Dr. Ludwig Siefert, a professor from Makerere University who directed animal research and conservation, founded Uganda Carnivore Project in the 1990s. In Queen Elizabeth National Park and other conservation areas across the country, he taught other scientists how to recognize different predators. These teams of researchers assist visitors in tracking the lions in a safe and timely manner. There’s a 99 percent probability of seeing the lions, learning about their distinctive mannerisms and getting some of the best images you’ll ever see in the wild. Other predators studied by the researchers include hyenas and lions.

Visitors track a pride or single lion while in the safari vehicle, to learn about the unique behaviors, feeding and habitat. Lions feed on only flesh (prey such as the antelopes and gazelles), have a lifespan of about 15 years and are social mammals.

A tracker is used to locate the pride. Researchers put a radio collar on the neck of one of the lionesses and then during the search use a GPS to monitor their whereabouts. Once you reach where they are, the system signals with a sound. A pride is comprised of the lionesses, alpha male and cubs. These move a lot in search of prey and water, but the radio call is always well fitted to ensure comfort and flexible movement. As the research progresses, the ranger explains about the lions and as well as highlighting their unique habitat and characteristics. Feel free to gather some samples if requested.

Cost of Lion Tracking.

Lion tracking permit costs $100 for non-foreign residents, $100 for foreign residents and 100,000 Uganda shillings for East African nationals, including Ugandans. The fee excludes park entrance charges and can be paid directly at Mweya Information Centre, or to the tour operator organizing the safari. 10% of the fees is channeled to Uganda Carnivore project; a research body monitoring and handling the lions. A portion of this same booking fee is always given to the local community to help in the different projects and the well-being. It is advisable to book for this adventure at least three months in advance for proper arrangement and planning.

Best time to do lion tracking.

Lion trekking is done in three sessions; the morning session that begins at sunrise; the afternoon session, and the night session, which offers lots of sights and sounds of the nocturnal birds, and animals. June to September and December are the most ideal months to do lion tracking, because of fewer or no rains, clear wilderness and ease of having a drive.

However, budget travelers can decide to travel in March to May or October to November despite the rains to enjoy discounts on accommodation and other services. The good thing is that the tracking sessions last for about 2-3 hours, with great chance of encountering other mammals such as leopards, hyenas and cape buffaloes among others.

What to carry?

In the pool of things to carry for your safari, include these; Covid-19 negative test form, a professional camera for photography, binoculars to watch the lions for far, warm clothes, a hat to guard against the hit, yellow fever vaccine certificate and many more.

Lion tracking is much engaging, fun and more adventurous than game drive. It is done only at Queen Elizabeth National Park in the western part of Uganda. The other destinations to see lions include Kidepo Valley national park in the north-eastern part, Murchison Falls National Park in the northwestern region and Semuliki national park among others.

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Wildlife/primates in Kyambura Gorge.

The spectacular Kyambura Gorge is incredibly a significant natural wonder with diverse species of primates. The primate species worth keeping an eye while on Uganda safari in Kyambura Gorge include the red colobus monkeys, chimpanzees, olive baboons, red tailed monkeys, vervet monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys.

Birds in Kyambura Gorge.

Kyambura Gorge supports diversity of bird species making it a special birding destination of its own. The important bird species to expect to identify while on bird watching safari in Kyambura Gorge include African skimmer, African finfoot, black rumped buttonquail, African broadbill, pink backed pelican, papyrus gonoleks, blue headed bee-eater, marital eagle, flamingoes, bar tailed godwit, white winged warblers and falcons. Other birds that are sheltered within the Kyambura Gorge white tailed lark, verreaux’s eagle owl, Chapin’s flycatchers, black bee-eaters, white tailed larks.

ACTIVITIES IN KYAMBURA GORGE.

Chimpanzee trekking adventures.

