Gorilla trekking is a life-changing adventure that brings you face-to-face with the magnificent silverback gorillas in their natural habitat. At Holiday People Ltd, we believe travel is more than just a trip; it’s an experience that enriches your life, and few experiences are as profound as this.
Our mission is to make every journey effortless, meaningful, and unforgettable. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about planning your gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, a destination that one of our clients, Andy from Australia, said “feels like Eden”.
What is Gorilla Trekking?
Gorilla trekking is an experience where a group of people hike through dense forests to see gorillas and their environment up close. It is a unique wildlife encounter that takes place in only three countries in Africa: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Uganda, is home to roughly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, making it a prime destination for this activity.
The treks are led by knowledgeable guides and armed park rangers who ensure the safety of both the trekkers and the gorillas. The gorilla families you encounter are habituated, meaning they are accustomed to human presence and are not aggressive.
How to Plan Your Trip and Get Permits
Planning a gorilla trekking safari requires careful attention to detail, and that’s where Holiday People Ltd can help. The most crucial step is securing a gorilla trekking permit, as a limited number are available each day to protect the gorillas and their environment.
- Permit Cost and Booking: A standard gorilla permit in Uganda for a foreign nonresident costs USD $800, and a gorilla habituation permit is USD $1,500. The habituation permit allows for a longer, more immersive experience. It is highly recommended to book your permit through a trusted tour operator like us, as we can handle all the logistics and ensure you get your desired dates, especially during peak season. The funds from the permits contribute directly to gorilla conservation efforts and support local communities.
- Trip Planning: We provide expert travel advisory services, leveraging our firsthand experience to offer practical guidance on destinations, visas, and trip planning. This includes organizing transportation, accommodation, and all other details so you can focus on making memories.
What to Expect During the Trek
On the day of the trek, you will have an early start. Our guide will drive you to the park headquarters for a briefing. Here, you will be assigned to a group of no more than eight trekkers and allocated a gorilla family. An advanced team of trackers will have already located the gorilla families to make it easier for you to find them.
The trek itself can be challenging, as it involves navigating through dense, rugged terrain with steep slopes, which can be slippery and muddy. The hike can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. A good level of physical fitness is required, but the thrill of the journey and the promise of seeing the gorillas will fuel your determination.
Once you find the gorillas, you are allowed to spend one hour with them. This is your opportunity to observe them as they go about their daily lives—feeding, playing, and interacting. It is a time for quiet awe and unforgettable photos, with no flash photography allowed.
Essential Packing List
Having the right gear is crucial for a comfortable and safe trekking experience. We recommend you pack the following:
- Sturdy Hiking Boots: The terrain is rugged, so boots with good grip are a must.
- Long-sleeved Shirts and Trousers: These protect you from stinging nettles, branches, and insects.
- Rain Jacket or Poncho: Bwindi is a rainforest, and it can rain at any time.
- Hiking Gloves: These are handy for gripping branches and protecting your hands.
- Insect Repellent: To keep bugs away.
- A Light Backpack: To carry your packed lunch, water, and other essentials.
- Water and Snacks: The hike can be long, so you’ll need to stay hydrated and energized.
- Camera with Extra Batteries: You won’t want to miss a moment of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
At Holiday People Ltd, we are committed to helping you materialize your travel dreams. From planning and costing your trip to providing a platform to save towards it, we are with you every step of the way. Contact us today to start planning your gorilla trekking adventure.
