Gorilla tracking is an adventure that gives you a real life time experience, from the usual and comfortable way of living. This experience involves trekking for hours before you meet the endangered species in their natural setting. Mountain gorilla are found no where else in the sanctuary/zoo but only in the tropical rain forest in Uganda, Rwanda or Democratic Republic of Congo. In Uganda mountain gorillas are found in Bwindi forest national park, Mgahinga Gorilla national park where as in Rwanda, they are in Volcanoes national park and Virunga National park in Democratic Republic of Congo.
While planning a Gorilla tracking safari in any of the mentioned national parks there are important tips to take note of in order to enjoy every moment on a safari. Some of the tips include;
Choose a trusted tour operator
More often while planning a safari, you need to get things right and in place, a tour operator will help and organize every detail in the safari including safari activities, booking and arranging with accommodation facilities and transportation. A tour operator on ground is well conversant with the geography of the area, and with vast knowledge and experience to organize a memorable trip.
Secure gorilla permits
Gorilla permits are issued by the governing bodies on a first come first serve basis, you therefore need to deposit or buy your gorilla permit of your intending gorilla tracking date in advance of at least 3 months to avoid inconveniences. The cost of gorilla permits varies for each country, in Uganda the cost for gorilla tracking permit cost usd 600 and usd 1500 for Gorilla Habituation experience where as in Rwanda a gorilla permit costs usd 1500 in Democratic Republic of Congo a gorilla permit usd 400.
Best time to track gorillas
Apparently, Uganda and Rwanda experience two seasons, these are; wet season and dry season. Each season comes with its pros and cons but most important to note, it doesn’t hinder gorilla tracking experience. The activity is on daily basis come rain come sunshine. Rainy season starts in March to May-October and November, then the dry season covers January, February, June, July, August, September and December. For clear views and photography, the dry season is much recommended for a safari.
Expectations
Gorilla tracking can be a tiresome activity if gorillas move further than expected, therefore you expect to trek for hours. One is required to pack a snack, enough drinking water because you won’t find anywhere to find a refreshment in the middle of the forest. Besides a heavy breakfast is recommended before you go for Gorilla tracking briefing at the park Quarters.
Packing for a gorilla safari
A gorilla safari basically involves trekking through thick forests and shrubs, there fore while packing consider packing long sleeved shirts/sweater tops, long trousers and pants, good sturdy hiking boots, insect repellent to protect gorilla fly’s, water bottle, rain jackets, sun screens and a small handy bag pack.
A good lens camera is recommended to capture the best shots for a lasting memory, you will also need spare batteries for back up.
Physical fitness, gorilla tracking requires a level of physical fitness to trek for long and hike through, steep slopes, muddy slides until you meet the giant apes. Usually the hike is not tense but can also get harder if the gorillas move further. At this point, one is encouraged to hire a potter to carry the back pack and also give a hand where it gets tough.
In conclusion, gorilla tracking is a remarkable experience, if the tips are taken keen of. While trekking to see gorillas watch out for other forest habitats like birds, worms and among others, it is also important to utilize the 1 hour given to capture the moments, take enough photographs and video footage of the Gorillas to keep the memory lasting.
