GORILLA WATCHING
UGANDA AND RWANDA
What is gorilla watching? Gorilla watching, also known as gorilla trekking, involves venturing into Africa’s rainforests to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Central Africa’s wilderness with gorilla watching. Encounter the majestic mountain gorillas amidst lush rainforests, contributing to conservation efforts while experiencing the thrill of adventure.
Key Takeaways
- Gorilla watching, also known as gorilla trekking, offers an extraordinary opportunity to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
- Permits and associated costs vary between Uganda and Rwanda, with prices ranging from $800 to $1500 per person respectively
- Optimal weather conditions for gorilla watching occur during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February.
- Gorilla watching contributes directly to conservation efforts, supporting local communities and safeguarding gorilla habitats.
- Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park are premier destinations for gorilla watching.
- Essential items to pack for a gorilla-watching trip include sturdy hiking boots, lightweight clothing, waterproof gear, and a camera.
OUR GORILLA WATCHING DESTINATIONS
WHY CHOOSE US
Best experiences
The ultimate gorilla experience often involves gaining exclusive access to remote and pristine gorilla habitats. This could mean venturing deep into the rainforests of Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of Congo, where these elusive primates roam freely.
BEST GUIDES
Seasoned in the art of tracking and interpreting signs left by the gorillas, these guides lead adventurers through tangled vines and rugged terrain with a blend of expertise and reverence.
CUSTOM TOURS
The result is a truly personalized journey that not only fulfills travelers’ dreams of encountering gorillas in the wild but also leaves a positive impact on the environment and local communities.
Mountain Gorillas
OUR GORILLA WATCHING SAFARIS
Gorilla Watching in Uganda: Exploring the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Nestled within the rugged terrain of southwestern Uganda lies the renowned Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most coveted destinations for gorilla watching enthusiasts. Home to approximately half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, Bwindi offers visitors a chance to embark on an unforgettable adventure amidst breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Gorilla watching expeditions in Bwindi typically begin with an early morning briefing at the park headquarters, where visitors are briefed on gorilla etiquette and safety guidelines. From there, guided by expert trackers and armed with a sense of anticipation, adventurers set out on a trek through the forest in search of these elusive primates. The trek can vary in duration and intensity, ranging from a few hours to a full day, depending on the location of the gorilla families.
As travelers traverse the rugged terrain and navigate through dense vegetation, every step brings them closer to the remarkable moment of encountering a gorilla family in their natural habitat. Witnessing these magnificent creatures up close, observing their social interactions, and marveling at their sheer strength and grace is an experience that transcends words.
Gorilla Watching in Rwanda: Exploring the Misty Mountains of Volcanoes National Park
Across the border from Uganda, in the neighboring land of Rwanda, lies another iconic destination for gorilla watching: Volcanoes National Park. Immortalized by the legendary primatologist Dian Fossey and her groundbreaking work with mountain gorillas, this pristine wilderness offers visitors a chance to follow in her footsteps and connect with these gentle giants in their natural environment.
Located in the Virunga Mountains, Volcanoes National Park is home to several habituated gorilla families, making it an ideal destination for gorilla watching expeditions. Like in Uganda, the journey begins with a briefing at the park headquarters, where visitors receive essential information before embarking on their trek.
Traversing the mist-shrouded slopes of the Virungas, adventurers trek through bamboo forests and verdant valleys, guided by skilled trackers who possess an intimate knowledge of the gorillas’ movements and behaviors. The anticipation builds with each step until, finally, the moment arrives: a magical encounter with a gorilla family amidst the tranquil beauty of their natural habitat.