The ultimate guide for gorilla trekking to solo travelers.
The ultimate guide for gorilla trekking to solo travelers. Trekking gorillas in their dense mist covered forests is one of the most enriching experiences since you have opportunities to make close encounters with them in their natural habitats, however trekking them as a solo traveler is more enchanting as well as an empowering sign.
Gorilla trekking is known as an activity that offers unmatched experiences, blend of wilderness and connections with the endangered species. Regardless of whether you are travelling alone or in a group. Solo travellers can confidently dive deep in either volcanoes or Bwindi national park to witness the gorillas in their natural habitats and enjoy the unbeatable experience.
In this guide we have completely provided the necessary and quality information about gorilla trekking adventures for solo travellers.
Who is a solo traveler?
A solo traveler refers to a person who explores various destinations and attractions with out companions of friends, family members or partners. Solo gorilla trekking is now one of the perfect and ideal safaris while on any African adventure . Discover the best parks, permit costs, safety tips, packing lists, and the best time to see mountain gorillas in Africa.
What is gorilla trekking?
Gorilla trekking refers to an adventurous activity that involves people walking through dense forests in search for the endangered mountain gorillas. This activity allows people to have close encounters with the gorillas.
The Gorilla trekking experience
Gorilla trekking starts very early in the morning with a comprehensive briefing at the park head quarters from the park rangers about the do and don’ts as well as the perfect conduct on how to behave well in the presence of these great apes.
After the briefing you will be assigned an armed ranger then join your group of 8 people, ready with the necessary hiking gears then walk in to the jungle. Your journey is a magical and exceptional walk expect to see plenty of bird, monkey and plant species as you pass through steep slopes, rugged terrains, forest landscapes and bushy vegetations.
The moment you find your group only hour is offered to you to spend with these gentle giants. This is true experience of a complete life time changing experience. with your one hour, you will be observe these gorillas going about their daily activities such as playing, feeding, interacting as well as taking plenty of photos that you want. Once the one-hour elapses, your adventure will end then walk down up to the briefing point to meet up with your guide.
Why Gorilla Trekking Is Perfect for Solo Travelers?
High level of safety: Solo travellers need to worry less about safety during their gorilla trekking experience. During gorilla trekking you are provided with an armed ranger per trek to provide safety per each trek.
Opportunities to connect with other people: Gorilla trekking mainly carried out in guided groups of about 8 people to trek per gorilla family. Regardless of you being a solo traveler you will still be asked to join a certain group people as you ascend in the jungle
A very adventurous encounter: Gorilla trekking is completely a life changing experience; solo travellers have the freedom to enjoy intimate and personal encounters with the gorillas in their natural habitat.
Top gorilla trekking destinations for solo travellers.
Gorilla trekking is majorly carried out from Uganda and Rwanda’s national parks that are Bwindi and Volcanoes np. However, gorilla trekking can still be carried out from Congo but be mindful about the safety precautions of this place.
Bwindi Impenetrable national park
This is one of the suitable and perfect places where solo travellers can decide to go and do s gorilla trekking while in Africa. The park is one of the most bid diverse areas with plenty of both animals, bird and plant species and half of the world’s population of gorillas. The park is a complete outstanding destination since it resides half the total of the world’s population of gorilla with over 20 habituated family groups of gorillas. Bwindi impenetrable national park also offers gorilla habituation safaris where you spend 4 hours with the gorillas from its sector (Rushaga).
Volcanoes national park: Known as second-best gorilla trekking destination with in Africa, Volcanoes national park is an out standing place for gorilla safaris. Located in the north western parts of Rwanda, the park is just 2 hours and 30mins drive from Rwanda’s capital Kigali, the only elegant jewel for gorilla trekking tours with in Rwanda. Solo travellers can still visit Volcanoes national park and spend close encounters with the gorillas in their natural habitat. The park is a home to the third’s population of gorillas remaining in the world.
Mgahinga national park: This is another ideal place for gorilla trekking with in Africa. The park lies in the south western parts of Uganda and a home to both gorillas and golden monkeys. The park offers ultimate and less crowded gorilla trekking experiences compared to other parks. In Mgahinga travelers can still take part in to guide walks, bird watching, cultural encounters and many more.
The cost of gorilla permits.
Gorilla permits vary differently with in Uganda or Rwanda because of some reasons Please note that a certain fee of the permit goes directly back to the local communities. Once you trek gorillas you are indirectly helping the local communities.
Uganda: The cost of a gorilla permit for foreign non residents costs $ 800.
Rwanda: The cost of a gorilla permit for foreign non residents is $ 1500.
How to Obtain Gorilla Trekking Permits?
Through tour operators.
Gorilla trekking permits can easily be obtained through booking from a private tour operator. There are many reputable tour operators in East Africa that have expertise in organizing gorilla trekking tours such as Gorilla safaris Africa, gorilla expeditions, Rwandagorilla trek and many more.
Tour operators can be attained through checking google on trip advisor page and checking through the reviews of the old clients until you select the suitable one for you. Booking with tour operators is very flexible since these people where to buy the permits from and also keep them safely until the exact trekking date.
Booking tip for solo travellers: We highly recommend solo travellers to book and secure permits 3- 6 months in advance especially those who would wish to travel with in the peak seasons. This is all advised to avoid inconveniences inorder to enjoy an ultimate gorilla trekking experience.
