How to do gorilla tracking in Rwanda, Uganda and DR Congo.

How to do gorilla tracking in Rwanda Uganda and DR Congo, Silently watching a family of wild mountain gorillas go about their daily lives unhindered in their green, natural home is one of the most breathtaking wildlife experiences. These gentle primates, which share  98% human DNA, dwell in the densely forested Virunga volcanoes of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the dense Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda.

Are you planning to visit the  volcanic hills of Volcanoes national park in Rwanda, the bamboo forests of Virunga National park in DR Congo or the dense Bwindi Impenetrable forest  National park and Mgahinga Gorillas National Park in Uganda,  the information in this  piece  of writing , has got you covered with the  information you need  for a memorable gorilla expedition.

What is gorilla tracking?

 Gorilla trekking is a type of wildlife activity that entails embarking on an adventurous journey through dense forests in search for the mountain gorillas. Before finally meeting face to face with a gorilla family, the activity requires participants to go through difficult terrain, including steep hills, deep forests, crossing small rivers, and water streams.

Gorilla treks are led by armed rangers and guides who use machetes to make temporary routes through the various types of vegetation. It is widely acknowledged that gorilla trekking is among the most incredible wildlife activities in Africa.

What to expect during gorilla tracking.

The gorilla trekking adventure usually kicks off very early in the morning. You’ll gather with other trekkers at the park headquarters, for a friendly briefing from the park guide. You’ll learn the important security procedures and rules to follow when hiking and around the mountain gorillas. Your guide will share details about the specific route you’ll be taking and the conditions you may probably encounter.

 Prior to the briefing, you should have a temperature check up to ensure your wellbeing. this is done foe the reason that, gorillas share close human DNA and hence susceptible to catching human diseases like flu, cough and pneumonia.  if you have any healthy problem, report in time for your safety and the gorillas.

After the briefing and the necessary paperwork are finalized, you will leave the headquarters and head to the starting point of the hike. At times, the hiking starts at the park headquarters, though in some park centers, you need to take a short drive to the trailhead. As you venture into the forest, you’ll find that some areas are steep and muddy navigate. The treks duration is about one to six hours, depending on the gorillas’ location.

The finest place to see gorillas, if you’re into demanding abut adventurous hikes, is Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park whereas in volcanoes National Park Rwanda and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda, the vegetation is largely filled with bamboo forests and grasslands on undulating hills. In any park you have your trek, you are assured of a successful activity.

What happens on gorilla encounter?

The gorillas’ movements are unpredictable, so there is no assurance as to the duration it will take to find them, but when you do, it is so breathtaking.

At this moment, the rules and regulations that were given to you by the park rangers during the briefing, must be strictly followed.

Staying 7meters distant prevents disturbing the gorillas and reduces risks of disease transmissions. It’s crucial to remember that gorillas are wild animals, and keeping this distance respects their space while reducing the possibility of violence.  At times , the gorillas may get close to you, you are advised to remain calm, crouch down and avoid sudden movements and sounds.

You are allowed to spend only one hour observing the gorillas as they engage in their daily activities—playing, grooming, feeding, or just relaxing in their natural habitat. by the end of the hour, you will leave the forest park with   lasting magical memories.

What is the cost of the gorilla tracking permit?

Gorilla tracking is an expensive adventure, but the amazement makes it worth the cost. Gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda cost $1500, In Uganda it is $800 and in DR Congo it is $400 per person.

In addition to the permits, you will need accommodation, transportation and other services of guides and porters. So, as you plan your gorilla trip to any of the gorilla tracking destinations, travelers are advised to book through a tour operator company. The tour operator will provide a good and affordable quotation depending on the number of people on the safari, number of days, transportation, accommodation and gorilla permit. The larger the group of travelers, the lesser the cost per person.

Tracking rules and regulations.

These are strict guidelines that were set by the tourism bodies in Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo  for the safety of both the trekkers and gorillas and other wildlife creatures. The rules must be followed throughout the tracking excursion, They include:

All trekkers should have valid gorilla tracking permits which must be presented at the park center together with their travel documents.

Trekkers should be 15 years and above and should be in good health condition

It is important that hikers always maintain a distance of at least 7 meters (about 23 feet) from the gorillas. Maintaining this distance, ensures that the animals do not experience any feelings of threat and to reduce the likelihood of disease transmission.

Once visitors find the gorilla family , they are only allowed to spend up to an hour with them. This enables the animals to maintain their natural behaviors with minimal human interference and stress.

Throughout the journey and when around gorillas, Trekkers should act quietly and composedly throughout the trek.  Speak softly and refrain from making abrupt movements to avoid frightening the animals.

Trekkers are not allowed to shout, litter, or smoke in the forest. this helps to preserve nature.

 No eating  or drinking  near the gorillas as this may disrupt them.

Flashy photography is not allowed around the gorillas. this prevents them from being frightened.

What fitness level do you need to track gorillas?

Due to steep terrain, dense trees and muddy conditions, gorilla trekking, usually demands an average level of fitness. In addition to navigating high-altitude conditions, you’ll most certainly be trekking for several hours, so being relatively fit is highly recommended.

The activity is available for everyone including the unfit, crippled and old. there are provision mechanisms in place to guarantee everyone to observe the primates.

Since the gorilla parks have steep, densely forested terrain, hiking is at times more tiring. During the rain season, hikes tend to be longer and more difficult, but the dry season has dry less muddy tracking trails and hiking is easier but still involves hiking thus the need for physical fitness and good hiking gear.

For one to enjoy their gorilla trek, hikers are advised to hire porters to assist with carrying their backpack.  This helps you to be steady and free while navigating the dense vegetation and unbalanced terrain.

Is gorilla trekking safe?

Gorilla tracking is regarded as safe adventure as long as you follow the trekking guidelines and instructions from your ranger guide while on your expedition. Ranger guides help to protect the trekkers from attack by wild animals and unhabituated gorillas.

Gorillas live in social groups led by the dominant silverback. These gorilla families are habituated which makes them used to human interaction.  The habituation exercise renders gorillas safe for tracking.

What to pack for gorilla tracking?

In order to track mountain gorillas, one must be able to navigate through dense vegetation and muddy terrain. So, to make the trekking journey easier, you need specialised gear. They include:

Sturdy hiking boots – comfortable, waterproof hiking boots are essential for traversing the muddy trails and steep inclines.

Long sleeved tops and trousers – These help to protect your arms and legs from insect bites, and scratches from stinging plants.

Garden gloves: These help to protect your hands from pinches of gripping vegetation.

Insect repellents: to keep your body free from mosquitoes and other forest insects.

Hat and sunglasses:  to protect you from the direct sun rays.

Camera with a zoom lens – gorilla tracking is an occasion that deserves captures. A good zoom lens will enable you get great shots without getting too close to the gorillas.

Water and snacks – though you are not allowed to eat around the gorillas, you can get hydrated along the way. Keep all used packs and bottles in your backpack and dispose them off in a bin when you get back.

Is gorilla tracking ethical?

Gorilla tracking is considered ethical in all the tracking destinations because of the benefits derived from   their protection and reservation.

The funds from gorilla permits is used to maintain conservation efforts and promote anti-conservation projects and the surrounding community.

The strict rules and procedures to be observed during tracking, help to reduce any risks that would have been impacted to the gorillas and their habitat. That’s why a limited number of people is allowed to visit a particular gorilla family in a day.