Gorilla tracking adventure in Uganda – Gorilla trekking in African wild
Gorilla tracking adventure in Uganda – Gorilla tracking is one of the famous tourist activities in Uganda. It has been observed that the population of Mountain Gorillas has increased due to the conservation efforts of various non-governmental and government support. These areas are safe for tourists and Mountain Gorillas alike with minimal or no-poaching incidences reported because of alternative sources of income available to communities in the area due to increased revenues from Mountain Gorilla tracking tourism.
The Mountain Gorillas are often found in the undergrowth feeding on the vegetation as they rest and or groom each other. The leader of each Gorilla family is a silverback which is very protective of the family and if frustrated it will grunt and beat its chest before moving off with the females, offspring, and mature males. Understand more about how the mountain gorillas spend their day in our blog post
To enjoy the experience of Mountain Gorilla trekking, you need to prepare adequately starting with a choice of a tour operator to plan the entire safari, lodges, and purchase of Gorilla permits. The minimum age for Gorilla trekking is 15 years. You require purchasing your Gorilla permit much earlier especially if you want a specific date because only 8 people can trek a Gorilla family per day.
Gorilla tracking adventure in Uganda takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks. Uganda currently has 19 habituated gorilla families available for trekking per day. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is slightly different from Mgahinga because of the nature of the landscape. Bwindi is a rainforest with thick undergrowth and varying landscape, you will have experiences of both uphill and downhill on your hike.
Bwindi Forest is divided into different sectors each with several habituated Gorilla families. Before you book your lodge it is important to know which sector you will trek the Mountain Gorillas because the location is quite far apart. The sectors are Buhoma in the north, Ruhija in the east, Nkuringo, and Rushaga in the south. Read more about the best region to trek mountain gorillas
In Mgahinga Gorilla National Park the Mountain Gorillas are mainly found in the mid vegetation on the Virunga volcanoes especially in the open areas of the bamboo zone.
Gorilla trekking preparation tips
Uganda is a tropical country with an unpredictable climate, rain gear is a must-have
Insect repellent
Recommended clothing – long trousers and long-sleeved sweaters or shirts while in the forest to avoid insect and plant stings.
Sturdy hiking boots are essential, especially ones you have used before.
Drinking water, however eating, drinking, and smoking near the gorillas is strictly forbidden – your guide will communicate the designated time and place.
Photography is permitted, although you must not use flash
Porters are available to help you carry your day-pack for a small charge.
You will not be allowed to trek gorillas if you have a communicable disease like flu or cough
Mountain Gorillas live at high altitudes and this may cause difficulties in hiking up for some visitors. You should pace yourself, walk slowly, drink plenty of water and prepare adequately for this experience. Great Adventure Safaris will purchase your Gorilla trekking permits for you in advance for proper planning.
