Gorilla Expeditions in Uganda and Rwanda
Trekking gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda is one of the most moving and incredible experiences that Africa has to offer. You will set off from your hotel very early with a packed lunch which will be provided. The amount of time you spend trekking depends on the location of the gorillas and can take anywhere from a half-hour to eight hours.
Hiking through the forest especially given the altitude, making a trail through the dense overgrowth with a machete can be physically challenging and requires that you be in relatively good physical shape.
Porters are available at the entrance of the park, and we strongly recommend that you have one come with you to carry your bag, their services are usually $20 USD for the day. However do not let this discourage you, if you set off and can’t make it a “helicopter” can be called to come and get you for an additional fee.
What are these gorilla trekking dos and don’ts?
When we talk of gorilla trekking dos and don’ts, we actually mean that while on your gorilla trek, there rules and regulations that you must follow to enable everyone enjoy the trek without breaking any law, being respectful of others and ensuring you are protecting the environment around you which is the home to these gorillas and many other animals. One of the gorilla trekking dos and don’ts is that at all times you should follow the instructions of your gorilla guide. After briefing, each group of tourists is assigned a lead gorilla guide who will take you and your group of 8 total to the forest.
This guide will be in charge of all your movements while in the forest and as such, he will be instructing you on how to move, behave before and when with gorillas and after your gorilla trek. Following his instructions is very important due to the fact that you are moving in a National Park with many other animals and plants. These guides are well conversant with the behaviors of these animals including mountain gorillas and as such, you need to pay attention to him.
Gorilla Tracking Regulations
Before you set out:
– Do not visit the gorillas if you have a cold or other infectious illness
– Human waste should be buried 30cm (12″) deep
– Maximum number of visitors is eight people per gorilla group
When you are with the gorillas:
– Maintain a 7m (21ft) distance from the gorilla (your guide will instruct you on where you can and cannot go)
– Smoking, eating and drinking are not permitted on the tour
– Anything you take in but come back out
– If you must sneeze or cough cover your face and turn away from the gorillas, as they can catch coughs and colds from humans
– Visits are limited to one hour per gorilla group per day
Things to bring for Gorilla Trekking
- Packed Lunch (will be provided)
- One-two liters of water (will be provided)
- Hiking Stick (will be provided)
- Day Backpack
- Rain jacket
- Gloves and hat (it gets cold!); gloves can be rented from the visitor center
- Light weight long sleeved shirt
- Light weight long pants
- Sunscreen
- Handkerchief,
- Bandana
- Waterproof hiking boots
- High socks to pull up over your pants
- Snacks, energy bars, small pieces of candy or chocolate