Chimpanzee tracking is a major reason why most tourists visit Kyambura Gorge. This primate activity is offered best done in the morning and afternoon with possible sightings of about 80%. Chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura takes about 2 to 3 hours and includes one hour of face to face encounter. While tracking chimpanzees, other primates can also be spotted including blue colobus monkeys, red tailed monkeys, olive baboons plus diverse bird species, flora etc.

Birding

Kyambura Gorge is one of the best birding spots offering incredible bird sightings of avian species especially forest birds. The different birds to expect to identify at Kyambura Gorge include the African finfoot, martial eagle, black bee-eaters, blue headed bee-eaters, white winged warblers, papyrus canary, flamingos, black rumped buttonquail, bar tailed godwit to mention but a few.

Nature walks

Kyambura Gorge also offers the best on-foot-walk experiences to nature lovers on Uganda safari. This is best done with lead of an experienced and well-trained guides with opportunity for you to enjoy the natural beauty of the gorge, flora and faunal species that range within the gorge. It is a perfect opportunity to get close to nature while you uncover the hidden treasures of Kyambura Gorge.

Best time to visit

The dry season is the best time to visit Kyambura Gorge if you are interested in chimpanzee tracking. The dry season in Kyambura Gorge is experienced in two phases; starting from December, January to February and June, July, August to September.

Accommodation

Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Pumba safari cottages, Baboon Safari resort, Katara Lodge Twin Lakes Lodge and Elephant Hab lodge are some of the comfortable places worth spending a night while on a safari to Kyambura safari. The lodges boast of uninterrupted views of the lush forest canopy, Rwenzori Mountain ranges and the scenic savanna.

Access to Kyambura Gorge.

If you are traveling from Entebbe or Kampala to Kyambura Gorge, you drive for 420kms / 6 to 7 hours’ drive for visitors taking the Masaka – Mbarara route. About 6 hours’ drive / 410 km if you drive from Kampala through Fort Portal.

By air, daily flights – scheduled or chartered flights set off from Entebbe Airport and Kajjansi Airfield near Kampala and land at Mweya Airstrip and Kasese Airstrip. Flights take about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

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Location.

Kisoro town is about 76kms by road from Kabale District, 500kms Southwest of Kampala Capital City and it is situated East of Rumangabo and Virunga Massifs in D.R. Congo. It sits at altitudinal range of 1929m and overviews the Mufumbiro Mountains.

ATTRACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES IN KISORO.

Kisoro is strategically located in area with distinct attractions and plenty of activities for tourists to explore and experience. They include;

Gorilla trekking.

Kisoro town lies in Southwestern where two gorilla safari parks in Uganda are all situated that is Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Due to its strategic location, tourists have opportunity to engage in gorilla trekking a lifetime experience.

Gorilla trekking is one of Africa’s most sought after wildlife experience offering a chance to visitors to enjoy a close encounter with the rare mountain gorillas while in their natural habitat. Gorilla permits in Uganda (Bwindi & Mgahinga NP) per person cost USD700 for foreign non-residents, USD600 for foreign residents and UGX 250,000 for East African citizens.

Leisure at Lake Mutanda.

Lake Mutanda is one of the beautiful lakes in South-western Uganda and also one of the major attractions in Kisoro district. Lake Mutanda is about 20kms North of Kisoro town. While at Lake Mutanda, visitors can take a local dugout canoe rode to one of the stunning islands as they also enjoy splendid views of the Virunga Volcanoes.

Volcano climbing.

Mountain climbing is a thrilling adventure all visitors shouldn’t miss while in Kisoro. The 3 of the 8 Virunga volcanoes are located adjacent to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park just near Kisoro town. These include Mt. Gahinga – 3,475m, Mt. Sabyinyo – 3,669m and Mt. Muhabura – 4,127m.

Golden monkey tracking.

Golden monkey tracking is one of the memorable wildlife experiences tourists can enjoy while on tour in Kisoro, Southwestern Uganda. Golden monkeys in Uganda live in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park part of the Virunga Region. Golden monkeys are among the 20 amazing species of primates Uganda boasts of with about 2000-4000 of them left and thriving within the Virunga region.

