Gorilla Safaris in Africa

Gorilla safaris in Africa : Where to See Gorillas in Africa ,In the whole world, there are two mountain gorilla population only found in the rainforests of the Central East Africa region and the best places to see gorillas are Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

These three gorilla trekking destinations offer the best gorilla trekking safaris in the world.

How to See Gorillas in Africa

The only way to see gorillas in Africa is by going on a guided gorilla trekking tour in the lush rainforest jungles of Uganda and Rwanda. These East Africa countries offer the best opportunities to observe mountain gorillas, the most sought-after primate species in their natural habitat.

Gorilla trekking as an experience involves hiking through dense forests, rivers, and marshes, led by experienced local trackers who know the whereabouts of gorillas. The trill of encountering these gentle giants with fur covered bodies in their natural home is unmatched. Watching majestic silverbacks, playful toddlers, and tender mothers is a scene straight out of an enchanting wilderness movie.

To participate in gorilla trekking, you will need a gorilla permit issued by a Uganda Wildlife Authority in Uganda and Rwanda Development Board in Rwanda. These permits are essential for conservation efforts, as revenue generated from them directly supports habitat protection, research as well as anti-poaching initiatives.

While mountain gorillas are the main primate attraction in East Africa, there is more to this breathtaking region, you can see lowland gorillas in the dense forests of Central and West Africa. However, the trekking infrastructure in these regions is more challenging and less accessible.

Regardless of where you choose to go in Africa, whether Uganda, Rwanda and Congo, seeing gorillas in the wild is a truly magical experience that will leave you with forever lasting memories. Seeing the gorillas behind cages in Zoos isn’t as thrilling as seeing them free, roaming as far they wish to in their natural habitat.

Five Best Places in Africa Where to See Gorillas in Africa in the Wild |Gorilla Safaris in Africa

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park & Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda

Hosting the world’s largest population of mountain gorillas, Uganda is worldly known as the gorilla trekking capital in Africa boasting over half of the remaining mountain gorillas residing within its borders.

With two gorilla trekking destinations, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a top choice for visitors and here is why

• More Gorilla Trekking Options – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has the highest habituated gorilla families (over 19 gorilla families) found in four gorilla trekking tails (gorilla trekking sectors) to suit different preference and fitness levels.
• Affordability – Gorilla Permits in Uganda are currently priced at $ 800 making it a more budget-friendly gorilla trekking option compared to its neighbour Rwanda.
• Gorilla Habituation Experience – For a truly immersive gorilla encounter, Bwindi exclusively offers a 4-hour gorilla habituation experience (costing $ 1,500 for a permit), allowing you to spend more time observing gorillas as they are trained to become accustomed to human presence.
• Combined Adventures – It is easy to combine your gorilla trek in Uganda with other incredible wildlife experiences. Explore Queen Elizabeth National Park for cloassic game safaris with excellent sighting of the rare tree climbing lions and diverse wildlife. You can also venture to Kibale Forest National Park for chimpanzee trekking.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is another great gorilla trekking destination in Uganda, the park has only one gorilla family – Nyakagezi.

2. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is a legendary destination for gorilla trekking in Africa, stepped in history as it is the site where renowned primatologist Dian Fossey dedicated her life to studying and protecting these magnificent African gorillas.

Nestled amidst the Virunga Mountains, Volcanoes National Park offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes and remarkable wildlife encounters, making it one of the best places to see gorillas in Africa.

Here are the reasons to why Volcanoes National Park should be your number one pick

• Accessibility and Luxury – Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is easily accessible, just a 3 hour drive from Kigali International Airport on well-maintained roads. This convenience, combined with its proximity to luxury lodges and hotels offering top-notch amenities, making it a preferred choice for visitors seeking a high-end gorilla trekking experience in Africa.
• Price Conditions – It is important to note that, while Rwanda offers unparalleled convenience and luxury. Rwanda gorilla permits are pricier, currently at $ 1,500, doubling the cost of permits in Uganda, making Rwanda a more expensive option for budget-conscious travellers.

