Gorilla Trekking Guide to Uganda & Rwanda Gorilla trekking
Gorilla trekking, simply put, is a journey through the jungle – mostly a challenging hike to see, view or watch the Gorillas. Be it the mountain or lowland Gorillas and whether you go trekking in Uganda, Rwanda or Congo; the Gorilla trekking experience involves trekking through the jungle for hours until you find the Gorillas and spending 1 hour with them in sight before you trek out of the forest.
What is generally agreed is that it’s an incredible experience but this is not a walk in the park so you need to be prepared for the trek. Some treks last a few minutes while others could go on all day so you should be up for it. However, there are groups that are known to be near from time to time considering the park rangers visit and monitor the Gorillas every day.
So, those with fitness challenges especially the elderly/seniors and those with mobility difficulties are allocated such Gorilla families with the help of your tour guide. Porters are also readily available to help you carry your day pack and assist you along those challenging paths so it is advisable to hire at least one for the day!
All in all, Gorilla trekking is an incredible experience that is worth the time and money and it is possible for everyone, all year round.
To get you up to speed with your preparation, I have put together an essential packing list for your Gorilla trekking experience.
Recommended Packing List For a Gorilla Trekking Safari / Tour
- Walking boots or shoes (boots are better because they have better grip and support your ankles on hilly terrain)
- Breathable waterproof jacket and trousers. Even if it doesn’t rain, the ground and vegetation are generally wet. Wearing waterproof trousers means you can kneel to get gorilla photos or slide down slippery slopes.
- Long-sleeved shirt (to protect yourself from tree branches, the sun and insects)
- Gaiters (or long socks) to tuck long trousers into (to correct legs from scratches and keep insects out)
- A fleece or light wool sweater
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and sunhat
- Gloves to grip the vegetation (gardening gloves are perfect!)
- Camera equipment
Get in touch if you have any questions or need assistance in planning your Gorilla trek in Uganda, Rwanda or Congo.
Experienced webmaster and copywriter with 16 years of experience in the East African tourism industry. Jerome possess excellent knowledge about gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, chimpanzee tracking, and accommodations across major destinations in East Africa.
