Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi – What You Need to Know

Gorilla habituation in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park allows you to spend more time with semi-habituated mountain gorillas. During this experience, you’ll be part of the team helping these gorillas get used to human presence, without changing their natural behavior. This is different from regular gorilla trekking, where the gorillas are fully accustomed to people.

Gorilla habituation takes place in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. The main locations for this activity are the Rushaga and Nkuringo areas. In the past, gorilla trekking permits were sold according to the specific gorilla families. Now, they are sold based on the area to ensure a balanced distribution of visitors across the park. The Uganda Wildlife Authority made this change for better management and to encourage visitors to explore all areas of Bwindi. Before, the southern part of the park received fewer visitors, leading some gorilla groups to become less accustomed to humans again. This required additional habituation, which was both costly and time-consuming.

What is Gorilla Habituation?

Gorilla habituation is a process that takes up to two years. It involves gradually exposing wild mountain gorillas to human presence until they feel comfortable around people. During your experience, you’ll join a team of researchers and trackers who are working to make the gorillas less fearful. You’ll spend up to four hours with the gorillas, learning how they behave and even helping to identify individual gorillas.

Requirements for Gorilla Habituation in Uganda

Gorilla Habituation Permit

You need a special gorilla habituation permit to participate. Only four people are allowed to join the experience each day, so booking early is important.

Once you know your preferred date and the number of people in your group, you can send an inquiry. The safari consultant will check with the Uganda Wildlife Authority to see if permits are available. If they are, it’s recommended to buy yours quickly because demand is high.

Book Accommodation Near the Habituation Area

Staying close to the habituation location is convenient because it reduces travel time in the morning.

In the southern part of Bwindi, you can stay at lodges like Clouds Lodge, Gorilla Safari Camp, or Nkuringo Gorilla Safari Camp.

Organize Transport to the Gorilla Habituation Destination

You need to be at the meeting point early in the morning, so it’s best to arrive the day before. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended due to the rough terrain, especially during the rainy season.

How Much Does Gorilla Habituation Cost?

Each gorilla habituation permit in Uganda costs $1,500 per person. This fee includes:

Ranger Guide Fee

The fee covers the services of ranger guides who protect you and the gorillas during the trek. They provide information and ensure safety throughout.

Research and Gorilla Conservation

Part of the fee supports research and conservation efforts. This includes studying gorilla health, monitoring their movements, and ensuring the protection of their habitat.

Gorilla Health and Medical Care

Funds are used to treat gorillas in case of injuries or illness. For example, if a gorilla is caught in a poacher’s snare, veterinary doctors (known as Gorilla Doctors) may need to step in and provide treatment.

Security for Gorillas and Tourists

Your permit helps pay for security personnel who protect both the gorillas and tourists from potential dangers.

Support for Local Communities

A portion of the money is given to nearby communities to fund projects such as healthcare, water access, and road maintenance. This encourages local people to see the value in protecting gorillas.

Is Gorilla Habituation Difficult?

Gorilla habituation takes place in mountainous areas, so be prepared for some hiking. The terrain can be challenging, with steep slopes and dense forest. You may also have to follow the gorillas if they move in search of food. To make it easier:

• Hire a Porter: Porters can carry your backpack and assist you during the trek. This helps you stay focused and maintain your balance.
• Use a Walking Stick: These are available at the park and can provide extra support on slippery trails.
• Wear the Right Footwear: Good hiking boots are essential because the trails can be muddy and wet.

How Do Gorillas Behave During Habituation?

Gorillas undergoing habituation are still not completely used to humans, so their behavior can be unpredictable. They may sometimes hide or show signs of nervousness. However, mountain gorillas are generally gentle and shy. Even though they can look intimidating due to their size and strength, they rarely act aggressively towards humans.

If they feel threatened, they might show signs like chest-thumping, hooting, or mock charges, but this is mostly for show. There has never been a case of a mountain gorilla attacking a human during habituation in Uganda.

Is Gorilla Habituation Safe?

Yes, gorilla habituation is safe. The Uganda Wildlife Authority takes safety very seriously. The rangers and trackers are well-trained and always alert to any unusual activity in the forest. They also coordinate with security personnel from nearby parks like Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park to ensure safety.

To stay safe:

• Wear proper gear, including long trousers, long-sleeved shirts, and insect repellent.
• Don’t carry large amounts of cash or expensive items.
• Don’t wander off alone; always stay with your group.
• Eat only at designated places to avoid food poisoning.

Best Time for Gorilla Habituation in Uganda

Gorilla habituation can be done year-round, but the best time is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to January. During these months, the trails are drier, making it easier to trek. However, Bwindi can receive rain at any time, so always be prepared with waterproof gear.

In the rainy season (March to May and November), there are fewer visitors, which can give you a more private experience. Lodges and transport providers may also offer discounts during this low season.

What to Pack for Gorilla Habituation in Uganda

• Long Trousers and Long-Sleeved Shirts: Wear neutral colors that won’t show dirt easily.
• Camera: A camera is a must-have to capture this special experience. Remember to disable the flash.
• Waterproof Gear: Bring a raincoat or poncho to protect against unexpected rain.
• Backpack: A waterproof backpack is ideal for carrying your items.
• Insect Repellent: Keep away biting insects that can cause irritation.
• First Aid Kit: Pack essentials in case of minor injuries.
• Walking Stick: This is useful for maintaining balance on slippery trails.
• Flip-flops: Comfortable for relaxing after the trek.
• Warm Clothing: Early mornings and evenings can be chilly, so bring a sweater or jacket.

Rules for Gorilla Habituation in Uganda

Do Not Surround the Gorillas: Give the gorillas space to move freely. This helps them feel safe and less threatened.

No Spitting or Littering: Spitting or leaving trash in the forest can spread diseases to the gorillas or damage their habitat.

Avoid Eating or Smoking Near Gorillas: This could make the gorillas curious and lead them to try and grab your food.

Do Not Use Flash Photography: Flash can startle the gorillas and disrupt their natural behavior.

Keep a Distance of 8 Meters: Always maintain a safe distance from the gorillas. This protects both you and them.

Only Children 15 and Older Allowed: Younger children may not be able to handle the trek or follow safety instructions.

Health Rules for Gorilla Habituation

• If you need to relieve yourself in the forest, follow the ranger’s instructions to dig a hole and bury everything properly.
• Wear a clean mask when you’re close to the gorillas to prevent the spread of diseases.
• Only one hour is spent with the gorillas once they are located.

By following these rules, you help keep the gorillas and yourself safe, ensuring that future generations can also enjoy this unique experience.