Where to go gorilla trekking in Africa?
While it has been one of the most popular wild experiences in Africa, an extremely rare opportunity is offered to meet these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. There are only a few places in the world where this adventure can be undertaken, but Africa stands out as the premier destination for gorilla trekking.
The most popular countries to go gorilla trekking include Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Each comes with different experiences, landscapes, and levels of accessibility. Here’s a guide to help choose where to go gorilla trekking in Africa.
1. Uganda: The Pearl of Africa
Key Trekking Spots:
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Most travelers’ number one destination is Uganda, primarily because it is far cheaper with numerous trekking options and relatively developed tourism infrastructure. The most popular destination for trekking in Uganda is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a home to almost half of the remaining mountain gorillas in the world.
The dramatic background of trekking in this park is developed by its thick misty forest, while it is also famous for its difficult terrain that provides you with an exciting and rewarding experience.
Other varied trekking is presented by Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which is located on the border of Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC. While less populated with gorillas, it is less crowded and allows for quieter, more intimate trekking. It is also part of the Virunga Mountains and offers stunning scenery of the surrounding volcanic landscapes.
Why Choose Uganda?
Permits are relatively cheap in Uganda compared to Rwanda, making it an excellent budget option. Uganda is one of the best countries in which to go trekking due to the diverse experiences available within various different habitats, ranging from the dense forests of Bwindi to volcanic slopes of Mgahinga.
Extra Wildlife Viewing: Most of Uganda’s national parks, including Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls, enable you to combine gorilla trekking with other wildlife experiences such as game drives and boat safaris.
2. Rwanda: Land of a Thousand Hills
Key Trekking Spot:
Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda offers a more luxurious gorilla trekking experience, and Volcanoes National Park is the centerpiece. It lies in the Virunga Mountain range and is famously associated with the work of Dian Fossey, the famous primatologist who dedicated her life to studying and protecting mountain gorillas. The beautiful, rolling landscapes and well-maintained trails of this park make it appealing for those in search of a more comfortable trekking experience.
Rwanda has positioned itself as a luxury gorilla trekking destination, complete with high-end lodges to match high-end tour packages. Efficient infrastructure, excellent road networks, and proximity to Kigali International Airport make Rwanda one of the most accessible gorilla trekking destinations in Africa.
Why Go to Rwanda?
Accessibility: It takes only a few hours of driving from Kigali, so it is convenient for short trips.
Luxury Experience: Rwanda has a range of high-quality accommodation options and well-managed trekking services catering to those who seek luxury experiences. The conservation in Rwanda is expressed by the management of gorilla tourism, focusing on implications for sustainable and responsible tourism.
3. Democratic Republic of the Congo: The Adventurer’s Choice
Key Trekking Spot:
Virunga National Park
Other more far-flung gorilla trekking experiences are found in the Democratic Republic of the Congo within the beautiful Virunga National Park. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and Africa’s oldest national park, housing both mountain and eastern lowland gorillas. Due to its great biodiversity and dramatic landscapes, the presence of active volcanoes provides a perfect destination for the really adventurous traveler.
Because it is less crowded compared to Uganda and Rwanda, gorilla trekking in the DRC is a more personal affair, far from the crowds. However, due to occasional political instability, make sure you are updated on travel advisories and plan your visit with a reputable tour operator.
Why Go for DRC?
One-of-a-kind Experience: Virunga National Park offers one of those raw, less commercialized experiences of gorilla trekking, perfect for the more adventurous.
Variety of Wildlife: In addition to mountain gorillas, Kahuzi-Biega National Park also hosts eastern lowland gorillas.
Breathtaking Landscapes: The diverse landscapes of the DRC-from active volcanoes to wide expanses of forest-form a spectacular backdrop to your trek.
Selecting Your Best Destination
In deciding on the destination of your gorilla trek in Africa, consider your budget, comfort levels, and interest in extra activities. Many tourists travel to Uganda since it provides many options for trekking and is less expensive.
Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda offers a kind of luxury trekking due to its accessibility and a good record as far as conservation is concerned. Virunga National Park in the DRC would be the option if one is looking for something different from the conventional travels and associated adventure.
Whichever you choose, gorilla trekking in Africa guarantees an unforgettable encounter with one of the most endangered and exhilarating animals in the world amidst some of the most amazing landscapes of Africa.
