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A mountain Gorillas’ quest into the jungles of Bwindi

Are you an adventure seeker looking to explore the untamed beauty of nature? Then, venturing into the wild for a 3-day gorilla trekking experience in Uganda might be just what you need. Uganda’s dense Bwindi impenetrable forest is home to some of the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas, and hiking through these lush green landscapes is an experience like no other. As you embark on this journey, you’ll encounter not only these gentle giants but also other rare species of primates, birds, and plants. The thrill of tracking and spotting the gorillas amidst the thick foliage is an unforgettable experience that will leave you awe-inspired. But trekking in the wild isn’t just about the animals you’ll see; it’s about disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnecting with nature. So, pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready for a journey of a lifetime as you venture into the wild for three days of gorilla trekking in Uganda.

Why Uganda is the Best Place for Gorilla Trekking

Uganda is known for its dense rainforests, abundant flora and fauna, and diverse cultures. The country is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it the perfect destination for gorilla
trekking. The bwindi impenetrable forest is one of the best places to spot these gentle giants in their natural habitat. The forest is also home to other rare and endangered species such as chimpanzees, African elephants, and more than 350 species of birds.
Moreover, Uganda’s gorilla trekking experience is unique in that it offers visitors the chance to interact with local communities. The Batwa people, who were once forest-dwelling hunter-gatherers, are now involved in conservation efforts and are eager to share their knowledge and culture with visitors. This interaction adds an extra layer of cultural immersion to the gorilla trekking experience, making it an unforgettable journey.

Gorilla Trekking Preparations

Gorilla trekking is a physically demanding activity that requires some level of fitness. Before embarking on the trek, you should ensure that you are in good health and fit enough to hike through the forest. It’s also important to pack the right gear such as sturdy hiking boots, waterproof clothing, a hat, and sunscreen. You’ll also need to carry a backpack with essentials such as water, snacks, and a camera.

It’s recommended that you book your gorilla trekking permits in advance as they are limited. The permits cost $800 per person and allow you to spend one hour with the gorillas. You’ll also need to hire a guide who will lead you through the forest and help you spot the gorillas. The guide fee is included in the permit.

The journey to the gorilla habitats can be long and tiring, but it’s worth it. Most visitors fly into Entebbe International Airport, which is located in the capital city, Kampala. From there, you can either hire a car or take a domestic flight to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
The drive to the park can take up to 10 hours, depending on the route you take. However, it’s an opportunity to see the stunning countryside and interact with locals along the way. If you opt to take a domestic flight, it takes about an hour from Entebbe to Kisoro Airstrip, which is the closest airport to the park.

Gorilla Trekking Experience

On the day of the trek, you’ll wake up early, have breakfast, and head to the park headquarters for a briefing. The briefing covers the dos and don’ts of gorilla trekking, as well as safety precautions. After the briefing, you’ll be divided into groups of eight, and each group will be assigned a guide.
The trek can take anywhere from one to six hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location. The hike can be challenging as you’ll be trekking uphill through dense vegetation, but the guides will ensure that you take breaks along the way. Once you find the gorillas, you’ll spend an hour observing them in their natural habitat.
The feeling of being just a few feet away from these majestic creatures is indescribable. You’ll witness firsthand how they interact with one another, play, and groom each other. The gorillas are used to human presence, so they are not aggressive and will go about their business as you observe them. It’s an unforgettable and humbling experience.

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