Gorilla are very interesting apes that have been surviving for centuries against all odds. When one talks about a gorilla safari experience, everyone assumes spending a maximum of one hour in the company of these apes, however the impenetrable forest of Bwindi National park offers a new and unique gorilla experience.
The Habituation Experience; This is almost similar with the normal Gorilla trekking but what differs is the time taken in viewing the Gorillas and number of maximum number of people allowed for the experience per day.
With habituation, travelers are allowed to stay and view the Gorillas for about four hours and also only a maximum of four people are allowed. These are accompanied by gorilla doctors, park rangers and armed trackers.
Even though the maximum number of visitors allowed and the time of viewing makes a huge difference between the two activities, the price range also differs as the gorilla habituation experience is more expensive than the normal experience.
Where to trek the Gorillas in Uganda; Gorilla trekking in Bwindi impenetrable forest National park is offered at only four sectors that sit at the varied regions of the Park. These sectors are; Nkuringo, Rushaga, Ruhija and Buhoma sector. Each gorilla sector has more than two Gorilla families and numerous accommodation facilities.
Anyone interested and booking a gorilla tracking permit in Bwindi impenetrable forest has to choose from any of the the four sectors. Buhoma sector is the most common and oldest sector with a low elevation unlike Nkuringo sector recorded with the highest elevation. Rushaga sector is recorded with the highest numbers of Gorilla families and it’s perfect for those who fancy a double Gorilla trek.
What’s required? Gorilla trekking requires a permit and this is a must buy and possess. Its costs US$700 per person and valid on a particular respective date.
Besides the permit, there are other important personal things one must have before entering the forest. These include; protective wearing gears like strong hiking shoes, gloves, nose capes, huts and sunglasses, long sleeved shirts and trouser, insect repellents, water proof jackets and rack sack, lunch from the Lodge and plenty of water .
Who can trek? Anyone with signs of infectious diseases is not allowed to trek the Gorillas. By age, for anyone to trek, they must be fifteen years and above. If one is not limited by the two listed queries, then they are free to enter the forest for Gorilla trekking, provided that you have a valid Gorilla trekking permit.
Other things to do after Gorilla Trek; After a memorable experience with the Gorillas, one can also engage in other fascinating pursuits such as the Batwa trails visit, community tour, birding, sundowner or just relaxing at the lodge.
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