Golden monkey permits in Uganda per visitor costs USD 60 for foreign non-residents & foreign residents; UGX 40,000 for East Africa citizens. There is also golden monkey habituation experience with permits costing USD 100 for foreign non-residents & foreign residents while East Africa citizens pay UGX 100,000.

Cultural tours.

Batwa trail offers amazing cultural interaction with the Batwa and while in Kisoro town, it should be a must do. The Batwa pygmies lived in the forest as hunters and gatherers before they were evicted from the National Park. On cultural tour, you will be led by Batwa guide or alternatively, you can visit Bakiga community.

ACCOMMODATION IN AND AROUND KISORO TOWN.

Some of the best places to spend a night in and around Kisoro town include Kisoro Tourist Hotel, Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge, Travellers Rest Hotel, Ikoro Hotel, Bavah Guesthouse, Virunga Campsite and Backpackers.

Getting to Kisoro.

Kisoro town is accessible by road or by air. By road and from Kampala to Kisoro, it is about 500kms which is approximately 8-9 hours’ drive. From Kigali to Kisoro, it is 135 km, about 4 hours’ drive. By air, one can take a flight from Entebbe Airport to Kisoro airstrip and you can then connect from the airstrip to Bwindi National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park by road.

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Location of Katuna Border.

The popular border point of Katuna is situated within Katuna Town, Kabale District in south western Uganda. In addition to being known as the main entry and exit point for Rwanda’s imports and exports, it is the last town in Uganda as you proceed to the neighboring Rwanda. It is about 17 miles by road south of Kabale Town.

History of Katuna Border.

Katuna Border is currently an important tourist site and border crossing point between Uganda and Rwanda but also holds a significant history worth discovering during your safari. During the pre-colonial times (around 1600AD), the first Bakiga (who were named after their ancestor “Kashyiga) arrived from neighboring Rwanda to settle at Rwanyena and Kigarama Hills.

These people chose to enter Uganda via this place for fear of crossing the huge water body that was later named “Lake Bunyonyi” but instead found an easier and shorter route through the hills with huge trees for occasional stopovers to rest, play and pray.

FASCINATING THINGS TO SEE NEAR KATUNA BORDER.

Katuna Border and the surrounding areas boast of outstanding attractions worth discovering during your tours to south-western Uganda and these include;

Lake Bunyonyi.

Lake Bunyonyi, the second deepest lake in Africa is only about 12 miles north-west of Katuna Border/Town. This stunning lake can be reached from Katuna Border / town by following the well-maintained murram road that traverses through Rubaya and Kakoma.

Stunning mountains and hills.

The stunning mountains and hills surrounding Katuna Town are perfect for hill / mountain climbing adventures. Far from the town is Mount. Muhabura, the dormant Volcano close to Lake Bunyonyi and also wonderful for climbing.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

The stunning Mgahinga Gorilla National Park can also be reached from Katuna Border, and offers opportunities of gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, mountain climbing, Batwa cultural trail, Birding tours and so much more.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

When it comes to tourism, Katuna Border is mainly used by visitors crossing between Uganda and Rwanda to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, especially the northern sector of Buhoma as well as the Eastern sector of Ruhija. With the visit to this 321-square kilometer Park, travelers can trek mountain gorillas, undertake Batwa Cultural Tours, mountain biking, bird watching (Ruhija is the best sector for birding), the Gorilla Habituation Experience and guided forest walks.

Katuna Market.

This newly built Market (since 2015) is a stone throw from Katuna Border providing a wide range of goods including fresh food stuff, Tropical fruits, souvenirs and handcrafts and many others.

Requirements for crossing Katuna Border.

For tourists planning to use Katuna Border to explore Uganda and Rwanda, an East African Tourist Visa (at $100 and allowing visitors to explore the two countries with multiple entry for 90 days) as well as National Identity Cards. Your contact details, address and reason for visiting will be requested by the Immigration Officer at the Border point after which be given a stamp permitting you to continue.

Where to stay near Katuna Border?

