What to Expect on the Gorilla Trekking Adventure
The endangered mountain gorillas are the largest primates on earth, sharing around 98% of their DNA with humans. These primates are highly intelligent and social creatures living in family groups led by a dominant silverback. Mountain gorillas have the ability to communicate through vocalizations, body language, and facial expressions.
Due to the destruction of their habitat and poaching, mountain gorillas are classified as endangered, making conservation efforts like gorilla trekking crucial for their survival.
Where to Trek Mountain Gorillas in Africa
Mountain gorillas are not only endangered, they are also rare primate species only found in the dense forests of Central Africa in three countries that is Uganda, Rwanda and DR.Congo.
Uganda
Uganda is home to half of the remaining population of mountain gorillas, that is why is ranked as the best place to see these gentle primates in the wild. Uganda has two gorilla trekking destinations that is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a premier gorilla trekking destination in the world, home to 21 habituated gorilla families scattered in four gorilla trekking sectors that is Buhoma, Nkuringo, Rushaga and Ruhija Sectors.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the second gorilla trekking destination in Uganda, part of the Virunga Conservation Area. The park hosts 1 habituated gorilla family – Nyakagezi.
To take part in the thrilling gorilla trekking in Uganda, visitors need to have a gorilla permit costing US$ 800 per person. Uganda offers an elusive privilege – Gorilla Habituation Experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves with the gorillas and witness how a habituated gorilla family is trained to take part in the process of habituating the gorillas. Unlike the standard gorilla trekking which takes 1 hour, gorilla habituation experience is 4 hours.
Rwanda
Rwanda is one of the best destinations for gorilla trekking, offering the most accessible gorilla trekking experience. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is done in Volcanoes National Park, home to 12 habituated gorilla families.
Volcanoes National Park is approximately 2-3 hour drive from Kigali – the capital of Rwanda, making it the most accessible gorilla trekking destination. A gorilla permit in Rwanda costs US$ 1,500 per person.
Democratic Republic of Congo
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) offers a unique and off-the-beaten path gorilla trekking experience, done in the Virunga National Park – home to several habituated gorilla families.
Virunga National Park is Africa’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. Just like any other destinations, you need a gorilla permit to trek mountain gorillas in Virunga, costing US$ 400 per person.
What to Expect on the Gorilla Trekking Adventure
As you plan to do gorilla trekking in Africa, it is best to know what to expect on this immersive primate experience.
Before heading into the forest to search for the gorillas, you will participate in a mandatory pre-trek briefing at the park headquarters. This informative session is led by experienced park rangers and is designed to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience for both visitors and the gorillas.
A senior ranger guide will outline the dos and don’ts of gorilla trekking, including maintaining a safe distance of 8 meters, not touching or feeding the groups, not making sudden movements as well as noise among others. Also, you will lead about the potential hazards a head, such as inclement weather, and encounters with other wildlife. Get an insight into the behavior and habit of the gorillas, as well as the terrain and conditions you will encounter during the trek.
Trekkers are then assigned to small groups of not more than 8 people, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience and allocated a specific gorilla family to track, with several factors like family location, size and behavior taken into account.
The Gorilla Trekking Experience
Gorilla trekking is a physically demanding experience requiring preparation and endurance. The hike can take anywhere from 1-6 hours or more, basing on the location of the gorillas, and involves navigating dense forests, steep hills, muddy paths, and thick vegetation. The weather in the rainforests can be unpredictable, with rain common even in the dry season, and trails can be slippery and challenging to navigate.
A reasonable level of fitness is essential and sturdy hiking books, waterproof gear, and trekking pools are highly recommended.
Generally, gorilla trekking is a thrilling experience that requires an unparalleled opportunity to observe these majestic creatures.
Encounter with the Gorillas
Once you find the gorillas, you will have a magic hour to observe these primates from a safe distance of about 7 meters. During this time, you will witness their natural behavior, including feeding, grooming, playing and interacting with each other. You will be fascinating by their agility, intelligence and social complexity, and humbled by their emotional depth. Maintaining a safe distance ensures both your safety and the gorilla’s wellbeing, allowing you to observe them without disruption.
This awe-inspiring experience will leave you with a deeper appreciation for these incredible primates and renewed commitment to conservation efforts.
Rules and Etiquette
To ensure safe and enjoyable gorilla trekking experience, it is essential to follow the gorilla rules and regulations as given to you during the briefing.
- Maintain a safe distance of at least 7 meters from gorillas, unless one approaches you. In this case, remain calm and follow your guide’s instructions.
- It is forbidden to use flash photography as the flashlight might agitate the gorillas, take your photos silently and calmly to avoid disturbing the gorillas.
- Stay quiet and avoid sudden movements to prevent stressing or provoking the gorillas.
- If you are feeling unwell, you will not be allowed to go gorilla trekking to prevent the transmission of diseases to the gorillas.
By following the above guides, you will contribute to a safe and enjoyable experience for both yourself and the endangered gorillas.
Post – Trek Experience
After your gorilla trek, you will hike back to the starting point (park headquarters), receive a certificate of participation, and share stories of your adventure.
