Best way to see Mountain gorillas
Many travellers often ask about the best way to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitats, and this can be done during primate safaris, particularly gorilla trekking safaris. In Uganda, gorilla trekking safaris are always conducted in two gorilla destinations of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, all located in southwestern Uganda. Seeing these endangered mountain gorillas requires one to be both mentally and physically fit, with the spirit of adventure.
For travelers planning for a successful gorilla trekking safari, it is advisable to use licensed tour operators such as Caracal Explorers , who design customized itineraries that best suit the client’s time and budget with all-inclusive gorilla trekking tours that begin from processing and securing your gorilla permit, transport and accommodation ranging from affordable, mi-range and upscale/ luxury accommodation. However, sometimes visitors decide to book for themselves which may be a bit costly.
These gorilla trekking tours give visitors an opportunity to have access to and see mountain gorillas in their protected areas. They always begin from Entebbe International Airport and drive to the southwestern part of the country to the two vibrant gorilla destinations of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Travellers have a choice of selection from the two gorilla parks depending on the experience and accessibility, since all parks are adjacent to one another and offer amazing gorilla trekking experiences. On the other hand, the parks tend to be parallel in some essential aspects.
Despite the small size of Mgahinga Gorilla Park spanning about 33.9 sq km, it provides a better spectacular and less challenging trek with an exceptional opportunity to track both mountain gorillas and the rare golden monkeys and also offers hiking experiences on the Virunga volcanoes such as the scenic Mount Sabinyo that offer breathtaking and panoramic views of the Virunga Massif and Lake Mutanda.
On the other hand, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is also unique in style because it has various trekking sectors including Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaaga, and Nkuringo all offering exceptional gorilla trekking experiences with unique accommodation facilities ranging from budget, mid-range, and luxury. Additionally, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is bigger compared to Mgahinga Gorilla Park and is part of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest covering an area of about 327 km along the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The park is famous for its gorilla habituation which takes place only in the southern part of the park in the Rushaaga sector. It also offers a unique and diverse jungle trekking experience with several other park activities such as nature walks, cultural encounters, and birdwatching among others.
Travellers who may opt for a more extension with mountain gorillas, the gorilla habituation experience is the best way to see Mountain gorillas since it offers visitors ample time of about 4 hours duration with mountain gorillas. During the habituation process, you will be accompanied by a team of primatologists, conservationists, rangers, and trackers into the lush forest in search of a semi-habituated gorilla family.
This will enable you to study the behaviors of these gentle giants, as well as other activities such as nurturing, climbing, playing, and feeding since they survive on foliage such as fruits, tree barks, and leaves, among others. This 4-hour breathtaking experience is a perfect venture for mountain gorilla photography and videography.
Other gorilla trekking Destinations- Best way to see Mountain gorillas
Rwanda
Rwanda is among the few countries in the world that offer exceptional mountain gorilla safaris in Volcanoes National Park. It is the only park in the country with mountain gorillas and offers amazing gorilla trekking activity, however at a higher price ($1500) that almost doubles that of Uganda.
Democratic Republic of Congo- Best way to see Mountain gorillas
This is the third country that offers mountain gorilla trekking tours in Virunga National Park. However, due to political instability mauled with civil wars, it is a bit tricky to access, though visitors with hard souls tend to risk and traverse Congo’s insecure lush jungles. The cost of their gorilla trekking is slightly lower compared to that of Uganda.
What to pack during gorilla trekking tours
Travelers planning for a successful gorilla trekking experience should always consider some essential items that shouldn’t be missed on their bucket list. These include long-sleeved shirts and pairs of trousers, a waterproof jacket, hiking and waterproof shoes, a drinking water bottle, energy-boosting snacks, a waterproof backpack, a camera, extra batteries, a poncho, a sweater, and light clothing, among others.
