Best Guide To Gorilla Trek Tours in Uganda, Dr. Congo and Rwanda.
Welcome to the Gorilla trekking guide in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, The gorilla tour is one of the famous safari activities in Uganda. The mountain gorillas have been observed that the population of mountain gorillas has increased thanks to the conservation efforts of various nongovernmental and government support. These areas are safe for tourists and gorillas alike with minimal or no poaching incidences reported because of alternative sources of income available to communities in the area due to increased revenues from gorilla tourism.
The gorilla trekking trip is rated moderate. Gorilla travelers must be physically fit and prepared to walk and hike for hours over uneven terrain, sometimes it is up to 8 hours depending on the location of gorilla groups. The mountain gorillas are often found in the undergrowth feeding on the vegetation as they rest and or groom each other. The leader of each gorilla family or group is a silver-back which is very protective of the family, if frustrated it will grunt and beat its chest before moving off with the females, offspring, and mature males.
To enjoy the experience of gorilla trekking, you need to prepare adequately starting with the choice of tour operator to plan the entire safari, lodges, and purchase of gorilla permits. The minimum age for trekking gorillas is 15 years. You are required to purchase your permit much earlier especially if you want a specific date because only 8 people can trek a gorilla family per day.
Gorilla trekking happens in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Uganda currently has 21 gorilla families available for trekking. The trekking in Bwindi is slightly different from Mgahinga because of the nature of the landscape. Bwindi is a rainforest with thick undergrowth and varying landscapes, you will have experiences of both uphill and downhill on your hike. Bwindi is divided into different sectors each with several gorilla families. Before you book your lodge it is important to know which sector you will track because the location is quite far apart. The sectors are Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga sectors.
In Mgahinga the gorillas are mainly found in the mid vegetation on the Virunga Volcanoes in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, especially in the open areas of the bamboo zone.
Gorilla trekking safari preparation tips
- Uganda is a tropical country with an unpredictable climate, so rain gear is a must-have
- Insect repellent
- Gorilla Trekking permit at 800$(Dollar)
- Recommended clothing – long trousers and long-sleeved sweaters or shirts while in the forest to avoid insect and plant stings.
- Sturdy hiking boots are essential, especially ones you have used before.
- Drinking water, however eating, drinking, and smoking near the gorillas is strictly forbidden – your guide will communicate the designated time and place.
- Photography is permitted, although you must not use flash
- Porters are available to help you carry your day-pack for a small charge.
- You will not be allowed to trek gorillas if you have a communicable disease like flu or cough
Mountain gorillas live at high altitudes and this may cause difficulties in hiking up for some visitors. You should pace yourself, walk slowly, drink plenty of water, and prepare adequately for this experience. Ultimate Wild Safaris will purchase your gorilla trekking permits for you in advance for proper planning.
Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tours
3 days Gorilla trekking safari in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
6 days Uganda Gorilla and Wildlife Safari
10 Days Uganda Ultimate Primate Safari