What safety precautions should solo travellers follow?
Traveling solo is generally safe mainly in the gorilla trekking countries such as Uganda and Rwanda. The countries have a reputation as one of Africa’s safest destinations. However, like anywhere else, it’s important to stay cautious and prepared. Here’s how to ensure your trip runs smoothly:
Understanding Local Laws and Customs: Learn about the laws of Rwanda and Uganda, and please respect the people’s customs. Rwanda, for example, prohibits the use of plastic bags and discourages public displays of disdain for authorities or the environment. Having cultural awareness makes your journey more fun and polite.
Accommodations and Transportation: Choose reputable accommodations with good reviews from other solo travellers. Both in Uganda or Rwanda Most accommodation options lodges offer secure facilities. Incase of transportation, use trusted taxis or car services for example in Uganda you can use Uber, Entebbe airport shuttle while in Rwanda you can use ride-hailing apps like Yego Cabs).
NB: please avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar or rural areas since you are uncertain of what may come out.
Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings while traveling to anyplace. While big cities such as Kigali and Kampala have low crime rates, petty theft still occur. Protect personal belongings, such as your phone or wallet, and avoid flashing valuables
Health measures: Travel with a basic first-aid kit and ensure your vaccines are up to date; yellow fever, typhoid, and malaria protection are frequently suggested. To protect yourself against mosquito bites, kindly put in your insect repellent. Drink only bottled or purified water to avoid contracting disease from local water supplies.
Gorilla Trekking-Specific Safety: Travel with a basic first-aid kit and ensure your vaccines are up to date; yellow fever, typhoid, and malaria protection are frequently suggested. To protect yourself against mosquito bites, please pack your insect repellents with you in your bag. Consume only bottled or purified water to avoid disease from local water sources.
Avoid Political Discussions while on your tour: Rwanda and Uganda are peaceful countries however their histories like Rwandas1994 genocide) is fraught with controversy. Avoid political conversations unless provoked by locals. Always communicate respectfully. Adding to that discussing about Uganda’s political parties is also not advised.
Stay Connected: Share your schedule with a family member or a friend, and check in on a frequent basis. Make sure your phone works in Rwanda or Uganda. You can purchase a local SIM card for communication and navigation.
To summarize, being inventive and respectful are the foundations of solo travel safety in Rwanda and Uganda. With some forethought, you will find the country to be warm, hospitable, and full of unforgettable adventures.
Essential Packing list for solo travellers on gorilla trekking adventures.
The ultimate guide for gorilla trekking to solo travelers. Travellers should be in position to pack correctly that is to say ensuring that necessary requirements are with them to avoid inconveniences. Here is an essential packing list that solo travellers can follow while they are packing for their trip. They include.
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots: Make sure that you pack waterproof hiking boots since they will provide good ankle support and ability to handle muddy, slippery forest trails.
Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers: These will be used to provide protection to your skin from insects, scratches from horny vegetation, and stinging nettles commonly found in the rainforest.
Lightweight rain jacket or poncho: This is essential to protect you from rain since the weather is unpredictable and it can rain at any time
Moisture-wicking socks: They will provide adequate support as they prevent blisters and keep your feet dry during long treks.
Warm layer (fleece or light jacket): Since early mornings can be surprisingly cool carry your light jacket with you to protect you during higher altitudes.
Trekking Gear and Accessories
Daypack: carry a small, comfortable backpack with you encompassing it with water, snacks, and personal items during the trek.
Gardening or trekking gloves: The gloves will be used in gripping vines, branches, and steep sections of the trail.
Reusable water bottle or hydration pack: This bottle will keep your drinking water to help you Stay hydrated despite the fact that some trails are physically demanding hikes.
Insect repellent: This tool will protect you against mosquitoes and forest insects.
Sunscreen and lip balm: This will help you from direct sunshine and UV exposure can be significant.
Personal first-aid kit: carry a personal aid kit with you, make sure it has items such s blister treatment, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medication.
Hand sanitizer or wet wipes: These items will help you in the hygiene process before and after the trek.
Camera or smartphone (no flash): You will use your camera to capture the unforgettable moments while you are with the gorillas.
Extra batteries or power bank: These will help you in case your phone happens to shut down since at times charging facilities may be occupied and you don’t have time.
Copies of travel documents: Pack all the necessary travel documents with you such as digital or printed copies of your passport, permit, and travel insurance.
Cash for porters: we advise you to carry some cash that you will use while tipping porters after your trek. These porters provide support to you by carrying for you your luggage while on hiking experience.
What is the best time to do gorilla trekking?
The ultimate guide for gorilla trekking to solo travelers: Gorilla trekking is completely an all-year-round activity though it has the best time for carrying it out. The most suitable and perfect time for carrying out gorilla trekking is generally during the dry season. This season has two periods (June to August).
The dry season is the perfect time for gorilla trekking since the rains tend to be few or less. This is because the trails are less slippery thus easy navigating them, the vegetations are very clear thus easy wildlife viewing.
However, gorilla trekking can still be done during the wet season but be ready for the rains. The only benefit of visiting in the wet season is that some lodging options tend to offer discounts or lower their prices of their rooms. This is the perfect period for budget travellers.
NB: we recommend securing permits 2 months before to the days of travelling since permits are served on first come basis and many people tend to carry out gorilla trekking.