Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
One of the undoubted highlights of any visit to Uganda is tracking habituated mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. As you approach it is obvious why it is was named the Impenetrable Forest. Since time immemorial the high ridges and deep river gorges have played host to a prehistoric forest resulting in incredible biodiversity. As well as at least 90 mammal species, 350 species of birds, 324 species of trees and huge numbers of butterflies probably around half of the world’s mountain gorillas call Bwindi home. The terrain is hilly, very muddy and can involve scrambling through dense vegetation, be prepared for an arduous day anything from 15 minutes to 8 hours but there is no doubt that to trek through jungle and montane forest in search of magnificent mountain gorillas is one of the most amazing wildlife experiences in the world.
When tracking mountain gorillas you will find that the gorilla groups move daily, and may be as close as 15 min from the park entrance to several hours hard walking away. The gorillas are tracked daily by specially trained guides who note where they rest for the night. You will leave early the next morning on your track where a beeline is made for the nest sites. Your track may involve scrambles up hillsides and along slippery paths. You may only be required to negotiate a few plantations. As you get closer to the gorillas guides will have you 'talk' to the gorillas with soothing belches to let them know that people are about and mean them no harm. The silverbacks (adult males) are usually placid, however, if they sense danger they may scream loudly and charge at the intruder. The guides inform trackers of the appropriate behavior and the charge is in fact very exciting. As long as you stay still and look away from the silverback he may come very close but it is very unlikely that he will harm you.
Looking deep into the expressive brown eyes of these gentle giants is surely the most exciting and poignant wildlife encounter that Africa has to offer. You are allotted one hour of viewing time which usually involves slipping and scrambling on the slopes to get a good position to photograph the various family members or to keep up with playful juveniles.
The Ugandan Wildlife Authority at Bwindi has developed a partnership with local communities to encourage development through conservation. This enables local people to improve their standard of living through better agricultural practices, thus reducing pressure on forest resources. The park employs local people as wardens, researchers and rangers, local communities receive a proportion of the Park's income.
To track gorillas in Bwindi you will require a permit which is currently $500 per person (subject to change). Mahlatini will organise your permit for you. Be aware that only 24 permits are released per day for tracking the 3 groups of habituated gorillas in Bwindi and these are highly sought after. Best to book early were possible.