Why is the Gorilla Trekking worth the Money?

Gorilla trekking is a fantastic experience that’s worth every bit of effort and money. People who have been on these trips often say it’s life-changing. We organize gorilla tours in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo, where you get to see these amazing creatures in their natural habitat. There are four national parks where you can go gorilla trekking: Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, and Virunga National Park in Congo.

Facilitating Conservation Efforts:

Protecting mountain gorillas is costly. It involves a lot of things like research and monitoring. The money tourists pay for gorilla permits helps fund these conservation efforts. In Uganda, for example, the cost of gorilla permits varies for different types of travelers. Foreign non-residents pay USD 700, foreign residents pay USD 600, and Ugandans or East African citizens pay Uganda shillings 250,000. Some of this money also goes to local communities to improve their living conditions and prevent illegal activities in the parks.

One Hour with Gorillas:

When you go gorilla trekking, you only get to spend about an hour with them. But it’s a magical experience. You get to see these rare creatures up close in their natural habitat. Mountain gorillas can’t survive in zoos because they need to roam freely in the wild. During your hour with them, you’ll realize how similar they are to humans – they share about 98% of our DNA. And if you want more time with them, there’s an option called gorilla habituation experience where you can spend four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family.

Abundant Fauna and Flora Species:

The countries where mountain gorillas live are also rich in other wildlife and plants. So, when you go gorilla trekking, you’ll see a lot more than just gorillas. You might spot l’hoest monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, chimpanzees, baboons, red colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and various birds. You can even combine gorilla trekking with savanna game safaris in places like Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda, Akagera National Park in Rwanda, or Masai Mara National Reserve and Tsavo National Parks in Kenya. In Tanzania, you can see the wildebeest migration in Serengeti National Park, or visit Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara National Park for other unique wildlife experiences. And in Uganda, don’t miss the chance to see tree-climbing lions in Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park or while on your way to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda/Rwanda

Gorilla trekking is an exciting adventure that can be enjoyed in Uganda and Rwanda throughout the year. However, certain times offer more favorable conditions for this experience. The ideal times are during the dry seasons, which occur twice a year. The long dry season falls in June, July, and August, while the short dry season is in December, January, and February. During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant with minimal rainfall. The ground is dry, making it easier to navigate through the parks in search of mountain gorilla families.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking

Regardless of the season you choose for gorilla trekking, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. Packing the right items ensures you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some essential items to consider:

• First Aid Kit: Carry a first aid kit containing basic medical supplies for emergencies.
• Camera without Flashlight: A camera without a flash is essential for capturing moments without disturbing the gorillas.
• Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts, lightweight sweaters, and long trousers to protect yourself from scratches and insect bites.
• Rain Jacket: Bring a waterproof rain jacket that dries quickly to shield you from unexpected showers.
• Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are necessary for trekking through various terrains.
• Insect Repellent: Protect yourself from mosquito bites by applying insect repellent.
• Snacks and Water: Carry snacks and bottled water to stay energized and hydrated during the trek.

It’s also essential to wear clothing that blends in with the environment to minimize your impact on the gorillas’ habitat.

Difficulty of Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is not your typical nature walk. It involves thrilling adventures through dense vegetation, steep slopes, and varying weather conditions. While it is an incredible experience, it requires a certain level of physical fitness.

The trek can be demanding, lasting anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family. Participants need to navigate through the forest, which may involve slippery or dry terrain. Despite the challenges, encountering mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is a truly awe-inspiring experience.

To make the trek more manageable, park offices offer porters for hire. These porters can assist in carrying your daypack, allowing you to focus on the trek without being weighed down by heavy luggage.

In summary, gorilla trekking offers an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts. By choosing the right time to visit, packing essential items, and being prepared for the physical demands of the trek, you can ensure a memorable and rewarding experience with these majestic creatures.