Gorilla trekking Safaris are undoubtedly a once in a lifetime experience for any visitor on an Africa safari. The trek through the forest, the clean air and the sound of the wind whistling through the trees is a transcending experience. Then, you meet the gorillas. The shaggy coated primates are a sight to behold. The brown eyes of the silverback looking at you in recognition and acknowledgment and the playful baby gorillas tugging at one another leaves you in awe of these gentle giants. Lets take you on your life changing experience. Book with Heritage safaris for a personalized gorilla experience,

Mountain gorillas are only found in the Virunga mountains shared by Uganda, Rwanda and Congo. In Rwanda, gorillas are found in the Volcanoes national park. The park has 12 habituated gorilla families allowing 96 visitors to trek the gorillas per day. You are allowed an hour to observe and interact with the gorilla family allocated to you. Depending on the location of the gorilla family, the trek will last between 3-6 hours. A certain level of fitness is required for a memorable gorilla trek.

Gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda are done all year round. However, it’s advisable to trek during the dry seasons of June to September and December to February. The wet seasons of March-May and August-November are challenging and can create unfavorable gorilla encounters. Due to the high demand and limited gorilla permits, you are advised to book your Gorilla safari in advance. Gorilla permits in Rwanda cost $1,500 and these fees help in the conservation efforts as well as giving back to the local communities.

For one to have a comfortable trek, you need to dress right. Sturdy and comfortable hiking boots are essential because the trails can be steep, muddy and slippery. Gardening gloves will come in handy as you reach for support from the shrubs and trees. You are advised to wear long trousers instead of shorts. These will protect you from the shrubs and stinging plants in the forest. Due to the high elevation in the Virunga, it could rain anytime even in the dry seasons. A waterproof jacket will come in handy.

A walking stick is available to you at the starting point of your trek. Do pick one as it will help you along your trek. Carry enough drinking water and snacks incase the trek takes longer than anticipated. Gorillas tend to move in search of food and you would have to tag along. Porters are available for hire in case you need someone to help you with your bags. Capturing the moment on this once in lifetime adventure is vital. You are allowed to take photos and videos but remember to turn off the flash mode of your camera.

With about 500 members, Uganda has the largest number of mountain gorillas in the world. They are found in the Bwindi impenetrable national park and Mgahinga gorilla national park. While Mgahinga has 1 major gorilla family, Bwindi has a whopping 21 gorilla families allowing 168 visitors to visit the gorilla families on any given day. Bwindi impenetrable national park has 4 gorilla trekking sectors; Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija and Nkuringo. All these sectors have habituated gorilla families ready to be admired by visitors.

Gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda are done all year round with the dry season being the high season. In June-September and December-February, the dry conditions make it favorable to trek through the lush green forest. The wet seasons of August-November and March-May come with wet conditions, muddy and slippery tracks. The Nkuringo sector however is known for her physically challenging terrain. If you are interested in a more physically tasking trek, contact our safari experts for better planning.

While the other sectors don’t require a very high level of fitness, a certain level is needed for a comfortable Gorilla trekking experience in Uganda. Although Uganda has more slots for gorilla trekking, you are advised to book your safari permit in advance. A Gorilla permit in Uganda costs $700, relatively cheaper than Rwanda. These fees are used in the conservation efforts and a portion of it goes to the local community and the Batwa people who were relocated from the forest when it was gazetted as a national park.

Dress right for your Gorilla trekking Safaris with sturdy and comfortable hiking shoes, long trousers, waterproof jacket and gardening gloves. A walking stick is availed to you at the starting point and porters are available for hire. Hiring a porter not only gives you freedom to enjoy the trek but also supports the local economy. Remember to carry enough water, a packed lunch or energy bars as the trek may go for up to 8 hours. This depends on the location of the gorilla family or if they remain in the same location during the trek.