Katuna Border offers a number of exquisite places for relaxation, meals as well as overnight stays and these include Lake Bunyonyi View Hotel, Bushara Island Camp, Hawks Eye Lodge Bunyonyi, Itambire Island seeds of Hope, White Horse Inn, Kansiime Backpackers, Bunyonyi Overland Resort, Paradise Eco-Hub,  Arcadia Cottages and many others.

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Lying on altitude of 1400m, Kalinzu Forest is endowed with a huge profusion of wildlife that makes it an exceptional nature reserve of its own. It is an amazing natural forest with over 97moth species, 414 tree species, 6 species of primates, 262 species of butterflies, 380 bird species and a lot more.

ATTRACTIONS IN KALINZU FOREST.

Primates.

About 6 species of primates are all sheltered within the lush Kalinzu Forest Reserve making it an important primate tracking destination. The special primate species to look for while on Uganda safari in Kalinzu Forest include over 300 chimpanzees, the bush babies, blue monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, pottos, Galagos, red tailed monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys. Other animal species that survive within the forest include wild pigs, leopards, buffaloes and elephants etc.

Birds.

If there are special birding sites worth visiting in Uganda then it is Kalinzu Forest, a home to about 280 species of birds. While on birding tour in Kalinzu Forest, the birds of interest include sunbird, great blue turacos, cuckoos, black and white casqued hornbills etc.

TOP ACTIVITIES IN KALINZU FOREST.

Chimpanzee trekking.

Chimpanzee trekking is incredibly the major reason why most tourists visit Kalinzu Forest Reserve. This is a lovely primate safari experience that tourists can enjoy and offers a great chance to interact with chimpanzees, sight a range of other primates, birds etc. About 4 trails exist, each offering opportunity to nature lovers to indulge themselves into the jungles of Kalinzu to view more than chimpanzees.

The trails include the River Trail, Waterfall Trail, Valley Trails, & Palm Trail. Treks to see chimpanzees in Kalinzu Forest starts with briefing at the forest’s offices and the overall adventure takes 2-4 hours, either during morning or afternoon session. Whether you embark on an early morning chimpanzee trek or afternoon, you have a chance to enjoy 1 hour face to face with chimpanzees. Kalinzu Forest chimpanzee permits cost visitors USD50 and you can plan for your chimpanzee tracking safari with our reservation team.

Other than carrying a valid chimpanzee permit, other important items worth having for your chimpanzee tracking tour in Kalinzu Forest include long sleeved shirt, face mask, camera with no flashlight, sunscreen, first aid kit, bottled water, snacks, walking/hiking shoes or boots.

Guided nature walks.

Kalinzu Forest is known for its exceptional nature walking experiences. A nature walk in the lush Kalinzu Forest lets you enjoy, get close to nature, explore the different species and so much more. The forest offers the most scenic nature walks via ridges, valleys with opportunity to enjoy excellent view of the Lake George, Kazinga Channel and Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon.

There are 4 main nature walking trails worth exploring in Kalinzu Forest and they include the River Trail which is 2 and half kms taking visitors about 1 hour and gets you a chance to see chimpanzees plus several other primates. The waterfall trail which takes 4-6 hours’ walk and introduces visitors to the beautiful Kilyantama fall, the Palm trail 2 hours walk and lets you explore the unique tree species.

Birding experiences.

Kalinzu Forest also offers amazing bird sights especially for enthusiastic birders in need to see forest birds. The lush forest reserve boasts of diverse bird species including the black and white casqued hornbills, sunbirds, cuckoos to mention but a few.

Camping

Camping is another interesting experience Kalinzu Forest has to offer to nature loving visitors on Uganda safaris. It is a perfect opportunity if you want to get a close interaction with nature. Camping at Kalinzu is perfectly done just at its center area.

When to visit?

Visiting Kalinzu Forest for a holiday is possible any time of the year though the dry season is incredibly the best time due to its ideal weather conditions. The dry season is when most forest trails remain drier due to low or no rains and it starts from June to September, December till February. These are the best months of the year to visit Kalinzu Forest for chimpanzee tracking or nature walk.

