Gorilla Trekking at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park | Gorilla Safaris | Gorilla Adventures
Gorilla trekking at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a remarkable experience that allows you to get up close and personal with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Here’s what you need to know about gorilla trekking in the park.
Permit
Gorilla trekking requires a permit, which you must obtain in advance. Permits are limited and in high demand, so it’s advisable to book well in advance. You can obtain permits through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or authorized tour operators.
Group Size
Each gorilla family is visited by a limited number of tourists each day to minimize disturbance. Groups are usually limited to a maximum of eight people. You’ll be assigned to a specific gorilla family for your trek.
Trekking Process
On the day of your trek, you’ll gather at the park headquarters for a briefing by the park rangers. They will provide you with important information about gorilla behavior, trekking guidelines, and safety precautions. The rangers will also assign you to a specific gorilla family based on factors like fitness level and interest.
Trekking Experience
Led by experienced guides and trackers, you’ll embark on a trek through the park’s dense forests in search of the assigned gorilla family. The trek can vary in duration and difficulty, ranging from a few hours to a full day, depending on the gorilla family’s location. The terrain can be steep and challenging, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended.
Gorilla Encounter
Once your group locates the gorilla family, you’ll spend a precious hour observing and quietly observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. You’ll have the opportunity to watch their behavior, social interactions, and feeding habits, and perhaps even witness playful antics.
Guidelines and Etiquette
To ensure the well-being of gorillas and maintain their natural behavior, there are specific guidelines and etiquette to follow during the trek. These include maintaining a minimum distance of 7 meters (23 feet) from the gorillas, avoiding direct eye contact, speaking softly, and not touching the gorillas or their surroundings.
What to Bring
It’s essential to pack appropriate gear for gorilla trekking. This includes sturdy hiking boots, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, a rain jacket, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water. A backpack, camera, and binoculars are also recommended.
Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers a unique opportunity to witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat while contributing to their conservation. It’s an adventure that requires preparation, but the rewards of encountering mountain gorillas up close make it an unforgettable experience.