Gemfinders Safaris

Gorilla trekking is a unique and life-changing activity where you hike through the forest to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. It is a physically demanding experience that involves walking through thick jungle terrain, sometimes for several hours.

The best time for gorilla trekking in both Rwanda and Uganda is during the dry seasons, which are from June to September and December to February. These months offer the best weather conditions for trekking.

The difficulty of the trek depends on the gorilla family you are assigned to and the location of the family. Treks can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours or more, depending on the terrain and the gorilla’s location. A reasonable level of fitness is required, and hiking boots and a rain jacket are essential.

To minimize impact on the gorillas, only 8 people are allowed to trek with each gorilla family per day. This makes the experience more intimate and ensures the protection of these endangered animals.

Comfortable hiking bootsA rain jacket (weather can be unpredictable)Long pants to protect your legs from vegetationInsect repellentWater (you will be hiking for several hours)Camera with a zoom lens (flash photography is not allowed)

The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years in both Rwanda and Uganda. This is a policy to ensure that trekkers are physically capable of handling the strenuous hike.

Seeing gorillas in the wild is not guaranteed, but the chances of seeing them are very high. If for any reason your trek is unsuccessful, you can usually go on a second trek the following day.

Yes, both Rwanda and Uganda require proof of a Yellow Fever vaccination for entry. It is advisable to get vaccinated before your trip and carry the vaccination certificate with you.

Gorilla trekking permits should be booked as far in advance as possible, especially during peak seasons. It is recommended to book 6 to 12 months ahead of your intended trek date to secure your spot.

Yes, gorilla trekking is safe when conducted through reputable tour operators. The rangers and guides are highly experienced and trained to ensure the safety of both trekkers and gorillas. The trekking routes are well-marked, and the gorillas are accustomed to human presence.

Uganda: $700 per person These permits are non-refundable and allow you to trek with the gorillas for one hour.

It’s recommended to wear long-sleeved clothing to protect yourself from insects, thorny plants, and the cool weather in the forest. Hiking boots with good ankle support, gloves, and a rain jacket are essential.

Yes, you can take pictures of the gorillas, but flash photography is not allowed as it may disturb them. Ensure your camera is set to low light and that you use a zoom lens to avoid getting too close to the gorillas.