Essential Facts About Gorilla Trekking

Essential Facts About Gorilla Trekking

If you’re considering a gorilla trekking adventure in Africa, it’s important to know the key facts before you go. Gorilla trekking is a unique and unforgettable experience but it comes with specific rules and guidelines designed to protect these magnificent animals and their environment. Below, we’ve outlined everything you need to know to prepare for your trek.

Where Can You Go Gorilla Trekking in Africa?

Gorilla trekking is possible in three countries: Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. These countries are home to the last remaining mountain gorillas, spread across four main national parks:

• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda.
• Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
• Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Each of these parks requires a gorilla permit to enter and take part in a trek, so booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons (June to September). You can book your trek directly through the parks or through a trusted tour operator, like Trek Africa Gorillas.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry months, typically from January to February and June to early September. These months offer better weather conditions, making the trekking paths easier to navigate and the chances of spotting the gorillas higher due to reduced vegetation.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Wondering what to wear for your gorilla trek in Uganda? Here’s a handy guide:

• A long-sleeve sweater to keep warm, as the park can be chilly.
• Two pairs of long trousers to protect your legs from the thick vegetation.
• Waterproof hiking boots to handle muddy or wet conditions.
• A hat and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun (optional).
• A camera with extra batteries, as photography is key to capturing your memories. Don’t forget to keep your flash off.
• Binoculars for spotting the abundant birdlife in Bwindi’s forest.
• Gardening gloves to help with climbing trees and holding branches during the trek.
• A raincoat, as the weather in the rainforest can be unpredictable.
• Mosquito repellent to protect against forest insects.
• Sunscreen to avoid sunburns, especially in warmer months.

It’s best to avoid wearing bright or dark colors like black and blue, which may scare the gorillas or attract Tsetse flies. Opt for neutral colors instead.

Key Rules and Facts for Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is not just a fun experience—it’s a privilege and the following rules have been put in place to ensure the health and safety of the gorillas, as well as the visitors.

1. Stay Healthy: If you’re feeling sick, you will not be allowed to visit the gorillas.
   • Reason: Gorillas are highly susceptible to human diseases and it’s crucial to avoid exposing them to illness.
2. Limited Group Size: Only eight people are allowed per trekking group.
   • Reason: This limit helps minimize the risk of stressing out the gorillas and reduces the chance of disease transmission.
3. Age Restrictions: You must be at least 15 years old to trek.
   • Reason: Young children can carry diseases like the flu or measles, which are harmful to gorillas.
4. Time with Gorillas: Visits are limited to one hour.
   • Reason: This reduces the likelihood of behavioral disturbances and protects the gorillas’ well-being.
5. No Flash Photography: Flash photography is prohibited during treks.
   • Reason: Flash can startle gorillas and may provoke aggressive behavior.
6. Maintain a Safe Distance: Always stay at least seven meters away from gorillas.
   • Reason: Close contact can lead to stress for the gorillas and it’s also important to prevent any diseases from spreading.
7. Stick Together: Stay close as a group and don’t surround the gorillas.
   • Reason: This gives the gorillas space and prevents them from feeling threatened.
8. Respect the Apes’ Space: Sit or crouch when watching the gorillas.
   • Reason: Standing tall can be perceived as a threat by the gorillas, especially if you’re staring at them.
9. Avoid Gestures: Don’t raise your hands, point or stare directly at the gorillas.
   • Reason: These behaviors are interpreted as threats by the gorillas.
10. Do Not Disturb the Vegetation: Leave the plants as they are.

• Reason: Moving or cutting vegetation can disturb the gorillas or frighten them.

11. Stay Calm if a Gorilla Charges: If a silverback gorilla beats its chest or charges, don’t run.

• Reason: Running away can trigger aggression; instead, remain still and listen to your guide.

12. No Eating, Drinking or Smoking Near Gorillas: Avoid these activities within 200 meters of the gorillas.

• Reason: This minimizes distractions and prevents the gorillas from approaching out of curiosity, which can be dangerous.

13. Keep Quiet: Speak softly or whisper at all times.

• Reason: Noise can scare the gorillas and cause them to leave the area, especially if they are newly habituated.

14. Coughing or Sneezing: If you need to sneeze or cough, turn away and cover your nose and mouth.

• Reason: This helps prevent the spread of airborne diseases that could harm the gorillas.

15. Proper Waste Disposal: All human waste must be buried.

• Reason: Waste can carry diseases, so it’s important to follow proper disposal methods.

16. Leave No Trash Behind: Always remove any trash, no matter how small.

• Reason: Trash can attract animals, pose a health risk and harm the environment.

Why Follow the Rules?

The rules set in place are designed to keep the gorillas safe and stress-free, ensuring they remain healthy and able to live in their natural habitats. Following these guidelines not only protects the gorillas but also ensures you have the best possible experience while trekking. By respecting their space and needs, you’re contributing to the ongoing conservation efforts to save these incredible creatures.

Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is offered in four main sectors: Buhoma and Ruhija (in the northern part of the park) and Rushaga and Nkuringo (in the southern part). Here are some of the top accommodation options in each area:

• Rushaga Sector: Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Four Gorillas Lodge, Gorilla Havens Lodge, Nsongi Camp, Icumbi Gorilla Safari Lodge, Gorilla Safari Lodge, Gorilla Valley Lodge, Karungi Camp.
• Nkuringo Sector: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Lake Mutanda Resort.
• Buhoma Sector: Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Ride 4 a Woman.
• Ruhija Sector: Trekkers Tavern Cottages, Agandi Eco Lodge, Gift of Nature Lodge, Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge, Broadbill Tented Camp.

How to Book Gorilla Trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

To book your gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, securing your gorilla permit is the first step. Gorilla permits are essential for trekking in Uganda and can be purchased directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). For travelers arriving via Entebbe, it’s best to buy your permit from the UWA headquarters in Kampala. However, if you are arriving through Kigali, Rwanda, permits can be bought from the UWA office in Kisoro Town, which is a 1–2-hour drive from Bwindi.

Trek Africa Gorillas is here to make the process easy for you. We’ll help you secure your gorilla permits quickly. Once you confirm your travel dates and share them with us via email or WhatsApp, we will reserve your permits and send you an invoice. After we receive your payment, we’ll finalize the booking and send you digital copies of your permits for your records.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking Experience with Trek Africa Gorillas?

Trek Africa Gorillas is a local, trusted tour operator in Uganda, specializing in customized gorilla trekking safaris in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. We offer gorilla trekking tours from both Uganda and Kigali, Rwanda and are committed to providing seamless, unforgettable experiences.

Our team is dedicated, responsive and knowledgeable. Whether you have questions, need a custom itinerary or want to book services in advance, we’re here to help. Our safari guides are well-versed in the area and we can cater to different language preferences. With Trek Africa Gorillas, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free and personalized journey.

Contact us today to book your gorilla trekking adventure and experience the magic of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park!