live in groups of families called troops, with the dominant male, the silverback, leading his family . A family of gorillas consists of a silverback, having several females who are owned by it , and their offspring, which include the blackback and the babies called the juveniles .Silverbacks are responsible for protecting and leading the family from predators and other fellow silverbacks, as well as leading them in finding food around the forest . Gorillas are herbivorous animals, and their major food is leaves , stems, and fruits. They are notably seen feeding on bamboo stems and roots while in the forest . Gorillas build nests every night for shelter, and they never use the same nest twice . Although very big in size and seen to have a lot of strength, gorillas are peaceful animals, spending most of their days resting and playing about .
Where you see gorillas in East Africa?
Uganda , Bwindi Impenetrable national park and Mgahinga national park
Uganda is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, with Bwindi impenetrable national park having the largest concentration of gorilla population . Bwindi impenetrable national park is a UNESCO world heritage site and a very popular destination for gorilla trekking in East Africa . Bwindi is comprised of thick towering trees, making it a desired habitat for the gorillas, which love very cold, chilly areas, to which they adapt to these cold temperatures because of their hairy bodies .
Mgahinga National Park, on the other hand, is located in the highland of the five volcanoes with a terrain similar to that of Rwanda’s Volcano National Park, which is also a home to gorillas . Maghinga National Park has one gorilla family, the famous Nyakagezi .
Rwanda , Volcanoes national park
Volcanoes National Park, located in Rwanda within the Virunga Mountains, is another prominent destination for gorilla trekking in East Africa . The park is famous for attracting millions of visitors searching for a luxury gorilla trekking experience . Volcanoes National Park is famous for its luxury lodges, gorilla trekking activities, and conservation efforts . Rwanda’s gorillas are easier to trek with relatively less steep terrain because of the bamboo forests, and the gorillas are easily seen .
Democratic republic of Congo , Virunga national park
Virunga National Park, located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is another premier destination for gorilla trekking in East Africa, with a large number of gorillas . The park is a UNESCO world heritage site; however, due to the political instability in Congo, the park is currently closed until it is safe for tourists to trek gorillas their .
When to go gorilla trekking? Best time for gorilla trekking .
The optimal time for gorilla trekking is the dry season when the forest trails are dry and very manageable for walking with less mud and less slippery . The dry season occurs during the months of June to September and December to February . Its very easy to track gorillas during this time of the year with comfortable and optimal weather conditions .
However, gorilla trekking can be done all year round, with the wet season having its own advantages as well, and these months run from April to May and October to November . These months are less crowded, and gorilla permits have less competition, just as the accommodations as well .
Why consider gorilla trekking ?
Gorilla trekking is among the unique one-in-a-lifetime in a life time experience . Seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is an incredible moment that offers travelers a chance to witness the lives of one of our closest relatives in the family of the great apes.
Conservation impact: as you go gorilla trekking through the lush forests, you are contributing to the conservation of the endangered species, the gorillas . By purchasing a gorilla permit , you are supporting the conservation efforts that are carried out to protect gorillas that were almost extinct in the 90s .
Cultural and scenic drives
Gorilla trekking is an incredible experience that not only allows you to view the gorillas but also encounter the local cultures as well as enjoy breathtaking views .
What is the cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda , Rwanda, and DR Congo ?
The cost of gorilla trekking goes beyond a trekking permit, with so many factors to consider on a gorilla trek, including transportation , accommodation, number of trekking days , tipping policy, and other logistics involved in finally getting face-to-face with the gorillas .
Uganda
The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs $800 per person . The permit is your entry ticket to access Bwinidi impenetrable national park and Mgahinga national park . Gorilla permits in Uganda are budget-friendly, making them affordable for all kinds of travellers and creating an excellent experience .
Rwanda
The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is significantly higher at $1500 per person in the Volcano National Park. The price reflects a more luxurious experience in Rwanda with better infrastructure, such as lodges .
DR congo
With the Virunga mountains closed , gorilla trekking in Congo takes place in Kahuzi Beiga national park with lowland gorillas, whose permit is only 400 dollars per person .
Gorilla trekking rules
Ensuring the sustainability and survival of the mountain gorillas , there are rules and regulations that govern the activity of gorilla trekking, which should be followed by all those visiting gorillas .
Keeping the required distance
The first rule once you are with the gorillas monitoring them in their habitat is maintaining the 7-meter distance rule . Gorillas have 98% DNA, and they can easily catch or spread disease to and from humans . The distance is to ensure both the trekker and gorillas are healthy and safe .