3. Kahuzi-Beiga National Park & Virunga National Park, DR.Congo

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a capital for adventure and a budget-friendly destination for intrepid travelers seeking to see gorillas in Africa. Despite the ongoing political challenges, the country boasts sufficient tourist infrastructure to support gorilla trekking, making it a unique and rewarding option for those seeking and off-the-beaten path-experience.

Democratic Republic of Congo hosts unique gorilla species and offers diverse gorilla trekking in Africa opportunities. It is the only country in the world where you can encounter all the three subspecies of gorillas that is Western lowland, Eastern Lowland and mountain gorillas. This diversity offers a range of gorilla trekking in Africa experiences to suit different preferences of tourists.

Kahuzi-Beiga National Park

Home to the eastern lowland gorillas also known as Grauer’s Gorillas. These gentle giants inhabit the forests and swamplands southwest of the Virunga Volcanoes, providing a unique gorilla trekking in Africa experience in diverse landscapes.

Virunga National Park

Worldly known for intimate encounters with the endangered mountain gorillas, Virunga National Park is located on the DRC side of the Virunga Mountains. So far the park’s security has improved significantly and visitors can access it from Kisoro in Uganda or by flight through Goma Town.

Virunga’s Appeal and Accommodation: The park offers comfortable accommodation options, including Mikeno Lodge, Tchegera Island and Kibumba Tented Camp, all providing stunning views and a tranquil retreat after your gorilla trekking safari.

4. Odzala – Kokoua National Park, The Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) , Gorilla Safaris in Africa

Congo – Brazzaville “The Republic of Congo” is a hidden gem for adventurous travelers seeking a unique gorilla trekking experience in Africa. With vast, unexplored rainforest reserves and a thriving population of over 125,000 western lowland gorillas, the country offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Africa wildlife.

Odzala – Kokoua National Park is the best place to visit in the Republic of Congo. Here visitors can embark on daily treks with small, intimate groups accompanied by expert trackers and guides. These treks offer the chance to spend an hour observing gorillas in the wild, a truly magical wildlife encounter.

Mbeli Bai – A Wildlife Spectacle in Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park

Situated in the Northern reaches of Congo, Mbeli Bai is renowned wildlife haven within Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park. This virgin wilderness boasts a diverse array of animals including a significant population of western lowland gorillas and the world’s largest concentration of forest elephants.

Visitors can witness the majestic silverbacks on a forested island from a boat or observe rescued gorilla orphans being rehabilitated in the Léfini Reserve.

Here are the reasons why Congo-Brazzaville is one of the best destinations to see gorillas in Africa.

Affordable and Rustic Gorilla Trekking Adventures: Congo – Brazzaville offers budget friendly gorilla trekking options, with rustic yet comfortable accommodations available at Mbei Camp and Mondika Camp. These camps provide a perfect base for your adventures, where you can immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the rainforests.

Unforgettable Wildlife Encounters: Beyond gorillas, Congo – Brazzaville offers unique wildlife encounters such as witnessing gorilla groups foraging alongside forest elephants, buffaloes and antelopes like the Sitatunga. These interactions highlight the interconnectedness of the rainforest ecosystem and make Congo an unmissable gorilla trekking destination.

5. Dzanga-Sangha National Park, Central African Republic (CAR), Gorilla Safaris in Africa

Nestled in the heart of the Central African Republic (CAR), Dzanga – Sangha National Park offering a truly wild and immersive gorilla trekking experience. This remote rainforest sanctuary is home to two of the only three habituated western lowland gorilla groups, making it a prime destination for individuals seeking an off-the-beaten-path gorilla trekking adventure in Africa.

Here is why Dzanga-Sangha National Park is the best place to see Gorillas in Africa

Unique Wildlife Encounters: Dzanga-Sangha National Park has one of the highest concentration of western lowland gorillas and forest elephants in the world. Embark on an unforgettable primate journey through the dense jungle, where you can track these endangered primates alongside bongos and mangabey monkeys. For a deeper cultural immersion, join the local Ba’Aka people on a traditional net hunt.

