Do you want to meet a gorilla in the wild? Planning a gorilla tour is not as hard as many people think. I will show you a step-by-step guide on how you can meet African gorillas.
Mountain gorillas are only found in three countries and nowhere else in the world. These countries are Uganda (in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park), Rwanda (in Volcanoes National Park), and Congo (in Virunga National Park).
So, as you plan to meet a gorilla, there are a few things you must think about. These include your travel budget, destination, tour operator, preparation, and more.
If you are planning to go gorilla trekking while pregnant, tell your tour operator early.
I will now share the most important things you should consider. If you don’t know what gorilla trekking is, you can read the definition here.
Travel Budget
Gorilla trekking safaris are expensive. A gorilla permit alone costs $400 in Congo, $800 in Uganda, and $1,500 in Rwanda.
It becomes more expensive if you choose a luxury gorilla trekking tour and a bit cheaper if you choose a budget tour.
So when you receive a quote from an operator, don’t be surprised if the price is high. Don’t bargain too much either. Africa is generally an expensive destination.
When planning your budget, consider your flight cost and the cost of the tour package. A gorilla tour can cost as little as $1,200 or as much as $10,000. The price depends on the number of days, how many times you go trekking, whether you want a low-end or high-end experience, and other factors.
Start by asking a safari company for a quote. This will help you plan better. Feel free to contact these recommended companies, or search online for more options.
Destination
There are three mountain gorilla trekking destinations. You have to choose where to go.
Uganda is currently the best place to see gorillas in Africa, followed by Rwanda, then Congo.
Uganda has over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Don’t be misled by Rwanda’s claim of having more gorillas. That is not true. Uganda has more gorillas than Rwanda, and that is a fact.
Most of these gorillas live in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Uganda is a great choice. You can book gorilla trekking safaris that start from Entebbe or tours that begin from Kigali.
If you want a luxury experience, you can try Rwanda.
Booking Your Safari
You should book your safari with a trusted tour operator. You can check out these gorilla trekking companies or search online.
Try to book your trip early, especially if you want to trek gorillas in Uganda. Gorilla permits get booked quickly, and the permit is what confirms your trek.
If permits are sold out, you may have to change your dates or postpone your trip. Booking early helps you stick to your original plan without problems.
Preparation
You can start preparing for your trip one month in advance. Your tour company will advise you on what clothes to pack.
You can also apply for your visa online. If you booked Bwindi gorilla trekking from Kigali, then you need to apply for an East African Tourist Visa.
Visa approval takes about 3 days to 1 week.
You will also need to get required vaccines, like yellow fever. Once all your preparations are done, you can wait for your travel day.
The Actual Gorilla Encounter
When you arrive, your tour company will pick you up and begin your safari.
Gorilla trekking usually takes between 2 and 6 hours, depending on how long it takes to find the gorillas.
You will be allowed to spend one full hour with the gorillas. You can take as many photos as you want during this time.
When your time is up, you will return to the starting point, receive your gorilla trekking certificate, and then return to your lodge or leave Bwindi.
Gorilla trekking is a very special experience, and you will surely enjoy it.
Book your trip from here.
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