Why You Should Track Mountain Gorillas In Uganda

Uganda Gorilla Tour!

Mountain Gorilla Trekking is among Uganda’s top adventure attractions. The experience features a hike to the forested mountains to meet some of Earth’s most rare primate species. Mountain gorillas live in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Sarambwe Reserve, and the Virunga Mountains. One wonders why they should track mountain gorillas in Uganda, and here is why you should consider it.

An Encounter with Rare Primates

Mountain gorillas are rare and critically endangered. They are endemic to the Virunga Mountains, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and the Sarambwe Reserve. Their population is estimated at 1100, with half living in Uganda.

Uganda gorilla trekking allows you to meet gorillas in their most preferred habitats. It is an unforgettable adventure that connects you to the apes and other wildlife species. Gorilla trekking is a rare privilege and the primary reason you should track mountain gorillas in Uganda.

Journeys in the Pristine Ecosystem

The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla Parks are among the best-preserved ecosystems in East Africa. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest was established in 1991 and covers a land area of 331 square kilometers. It comprises lowland and mountain forests and is only accessed on foot.

Bwindi is home to over 120 mammals, including gorillas, 310 butterfly species, 200 tree species, and over 350 bird species. Because of this diversity and being a gorilla sanctuary, the park was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Mgahinga Gorilla Park was also established in 1991 and covers a land area of 33.9 square kilometers. It is Uganda’s smallest protected area but diverse, with over 76 mammals, including mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and giant forest hogs. It is home to over 180 bird species, including Albertine Endemics. The golden cat, bushpig, forest elephants, bushbucks, and buffaloes are other notable safari animals that live in the park.

When you track mountain gorillas in Uganda, you take exclusive journeys through these natural habitats encountering other wildlife species.

The Adventurous Trekking Experience

Mountain gorilla trekking involves hiking through forested mountains and is physically demanding. It is, however, rewarding and contributes to one’s physical fitness. Hiking is essential for mental health stability and is more enjoyable in unspoiled jungles like the Uganda Gorilla Parks.

The trek is done in small groups of 8 to 12 people led by knowledgeable guides. It is intimate and informative, given the wildlife species in each gorilla trekking destination.

The encounter with mountain gorillas is the climax of the hike and has been described by many as a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Now that wellness travel is in demand, we recommend visiting Uganda to track mountain gorillas.

Witnessing Mountain Gorilla Family Dynamics

Mountain gorillas have over 95% DNA similar to humans. They live in families led by a dominant male called Silverback. A typical gorilla family can have up to 20 individuals including adult females, juveniles, and infants.

Their lifestyle is human-like, given our DNA similarity. Observing mountain gorilla interactions and family dynamics is a moving experience. It makes us reflect on our values and gender responsibilities, given the ever-changing human lifestyles.

You can only experience such authentic primate moments when you track mountain gorillas in Uganda.

Contributing to Mountain Gorilla Conservation

You directly contribute to gorilla conservation when you track mountain gorillas in Uganda. Part of the revenue collected from gorilla permits is invested in research and habitat protection.

Mountain gorillas face the challenge of habitat loss due to an increase in human population that exerts pressure on the primates’ ecosystem. This is done to create land for settlement and investment but, unfortunately, denies the apes the only place they can live.

Gorilla conservation involves expanding the park area and creating buffer zones between the forest and communities. This is only achieved through collecting enough revenue to compensate communities where possible.

Gorilla trekking also enables you to understand the need for wildlife conservation. It is a personal experience between the ranger guides, the wildlife, and you, the guests. Ranger guides share their personal experiences, observations, and threats. At the end of the experience, you will have learned and developed an appreciation for wildlife.

Support Local Community

Uganda gorilla trekking contributes to the local communities, including the most marginalized groups. The Batwa initially depended on the forests for survival but were evicted to pave the way for gorilla conservation. They now live on the outskirts of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla Park.

Part of the revenue collected from gorilla permits is shared with the local communities, including the Batwa, to empower them. They also engage in tourism activities, curating tourism products in line with cultural experiences where they directly earn.

By visiting Uganda you help to protect gorillas and directly support the communities.

Mountain Gorillas through lenses

Uganda offers the best opportunity for mountain gorilla photography. Wildlife photography has increased as many wildlife enthusiasts seek to capture unforgettable memories of rare species. It is, however, important to have the right camera equipment and visit during the right season to avoid any disturbances.

The gorilla habituation experiences allow more time in the presence of the gorillas and are recommended for photography. Commercial filming and documentaries require clearance from the Uganda Wildlife Authority and paying extra fees. This gives you exclusive access to a gorilla family of interest, allowing you the best time needed.

Enjoying Ugandan Hospitality

Ugandans are among the most hospitable people on the planet. The country is diverse, with a vibrant culture and rich heritage that is best experienced when visiting the different regions.

Besides mountain gorilla trekking, you can explore open savanna destinations for game drives and boat cruises. Our 10-day Uganda Discovery Journeys are extensive to include gorillas, culture, savanna wildlife, and more.

Uganda gorilla trekking is the ultimate primate adventure. It combines journeys to less traveled jungle paths, conservation, and sustainability of nature and native communities.

Travel Guide

Blog

Why You Should Track Mountain Gorillas In Uganda

Why You Should Track Mountain Gorillas In Uganda

An Encounter with Rare Primates

Journeys in the Pristine Ecosystem

The Adventurous Trekking Experience

Witnessing Mountain Gorilla Family Dynamics

Contributing to Mountain Gorilla Conservation

Support Local Community

Mountain Gorillas through lenses

Enjoying Ugandan Hospitality

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