How to Prepare for Your Gorilla Trek – Gorilla trekking is an outdoor activity where tourists hike through thick tropical rainforests to see mountain gorillas and their habitats.
Gorilla trekking takes place in three African countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The national parks where this activity is experienced are:
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda.
- Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
- Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Gorilla Trekking Tips for Rwanda
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is an exciting experience done in Volcanoes National Park. The park is home to 12 gorilla families, and about 96 permits are sold daily to trekkers.
Rwanda offers the most luxurious gorilla trekking experiences, from expensive gorilla permits to accommodation and transport.
A gorilla permit in Rwanda costs about 1,500 USD per person per trek.
Gorilla Trekking Tips for Uganda
Gorilla trekking in Uganda takes place in Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks. These parks are located in southwestern Uganda. The parks are home to about 20 gorilla families in the four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.
Gorilla trekking takes about 6 hours as tourists search for mountain gorillas.
The cost of gorilla permits in Uganda is a bit cheaper than in Rwanda. A gorilla permit costs 800 USD per person per trek.
Gorilla Trekking Tips for Democratic Republic of Congo
Gorilla trekking in the Democratic Republic of Congo takes place in Virunga National Park.
The park is home to about 300 gorillas today. Gorilla trekking was closed in Congo in 2018 due to political instability, but it has since reopened.
The park has received about 17,000 tourists since its reopening.
How to Prepare for Your Gorilla Trek
- Do Exercise: Exercising is very beneficial because it helps you stay physically fit as you prepare for the trek. Consider activities like walking, running, yoga, and rock climbing.
- Fuel Your Body: Trekking requires a lot of energy, so tourists preparing for a trek are advised to fuel their bodies. This involves eating small, frequent meals and drinking plenty of water to increase energy levels.
- Set Your Pace: Trekking is not a competition. Set a pace that is comfortable for you. This helps you maintain your energy levels throughout the trek.
- Use Walking Poles: Walking poles help reduce pressure on your legs. This makes hiking easier and more enjoyable.
- Practice Walking with Your Backpack: Your backpack will include items like snacks, water, clothing, and cameras. Some tourists are not used to carrying heavy backpacks, so it’s important to choose one that is comfortable for you.
- Find the Right Footwear: Hiking boots make trekking more comfortable. Wearing the wrong shoes can slow you down and make the trek difficult.
By following these tips, you can ensure a great gorilla trekking experience.
