Gorilla Trekking tips in Uganda and Rwanda – Book a Gorilla Safari to Uganda or Rwanda.
Gorilla trekking tips in Uganda and Rwanda. The endangered mountain gorillas are a unique primate species that share 98% DNA with humans, they can be found in the tropical rain forests of Virunga national park in Congo, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Mount Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
Gorilla Trekking trips in Uganda and Rwanda
Before going for a gorilla trekking safari, you will need to have some tips on how and when to trek mountain gorillas. Below are some tips on mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo.
Physical Fitness
Expect you might have a long hike. Be in the best physical shape you can be. Mountain gorillas live at the mountain slopes of the Virunga massif and Bwindi Forest in Uganda, if you trekking gorillas on volcanic slopes then you will need to be in good shape and have some level of body fitness. However, there are also facilities given to help disabled people and the elderly track gorillas at an extra fee.
Duration of the trek
The time taken while trekking gorillas cannot be determined because gorillas move up and down in search of food. sometimes you will be lucky to get them as soon as you start the trek or sometimes you hike for long hours when they have moved far away. A single Trek can take anything between 2-8 hours.
Gorilla Trekking tips in Uganda and Rwanda
Season
Most of the countries where gorillas are found experience two seasons that are the dry and rainy seasons. The best time to trek gorillas is during the dry season from June to September and December to February during this time the trails are a bit slippery and the terrain is good. Though rains in tropical rainforests are unpredictable be prepared with raincoats just in case it rains while doing the activity.
Health
Tourists trekking gorillas must not have communicable diseases like covid, flu, and TB because gorillas are vulnerable to contracting human diseases. Just in case you would like to sneeze or cough out must move your head away from the gorillas to lower the risk of infecting them.
Photography
When trekking mountain gorillas and during observation time, cameras with flashlights are prohibited so are kindly requested to turn off your flashlight. Mountain gorillas don’t like flashlights like golden monkeys. Gorillas can charge and try to fight you.
Clothing
You will be required to wear appropriate clothing while heading for gorilla trekking. This is mainly because it can get very cold on the mountain slopes or even rain Carry a raincoat, cotton warm clothing, good hiking boots, and a sweater. Visitors are advised to put on long and comfortable trousers and shirts with long sleeves. This is intended to protect your skin from thorns and insects.
Gorilla Trekking tips in Uganda and Rwanda
Minimum Age for gorilla trekking.
The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years of age, age verification will be done during the briefing at the park headquarters before you can trek gorillas. If you’re moving with kids, some lodges will find maids or activities to engage your kids while you go on for gorilla trekking.
Rubbish and litter
Tourists are required not to litter rubbish within the park. Keep your voices low and the guides will inform you when you can have your cameras ready.
Distance from the gorillas
A distance of 5-7 meters must be kept while with gorillas this will reduce the risk of disease transmission.
Book your gorilla safari in Advance
Gorilla permits can run short during the peak season; it’s advisable to always book your permit in advance to avoid disappointments before arrival.
Eye Contact with the mountain gorillas.
While observing gorillas, do not look straight up to the gorillas’ eyes, allow the gorillas to pass by, and crouch down slowly in case they charge and want to attack, and never run away when the gorillas charge this will increase the risk of attack.
Gorilla Trekking tips in Uganda and Rwanda
Prices
Gorilla permits in Uganda cost $600, in Rwanda, they go for $1500, and in Congo for $400. It’s always advisable to check on the country that suits your budget for gorilla trekking as permit prices differ.
You will be with a group and guide but also, consider hiring a local person as a porter assistant, even if you are very fit. This adds a great cultural dimension to the experience and is not expensive.
If you have the choice, visit the largest group available to you to maximize the photo opportunities and the different behaviors you will see.
Gorilla Trekking tips in Uganda and Rwanda
Prepare for the possibility of rain at any time of year.
Consider traveling with a companion or friend with whom you will share the lifelong memory of the gorilla encounter.
Listen to the advice of your guide. Trust that he or she wants you to get great photos and have the best possible experience.
Contact us for any more inquiries on tips about gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda
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