How long does gorilla trekking take? Gorilla trekking is a great experience in Uganda it takes places in Bwindi national park in south western Uganda in Kisoro district where one can encounter the mountain gorillas in different sectors that is Rushaga Buhoma Nkuringo and Ruhija. Gorilla trekking is a great exercise for all people apart from the children under the age of 15 years because there are certain trekking trails that are difficult than others and children can manage.
How fit are you
It is always better to know your fitness level before attempting any gorilla trekking trails in Bwindi national park and volcanoes national park because they are not easy because the terrain is not friendly since your not used to it and it can be intimidating and we highly out visitors to hire porters during the trek, porters can help you carry your bags ,snacks so that you your able to trek well with no much weight that may hider you from finishing. Kindly be aware of the rain forest terrain they can be slippery and steep, so before the trekking practice hiking, walk don’t over seat, don’t forget to stretch. Fitness does not consider any thing like body size so long your physically fit with no any health issues you can hike no matter what.
Is gorilla trekking difficult
If preparing and considering for a trekking safari to Bwindi impenetrable forest national park in Uganda, it is important to make sure that your physically fit because if you are physically prepare it may be less challenging because of some things you should keep in mind like the high altitude where you will be walking with thinner air which may be tough on your lungs, the terrain which may be mountainous and vegetation dense. Trekking is not hard is always made easy for the elderly who cannot make it in the forest on their own there are porters to help them out to give you a hand in case you fail to hike carry bags. Do not sit behind and miss out because gorilla trekking is a life time experience.
How long does gorilla trekking take
Gorilla trekking takes about 2to 3 hours it includes right from the start depending on where you’re trekking from because trekking alone may take 1hour minus seeing them then after getting them one may want to take pictures and spend more minutes looking at them though you should not confuse habituation and trekking, habituation it is where visitors spend more time with the gorillas. For trekking it is just to find them and just have a look at them, take pictures.
How to prepare for gorilla trekking physically
Get the right equipment. Make sure you get proper clothing and foot wear, backpack for the conditions that you may encounter while in Bwindi trekking the mountain gorillas.
Be in good physical shape. Hiking can be strenuous so it is important you be physically well if you’re not start exercising early in order to be fit.
Be prepared for emergencies. Carry your first aid kit in case of any injuries or sickness.
Know your limits. Do not attempt to hike what is beyond your abilities if you can not start with the short ones that you can manage to avoid issues during your trek.
Listen to your body. If you feel like your body is tired, take a break do not force any things rest and drink water to freshen up.
Tips on how to conquer the difficult gorilla trekking
Choose an easier trek and the easiest trail in Bwindi is Buhoma sector it is the easiest to climb how ever gorillas move to different locations so it may be hard to find them in one sector buhoma is easy because of the simple vegetation there is no much shrubs like other sectors.
Use trackers in both countries Uganda and Rwanda a visitor is allowed to request for an easy trek. There is always an advance for team truckers who know very well the gorillas are with in their groups so they will locate you.
Hire porters. Hire porters to assist you during the hard trekking time they can give you a hand, carry your belongings, that will the trekking a successful without failure.
Visit the gorillas in the right time mostly during the dry season to avoid getting difficult because of the muddy and slippery trails and gorilla trekking becomes so hard during the wet season.
Who is eligible to trek gorillas
Only individuals above the age of 15 years are considered eligible to trek mountain gorillas’ persons under the age of 15 can trek under strict supervision and with their parents no leaving them behind.
Can the disabled people trek
Yes, the disabled persons can trek the gorillas, those who can not walk completely they are always put on the stretchers and carried by the porters or sedan chairs.
What else to see in Uganda apart from the gorillas
Uganda has the big five animals like lions’ rhinos elephants’ buffaloes’ zebras, elands, birds, other primates like the golden monkeys in Mgahinga National Park to mention but a few.
Where to stay when going for gorilla trekking
There are quite number of accommodations in Bwindi from mid-range budget to luxury and these include Buhoma safari lodge, clouds mountain gorilla, chameleon hill, buhoma community rest camp and many more.
