FrequentLy Asked Questions about Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is a thrilling and immersive wildlife experience that involves tracking and observing gorillas in their natural habitat. It is done in designated national parks or protected areas in countries where these gentle giants can be found. Mountain gorillas are one of the two species of gorillas, the other being the Eastern lowland gorillas. They are highly endangered and can only be found in two regions in Africa: the Virunga Massif, which spans across the borders of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda.

To go gorilla trekking, visitors must obtain permits from the respective national park authorities, as there are strict regulations in place to protect these endangered creatures and their habitat. The number of daily permits is usually limited to minimize human impact on the gorillas and their environment.

What is gorilla trekking?

On the day of the trek, visitors set out early in the morning with experienced guides and trackers who are knowledgeable about the gorillas’ habits and movement patterns. The trek can last anywhere from 3-6 hours, depending on the location and the gorilla family being tracked. The terrain can be challenging, passing through dense forests and steep slopes, which adds an element of adventure to the experience.

Once the gorilla group is located, trekkers are allowed an hour to observe and quietly watch the gorillas from a safe distance. This up-close encounter with these magnificent creatures is a truly unforgettable experience and offers a unique opportunity to witness their social interactions, behavior, and natural habitat. You are allowed to take photos and videos but remember to disable the flash mode of your camera.

Is gorilla trekking safe?

Gorilla trekking, when conducted responsibly and following the guidelines set by the national park authorities, is considered a safe activity. However, like any wildlife experience, there are inherent risks involved, and it is essential to take certain precautions to ensure the safety of both the visitors and the gorillas.

Here are some key safety measures and considerations for gorilla trekking:

  1. Experienced Guides: Gorilla trekking is typically conducted with the assistance of experienced guides and trackers who are familiar with the gorillas’ behavior and the terrain. These guides know how to approach the gorillas safely and minimize any potential risks.
  2. Limited Group Size: The number of visitors allowed to track a gorilla family is limited to reduce stress on the gorillas and minimize human impact. This helps maintain a safe distance and reduces the chances of overwhelming the animals.
  3. Distance and Behavior: During the trek, visitors are required to keep a safe distance from the gorillas, usually around 10 meters. Additionally, certain behaviors, such as flash photography or loud noises, are prohibited to avoid disturbing the gorillas.
  4. Health Precautions: Before embarking on the trek, visitors are usually required to follow health protocols to prevent the potential transmission of diseases from humans to gorillas. This includes not trekking if you are feeling unwell or have any contagious diseases.
  5. Follow Rules and regulations:  Adhering to the rules and guidelines set by the national park authorities is crucial for ensuring the safety of both visitors and the gorillas.

How Difficult is gorilla trekking?

Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding and challenging, but the difficulty level can vary based on several factors, including the specific location of the trek, the weather conditions, the terrain, and the fitness level of the individual trekker.

Gorilla habitats are located in dense forests with steep slopes and uneven terrain. Trekkers may encounter thick undergrowth, fallen trees, and slippery paths, which can make the hike physically demanding. Some gorilla trekking locations are at higher elevations, which can pose challenges for trekkers who are not acclimated to the altitude.

The duration of the trek can vary depending on the gorilla family’s location and movement patterns. Some treks can be completed in a few hours, while others may take a full day of hiking. Gorilla habitats are often in rainforest regions, and the weather can be unpredictable. Trekkers should be prepared for rain, mud, and varying temperatures, which can add to the difficulty of the trek.

The level of physical fitness of the trekkers plays a significant role in how difficult the trek feels. Being reasonably fit can make the experience more enjoyable and less strenuous. The location of the gorilla family being tracked can influence the difficulty of the trek. Some families may be relatively close to the starting point, while others may require a longer hike.

It’s important to note that while gorilla trekking can be challenging, it is usually designed to be accessible to a wide range of visitors. Trekking groups are led by experienced guides and trackers who set a suitable pace for the group and provide breaks when needed. If you are considering gorilla trekking, it’s a good idea to assess your physical fitness and be prepared for the challenges of hiking in a natural, sometimes rugged environment. Regular exercise and preparation, such as hiking and walking in the months leading up to your trek, can help improve your stamina and make the experience more enjoyable.

What are the chances of seeing the gorillas?

Gorilla trekking is one of the most well-organized safari activities in Uganda. Due to the vastness of the gorilla habitat, it would take hours of hiking in search of these primates. In order to avoid long hikes, experienced trackers are sent ahead to track the various gorilla families. Their location is then relayed back to the rangers who will lead you to the particular gorilla families. It is worth noting that these gorillas are in their natural habitat and tend to move as they feed.

Chances are that you will have to make adjustments depending on the direction the gorillas are headed. This trek offers more than a 95% chance of encountering the gorillas. The 5% is left to the wild. If they encounter another gorilla family and a fight ensues, you will not be allowed to track that family since the gorilla members are on high alert.

When is the best time to go gorilla trekking?

The best time to go gorilla trekking depends on various factors, including weather conditions, and personal preferences. Generally, the dry seasons are considered the best time for gorilla trekking because the weather is more favorable for hiking, and gorillas tend to stay at lower altitudes, making them easier to find. The dry seasons are also peak tourist seasons, so it’s essential to plan and book well in advance.

The dry seasons in the gorilla trekking regions are as follows:

  1. Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park) and Uganda (Bwindi Impenetrable National Park):
    • December to February
    • June to September

During these months, rainfall is less frequent, and the trails are generally less muddy and more accessible. The temperatures are also more moderate, making the hiking experience more comfortable.

  1. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) (Virunga National Park):
    • Late December to early February
    • June to September

The DRC’s dry seasons align with Rwanda and Uganda, offering similar weather conditions and hiking advantages.

While the dry seasons are typically recommended, it’s important to note that gorilla trekking is possible year-round. The rainy seasons, which vary in intensity and timing depending on the country, can make the trekking trails muddier and more challenging. However, some travelers prefer visiting during the low season as there are fewer tourists, and the gorilla trekking permits might be more readily available.