Where to stay?

The available places for visitor overnight stay while at Kalinzu Forest exist around Queen Elizabeth National Park. Kalinzu Itself offers camping as alternative way for visitor overnight stay and this is done at Nkombe where its offices are found. But the comfortable places to book around Queen Elizabeth National Park near Kalinzu Forest include Mweya Safari Lodge, Katara Lodge, Jacana Lodge, Engiri Game Lodge & Campsite, Queen Elizabeth PVT Lodge, Enganzi Lodge, Pumba Safari Cottages and Marafiki Safari Lodge,

Getting there.

Reaching Kalinzu Forest is possible by road. Travelers can begin driving from Kampala to Western Uganda via Mbarara city, 5 to 6 hours’ drive and you can use a bus or a rental car.

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The town headquarters cover about 1,827 sq.km of land with a variety of amazing infrastructure, flora and fauna and very warm people. The landscape of this area features rolling hills, steep valleys at an altitude of 1,200m and lush vegetation; thus winning the praise as the “Switzerland of Africa”.

Kabale town is approximately 143km from the largest city in the western region of Uganda; Mbarara city and about 410kms southwest of Kampala capital, oldest city in Uganda. On-road, the drive from Kampala lasts for roughly 9-11 hours via Masaka and Mbarara cities, but with captivating views of rolling hills and the equator.

In 1980, Kabale district was renamed from Kigezi district. In 1911, Yowana Kitagana, the first catholic missionary constructed mission place in the area and then in 1912 the first protectorate mission built the very first church. The name Kabale was picked from a local Rukiga dialect word Kabale translated as “small stone”.

It is a vibrant town, open for visitors from all over the world, for business, adventure or relaxation alike. There are lots more to see and do around this town and the district at large. Think of walking or having a ride around town, as you visit some of the landmarks, such as Kabale University; a government – owned University with some of the best academic facilities, science and technology and Kabale golf course.

Attractions and activities in Kabale district.

For your honeymoon, weekend escape, end of year party, summer or winter holiday; head to Kabale district for several activities, fun and adventure.

Lake Bunyonyi.

“A place of little birds” Lake Bunyonyi is a beautiful place, six-mile-long bilharzia free lake, surrounded by over 29 unique Islands with historical significance. You can visit and engage in birding watching, community tours, canoe rides, picnics, horse rides, guided nature walks and so much more.

Kisiizi waterfalls.

Located at Kyabamba River, in the village of Kisiizi amidst Kigezi highlands, this is a historical place offering unmatched scenery and relaxation spot. The Bakiga people occupy the community in it.

Kalinzu forest reserve.

Visit the nearby Kalinzu forest and explore a variety of primates in its lush vegetation. These apes include; the chimpanzees, olive baboons, black and white colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, red-tailed monkeys and the blue monkeys.

Punishment Island.

This historical island is located by the shores of Lake Bunyonyi. It is called the Punishment Island because unmarried pregnant girls or those caught engaging in adultery or any form of sexual acts were punished and banished there. The punishment has stopped but the place is still preserved to tell the story.

Gorilla and golden monkey trekking experiences.

This is a prime safari activity in Uganda and Kabale district. Gorillas are found in Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks, located at the foothills of the vast Virunga chain of Mountains. The two parks are open for visitors all year round, with the best months being June to September and December to March.

Batwa pygmies’ cultural adventure.

Set feet to the Batwa community and interact with some of the shortest people on earth whose identity is attached to wondering and gathering in one of the oldest and most diverse misty tropical forests in the continent of Africa.

Accommodation facilities in Kabale town.

No need of getting stuck once in Kabale town because you can pick from any of the budgets, luxury or midrange hotels, Inns or safari lodges available. Some of the notable ones include; Paradise Eco-Hub, Crater Bay cottages, supreme Adventure Park Bunyonyi, Jowillis hotel, Bunyonyi Eco-resort, Bunyonyi Safaris Resort, Birdnest Resort and Arcadia cottages.