Challenging but Rewarding: Exploring the almost unexplored wilderness of the Central African Republic’s southern tip is not without its challenges. However, the rewards are immense. The untamed region offers one of the wildest and most rewarding jungle encounters in Africa.

In conclusion: With all the gorilla destinations listed above, Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park stand out. These two destinations offer exceptional gorilla safaris in Africa.

Everything You Need to Know About Gorilla Trekking in Africa

In the whole globe there are few wildlife encounters that are as awe-inspiring as observing a wild mountain gorillas family silently as they go about their day in the natural habitat. The misty forested hillsides of Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, are home to these gentle giants, the closest relatives to humans sharing 98.3% of our DNA Composition.

In this blog we cover everything you need to know about gorilla trekking in Africa, from the way to behave to ethical considerations as well as everything in between. Whether you are heading to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, or Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda or Virunga National Park in DR.Congo. We have got all the information you will need for a memorable gorilla trekking trip.

What to expect when tracking gorilla in Africa?

Your gorilla trekking experience will typically start early in the morning, head to the park headquarters where you meet other trekkers for a briefing by your guide. You will go through essential safely protocols and the basic rules you must adhere to when in their presence. Also, your guide might tell you more about the specific route you will take and the conditions you will likely encounter.

The most important part of the pre-trip briefing is the temperature check. If your temperature is elevated or if you are unwell, you may not be allowed to participate in the trek. Because we share so much of our DNA with gorillas, they are susceptible to the same diseases as us, so you must disclose any illness, recent or current at this time.

Once all the formalities are complete, you will depart from headquarters making your way to the start of the hike. Sometimes the hike will start from the headquarters, but usually there is a short drive to the trail head. Once in the jungle, you will find yourself navigating steep and sometimes muddy path as you go. Gorilla treks ca n last anywhere between one and six hours, depending on the location of the gorillas.

A key distinction between Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trekking is the foliage. In Uganda, you will be making your way through thick forest foliage, whereas in Rwanda, the vegetation is mostly bamboo grasslands, so you will enjoy exceptional views of the surrounding undulating landscapes. You will enjoy occasional wildlife sightings along the way in either location.

What happens when you reach the gorillas?

Mountain gorillas and their movements can be unpredictable, so there are no guarantees on how long it will take to find them, but when you do, it is nothing short of absolutely awe-inspiring.

You are permitted to spend a maximum of one hour observing the gorillas as they go about their lives – playing, grooming, feeding or simply relaxing. The rules you were taken through during the briefing will now be important, and it is essential to always follow your guide’s instructions.

You are requested to keep at least 7 meters from the gorillas to avoid disturbing them and to minimize the risk of disease transmission. This distance is crucial for the safety of both the gorillas and the visitors. It is important to remember that gorillas are wild animals, and maintaining this distance respects their space and reduces the risk of any potential conflict. Out of curiosity, gorillas may approach you, but it is essential that you remain calm and make no sudden movements or sounds.

While you are absorbed in the interactions between mothers and their fluffy babies and the commanding presence of the large make silverbacks, an hour can pass by quickly, but you will leave with forever lasting magical memories.

General rules, guidelines and etiquette

There are strict rules and regulations put in place to ensure the safety of both visitors and the gorillas. Make sure you are familiar with these and adhere to them religiously as well as your guide’s instructions throughout your trek.

1. Maintain a safe distance – Stay at least 7 meters (23 feet) away from the gorillas
2. No flash photography – Flashing lights can disturb the gorillas and frighten them off
3. Keep your voices low and no sudden movements – The gorillas are calm, and the forest is generally peaceful. Sudden loud noises or movements can alarm the gorillas.
4. No eating or drinking near the gorillas – Food can attract the gorillas and disrupt their natural behavior
5. Do not litter or disturb nature – Be conscious of nature, keep the forest clean and try to leave the area as pristine as you found it.
6. Adhere to your guide’s instructions at all times – Your guide is experienced in gorilla behavior and will give instructions to ensure the safety of the group and the gorillas.

How fit do you need to be to track gorillas?

