How Long Does Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Take?
How long does gorilla trekking in Uganda take? This is the most asked question by the first traveller wishing to do mountain gorilla trekking. Well, gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience where trekkers can be escorted by park rangers in search of a gorilla family through forest trails.
The experience can take half a day, with one hour given to observe their behaviors, habits, play, and feeding and to capture views for your future remembrance. Trekkers must be physically fit in the body because sometimes it requires you to hike long distances to meet a gorilla family to spend time with in the midst of the forest.
In Uganda, Mountain gorillas survive in the tropical rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park. They are both located in the southwestern Uganda region. Other countries have Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In Africa, mountain gorilla trekking can be done only in three countries: Uganda, Rwanda and Dr. Congo.
How long does gorilla trekking in Uganda take?
Gorilla trekking can take about 2 to 8 hours or even a full day depending on where gorillas were last seen the previous day. It is done with the help of a park ranger who knows more information about the gorilla trails.
The experience can be done with the help of a skilled guide or ranger who knows more information about the gorilla trails and what gorilla family is good for you to trek. Bwindi National Park is comprised of four gorilla sectors where gorilla trekking and gorilla habituation take place: Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija and Rushaga. Among the Nkuringo and Buhoma sectors, these are the best sectors for gorilla trekking. To the disabled ones are recommended to trek in the nearby sector or use a wheelchair.
Gorilla trekking starts early in the morning after a briefing at the park headquarters before commencing the trek.
During trekking, expect high chances of seeing other small primates like black and white monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys, spotted birds, tree species, buffaloes and antelopes, among many. On finding the gorilla family, trekkers are allowed an hour to observe their habits and enjoy taking a photo shoot. Since the trekking time is unpredictable, you’re advised to carry your packed lunch to enjoy while in the jungle.
Note: Children below 15 years of age are not allowed to trek.
How to prepare for your gorilla trekking activity?
One is required to book or prepare for their gorilla trekking permits six months in advance during the high season. Because without a valid permit, you cannot be allowed to participate in this incredible activity.
Generally, gorilla trekking in Uganda costs USD 800 for non-foreign residents per person, USD 700 for foreign resident and USD500 for the Rest of East Africa. Yet, Rwanda Gorilla permits cost USD1500 per person. Take note: it’s advisable to book at least three months in advance or six months to obtain the permits in time. Last-minute bookings lead to disappointments.
Porters are available to help you carry your heavy luggage at a small fee of USD 20.
Here, are gorilla trekking items to carry on your next gorilla safari:
They include hiking boots, long-sleeved clothes, packed food, a mineral water bottle, a raincoat, warm clothes, a hat, sunglasses, long socks, insect repellents, hand gloves, an energy-giving snack, a poncho, and many more.
Best time to go for gorilla trekking in Uganda;
Gorilla trekking in Uganda can be done all year round. Although the dry season sounds perfect to go for gorilla trekking. Dry season usually happens from the month of July to September, when trails are easy to navigate. Alternatively, you can do gorilla trekking in the wet season, which happens from the months of March to May and September to November. During the wet season, trails are slippery and muddy to navigate. Though accommodations become cheaper, fitting for budget travelers.
In conclusion, the time taken during gorilla trekking will never be denied, because gorillas keep on moving from place to place for survival. You can imagine spending time in the jungle almost a full day searching for primates. It’s the reason you’re required to carry your packed lunch with enough bottled water. What an incredible and unforgettable experience meeting up with our closest cousins, the mountain gorillas, who are said to have 98% DNA in common with human genes. Get started now!
