Frequently asked Questions About Mountain Gorilla Trekking : Mountain gorilla trekking is an exciting adventure done in East Africa in Rwanda at the Volcanoes National Park, in the democratic republic of Congo at the Virunga National Park, and in Uganda at Bwindi National Park and Mgahinga National Park.
The activity is done all year round by primate lovers dying to see the gorillas in their natural habitat.
Though these enthusiasts or lovers are excited to see these gorillas, they have more questions than answers.
So here today we answer frequently asked questions about the mountain gorillas.
- What exactly is mountain gorilla trekking?
Mountain gorilla trekking is an activity that involves hiking through the jungle for a couple hours to find the gorgeous yet scarcely huge mountain gorillas and spend an hour with them.
- Where can I go for mountain gorilla trekking?
As stated above in East Africa Mountain gorilla trekking is done in Rwanda at the Volcanoes National Park, in the democratic republic of Congo at the Virunga national park and in Uganda at Bwindi National Park and Mgahinga National Park.
- How much does mountain gorilla trekking cost?
Just the trekking experience will cost 400 dollars in the DRC, 700 dollars in Uganda and 1500 dollars in Rwanda. However, you should know the mountain gorilla experience is a whole safari and costs vary depending on duration of safari, accommodation, logistics and other things. So, consult your tour operator for a final quotation.
- Is mountain gorilla trekking a physically demanding activity?
You need to be physically fit, to be able to walk up and down the mountain for a number of hours comfortably.
- What is the best time for mountain gorilla trekking?
Any time of the year is the best time to have a gorilla trekking experience. However, most tourists prefer to have their safaris in the dry seasons in the months between June and September and December to February in East Africa
- What do you pack for a mountain gorilla trekking safari?
Everything you need for a safari plus hiking shoes, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, hat or cap, sunscreen, gloves, insect repellent and a few more items.
- What is the maximum number of people allowed on a mountain gorilla trekking thing?
A maximum number of 8 people per group.
- Can I go gorilla trekking alone?
No, it’s recommended; especially for safety reasons for you, incase you get an accident in the forest you won’t have help, and when you get to the gorillas’ solo, they may see you as danger etc. But also, conservation of the animals, it’s better they are viewed under supervision of a gorilla ranger or guide.
- How far in advance should I book my mountain gorilla trekking safari?
At least 3-6 months in advance. In the low seasons one month can do.
- Can I get a refund if I cancel my gorilla trekking safari?
This is near to impossible, its only in very rare cases that you will get a refund, but the most logical policy used in cases of cancellation. You trekking date is pushed forward for you to get the chance to trek another time, but you will not get a refund per say. Even if the issue for cancelling is from the side of the park, they will re-schedule your trekking dates and not refund.
- What is the average altitude you get to during mountain gorilla trekking experience?
About 7,200-8,200 feet above sea level with the average temperature at about 15-20°C.
- What is the best way to store my luggage during a mountain gorilla trekking trip?
Use a hard material bag and a waterproof one at that. Also try as much as possible to carry necessary items so that your luggage is a small and lightweight as possible