Do not touch the gorillas
While the gorilla may approach you and touch , you are not allowed to make the first move on this . They have a right, and they are still considered wild, even though habituated they may react in an unfriendly way .
Only spend one hour with the gorillas
Only one hour has been allowed to be spent with the gorillas; this is to promote sustainability as well as the survival of the gorillas to ensure conservation efforts are executed. With one hour for gorilla viewing, the animals are less stressed, and this happens only once a day .
No flash photography
The flash light on the camera is likely to disrupt the behaviour of the gorillas around you; to avoid this, non-flash cameras are encouraged .
Stay in a group
Gorilla trekking is a group activity and you trek in groups of 8 people. The forest can be challenging once you are along, so ensure to remain in the assigned group led by your your guide
Do not smoke , eat or litter in the forest
Once you embark on your trek, ensure you do not smoke cigarettes or any substance. This is to reduce the risk of not only sickness but also protecting the forest from any possible fires . Eating in the forest as well as littering is prohibited to ensure proper conservation for the sustainability of the gorillas .
Do not trek gorillas if you are sick
Gorillas can easily catch human disease, and if you feel unwell, you seek information about rescheduling your gorilla permit .
Follow your guides instructions
Your guides or rangers are well knowledgeable about the behaviour of these gorillas; ensure to follow their lead as you trek gorillas to ensure safety and a remarkable experience.
Packing list for Gorilla trekking
Hiking boots are essential for navigating steep, muddy terrain.
Waterproof jackets and pants; the weather in the forest can be unpredictable with rain showering at any time of the day; ensure you have a raincoat ready to keep yourself dry in case of anything .
Gaiters: these protect your legs from mud , insects, and mist from the wet grasses.
Hut and sunglasses , With the unpredictable weather, whether in the forest it may be hot and with alot of sunshine, ensure to carry a cap and sunglasses to protect your from the direct sunrays.
Gardening gloves—these will help you during the walk to clear any vegetation on your path .
Sunscreen , sunshine is most likely to occur during gorilla trekking; ensure to have sunscreen to protect your skin from direct sunburns .
Water and energy snacks; the walk can be long and demanding you to be rehydrated; ensure to have drinking water before you head into the forest for gorilla trekking .
Camera and binoculars: capturing the gorillas on your gorilla trekking is one of the crucial things , so having your camera is very important. The binoculars can help you spot birds as you trek the gorillas.
How to book a gorilla trek
Gorilla trekking permits are usually very competitive, and booking your gorilla trekking permit in advance will ensure you have your trekking permit on the scheduled date that aligns with your travel dates and itinerary .This is how to secure a gorilla trekking experience.
Inquire with a reliable tour
Most travellers prefer booking permits through a reputable tour operator who will help you handle all the logistics of acquiring a gorilla trekking permit, booking accommodation , transport, and all other requirements to ensure you have a remarkable experience .
Purchase from the authorities directly .
Although not very common in Uganda , you are required to book a gorilla permit from a listed reputable tour company, while in Rwanda you can directly buy your gorilla permit from the Rwanda Development Board, and in Congo you require a tour operator to help you in the booking process.
Combine your gorilla trekking with a safari within East Africa; whether you’re coming for the great migration or hiking the great mountains of Kilmanjaro , Kenya, or Rwenzori , it’s very convenient to combine these activities with gorilla trekking . Witnessing all these animals in East Africa, from the Big Five to the waterfalls and the pristine beaches, during a gorilla trek is an unforgettable experience.
In conclusion , gorilla trekking in East Africa is an unforgettable journey walking through the dense forests of the region in search of the majestic creatures. Gorilla trekking will provide you with an intimate encounter with some of the world’s most endangered creatures, the great apes. You can choose a destination from Uganda , Rwanda, or the DRC for your gorilla trekking, with each destination offering a unique experience in the wild . From creating lasting memories on your travel bucket list , you are not only enjoying but ensuring conservation efforts are empowered through purchasing a gorilla trekking permit that ensures these gorillas are protected from all possible threats that almost led to their total extinction . Weigh the cost of the gorilla permit to ensure you choose the destination within your budget. You can also have double gorilla trekking and compare the differences of the two or three major destinations for gorilla trekking within East Africa. Pack your bags, ensuring you have the appropriate trekking gear, and embark on a lifetime journey with totally unique experiences.