Few wildlife encounters in the world are as awe-inspiring as observing a wild gorilla family silently as they go about their day, undisturbed in their natural habitat.
Gorilla tracking experience in Uganda and Rwanda is an extraordinary wildlife experience that allows you to face the endangered mountain gorillas of Africa in their natural habitat. Picture yourself standing just meters away from a giant silverback gorilla, meeting its fierce gaze amidst the lush greenery of an ancient rainforest. This is not a scene for a King Kong movie, but a real experience in the rainforests of Uganda and Rwanda.
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These majestic creatures are endangered primate species only found in three countries; Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and live in four national parks, including Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Volcanoes National Park and Virunga National Park.
Uganda and Rwanda are premier destinations for encountering mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, and gorilla tracking is the biggest draw of international visitors to both countries. Visitors who come to spend a magical moment with the gorillas describe a life-changing experience; every gorilla encounter is different.
This blog covers everything you need to know about gorilla tracking experiences in Uganda and Rwanda, from etiquette to ethical considerations.
What to expect when tracking gorillas in Uganda & Rwanda
Your gorilla tracking experience will typically start early in the morning. You will meet at the park headquarters, where your guide will brief you. You will go through essential safety protocols and the basic rules you must adhere to when in their presence. Your guide will also tell you more about the specific route you will take and the conditions you are likely to encounter.
The most important part of the pre-trip briefing is the temperature check. If your temperature is elevated or if you are unwell, you may not be allowed to participate in the trek. Because we share so much DNA with the gorillas, they are susceptible to the same diseases as us, so you must disclose any illness, recent or current, at this time.
Once all the formalities are complete, you will depart from headquarters, making your way to the start of the hike. Sometimes the hike will start from headquarters, but usually, there is a short drive to the trailhead. Once in the forest, you will find yourself navigating steep and sometimes muddy paths as you go. Treks can last anywhere between one and six hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. A key distinction between Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trekking is the foliage.
In Uganda, you will be making your way through thick forest foliage, whereas in Rwanda, the vegetation is mostly bamboo grasslands, so you will enjoy exceptional views of the surrounding undulating landscape. Along the trek, you will be rewarded with occasional wildlife sightings along the way in either location.
What happens when you reach the gorillas?
The movement of mountain gorillas can be unpredictable, so there are no guarantees on how long it will take to find them, but when you do, it is nothing short of absolutely awe-inspiring. You are permitted to spend a maximum of one hour observing the gorillas as they go about their lives, playing, grooming, feeding, or simply relaxing. The rules you were taken through in the briefing will be very important now, and it is essential to always follow your guide’s instructions.
You are requested to be at least 7 meters from the gorillas to avoid disturbing them and to minimize the risk of disease transmission. The distance is crucial for the safety of both the gorillas and the visitors. It is important to remember that gorillas are wild animals, and maintaining this distance respects their space and reduces the risk of any potential conflict. That said, gorillas may approach you out of curiosity, and it is very important to remain calm and make no sudden movements or sounds.
While you are taken in by the interactions between mothers and their babies and the commanding presence of the large make silverbacks, an hour can pass by quickly, but you will leave with magical memories to last a lifetime.
General Rules, guidelines, and etiquette
There are strict rules and regulations put in place to ensure the safety of both visitors and mountain gorillas. On your gorilla tracking experience, make sure you are familiar with these and adhere to them and your guide’s instructions throughout your trek.
Gorilla tracking rules and regulations include
- Maintain a safe distance stay at least 7 meters (23 feet) away from the mountain gorillas
- No flash photography or flashing lights can disturb the mountain gorillas and frighten them off, which may cause them to attack
- No noises or sudden movement- mountain gorillas are calm, and the forest is generally peaceful. Sudden loud noise or movement can alarm them.
- No eating or drinking near the gorillas – be very conscious of nature, keep the forest clean, and try to leave the area as pristine as you find it
- Adhere to your Guide’s instructions at all times – your guide is experienced in gorilla behavior and will give you instructions to ensure the safety of the group and the gorillas.
How fit do you need to be to track gorillas?
Gorilla tracking typically requires an average level of fitness due to the sometimes steep terrain, dense forests, and sometimes muddy conditions. In addition to navigating high-altitude conditions, you will likely be trekking for several hours, so being reasonably fit is an added advantage.
The terrain in Uganda’s Bwindi can be more physically demanding as it is steeper and the foliage is dense. The trek here is often longer and more strenuous, especially during the rainy season. The dry season is considered the best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda, thanks to the less muddy conditions.
