Which countries in Africa have mountain gorillas?
Africa, the continent of diverse landscapes and unique wildlife, is home to one of the most iconic and endangered species on Earth: the mountain gorilla. These magnificent creatures are found in just three countries on the continent: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (D.R.Congo). To embark on a journey to witness these majestic primates in their natural habitat, one must obtain a gorilla trekking or habituation permit from the respective authorities responsible for managing these precious populations.
Uganda:
The Uganda Wildlife Authority is entrusted with overseeing mountain gorilla activities in Uganda. In Uganda, you can find these incredible creatures in two key locations: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:
Located in the southwestern part of Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park was established as a national park in 1992 and designated a World Heritage Site in 1994. Covering approximately 327 square kilometers, this park is characterized by rugged terrain resulting from volcanic activity. The dense vegetation, which has thrived for over 25,000 years, boasts more than 200 natural tree species. The biodiversity of Bwindi is astounding, with over 10 primate species, including mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, blue monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabey, red-tailed monkeys, and olive baboons, thriving in this lush forest. Additionally, the park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with more than 350 bird species, including 23 of the 24 known Albertine rift endemics found here.Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is divided into four gorilla trekking areas: Rushaga, Buhoma, Ruhija, and Nkuringo. Each area is home to habituated gorilla families, and currently, about 18 gorilla families are available for visitors to observe in this park. To fully enjoy your gorilla trekking experience, it’s advisable to book accommodations near the area where your permit is issued, eliminating the need for early morning rushes to reach the briefing point. Some of the recommended accommodations in Bwindi include Gorilla Safari Lodge, Gorilla Forest Camp, Buhoma Lodge, and several others.
Mgahinga National Park:
This is Uganda’s smallest national park, covering approximately 33.7 square kilometers. While it may be small in size, Mgahinga is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family, the only habituated gorilla family in the park. Apart from mountain gorillas, the park is inhabited by other primates such as olive baboons, golden monkeys, blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and more.The park’s stunning scenery includes views of three distinctive volcanoes: Mountain Muhavura, Mountain Gahinga, and Mountain Sabyinyo. Hiking to the summit of these volcanoes allows you to explore various vegetation zones, from montane woodland to bamboo forests and montane forests. Mgahinga National Park also offers exceptional birdwatching opportunities, with approximately 115 bird species, including Albertine rift endemics like the Malachite Sunbird and Rwenzori Turaco.
Accommodations in Mgahinga National Park are limited, but you can also stay in Kisoro town, which is approximately 14 kilometers away and a 30-minute drive.
Rwanda:
In Rwanda, the Rwanda Development Board is responsible for overseeing all mountain gorilla activities, and Volcanoes National Park is the primary location where you can encounter these incredible creatures.
Volcanoes National Park:
Nestled in northwestern Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is the exclusive habitat for mountain gorillas in the country. The park is dominated by the imposing presence of five volcanoes: Mountain Gahinga, Mountain Sabyinyo, Mountain Karisimbi, Mountain Muhabura, and Mountain Bisoke. Currently, Rwanda has opened 12 gorilla families for tourist viewing within this park.
Aside from mountain gorillas, the park is home to other primates, including golden monkeys, olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabey, blue monkeys, and more. A unique attraction here is the Dian Fossey Hike, which allows you to visit the resting place of the renowned American primatologist Diane Fossey, whose pioneering work contributed significantly to the conservation of mountain gorillas. Volcanoes National Park is a haven for bird enthusiasts, offering opportunities to spot around 200 bird species, including Albertine rift endemics such as Shelley’s Crimsonwing and Kivu Ground Thrush.
Accommodations in Volcanoes National Park cater to various preferences and budgets, ranging from luxury to mid-range and budget options. Some of the notable accommodations include Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Kinigi Guest House, and Hotel La Palme. If you prefer staying in Kigali city, keep in mind that it’s a 2.5-hour drive from Volcanoes National Park, requiring an early start to reach the briefing point on time.
Democratic Republic of Congo (D.R.Congo):
In the D.R.Congo, Virunga National Park is the sole home of the mountain gorillas. This vast park covers an area of 7,800 square kilometers and is inhabited by six gorilla families: Munyaga, Humba, Mpuwa, Lulengo, and others.
Why Are There Mountain Gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda, and D.R.Congo?
