Where To Go For Gorilla Trekking In Africa : If you are looking to explore the natural wonders of Africa, one place you should consider visiting is gorilla territory. Gorilla Trekking is a great way to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. There are many companies offering trekking excursions throughout Africa and each one has its unique qualities. It can be challenging to choose which one is right for you.
The only place in the world where you can go gorilla trekking is in three east African countries; Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire). These three countries are the only places in the world where tourists can see gorillas in their natural habitat, so these three countries are the only places to go gorilla trekking for tourists. While it is possible to find companies that offer treks in other African countries, these tours will not be associated with any of the official organizations which protect gorillas or allow them to be viewed in their natural environments.
Mountain Gorillas are divided into two subspecies – the eastern lowland gorillas and the western mountain gorillas. The eastern lowland gorillas live in the jungles of Africa while the Western Mountain gorillas live in the Virunga volcanoes of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is possible to see both subspecies on safari in these countries.
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Rwanda is a small country in east-central Africa with about 12 million people living within its boundaries. the main tourist attraction for this country is mountain gorillas found in Volcanoes National Park in the southwestern part of the country. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and covers approximately 80 square miles. A gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs $1500 per individual.
Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Western Uganda is home to the rare Mountain Gorilla – it is one of the only places in Africa where it is possible for visitors to track these impressive creatures in their natural habitat. The park is spread over an area of 321 square miles and attracts thousands of visitors every year. Uganda offers excellent value for money as a tourist destination and is one of the more affordable destinations in Africa. A gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs $600 per person.
Gorilla Trekking in The Democratic Republic of Congo
The Virunga volcanic mountains run along both the western and eastern borders of the DRC and its north-eastern border with Rwanda is part of Parc National des Volcans (PNV) de Virunga, which has the world’s only remaining population of endangered mountain gorillas. The park covers a total area of approximately 8400 square kilometres and is home to more than 240 species of birds. Gorilla trekking in DRC is currently offered in collaboration with a number of private tour operators based outside of the country. The cost of the permit varies depending on the company involved and the period of time for which the permit is valid. The average cost of a gorilla permit is US$350 per person for a one-week permit.
Gorilla trekking is truly an unforgettable experience. The chance to spend the day with these incredible animals in their natural habitat is one that should not be missed!
