Gorilla Trekking

Mountain gorillas are only found in three countries – Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Uganda has about half of the overall population in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. In Rwanda, the mountain gorillas are found in Volcanoes National Park, while in the Congo you can find them in the Virunga National Park. These areas provide the right ecology, habitat and altitude to allow mountain gorillas to thrive.

There are 44 habituated mountain gorilla families across Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC. Family groups range in size with an average of 10 family members, but some can have as many as 40 individuals.

Mountain gorillas are active only during the day (6:00 am to 6:00 pm). Most of this time is spent feeding on insects, shoots/stems, leaves, roots, flowers and fruits to sustain their large size. The most active eating time is in the morning, then a rest around mid-day before eating again in the afternoon as night approaches. The rest period at mid-day is an opportunity for bonding through grooming to remove parasites and dirt. This is also the time when you can witness juveniles playing, chasing, somersaulting and wrestling. As night approaches, each adult individual builds a nest from tree leaves and other vegetation.

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Gorilla

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Adult male gorillas are known as silverbacks because of the silver hair behind their back. Mountain gorillas can stand and move upright but they prefer knuckle-walking where they use their fingers to support their weight. Gorillas may be strong and powerful but they are generally very gentle and shy. The group members-only resort to aggression when attacked or if they encounter another group of gorillas. Even in such cases, they will first begin by threatening or intimidating an intruder. When the Silverbacks choose to fight, it can turn out to be violent even to the point of death. They will use their sharp teeth to cause deep wounds and injuries and to the rival.

Mountain gorillas are considered an endangered species. The greatest threat to gorillas comes from humans.

PERMITS to Trek for Mountain Gorillas

The maximum number of visitors is eight persons per gorilla group per day. Therefore gorilla permit booking can be quite competitive and should be done in advance.

The ticket price for mountain gorilla trekking in all three countries includes entry to the park, guides to track for you to the gorillas and protection in case it’s needed. The price can be seen as very high but goes directly into the protection and conservation of these incredible animals.

Seeing these gentle giants in their natural environment is a wildlife encounter no one should miss.

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The cost of a gorilla tour is expensive but an encounter with mountain gorillas is the ULTIMATE wildlife experience!

Mountain Gorillas Destinations

Uganda

Uganda Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa bordered by Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It lies on the equator, boasts spectacular scenery and Lake Victoria the source of the Nile River. Like its neighbour, Rwanda they have the unique responsibility of conserving the critically endangered mountain gorillas.…

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Rwanda

Rwanda Rwanda is a tiny landlocked country bordered by Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It has breathtaking scenery, predominantly mountainous terrain and is known as “Land of a Thousand Hills”. Going gorilla trekking is for many the number one reason to visit Rwanda. Seeing these beautiful creatures in their natural habitats…

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I feel more comfortable with gorillas than people. I can anticipate what a gorilla’s going to do, and they’re purely motivated.
Dian Fossey