The mountain gorillas owe their existence in these regions to the Virunga area, a forested refuge that survived the ice age between 1200 and 1800 years ago. This area became a sanctuary for diverse fauna and flora, including the mountain gorillas.Mountain gorillas are primarily herbivores, consuming over 70 pounds of foliage daily to sustain their massive bodies. Their diet includes bamboo, soft stems, leaves, fruits, tubers, and more. They establish temporary feeding grounds as a family and relocate when resources become scarce, with the dominant silverback leading the search for a new area to forage.
The mountain gorillas are believed to thrive exclusively within the Virunga area, encompassing Volcanoes National Park, Mgahinga National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda, and Virunga National Park in D.R.Congo.
When Is the Best Time to Book Gorilla Trekking Safari in Africa?
Gorilla trekking is a year-round activity in Africa, but the timing of your visit can impact your experience. While mountain gorillas can be found in the forest at any time, some tourists prefer the dry season for several reasons. During this period, gorillas tend to be more active, as do other forest inhabitants like monkeys, butterflies, and birds.
The dry season is characterized by reduced rainfall, which means the forest trails are less muddy and slippery. Additionally, the lower humidity makes for a more comfortable trek, and rivers flow within their banks. Photographers appreciate the drier conditions as they can capture moments without worrying about water damage to their equipment.
On the other hand, the wet season, also known as the low season, typically falls between March and May. During this time, tourist numbers are lower, and you may find discounted prices from service providers. If you prefer a quieter trek with fewer people around, the low season offers a more intimate experience with the mountain gorillas.
Which Country Is Best for Gorilla Trekking in Africa?
Choosing the best country for gorilla trekking in Africa depends on various factors, including your budget, travel preferences, and interests. Each of the three countries—Uganda, Rwanda, and D.R.Congo—offers a unique experience.
Cost of Gorilla Trekking Permits:
- Rwanda: The cost of a Rwanda gorilla trekking permit is currently $1500 per person per trek.
- Uganda: Uganda offers a more budget-friendly option, with gorilla permits priced at $800 per person per trek.
- D.R.Congo: Gorilla permits in D.R.Congo are even more affordable, priced at $450.
Number of Gorilla Families:
- Uganda boasts 19 gorilla trekking families open for tourism.
- Rwanda offers access to approximately 12 gorilla families.
- D.R.Congo currently has six habituated gorilla families.
Travel Time to Gorilla Trekking Locations:
- Rwanda: The journey from Kigali Airport to Volcanoes National Park takes approximately 3 hours.
- Uganda: Traveling from Entebbe Airport to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park requires 8 to 9 hours by road.
- D.R.Congo: Getting to Virunga National Park in D.R.Congo may take about two days, depending on your starting point.
Other Activities and Experiences:
- Uganda offers excellent opportunities to combine gorilla trekking with activities such as game drives, visiting the source of the River Nile, chimpanzee trekking, and nature walks.
- Rwanda, while primarily known for gorilla trekking, also offers experiences like visiting Kigali city, chimpanzee trekking, and game drives.
- D.R.Congo provides a unique and less-visited setting for gorilla trekking, with its lush landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Briefing Points:
- Rwanda boasts well-organized briefing points for mountain gorilla trekking.
- Uganda and D.R.Congo have relatively average briefing points, though they are functional and serve their purpose.
Duration of Gorilla Trekking:
- Rwanda allows for gorilla trekking in as little as 2 days.
- Uganda and D.R.Congo typically require a minimum of 3 days for gorilla trekking.
In conclusion, the experience of encountering mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is truly unparalleled and leaves a lasting impression. The choice of the best country for gorilla trekking in Africa depends on your preferences and priorities. Whether you opt for Rwanda, Uganda, or D.R.Congo, the opportunity to witness these incredible creatures up close is a journey of a lifetime.
Rules of Gorilla Trekking in Uganda:
To ensure the well-being of both the mountain gorillas and visitors, there are strict rules in place for gorilla trekking in Uganda. These rules include:
- If you have an infectious disease such as a cough, flu, or cholera, it’s essential to volunteer to stay behind to prevent any potential transmission to the gorillas.
- Spitting on the ground is strictly forbidden to maintain the cleanliness of the habitat.
- When in the presence of mountain gorillas, maintain a minimum distance of about 8 meters to minimize stress and potential disease transmission.
- Only individuals aged 15 years and above are allowed to participate in gorilla trekking.
- Wearing a mask before meeting the mountain gorillas is mandatory to reduce the risk of disease transmission.
- If you need to feed or smoke, do so at least 200 meters away from the mountain gorillas to avoid any disturbance.
- Visitors are allowed only one hour with the mountain gorillas to limit their exposure to human presence and minimize stress on the animals.
