Gorilla Trekking in Africa occurs in Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, specifically in four national parks: Bwindi Impenetrable, Mgahinga Gorilla, Volcanoes, and Virunga. These tours offer a rare chance to see gorillas in their natural habitat, typically in tropical or subtropical forests.
Gorillas live in family groups led by a silverback male. They have a complex communication system and strong family bonds. They also build nests from branches and leaves for resting. Daily activities include resting, traveling, and foraging. We invite you to experience these unforgettable gorilla trekking adventures that promote awareness and conservation.
Where to Go for Gorilla Trekking in Africa
1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Uganda is widely regarded as the premier destionation for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, with 18 habituated gorilla families, offers small group treks for an unforgettable hour with these amazing animals.
2. Volcanoes National Park
Another well-liked location for an amazing mountain gorilla trekking experience is Rwanda. In the Volcanoes National Park, you will visit one of the habituated gorilla families with a knowledgeable guide and a small group of no more than eight people. You can watch and take pictures of these gentle giants as they feed, rest, play, and interact with one another during your allotted one-hour stop.
3. Mgahinga National Park
Mgahinga National Park, recognized as the smallest national park in Uganda, presents a distinctive opportunity for adventure seekers. This park is home to a single habituated gorilla group that can be visited, with its territory extending across Mgahinga and the adjacent Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. This particular group has resided in Uganda for the last three years, thereby making gorilla trekking from this location an appealing alternative for enthusiasts.
About Gorilla Trekking in Africa
Trekking for gorillas in mountainous rainforests involves hours of hiking on steep paths and through dense jungle, guided by a scout who clears a way with a machete. You should be in good physical shape, as guides take breaks. Equip yourself with broken-in hiking boots, double-layered socks, and knee-high gaiters. Remember, gorillas can catch human illnesses, so you cannot go on the trek if you have a cold or any contagious illness.
When To Go Gorilla Trekking
Although gorilla trekking is thought to be a year-round activity in Rwanda and Uganda, the two dry seasons are the ideal times to visit the rainforests. One spans from early June to late September, while the other spans from roughly mid-December to the end of February. Trekking is most comfortable during these times, but the weather is still very wet, humid, and full of mud (so remember your gaiters!).
FAQS About Gorilla Trekking in Africa
How Much Does a Trekking Permit Cost?
In Uganda, the cost of a permit to spend an hour with the gorillas is $600 USD per individual. Alternatively, one can opt for a habituation permit priced at $1,500 USD, which allows for a more immersive experience by accompanying researchers and spending up to four hours in the gorillas’ natural habitat. In contrast, Rwanda charges $1,500 USD per person for a similar permit. It is highly recommended to arrange your gorilla trekking trip as soon as you have made the decision to embark on this adventure, whether in Rwanda or Uganda, as permits are often fully booked up to a year in advance, particularly during the extended dry season from June to September.
Will I Certainly Encounter Gorillas?
Guides, who keep close contact with researchers or trekkers, usually know where gorilla families are, giving you a 99% chance of seeing them. While wild animals can be unpredictable, and conditions like storms may lead them to move, scouts often find them again quickly. It’s rare for travelers not to spot the apes during their trek.
When encountering a gorilla family, your ranger will ask you to leave everything except your camera. This way, you can closely observe the gorillas without threatening them. The gorillas are used to humans and act naturally, often displaying curiosity. It’s recommended to take photos and spend at least 20 minutes just watching them for a deeper experience.
Is it Safe to Touch Gorillas?
No, absolutely not. Although we understand the desire to cuddle an adorable baby gorilla, they are wild animals that can be strong and unpredictable, which could lead to serious injury. Gorilla populations are threatened by logging, poaching, and human encroachment, and they are vulnerable to human diseases. You must keep a distance of at least seven metres (22 feet) at all times, and sometimes wear a face mask. If you are ill, you cannot go on a gorilla trek, so make sure you are healthy before your trip. You are allowed only one hour with the gorillas, so spend some time just watching them.
How Fit Do I Have to Be?
The fitter you are, the better for strenuous activities like gorilla trekking, but you don’t need extreme fitness. Trekkers will be grouped by age and fitness, with older and less fit participants assigned to nearby gorilla families. Groups will stay together, with faster walkers slowing down for others. Stronger individuals will trek to farther groups. Guides will monitor how the group is handling the trek and will take breaks for water, views, and snacks, which include nutritious foods like fruits and local treats. Trekking is easier in the dry season, while mud and rain can make it tougher in wet season. Bring lightweight binoculars to see the gorillas better. Some gorilla families may be moving, so be ready to keep up.
How Long Will We Trek For?
Treks reach an altitude of 2,500–4,000m, and the time it takes to get to the gorilla family varies from 30 minutes to 3–4 hours. As you get closer to the park’s edge, the terrain changes from farmland to dense bush. Furthermore, you might be paired with a mobile family, which could prolong your journey.
You will have an hour to sit and watch these amazing creatures after you’ve found the gorilla family you’re looking for. There will be trackers available to help and direct your interactions; these trackers also climb the mountain before visitors in order to find the appropriate families. After theallotted time has passed, you will re-connect with your porter, have lunch, and have some time to observe the experience, and then make your way back down.
Can Children Participate in Gorilla Trekking Activities?
The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Rwanda, Uganda is 15 years. This rule exists for several reasons. Children may struggle to stay calm if a gorilla mock charges, which could scare them and prompt them to run, putting them at risk. Their developing immune systems also make them more vulnerable to diseases that could harm gorillas. Moreover, children may lack the stamina needed for challenging treks in steep and rugged areas. Gorilla trekking regulations include maintaining a distance of seven meters, following guide instructions, and not touching the gorillas. Families with young children should consider lodges with childminding services or kid-friendly activities.
Do I Have to Use Porter ?
We strongly encourage you to use a porter if offered their services during your gorilla trek, even if you feel fit enough for the terrain, altitude, humidity, and your daypack. For around USD20, you will help provide a livelihood to several villagers.
Porters are often former poachers who may return to illegal activities without work options. It’s better to accept their help and pay than risk gorilla conservation. Every employed person in Africa supports seven to nine others, so involving more porters aids in conservation efforts.
Conclusion:
Gorillas are classified as critically endangered, and the trekking activities in Africa’s gorilla parks are meticulously controlled. Obtaining permits for these treks is both expensive and challenging, and they cannot be reserved on a temporary basis. Visiting these remote locations and maximizing the likelihood of a successful gorilla trek necessitates the kind of firsthand experience and local expertise that only an Africa Safari Expert can provide. It is advisable to consult with someone who has firsthand experience in these areas.
