Gorilla Trekking is a captivating and unforgettable experience which more than repays the effort needed to reach the gorilla parks and a trek through the forest is absolutely an amazing experience that you will not find elsewhere in the world.
The gorillas are one of our closest relatives and few observers emerge from the magic hour without feeling an unfathomable connection. Based on Reviews on Trip Advisor, Fodors & Safari Bookings, travelers find gorilla tracking a profoundly moving experience. And when all is done, there remains a well deserved sense of achievement at the culmination of the long journey by air, by vehicle and on foot to the natural habitat of the gorillas in Africa. Gorilla trekking is one of the best wildlife experiences in Africa that travelers look for from this continent.
Gorilla Tracking offers a privilege of encountering one of world’s rarest animals in its natural habitat and by doing so, helping fund its continued survival. Though gorillas are undeniably intelligent and impressive creatures to watch – a silver back can weigh over 200kg (450 lb)- the greatest reward from the encounter are more cryptic.
There are ten countries in Africa where gorillas can be found; Uganda, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Republic of Congo, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Nigeria, Gabon, Angola and the Equatorial Guinea.
Mountain Gorilla Trekking
Did you know that there are as few as 900 mountain gorilla individuals left in the whole world? Therefore taking a gorilla trek in Africa is not only an amazing adventure but a responsible holiday that will help African countries to protect the mountain gorillas.
Both Uganda and Rwanda are the prime destinations for mountain gorilla trekking in Africa and a gorilla safari is an amazing and very captivating activity. A gorilla trek involves walking in the wilderness climbing high slopes and sloping down in search of these great apes. Though this adventure is an exciting it is an extremely challenging experience that requires physical fitness of all participants.
Tracking mountain gorillas is a very exclusive activity. To minimize disturbance, only eight people can track each habituated gorilla group each day, while time with the gorillas is strictly limited to one hour. As wildlife viewing goes, it is difficult to conceive how or where in the world a more rewarding 60 minutes could be spent.
Things to Observe on a Gorilla Trek
While gorilla tracking, it is advised to keep a respectful distance – but it’s not unusual for an inquisitive gorilla to come closer to us!
Guidelines for Successful Gorilla Trekking
- If you are looking for gorilla trekking in Africa. It is advisable to stay at least a few days before the trek so that you can get acclimatized to the weather and altitude conditions. For gorilla tracking in the Virungas that stand to almost 3000m, visitors might need to get acclimatized to the region.
- While on a gorilla trek, drink plenty of water and do carry some quick calories such as biscuits or chocolate.
- Bring on your sturdiest walking shoes for the trek and wear thick trousers and long sleeved shirts or blouses for protection against vicious nettles. It is often cold at the outset, so bring sweatshirt or jersey.
- During the rainy season don’t forget buy a poncho or rain coat that might be a worthy addition to your daypack.
- Sunscreen, sun glasses and a hat are a good idea at anytime of the year as well as garden gloves to protect against nettles.
- Flashy photography is forbidden while on a gorilla trek.
- You should always listen to your guide at all times regarding the correct protocol to follow in the prescence of the gorillas.