How difficult is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?
If one of your adventure dreams is gorilla trekking, then Uganda is the place to go. Hiking through the tropical rainforests of Bwindi impenetrable national park and Mgahinga Gorilla Park requires at least a modicum level of fitness.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda takes you up close to the endangered mountain gorillas where you stay with them for an hour but such a moment require the trekker to be physically fit and healthy to get to the location. The experience involves walking or climbing to an altitude of up to 3,000 metres or more where these giant apes commonly roam.
Difficulty of gorilla trekking
The terrain for gorilla destinations in Uganda- Bwindi (which is the prime gorilla park) and Mgahinga is mountainous. You are advised to prepare your fitness early before embarking on the adventure. You need to have stamina to go through the dense vegetation and sometimes trails are slippery especially on rainy days. Because of this, trekkers are given walking sticks at the trekking starting points of the park to support them when climbing.
Bwindi impenetrable forest national park has about 50 gorilla families with over 20 habituated groups living in different locations of the park while Mgahinga has only one habituated gorilla family. The gorillas stay at varying topography at this gives chance to visitors to choose where to trek. If you are a group with people who are not fit enough to trek on difficult terrain, arrange with tour tour operator for a location that is not very hilly for easier treks. Alternatively, you can book for a sedan chair to be carried by porters and this comes with an extra cost. This aid is very helpful for categories of people who can’t trek on their own like the old aged people.
How long does gorilla trekking last?
How long to spend on the trek can’t be stated as some trekkers can spot the giant apes within 40 minutes while others can take up to 6 hours. The duration of the trek depends on the location of the gorillas.
Best time for gorilla trekking
If you want a less strenuous hike, you are advised to go trekking during the dry season; from June to September and December to February when the trails are passable. However, due to the vegetation around the area, rain can be expected any day.
The wet season; from March-May and October-November comes with heavy rain that gets the area muddy. Climbing is more difficult and requires more energy and stamina. But this that you refer to as difficult is an enjoyable experience for others.
Whether you travel in the dry season or wet season, you are advised to pack the following wear gear for the tour;
- Strong hiking boots
- Light rain jacket
- Gardening gloves
- A hat
- Long sleeved shirt/blouse
- Trousers
- Light sweater
- Scarf
- Water proof backpack
There is nothing more thrilling than watching mountain gorillas up close scrambling through the dense vegetation, searching for food for the day and taking care of their young ones. The long treks are worth going through to have that great hour with the gorillas. Come and witness the gorilla destinations by booking a safari through info@mumwesafarisuganda.com or call our travel experts on +256-700135510/ +256-414699459.