Make Kabale town your next safari stop and see your adventure dreams come to life.

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Rwanda is one of the three countries where mountain gorillas live in Africa and the world at large. Mountain gorillas are only found in the Virunga massif which is shared among the three countries – Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In Rwanda, gorillas can be found in Volcanoes national park. It is important to note that gorilla habituation started from this park, way back in early 1970s by Dian Fossey who was a primatologist and researcher stationed within the Virunga massif.

Volcanoes national park is located far northwestern part of Rwanda and covers a small area of only 160 square kilometers. Its rich diversity includes over 200 colorful bird species, different mammals as well as primates like golden monkeys, mountain gorillas and monkeys. This park encompasses 5 of the 8 Virunga Volcanoes including Karisimbi, Bisoke, Gahinga, Sabyinyo and Muhabura. Different activities can be done in this park such as gorilla trekking, nature walks, hiking, golden monkey trekking, bird watching, and many more.

Volcanoes National Park has 11 habituated gorilla families that are open to tourists on their gorilla safari to Africa and specifically Rwanda. It is therefore important to note that Rwanda only offers gorilla trekking and not gorilla habituation experience. Therefore, as you plan to take a gorilla habituation safari in Africa, you need to know that gorilla habituation only takes in Bwindi impenetrable national Park, Uganda in Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors with each sector having only one gorilla family to habituate on daily basis. Only 4 visitors allowed to habituate each gorilla family in question.

Gorilla habituation adventure offers a fascinating experience compared to gorilla trekking; during gorilla habituation, visitors are allowed to spend maximum of up to 4 hours in the presence of mountain gorillas while enjoying their movement, behaviors, and feeding style. Following them for four hours is a fulfilling and memorable experience that will create a smile on your face.

The advantage of gorilla habituation in Uganda is that it happens in Bwindi forest which is not so far from Rwanda and can be accessed easily by road, only 4 – 5 hours’ drive from Kigali city and 2 to 3 hours’ drive from Volcanoes National Park. Therefore you can fly to Rwanda from your home country and then drive for a short distance to Bwindi national park in either Rushaga or Nkuringo to enjoy your gorilla habituation experience the next day.

You have a chance of visiting one of the two semi-habituated gorilla families, either Bikingi gorilla family or Kutu gorilla family. All you need is a valid gorilla habituation permit that currently costs USD 1500 per person per trek. This should be bought at least 5 to 6 months earlier because they are limited as only 8 visitors per day are allowed to visit the two gorilla families.

REQUIREMENTS FOR GORILLA HABITUATION EXPERIENCE.

A valid gorilla habituation permit is a must and visitors ought to have 15 years of age or above, free from contagious diseases like flu, cough, common cold, Ebola, etc. keep a snack and drinking water to keep you energetic, insect repellants, camera and enough batteries for photography, long-sleeved shirt/blouse, a pair of garden gloves, hat or cap, sunglasses among others.

For the best gorilla habituation experience in Africa, visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park a popular UNESCO heritage site and most visited in Uganda.

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Travellers’ safety is the number one consideration from the word go with the three National Parks (Bwindi Impenetrable, Volcanoes and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks) generally safe and secure with tight security provided by armed Rangers, Tourism Police and military to safeguard visitors from any possible attacks from hostile animals and humans. Remember that this gorilla national park also shelter other animals especially leopards, forest elephants, unhabituated chimpanzees, cunning monkeys and forest buffaloes which could attack visitors in the jungles hence there is need to offer protection.

When it comes to interaction with the Giant Apes in their natural habitats, it is also safe compared to other wildlife encounters. It is safer to stand 7 meters from a silverback gorilla without fear of attacks than it is with a lion or even a Hippo. Before gorilla treks (starting the search for mountain gorillas) are undertaken, participating trekkers are fist briefed on the different guidelines to be observed (at all times) when trekking and being in the presence of these Great Apes. Besides that, trekkers are accompanied by an armed escort to offer protection against wild and stray animals, but this doesn’t mean that he/she automatically shoots stray animals on encounter because they are equally important but instead shoots in the air to scare them away. Additionally, the group guide constantly reminds trekkers of the issued guidelines.

