So much hype has been surrounding the blockbuster Kong: Skull Island in cinemas, starring Tom Hiddlestone, Samuel L Jackson and Brie Larson, it tells the story of a team of explorers brought together to venture into an unknown island in the Pacific, unaware that they are entering the domain of mythic giant ape, Kong.
Skull Island is just fantasy but if it’s a real life primate adventure you are after, forget the South Pacific and head straight to one of the gorilla destinations in Africa. The gorillas in Africa are found in dense forests some of which are in a mountainous terrain and others on a relatively flowing terrain. Gorilla safari adventures are undertaken in few countries;
- Mountain gorillas can be visited in Bwindi Impenetrable Park and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda, Rwanda’s Volcanoes Forest and in the Forests in Virunga in DR Congo
- Eastern lowland gorillas can be visited in Kahuzi Biega in Democratic Republic of Congo
- Western lowland gorillas can be visited in Odzala National Park in the Republic of Congo
All these gorilla watching destinations are within the Central African forests which provide spectacular views of the forest undergrowth and the penetrating view of the sky.
Gorilla Trekking in the Virunga Massif
The Virunga ranges is home to about 90% of the world’s remaining population of mountain gorillas – making it the ‘go to’ spot for a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla tracking adventure. Kahuzi Biega National Park in Congo is home to the only lowland gorillas in the region.
For those willing to take a walk on the wild side, a safari to see gorillas in Africa offers up a tantalizing opportunity to get up close and personal with one of the rarest animals on Earth. Dotted by forests and lakes and dominated by the dramatic Virunga mountain range about 650 mountain gorillas live and play in the Virunga ranges among the mossy undergrowth of the forest floor.
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is home to nearly half of the remaining population of mountain gorillas. Located in South Western Uganda, Bwindi is the most popular destination where travelers can meet mountain gorillas upclose in the wild. Gorilla trekking is the reason most people come to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and it is certainly an awesome experience to get close up and personal to these magnificent animals. Whilst you are here linger a little longer and enjoy one of the other fantastic cultural and natural wonders that the forest has to offer.
The gorillas in all of the destinations live in groups or gorilla families with a mature male known as silver back the leader of the family. Eight visitors are allowed to visit the habituated gorilla families on any given day and gorilla trekking starts early morning. East African Expeditions has experienced safari guides that will ensure every tourist is equipped with knowledge and safety tips before your encounter with the silver back the gorilla family guardian.
Gorilla Permits
The prices of gorilla tracking permits vary from different gorilla destinations and are subject to change at any time but apparently stand at US$1500 per gorilla permit in the Volcanoes National park of Rwanda, US$800 for Uganda gorilla tracking permit either in Bwindi Impenetrable National park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and $400 for Congo gorilla trekking permits found in Virunga National park (Mountain gorillas) and Kahuzi Biega for lowland gorillas. Contact your African tour operator for the best prices and gorilla tour to Africa.
Where to Stay
These gorilla sites have a wide range of accommodation facilities that are well developed to meet tourists’ expectations from upmarket travelers, honeymooners, single travelers, big group travelers to back packers’ comforts.
Other Activities
As well as gorilla trekking, guests have an opportunity to meet local Batwa Pygmies in Bwindi impenetrable Forest National Park, Volcanoes National Park and Virunga National Park. There are other primates in these forests and most notable the golden monkeys that can only be found in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Volcanoes National park.
If you are planning a gorilla safari to Africa, please note that gorilla permits are sold on first come first serve basis- you can book and pay for your gorilla permit in advance.
Leave the fantasy world for once and join an experience of a life time on your gorilla trek to Africa.