The terrain in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is somewhat flatter, and the forest is less dense, making gorilla tracking less strenuous. Certainly, you don’t need to be an elite athlete to go gorilla tracking; porters are available to assist you with your backpack, provide a steady hand on steep paths, and even assist with navigating through dense foliage. In the weeks leading to your gorilla trip, you should prepare for your trek by taking regular walks and hikes. This will make you feel prepared and ready for the adventure.
What to pack for Gorilla Tracking Experience
Having the right gear is crucial for a successful and comfortable gorilla tracking experience. The weather can be unpredictable, so preparing for various conditions is advised. As you are packing for a gorilla tracking experience, these items are essential
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- Sturdy hiking boots – A pair of comfortable, waterproof hiking boots is essential for tackling muddy trails and steep inclines. Make sure to wear any new shoes to avoid discomfort on your gorilla trek.
- Long tops and trousers – Protect your arms and legs from bug bits, scratches, and encounters with stinging and thorny plants by wearing long sleeves and long trousers.
- Rain Jacket – rain showers are common even in the dry season, so waterproof clothing items are recommended.
- Hat and sunglasses – to protect you from the sun
- Garden gloves – these are useful for gripping vegetation and keeping your hands protected in the forest
- Insect repellent – the rainforests have plenty with mosquitoes and other biting insects
- Camera with a zoom lens – a moment with mountain gorillas deserves to be captured. A good zoom lens will ensure you can get great shots without needing to get too close to the gorillas.
- Water and snacks – while eating around gorillas is prohibited, you can refuel and stay hydrated along the way. Make sure to keep all wrappers and bottles in your backpack to dispose of in a bin when you get back.
Can Children go gorilla tracking?
Whether gorilla tracking in Uganda or Rwanda, the minimum age of trekking is 15 years. This limit is in place for various reasons
- Tracking conditions are physically challenging for younger children
- Younger children are more prone to illness, which puts the gorillas at risk
- Younger children can find it difficult to remain calm and quiet around the gorillas, thereby causing streets to the mountain gorillas.
What are the costs and permits?
Gorilla Tracking Experience is an expensive adventure, a gorilla tracking permit in Rwanda costs US$ 1,500 per person, while in Uganda it costs US$ 800. In addition to a gorilla permit, you will need to budget for accommodation, transportation, and additional services like porters and guides.
The gorilla tracking experience may seem expensive, however, the experience is worth it, and the fees for each permit purchased contribute to protecting the conservation efforts of the wild gorilla population and their habitats.
Are you guaranteed to see mountain gorillas?
Your chances of seeing mountain gorillas on a gorilla tracking experience in Rwanda and Uganda are over 90%. With the help of experienced and knowledgeable trackers who go ahead of the trekking groups to locate gorilla troops, the probability that you will get to spend some time with them is high.
Is Gorilla Tracking Safe?
Gorilla tracking is considered safe as long as you adhere to your guide’s rules and instructions. Your treks into the forest are in the company of extremely knowledgeable and experienced guides who will keep you safe.
The gorillas you will encounter are used habituated meaning they are used to the presence of humans at a distance and will not feel threatened by you. However, sudden movements and noises can change that. After all, they are still wild animals.
Is Gorilla Tracking in Uganda and Rwanda ethical?
Gorilla tracking in Uganda and Rwanda is widely regarded as an ethical form of wildlife tourism. Both countries play a significant role in the recovery and protection of mountain gorilla populations which were once near extinction.
The funds from gorilla permits are reinvested in conservation projects, anti-poaching measures, and community development. Local communities are also catered for to protect the gorillas and their habitats, as they directly benefit from the income generated from tourism.
Also, the strict rules and guidelines that tourists are asked to follow are in place to minimize the impact on gorillas. These include the limited number of visitors per day allowed to visit each gorilla family, which is 8 people per gorilla group.
Gorilla Tracking Experience in Uganda and Rwanda offers an intimate experience of the most extraordinary animals in the world. The experience is not only incredible, a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but by visiting the gorillas, each tourist supports vital conservation efforts of the mountain gorillas and their habitat.
Yes, gorilla tracking is physically demanding, but coming face-to-face with a family of Wild Mountain gorillas is immensely rewarding and worth every single penny.
Let GoExplore craft your perfect gorilla trekking adventure, taking you deep into the heart of Uganda and Rwanda’s lush rainforests. Connect with the majestic mountain gorillas, experience breathtaking landscapes, and contribute to vital conservation efforts. Contact us today, and let’s create a once-in-a-lifetime journey you’ll never forget!