Talking of briefing, it is conducted at the Park Headquarters or Ranger Post and usually lasts 30-45 minutes with information on the recommended manner to conduct yourself while in the natural environment of these Creatures. Don’t forget that mountain gorillas are still wild animals that would become aggressive or charge when provoked. Ranger guides particularly emphasize maintaining a minimum distance of 7 meters when observing and photographing mountain gorillas, avoiding direct eye contact because these Great Apes misunderstand is as being provocative, not touching these creatures, keeping voices low when searching for the Giant Apes or being in their presence, avoiding the use of flash cameras while photographing and when these guidelines are properly followed, there will not be any cases of gorilla attacks.

Least you forget, gorilla treks are “ONLY” conducted on fully habituated gorilla families/groups. The process of habituation usually takes 2-3 years. However, exceptions are made for the Gorilla Habituation Experience where visitors are introduced to semi-habituated gorilla groups to learn more about their outstanding behavior. Besides, only 8 visitors are allowed to trek and spend time with each habituated gorilla group each day.

As this activity goes on, the expert ranger guides keep watch of any possible gorilla provocations and also, updates are dispatched on the prevailing security circumstances. As earlier mentioned, Park Rangers work hand in hand with the Tourism Police, military and other security Organs to ensure 24/7 security of visitors and animals. So far, Uganda and Rwanda have been declared very safe for gorilla treks while the Democratic Republic of Congo is slowly recovering from insecurities that saw about 6 rangers ambushed and murdered by a militia group in January 2021

Another reason why gorilla trekking is safe is because of the herbivore diet of Giant Apes. They consume leaves, stems, roots and Bamboo shoots, not humans or any other animal. Instead of being scared of gorillas, you should instead be scared of lions that are carnivorous.

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The entire world is called to action, as the late Dian Fossey, a prominent primatologist did while in Rwanda’s volcanoes national park 3 decades ago, for the benefit of future generations. It’s all possible to save gorillas and here’s how we can collectively achieve it:-

Undertaking a gorilla trekking tour.

One gorilla trekking permit purchased is equivalent to saving over a thousand gorillas. Money raised from gorilla trekking activities is used to fund gorilla conservation efforts, compensate ranger guides, and aid local communities living outside the park through setting up livelihood projects, resulting in a joint effort to save the primates.

Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda cost 700 USD, 1500 USD in Rwanda and 400 USD in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The activity is done all year round, starting in the morning hours. A particular Gorilla family can only be visited by a group of eight persons per day, all of whom must be at least 15 years and older.

Complying with the trekking rules.

Following the parks’ and apes’ trekking norms and guidelines is one definite method to save them, as well as yourself. After extensive investigation and analysis of gorilla behavior, rules were established to guide all visitors while in the jungle.

Some of the regulations include; not littering the park since it may harm the residents, keeping your voice low, staying at least 7 meters away from the family to minimize possible transmission of illnesses and don’t go trekking if you’re unwell. Follow the ranger’s directions. No feeding the apes, no staring them in the eyes since it irritates them, no using spotlights when taking shots and spending no more than an hour with the gorillas photographing and understanding their distinctive routines.

Donating towards gorilla conservation.

Even a small donation of $1 or more can make a significant difference in the survival and conservation of gorillas in their natural habitat. Some well-wishers send material donations or money to the appropriate authorities for conservation of the apes on yearly basis. The efforts are focused on healing sick apes, caring for orphans, safeguarding the entire jungle against poachers and other possible dangers.

Visiting local communities outside the park.

You might be wondering how visiting villages near the park could help gorillas. People living outside the park used to be fully reliant on the forest for food, shelter and water. They lived as gatherers and wonderers until governments and conservationists drove them out in early ‘90s, thereby turning them into gorilla foes instead. Majority of these people resorted to poaching and at worst they don’t spare the gorillas who cross through on their way to their farmlands.

