what is gorilla trekking?
All about Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking is a thrilling adventure through dense forests to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Trekking gorillas in Rwanda happen in volcanoes national park where experienced guides lead small groups of eight and encounter with these majestic creatures providing a unique wildlife experience. It is a conservation success story contributing to the protection of these primates. Volcanoes national park is in Rwanda; a haven for bio diversity with lush landscapes and endangered mountain gorillas. The park encompasses a chain of volcanic mountains including Karisimbi and Bisoke, it is also a primate location where visitors get chance to witness these creatures within their natural environment as they enjoy beautiful views of the stunning scenery of the Virunga massif. Trekking gorillas in volcanoes is a captivating adventure of guided hikes through the lush terrain to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The activity starts in the morning with a short briefing of the dos and don’ts of gorilla trekking, experienced guides accompany you and help in identifying your assigned gorilla family. It takes about 2 to 3 hours and once you get to encounter these creatures, you get one hour to observe and learn their feeding ways and take a few snaps to keep for future memories. After trekking, you ought to go back to the starting point. In Uganda, gorilla trekking happens in Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga gorilla national parks are in south western part of Uganda. These destinations provide awesome and adventurous gorilla trekking experiences where you get to encounter gorillas in their natural habitat. while Gorilla trekking in Bwindi impenetrable national park starts early in the morning with a short briefing about the dos and don’ts of trekking, into groups of eight and accompanied by experienced guides through the jungle in search of these creatures. Trekking takes about 2 to 3 hours depending on where gorillas will be found and once you get to encounter your respective family, you get to be with them for about 1 hour as you closely observe and learn about their daily activities. You are free to take a few snaps to keep for memories, once you finish, you head back to the starting point for your certificate of participation. Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga gorilla national park offers a unique and intimate experience because it is home to one habituated gorilla group namely Nyakagezi. If you are looking for a quieter, less crowded and private trek, Mgahinga should be your number one choice. Trekking begins early morning with a short briefing of trekking guidelines and later guides accompany you through the jungle, dense forests and volcanic terrain searching for these incredible creatures. Gorilla Trekking takes about 2 to 3 hours and you get chance to see other primates along the way like chimpanzees and monkeys, and once you get to find the Nyakagezi gorilla family, you are given one hour to learn about their feeding habits as you take a few snaps to keep for memories. Once the trek is done, you can go back to the starting point and receive your certificate of participation.
How to book gorilla trekking permits?
In Uganda
Gorilla trekking permits are available through the Uganda Wildlife Authority through their email or physically contacting them. A tour operator can be the most efficient way to get these gorilla trekking permits.
In Rwanda
One may reach out to the Rwanda Development Board which is responsible for issuing gorilla permits through their contacts, website or email, you can as well book physically.
You can as well book through a tour operating company.
Best time to do gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda
June to September, December to February are the best seasons for gorilla trekking. Here the rains are less, shrubs are shorter and trails passable.
Budget safaris for gorilla trekking
A budget safari is also possible when the rains are heavy. the demand is low and accommodation is available at discount prices.
Cost of gorilla trekking permits
In Rwanda
Gorilla permits cost USD 1500 to spend a precious hour in the company of gorillas. You can BOOK WITH US so we make your gorilla dream come true.
In Uganda
Foreign non residents pay USD800, Foreign residents pay USD700 and East African citizens pay UGX 300,000
Gorilla trekking packing list.
• Long sleeved shirts and trousers • Waterproof jackets • Hiking boots • Water proof back pack • Garden gloves • Sunglasses and hat • Insect repellent • Sunscreen • First aid kit • Camera or binoculars • Passport • Trekking permits • Packed lunch and water • Batteries • Torch • Exchanged money • Hiking stick • Portable charger.
Gorilla trekking rules and regulations in Uganda and Rwanda
Flash photography is strictly not allowed as it may disturb gorillas
Always keep distance of at least 7 meters away from gorillas
Visitors have one hour of visit to gorillas to reduce on stress of the gorillas
Eating and drinking or chewing in the presence of gorillas is not allowed to prevent potential contamination
Always follow the instructions of the guide or ranger to ensure a safe encounter
Stay in your group to avoid splitting away to maintain safety
Always cover your mouth and noise while sneezing, coughing and yawning to reduce transmission of diseases.
Dispose of litter appropriately and follow the “leave no trace principles.”
Respect the wildlife and their habitat to avoid unnecessary noise, and respect the natural environment at large
Gorilla trekking often has a minimum age requirement to participate of 12 years and above.