Gorilla Trekking Tips

The best and top Gorilla Trekking Tips for the best gorilla trekking experience in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. Gorilla trekking is the act of meeting gorillas in their natural environment. It’s a rare experience since it can’t be done anywhere in the world apart from the Virunga region. Uganda, D.R. Congo, and Rwanda are the world’s only destinations where one can experience this activity.

Gorillas are grouped into different species – mountain gorillas which are accustomed to highland forested areas and the Eastern lowland gorillas / Grauer’s gorillas which inhabit the lowland areas. They have few differences, especially the physical attributes.

Uganda – It has mountain gorillas which can be trekked in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park.

Rwanda – Just like Uganda, it only has mountain gorillas that can be trekked in Volcanoes National Park.

D.R. Congo – gorillas here are of diverse classification – both the Grauer’s gorillas / Eastern lowland gorillas and mountain gorillas. Mountain gorillas can be trekked in Virunga National Park, while Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Maiko National Park, Itombwe Massif, Tanya Gorilla Reserve, and the Usala Forest lands are home to the eastern lowland gorillas.

How much does gorilla trekking cost?

For one to trek gorillas, they require a valid gorilla permit. It’s an access document / a pass, into natural gorilla habitat.

D.R. Congo – a gorilla permit costs 400$ for foreigners, 300$ for East African nationals, and 20$ for D.R. Congo citizens.

Uganda – a gorilla permit costs 700$ for each foreign resident, UGX 250,000/= for East African nationals, and 800$ for foreign non-residents.

Rwanda – a gorilla permit is charged 1,500$ for all nationals.

When to do gorilla trekking in East Africa?

The dry seasons have fewer weather interruptions and thus the best time for gorilla trekking. The dry season starts from June – September and December-February. It’s during these months that a visitor is sure to take on an uninterrupted gorilla trekking tour in any of the three countries i.e., Rwanda, Uganda, or D.R Congo.

Gorilla trekking packing list

Trekking boots

These should be strong, to avoid any possible sharp objects that may pierce and hurt one’s feet. The trekking is done in jungles where there are shrubs and thorns.

Hiking wear

A long hiking trouser and long-sleeved shirt/blouse are recommended to protect one’s skin from dangerous plants and stinging insects.

Hat

A hat protects the head from falling growth and insects. Another reason is to prevent the sunlight from directly hitting their heads.

Insect repellent

The jungle has all forms of insects, some of which sting. Insect repellent also saves an allergic skin from dangerous insect allergies.

Backpack

It’s one of the most important requirements whose duty is to pack and carry trekking material to the jungle like drinking water, snacks, repellants and more.

Food pack and water bottle

Since there isn’t food in the wilderness, trekkers are advised to pack some light food for eating as the trek progresses. Drinking water should also be packed in a water bottle.

Camera

The power of photography is essential. Recreation of memories is advised, and therefore tourists are asked to carry a camera and at least 4 pairs of battery.

Pair of binoculars

Some gorillas or other forest creatures maybe far away from eye sight, so a trekker needs to view them at a closer range. That’s the power of binoculars.

Raincoat or Jacket

A raincoat is carried in case of any rains especially for visitors that choose trekking during rainy seasons of the year. The above listed are the most essential requirements although someone may choose to add more to their list.

Gorilla trekking tips and regulations

Beware that for trekking experience, only 8 people are allowed per group. The purpose is to minimize any possible disturbances for the gorillas.
You will be assigned a ranger guide before heading out. They track gorillas from when they last saw them the previous day.
Upon getting to the forest, guides tell you when it’s safe to take photos.
Keep low voice while in the wilderness.
Don’t litter while in the forest.
Stay with your assigned group.
A minimum of 7 – meter distance should be observed when close to the gorillas.
Don’t eat or drink around the gorillas.
Follow the guide’s advice when a gorilla charges.
Don’t risk touching a gorilla.
Flash cameras aren’t recommended.
A one-hour duration is assigned for spending with the gorillas. The reason is to limit unnecessary disturbances.
Keep a 200 meters distance from a gorilla family, before one can raise their voice.