Gorilla trekking is done in two national parks of Uganda. These are Bwindi Impenetrable National Park which is the most popular and also Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Today, we take you through gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to half of the World’s remaining population of mountain gorillas. This makes it a perfect destination for those interested in the gorilla safari. The park is located in the Southwestern part of Uganda
and is divided into four sectors namely Rushaga, Ruhija, Buhoma and Nkuringo sectors. All the above sectors have habituated gorilla families making them an ideal place for gorilla trekking.
So many factors determine where one will do the trekking and the factors include availability of permits, choice of accommodation and so much more.
The 4 Gorilla Trekking Sectors of Bwindi are;
Buhoma sector.
Nkuringo sector.
Rushaga sector.
Ruhija sector.
Each of these sectors have got different gorilla families and they all offer the very best gorilla experiences.
What are the families of gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?
Rushaga sector in the South
Rushaga has got four gorilla families that include the Bweza gorilla family, Nshogi gorilla family, Kahungye gorilla family and Mishaya gorilla family.
Nkuringo sector in the West
This sector has only one gorilla family known as the Nkuringo gorilla family.
Ruhija sector in the East
This sector consists of a family of gorillas known as the Bitukura group. This family has 12 members including 4 silver backs.
Buhoma sector in the North
This particular sector consists of four gorilla families which are Nkuringo, Rushaga, Habinyanja and Mubare gorilla families. Please note that you can trek gorillas in all Bwindi’s 4 sectors. This is because they all have habituated gorilla families. More so with Habinyanja being the largest habituated gorilla family in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with 17 Individuals.
What happens when a gorilla family is located?
When you locate a gorilla family, it is advisable to ask as many questions as possible. Also, record videos and take pictures to help you tell the unforgettable story. However, ensure that the flash light of your phone is off and do not move closer than 7 meters to the primates for safety purposes.
You will spend upto an hour in the presence of these magnificent giants after which you will walk back to the park headquaters for gorilla trekking certificates and this marks the end of the gorilla trekking activity.
What are the requirements for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?
Gorilla Trekking Permit, this is the first and most important requirement to have before embarking on the trekking activity. In addition, you should book these permits about 2-3 months before the intended travel date. A trusted tour operator like Vibrant Holiday Safaris can book your Gorilla Trekking permit. Furthermore, other requirements are insect repellant, a bag pack, cameras, a long sleeved shirt, gloves, water bottle and a water proof rain jacket.