Get the best dose of gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in the southwestern of Uganda, just north of the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. Bwindi protects more than half of the world’s mountain gorillas and has 19 gorilla groups habituated for tourism that make gorilla trekking worth all the money travelers spend on permits and accommodation.
The park has four trailheads spread over the eastern, northern, and southern entrances with stupendous accommodation options at all trailheads. We stayed in the northern Buhoma section on our first day and hiked 10 kilometers (6 miles) across the rainforest the next day to Nkuringo (southern sector), where we trekked the mountain gorillas.
One could also go gorilla trekking in neighboring Rwanda through the Kigali capital. I would recommend Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park for the less savvy hikers and want a simple, quick experience. Congo next door is way beyond my experience. The country has been unstable for decades, and militia rebels have the jungle into their dwelling place.
Is Gorilla Trekking Safe?
The idea of getting up close to such a huge wild beast is terrifying. Contrary to common belief, you’re pretty much very safe to trek the Uganda jungles, get within 30 ft, and have your dose of gorilla trekking experience. The $700 fee you pay for a gorilla trekking permit pays for the three (or more) years of habituating a gorilla family (getting them used to human presence), their health, and armed game rangers 24/7 for your protection.
You will never be happy if you continue to search for what happiness consists of. You will never live if you are looking for the meaning of life.
What should I pack for the gorilla trekking trip
– For Coronavirus protection, carry two masks, hand sanitizer & have your negative PCR COVID-19 test certificate with you. See entry requirements.
– Pack a decent waterproof jacket
– Long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and long socks
– A pair of outdoor gloves
– Trekking boots are your best friend
– Pack a tin of Insect repellent
– Snacks
– Biodegradable tissue or toilet paper
– Waterproof backpack and extra batteries
– Trekking poles or hiking staffs
See detailed information on what to carry.
