Important things to note About Mountain gorilla trekking : Mountain gorilla trekking is not just a safari experience it’s a bucket list moment and a signature adventure for all travellers and wildlife lovers. Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo have mountain gorillas living in natural habitats in the different parks that are Bwindi National Park and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Well, we know you are excited to go for that mountain gorilla trekking experience so as you prepare here are a couple of important things to note before or as you go for the safari.
- Good health
Mountain gorilla trekking is a physically demanding activity the ascending and descending of the mountain needs you to be in good shape to take it on. Plus the altitude at the top of the forested mountain where the gorillas usually stay is quite destabilizing, if you are not in good health you may become even worse.
- Book your permits early
As stated mountain gorilla trekking is one of the most popular safari activities in the East African region. So be sure that the gorilla permits will be selling like hot cake. If you plan to go for a gorilla trekking experience this year, at least book your trekking permit 3 months in advance. Mountain gorilla trekking permits cost 700 US dollars for Uganda, 1500 US dollars for Rwanda and 400 US dollars for the Democratic republic of Congo.
- Follow the mountain gorilla rules to the dot.
The main purpose of mountain gorilla trekking is to support mountain gorilla conservation works to help keep and grow the mountain gorilla population; so its imperative that when you are going for a mountain gorilla trekking experience you follow all the mountain gorilla rules to the dot. These rules include but are not limited to:-
- Spending only one hour with the mountain gorillas, don’t stay longer or stay behind when your time is done, respect the one hour rule.
- Maintain a distance of 7 meters (23 feet) between you and the mountain gorillas at all times. This helps to keep clam with the gorillas and also prevent the spread of disease from humans to the gorillas.
Mountain gorilla trekking - Stay calm and collected in the presence of the gorillas, don’t make funny noises, don’t be disruptive to cause fear into the gorillas.
- Make sure you abstinence from practices that will demand the mountain gorilla habitat, don’t litter the forest , don’t break tree branches etc.
- Don’t eat, smoke, or drink in front of the gorillas; also resist the temptation to feed them.
- Take photos but don’t use flash photography or any flash.
- And other rules.
- Remember to carry some snacks for your trek and water is very important, you needed to rehydrate.
- When it comes to clothing do light weight clothes but also with a strong texture not to easily be cut by thorns and tree branches. Long sleeved shirts are good, socks and hats. Also get some gloves. For foot wear hiking boots are advisable.
- Although mountain gorilla trekking is considered a year-round activity, during the rainy seasons muddy terrain can make it extra challenging and strenuous. So always think of having your experience during the dry seasons.
- Your trekking permit is not transferable, so if you are not able to trek on your planned trek day, please inform the authorities as early as possible, if you wait till late, you will lose your permit and your chance to trek all together.
- Mountain gorilla trekking is only for persons 15 years and above so don’t bring children on a mountain gorilla trekking Safaris.
