A gorilla trekking certificate is a document that is issued by either the Uganda Wildlife Authority, the Rwanda Development Board, or the Virunga Authority to tourists after trekking the mountain gorillas, indicating the gorilla destination or national park you trekked from, the date when you walked, and the gorilla family you visited. Gorilla trekking is an adventurous activity involving tourists moving on foot into the tropical rainforest in search of the habituated mountain gorillas.

Once found, they spend one hour with them in their natural habitat. Gorilla trekking in Africa is carried out in three countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In Uganda, gorilla trekking is done in two national parks, that is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. In Rwanda, gorilla trekking is done in Volcanoes National Park, while in Congo, gorilla trekking is done in Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega National Park.

Gorilla trekking experience

Gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo starts early in the morning at around 8:00 am with a briefing about the rules and regulations to follow during trekking. After the briefing, rangers divide tourists into groups of eight. They assign each group a habituated gorilla family and an experienced park guide who knows the jungle trails intimately.

Trekking to mountain gorillas takes about 2 hours to 7 hours, depending on where the gorillas are located, because they like to move from one place to another in search of food. During the trek, you will encounter other primates, rare birds, and vibrant butterflies. Once you find the mountain gorillas, you spend one hour with them in their natural habitat. This window allows you to study their habits, watch their daily routines, and capture photos or videos to share with friends back home.

Gorilla trekking permits

Gorilla Trekking Certificate: The Uganda Wildlife Authority issues gorilla trekking permits to visitors aged 15 and older. These legal documents grant you permission to track a habituated family and spend one hour observing them in their natural habitat. Gorilla trekking permits in Virunga national park and Kahuzi Biega national park in Congo cost 400 USD per person for all nationalities, gorilla trekking permits in Volcanoes national park in Rwanda cost 1,500 USD per person for all nationalities while gorilla trekking permits in Bwindi impenetrable national park and Mgahinga gorilla national park in Uganda cost 800 USD per person for foreign non residents, 700 USD per person for foreign residents and 300,000 UGX per person for East African citizens.

How to book gorilla trekking permits

Gorilla Trekking Certificate: Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo can be booked through a trusted tour operator like Anthill Safaris. Simply contact us with your preferred date, month, year, and gorilla destination. We will check permit availability immediately. If permits are available, you’ll be asked to make a deposit. Once we receive your payment, we’ll purchase the permits on your behalf. You’ll receive a scanned receipt as confirmation.

Anthill Safaris offers more than just permit booking. We organize your entire gorilla trekking safari. This includes transportation to the national park and accommodation arrangements. We provide a full-time driver guide throughout your trip. We can also arrange additional activities after gorilla trekking. You can combine your gorilla trek with visits to other destinations.

Gorilla trekking permits should, however, be booked 3 to 6 months in advance of the trekking date because they are competitive and usually get sold out quickly, especially during the peak season from June to September and December to February.

The best time to do gorilla trekking is.

Gorilla Trekking Certificate: The best time to go on a gorilla trekking safari is during the dry season, from June to August and December to February. During this time, the weather is mild and sunny, making it easier to move along the forest trails. These periods offer the best conditions for gorilla trekking. There’s minimal rain and mud, allowing for clearer views and better photography opportunities.

Additionally, the dry seasons coincide with the gorillas’ food scarcity. This makes them more sedentary and easier to track, increasing the chances of a successful and memorable encounter. Also, gorilla trekking safaris are possible as well during the wet season or rainy season in March to May and September to November. During the wet season, there are lower accommodation prices, thus making more affordable option for gorilla trekking. Furthermore, the gorillas tend to descend to lower altitudes in search of food, making them easier to track and increasing the chances of successful encounters. The wet season’s cooler temperatures and misty atmosphere create a mystical and immersive experience. This allows trekkers to connect with nature and the mountain gorillas uniquely and unforgettably.

What to Pack?

Packing the right gear is essential for a successful trek. Here are the must-have items:

  • Sturdy Hiking Boots: Comfortable and waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support for navigating uneven terrain.
  • Long Pants and Long-Sleeved Shirts: To protect against scratches, insect bites, and vegetation.
  • Lightweight Waterproof Jacket: For protection against rain and mist in the forest.
  • Hat and Sunglasses: To shield from the sun and provide eye protection.
  • Gloves: To protect your hands from scratches and insect bites.
  • Daypack: A small backpack to carry essentials like water, snacks, a camera, and personal items.
  • Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during the trek, especially in the humid forest environment.
  • Energy Snacks: Lightweight snacks like nuts, energy bars, or dried fruit to keep your energy levels up.
  • Insect Repellent: To ward off mosquitoes and other insects.
  • Sunscreen: Protect exposed skin from harmful UV rays, even on cloudy days.
  • Binoculars: Optional but useful for spotting wildlife and birds in the forest.
  • Camera: Don’t forget to capture the unforgettable moments of your gorilla encounter.
  • Portable Charger/Batteries: Ensure your electronic devices stay powered throughout the trek.
  • Rain Poncho or Waterproof Cover for Backpack: Extra protection for you and your belongings in case of sudden showers.
  • Personal Medications and First Aid Kit: Carry any necessary medications and a basic first aid kit for minor injuries.
  • Leisure Clothing for After Trek: Comfortable clothes for relaxing after the trek, preferably moisture-wicking.
  • Plastic Bags: For storing wet or dirty clothing and trash to leave no trace in the forest.
  • Remember to pack light and efficiently, as you’ll be carrying your daypack during the trek.

Rules and regulations for gorilla trekking

For a wonderful experience of gorilla trekking, there are several rules and regulations drafted by the wildlife park’s authorities for the safety of both the mountain gorillas and the tourists. These rules and regulations include.

Conclusion

Gorilla Trekking Certificate: While the restrictions have definitely delayed some people’s gorilla encounters, or even made it impossible, the intentions behind them are good, and we fully uphold these.

In our experience, most of the above eligibility points are perfectly okay. They’re also not a problem when you do the right and timely communication. The strictest regulation is about age, but as mentioned, there is always a way for us to organize your trip and observe the rules.

We would love to hear from you about any questions you have. They may be regarding gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda, or any other way we can help. If you are thinking about planning a trip, take a look at the itineraries we have on this website. We are certain they will inspire your next great adventure.