With only about 1000 mountain gorillas left in the wild, if nothing is done, there’s a high possibility that future generations will only see them on television or in pictures and books. Today, gorilla trekking is one of the most thrilling adventures that travelers seek from the African continent. The magical experience of meeting the endangered gorillas in a few countries in Africa is one of the most talked about “things to do” on various forums such as Trip Advisor, Lonely Planet & Fodors. From these great review sites, many travelers rate the activity as Excellent and you will find very few or no negative reviews.
There are more reasons to go on a gorilla trek;
- To raise awareness about the plight of these gentle giants
- Receipts from Mountain gorilla trekking generate the much needed funds that are used in protecting the mountain gorillas
- Tourism benefits not only the gorillas but also the local communities that live adjacent to the gorilla parks
There are only three countries where these great apes can still be found in the wild.
Here is a complete Guide to Gorilla Trekking in Uganda.
Contents of our guide
1. Where can I track Gorillas in Uganda?
2. When is the best time to go?
3. Securing a Gorilla Permit
4. How difficult is the Gorilla trekking?
5. What to wear on a Gorilla trek?
6. The rules around Gorilla trekking
7. Are Gorilla sightings guaranteed?
8. What are the accommodation options?
9. The Mountain Gorilla
10. Popular Trips and Example Itineraries
What to Expect from a Gorilla Trek in Bwindi
A cup of coffee taste so great before embarking on the life time adventure in Bwindi forest National Park. The lunch boxes are provided by the lodge staff before leaving for Briefing at the park head quarters. What an amazing day to see every one ready and smart for the jungle in long sleeved tops and long down wears. Many wondering how the entire day will be & how the days gorilla trek will go but the moment you set a foot out of your lodge all fears can vanish and you feel even delayed to enter the jungle and meet Man’s resemblance.
Expect a few hikes but if you fit enough, no need to hire a porter or a walking stick because the trek sometimes ends earlier than expected. A fatty breakfast of African coffee, bread, sausages, home late& cereals is recommended to give you the more strength during the trek in case the trek lasts for long. Make sure you get enough bottled water which can help you catch a breath during the search of the apes and also follow the park rules and regulations in order to have a successful trek.
Ask your trip organizer to give you a right pack list in order to carry right Gorilla tracking equipment and Documents-a valid passport and Gorilla permit are one of them. Gorilla tracking has always been a dream trip for thousands around the globe which can only be fulfilled by a visit to either Uganda –at Bwindi Forest & Mgahinga national park, Rwanda’s Volcanoes national park & DRC –at Virunga national park. If a friend inspires you to come on the gorilla trek in Africa, it’s advisable to use the exact travel planners he or she used in order to have a successful trip. Normally Gorilla safari planers book gorilla tours with a minimal deposit just enough to buy the Gorilla trackers permits and the balance is always paid two weeks to the start date of the Gorilla safari or the day the trip starts. The minimal days for the Gorilla tracking safari in Uganda are three though you free to extend in case you want to explore the forest and the nearby attractions in depth.
Most Uganda gorilla safaris to Bwindi Forest National Park end with a visit to Lake Bunyonyi island an incredible relaxing point and a place to be in case you need to cool off the tiresomeness of the jungle. The calming comfort of the islands tempts visitors us to lounge around the lodge garden in privacy and view the nature beauty of the clean water lake in Africa. While here a call from the many islands sited in a few meter distance remind you that there is a lot more to explore and see around lake bunyonyi. If you a water adventurer spare a whole day for just boat rides and swimming. Also a visit to other islands especially the virgin island a former prison ground for young girls who got pregnant before marriage. Besides birders take the island as their paradise home full of countless bird species and exciting moments.
However you can also happy yourself by relaxing at the island gardens or take on one of the most favourite island activity. Community excursions are organized around the island, hiking, birding among others. Explore beyond your expectation on the last day of your Gorilla safari in Uganda and go back home fresh and stocked with incredible moments. Don’t forget to head out for some craft shopping at the Uganda Equator, National theaters or visit other attractions and Uganda parks if time permits.
It is from this experience that I have created a complete guide to gorilla trekking for all those planning to take a gorilla safari in Africa;
Get Prepared:
Gorilla tracking is considered as a tough activity as meeting these apes is unpredictable! It can go from a half to full day while searching them, so a reasonable degree of fitness is required.
Do not forget the essential tracking gears that you will need to use during the hike. You should not forget a sturdy pair of walking shoes, long sleeved shirts or blouses, walking stick, bottled water and sometimes packed lunch is given at the lodge.
Meeting the gorillas may sometimes involve passing through muddy and steep slopes. However once these apes are met you will forget all the troubles you’ve gone through and utilize the one hour you are allowed to stay with these animals. Your perfect hour the maximum time allowed with gorillas goes so fast. But life will never be quite the same again.