Gorilla Trekking: A Complete Adventure Guide

Gorilla trekking refers to a special guided walk that takes place in the Rain forests of East and Central Africa where visitors have a rare opportunity of viewing the endangered but habituated mountain or lowland gorillas in the wilderness. It is really a one-day-in-a-lifetime experience that not only makes many of the travelers realize a dream but also contributes to the important conservation efforts and the welfare of the local people. 

Where to Go for Gorilla Trekking 

The mountain gorillas in Africa can be found only in few places: in the high altitude rainforest: 

Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park. 

DR Congo: Virunga National Park and in the Kahuzi-Biega National Park, which is made up of the eastern lowland gorillas, one can come across the eastern lowland gorilla.

Uganda is the most common place where the mountain gorillas are found and therefore is the best place that can be visited for those that would want more trekking and varying sceneries. 

These destinations have well-guided tours with expert guides to guarantee personal safety as well as the least amount of gorilla disruption. 

Best Time to Trek in Uganda 

Gorilla treks are also possible all year round, but the dry seasons are the best: 

● June to September 

● December to February 

Trails are not as slippery, weather is clear and the visibility is enhanced. Nevertheless, it is important to make a reservation in advance, bookings are sold out very fast during these high months. 

Wildlife Trekking Tours 

Tour Operators like Activentures Africa Safaris provide fully inclusive packages that cater to the gorilla permits, experienced guides, ground transportation, porters & lodging near the trekking start points. Tours typically range from: 

3-4 Days: Express gorilla trekking in either Uganda or Rwanda, ideal for travellers short on time. 

5-7 Days: This is a combination of gorilla trekking, walking safaris, cultural tours, or chimpanzee tracking to have more wildlife. 

Cross-Country Safaris: This is an ideal combination of the Gorilla trek and the classical wildlife destinations in East Africa such as Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Akagera National Park, Masai Mara or Serengeti National Park. 

The good tour operator provides good logistic support, comfortable transport and well arranged trekking schedules. 

Inside the Gorilla Wilderness 

● Guided Forest Trek: Excursion to foggy and thick forests led by a professional guide who shares information about the local vegetation, animals and the process of their conservation.

● Wildlife Insights: Learn any kind of interesting information about gorillas, other wildlife and the forest ecosystem during the trip. 

● Individually-Paced Hike: Trails may be employed to suit your pace of walking either in a relaxing walk or a more adventurous hike. 

● Gorilla Encounter: An encounter with a gorilla will enable you to stand a few meters for approximately 1hour next to these peaceful giants and watch them behave like they do in the wild. 

● Immersive Experience: Take a chance, study and silent meditations to spend a very memorable moment in nature. 

Permit Costs for Gorilla Treks 

Uganda Permit: It costs US $800 for foreign visitors. 

Rwanda Permit: US $1,500 in the case of foreigners. 

A gorilla trek permit comprises entry to the park and the use of a ranger to guide the trek, and a one-hour gorilla viewing and lodging, transport, meals, and porter tips will be fixed separately. 

Packages for Gorilla Encounters

Rules for a Safe Wildlife Trek 

There must be strict regulation in such a way that both human beings & gorillas are not a danger to each other(the highest percentage of our genes is the same, 98): 

● Keep a minimum distance of 7 meters (21 feet) to the gorillas. ● No flash photography 

● Trekkers are limited to groups of 8 people in a gorilla family. 

● One must not make eye contact with a gorilla because he/she can feel threatened. 

● Use low intonation and do not gesture. 

● Eat not and drink not with the gorillas. 

● To avoid any contagious disease spread like cough or flu you will wear nose masks 

These regulations guarantee long term preservation and adhering to their natural conduct. 

How to Behave Near Gorillas 

When you meet the gorillas, guides will help you remain calm and focused. Remember: 

● Avoid eye contact 

● Crouch down if the gorilla approaches to appear non-threatening ● Do not run or make loud noises 

● Do not use flash cameras to avoid agitating the gorillas  

● Follow your guide’s instructions instantly 

● Always stick with your fellow trackers 

● Turn away from the gorillas if you need to cough or sneeze 

● If a gorilla charges, remain still, do not run, raise your arms or voice ● Admire every moment quietly and respectfully 

Good etiquette creates a peaceful experience for both the wildlife and the trekkers who follow. 

What to Pack

The tracking experience can be quite enjoyable when one is ready. Essentials include: 

● Good grip waterproof hiking boots. 

● Trousers, Long-sleeved shirt 

● Natural colored clothing 

● Lightweight rain jacket 

● Working with plant gloves. 

● Water and energy bar bottles that can be reused. 

● Walking stick (usually given). 

● Non flash camera with extra batteries 

● Mini backpack to carry your water and lunch pack just incase ● Insect repellent and a Sunhat or Cap. 

Top Tips for the Journey 

● Train with light hikes beforehand to improve endurance 

● Hire a porter, they carry your bag and help with tough terrain while earning valuable income 

● Stay positive, finding the gorillas takes patience 

● Book early since Gorilla permits are always on a first come first serve basis ● Let Activentures Africa Safari handle all you logistics as you safari at peace 

A little preparation leads to a much more rewarding experience. 

Conclusion 

Gorilla trekking in Uganda & Rwanda are not only exciting Primate tours, but serve a direct purpose of preserving the endangered Gorillas. Tourism directly benefits the local communities and this makes them more determined to preserve them. When you decide to go on a gorilla trek, you are making a significant contribution to the survival of these amazing animals and the local communities around these protected areas while saving for the next generation. 

At Activentures Africa Safaris we assist guests in handling & coordinating all their gorilla safari trips keeping in mind their budgets, times, level of comfort and travel styles.