Gorilla trekking typically requires an average level of fitness due to the steep terrain, dense forest and sometimes muddy conditions. In addition to navigating high-altitude conditions, you will likely be trekking for several hours, so being reasonably fit is advantageous.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park’s terrain can be more physically demanding, as it is steeper and the foliage more dense. The treks here are often longer and more strenuous, especially during the rainy season. For a less muddy conditions, the dry season is considered the best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is less strenuous, as the terrain is somewhat flatter and the forest less dense.

Certainly you don’t need to be an elite athlete to go gorilla trekking. Porters are on hand to assist you with your backpack and help you as you go, these are local residents who are familiar with the terrain and can provide valuable assistance, especially on more challenging treks. They can help carry your backpack, provide a steady hand on steep paths, and even assist with navigating through the dense foliage. In a week or two leading up to your gorilla trip, you should prepare for your trek by taking regular walks and hikes. This will make you feel prepared and ready for the adventure.

What to pack for gorilla trekking?

Carrying the right gears is crucial for a successful and comfortable gorilla trek. The weather can be unpredictable so preparing for various conditions is advised. These items are essential and they include.

• Sturdy hiking boots – A pair of comfortable, waterproof hiking boots is essential for tackling those muddy trails and steep inclines. Make sure to try in your new shoes to avoid discomfort on your gorilla trek.
• Long tops and trousers – To protect your arms and legs from big bites, scratches and encounters with stinging plants by wearing long sleeves and long trousers.
• Rain Jacket – Rain showers are common (even in dry season), so waterproof clothing items are recommended.
• Hat and sunglasses – Essentials on any trip to protect you from the sun
• Garden gloves – These can be useful for gripping vegetation and keeping your hands protected in the forest
• Insect repellent – The forest is full of mosquitoes and other biting insects that is why you need to carry insect repellent.
• Camera with a zoom lens – Occasions like gorilla trekking deserves to be captured. A good zoom lens will ensure you can get great shots without needing to get too close to the gorillas.
• Water and snacks – While you cannot eat around the gorillas, you can refuel and stay hydrated along the way. Make sure to keep all wrappers and bottles in your backpack to dispose of in a bin when you get back.

Can children go gorilla trekking?

In all gorilla trekking destinations, the minimum age for trekking is 15 years. The limit is in place for various reasons.

• Trekking conditions are physically challenging for younger children
• Younger children are more prone to illness, which puts the gorillas at risk
• Younger children can find it difficult to remain calm and quiet around the gorillas, thereby causing stress to the mountain gorillas.

What are the costs and permits?

Gorilla permit is a vital necessity for gorilla trekking, in Rwanda a gorilla permit costs US$ 1,500 per person per trek while a gorilla trekking in Uganda costs US$ 800. In addition, you will need to budget for accommodation, transportation and additional services like porters and guides.

While gorilla trekking may seem expensive, the experience is absolutely worth it and the fees for each permit purchased help protect the wild gorilla populations.

Is gorilla trekking safe?

Gorilla trekking is considered safe as long as you adhere to your guide’s rules and instructions. Your treks into the forest are in the company of extremely knowledgeable and experienced guides who will keep you safe.

The gorillas you will encounter in Uganda and Rwanda are used to the presence of humans at a distance and will not feel threatened by you. However, sudden movements and noises can change that. They are, after all, still wild animals.

Is gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda ethical?

Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is widely considered as an ethical form of wildlife tourism. Both countries play a significant role in the recovery and protection of mountain gorilla populations, which were once near extinction.

The funds collected from gorilla permits are reinvested in conservation projects, anti-poaching measures and community development. Local communities are incentivized to protect the gorillas and their habitats by benefiting directly from the income generated from tourism to the area.

The strict rules and regulations that all visitors are asked to follow are in place to minimize the impact on the already endangered mountain gorillas. These include how close you are allowed to get and limiting the number of visitors per day.

Conclusion – Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda offers an intimate wildlife experience with one of the world’s most extraordinary animals. Not only is it an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime adventure, but by visiting, each tourist supports vital conservation efforts of the gorillas as well as their habitat.

Yes, gorilla trekking is demanding, but coming face-to-face with a family of Wild Mountain gorillas is immensely rewarding and worth every penny.