Therefore, by visiting them, buying their souvenirs and craft materials helps them earn some money hence improving their livelihoods and foster a sense of ownership and value for the gorillas.

Sensitization.

Make gorillas renowned, as well as their importance and location. Those who imperil apes will have nowhere to go and no incentive to act cruelly against man’s closest relative once they are known to the world. Thanks to the late primatologist Dian Fossey’s work and fame, she dedicated her life to saving and protecting gorillas against all odds which ultimately ended her life.

Therefore, everyone has a responsibility to save our cousins, the gorillas. Their population is steadily rising, but more ought to be made to ensure their continued safety. Poaching, human encroachment and violation of park rules and regulations must all be stopped.

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Like any other adventure out there, mountain gorilla trekking is not and never will be about perfection, yet that should never leave travellers with space for making excuses when things go astray. Generally as humans, we become prisoners of our own expectations that are not met and there are other numerous things that will come into play to ruin the experiences that would have been worth remembering for a lifetime.

Therefore we take you through some of the simple ways on how to prepare emotionally and physically for your unforgettable gorilla trek. This preparation process mainly includes planning for travellers that have already decided on the country and National Park to enjoy the adventure as well as Places to sleep before and after the actual gorilla trek.

Rid yourself of any expectations.

It is a common phenomenal for travellers to have high expectations (resulting from reviews and political headlines) each time they arrive a foreign country. While you might need to listen to other people’s stories, not everything you read or come across is true or even helpful in making the final decision concerning destinations to visit and what service providers to contract.

After learning all these, you can move your mind to other significant aspects, get rid of high expectations to get the best out of the trip and finally not miss out on the most memorable experiences.

Put your attention and energy on things within your capability.

Mountain gorilla trekking is generally a scheduled adventure and therefore any slight changes in your entire travel plan/itinerary is likely to affect how the whole gorilla safari comes to light. Small incidences such as getting up late, vehicle breakdowns, stomach upsets, fever or anything unusual might affect your overall gorilla safari experience. Given these facts, travellers don’t need to be concerned about these small things going out of control by retiring to bed early to be able to wake up early, avoid eating new foods and always carry medication in addition to sticking to fresh fruits or snacks until the gorilla trekking adventure is done.

Undertake basic exercises.

It is undeniable that mountain gorilla trekking is physically demanding and requires some level of fitness but it is also true that even the elderly and disabled persons can enjoy the adventure. Exercises such as simple walks, hill/mountain hikes and jogging are important for travellers interested in undertaking these treks. If you have plans of enjoying this adventure, it is advisable to prepare your body and mind at least 7 days in advance. Half an hour of jogging each day keeps you active without being exhausted.

The National Parks sheltering mountain gorillas are marked by varying terrains and therefore travellers to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park will agree that it’s more mountainous and demanding than the other three Gorilla Parks in the Virunga Conservation Area-Mgahinga Gorilla, Volcanoes and Virunga National Parks. It is for this reason that adequate preparation is essential prior to undertaking gorilla safaris.

Early preparations are fundamental.

Early preparations are one of the easiest ways to prepare for your memorable gorilla trek because in doing so, the best accommodation facilities, logistics, gorilla permits for the most favorable trekking dates and transport means can be booked on-time.

For trekkers of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, keep in mind that there are four trekking regions/sectors with different gorilla groups as well as places of lodging, and the most unforgettable gorilla safari will be booked if done on time.

Pack the right safari items and on time.

A number of things have to be considered when booking gorilla safaris and these include warm sweater, long-sleeved shirt/blouse in breathable and lightweight material, sturdy hiking boots, gardening gloves, insect repellant, comfortable and breathable long pants, rain jacket or poncho, healthy energy-giving snacks preferably dried fruits, first aid kit to offer assistance in case of scratches and falls, wide brimmed hat, sunscreen, toiletries, sunglasses, re-usable water bottle, cotton socks, to mention but a few.

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