What to expect on your gorilla trekking tours? There are much more you need to know before you set off for your gorilla trekking trip; First of all, you need to know the best country to visit to see the gorillas, take note, in the world there are only three countries that hosts mountain gorilla trekking that is – Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo. In Uganda gorillas can be found in two national parks- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Congo’s Virunga National Park.
While on your gorilla safari expect to mean a habituated gorilla, family headed by a watchful an adult silverback male, one hour you spend with them -you will be able to enjoy young gorillas rough, maternal females gather in grooming groups, caring for the little ones while the benevolent silverback keeps a protective eye on the surroundings and how they have survived in their natural habitat in the last protected years. Well, we thank the great number of tourists who support gorilla trekking tourism yearly and money earned from it supports the conservation through fighting poaching around the park, building schools and infrastructure as well as supporting the local community around the park. There is nothing rewarding to have face to face encounter with these unique gentle giants in their natural environment thus leaving with everlasting memories that will never fade.
How much is a gorilla trekking permits in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo?
Gorilla trekking in Uganda costs USD700 per person per trek
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda costs USD1,500 per person per day
Gorilla permits in Congo costs USD400 per person.
When to go?
The best time to go for gorilla trekking tours is during dry season between June through to September and December through to February, trekking trails can be dry and easy to hike.
Why go gorilla trekking?
You should know that mountain gorillas only survive in the wild and cannot be seen in zoo which makes trekking in the wild in order to see these beautiful creatures is a once – in -a lifetime experience. Note, the best places to see mountain gorillas is Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. They are critically endangered because of poaching, human encroachments and deforestation. Although their population has increased compared to past few years. Currently, the gorilla population estimates 1065 individuals.
Facts about gorilla trekking
Gorillas are trekked in mountainous rain forest -trekking experience which can take 30 to 7hours depending on their movement- expect to hiking on steep, narrow footpaths and walking through dense jungle behind a scout who slashes a path through the foliage with a machete. We advise you before you set off for your gorilla tour, always make sure your fit to walk through dense thick forest. Remember to carry double-layered socks, comfortable hiking shoes, camera, enough mineral water bottles among others.
You need to be aware that gorillas are highly susceptible to human illnesses; it you have a cold, flue, diarrheas or other contagious illness – you will not be allowed to go for trekking experience.
Can I touch them- gorillas?
No, you’re not permitted to touch gorillas because they are wild animals thus unpredictable, you could be severely injured.
If you’re ill, you will not be allowed to go on a gorilla trek and for that matter, ensure that you are in excellent health before you travel and take precautions – not to pick up a bug on the flight over.
In fact, once you allocate the gorilla family, you’re allowed an hour with them and they allow only one hour not to cause them distress. When you find them, do not spend your time behind a lens; Pick your camera and take photos for your future remembrance.
Can children go gorilla trekking?
The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo is 15 years and above. This Strick restriction is put in place due to many important factors; Children may find it challenging to remain calm if a gorilla is mocked during a trekking experience. However, they can charge when they are threated.
Children can cause health risks during gorilla trekking, as they develop immune systems make them more susceptible to contagious diseases like cold, flu – they can easily get transmitted to gorillas thus leading them too potentially fatal.
Rules to protect the gorillas;
Keep a distance of seven meters away from them.
Following instructions from the park guides
When you find them lower your voice.
Avoid direct eye contact with gorillas
Avoid a touching them,
While at the gorilla safari with a child under 15 years – we recommend you to book a lodge that offers childminding services, special programs for kids and child -friendly forest walks.
Better Get Started Planning for Your Gorilla Safari Now.
