Encountering these apes in their natural habitat; lush tropical rain forests of Africa leaves visitors with fresh memories and unforgettable moments. It is done on foot, through the different territories of the Jungle, occupied by mammals, unique plant species, birds, and a breathtaking landscape. Gorillas are man’s closest relatives, with approximately 98.7% of human DNA; confirmed on a close look at their social life, body structure and fingerprints; a call for gorilla trekking. They are also vegetarians.
There are three main gorilla species only found in the Continent of Africa; the riverine, eastern and western gorillas at the vast Virunga chain of mountains, sprawling through three countries in the East and central part of Africa. Rwanda is home to a quarter of the total mountain gorilla population living in Volcanoes National Park. Uganda, on the other hand is home to half of the total mountain gorilla population living in Bwindi impenetrable and Mgahinga national parks, while D.R Congo has a third of the total mountain gorilla population in Virunga National Park and a large concentration of Eastern lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega national park. It is really fun and rewarding visiting these destinations during wet seasons.
The day’s trekking activity starts with a pre trekking briefing; be it amidst the drizzles or rain showers. The park ranger meets, verifies the trekking documents and explains different trekking dos and don’ts.
One Gorilla family is trekked by 8 people plus a ranger guide and porters, but during rains, it tends to be a different story, with a small number of persons. The search starts with a visit to where the apes were last spotted the previous day, then to the spot where they are expected to be feeding, resting and playing. Trekking time lasts for about 1-6 hours, regardless of weather conditions, plus an additional hour to closely observe as the silverbacks protect their family, mothers’ breastfeed and the young starts somersault.
Gorilla trekking Permits.
A gorilla trekking permit is a compulsory document issued to all those intending to track gorillas. It is valid for only the day of the activity, for 8 people aged 15 years and above, per gorilla family. Each country charges differently. Uganda Gorilla permits are charged 700 USD per person for foreign non-residents, 600usd for foreign residents, and 250,000 UGX for east African Residents in Bwindi and Mgahinga National Park.
D.R. Congo on the other hand charges 400 USD for foreign non-residents in Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega National Parks and Rwanda charges 1500 USD for foreign Non-residents.
Rainy season is a low season for tourism, building up to the peak season which runs from June to about September and then December to February.
What to Carry?
A waterproof jacket, good hiking boots, a hat, gloves to protect your hands, insect repellents, trekking permit, camera, binoculars, long stockings, long-sleeved shirt, water container and long trousers, among others.
Trekking gorillas is a great experience and a lifetime adventure that happens all year round, despite the rains.
