Gorilla Tracking Experience

Gorilla Tracking Experience

Mountain Gorilla tracking in the entire universe is done in just 3 countries that is Uganda in Bwindi National park and Mgahinga national park in south western Uganda, Rwanda in Volcanoes National park and Virunga national park in D.R.Congo. In the 2011 after the gorilla population census in both Uganda and Rwanda, about 820 gorillas were recorded to be living in this Virunga volcanoes area. However amongst the three countries, Uganda harbours half of the entire population. Gorilla tracking in Uganda is more strenuous because of the steep trails and the volcanic scars along the way. You may have to walk a long distance in steep, muddy conditions, possibly with rain overhead, before you encounter any gorillas.

Gorilla tracking families.

Gorillas live in cohesive families that are headed by a dominant silverback. The silverback develops a greyish silver lining in the back as he matures. The silverback is responsible for protecting his family and searching for new feeding territories for the entire group. Bwindi impenetrable National park so far has 10 gorilla trekking families but these are situated in two sections of the park that is to say the northern part of the park is made up of Buhoma sector. This is further divided into individual families Rushegura family, Habinyanja family and Mubare gorilla family, Rushaga family is composed of Ruhija sector is further divided into Bitukura and Oruzogo gorilla trekking families.

In the southern part of Bwindi National park is Nkuringo gorilla tracking family and Rushaga sector is composed of Mishaya gorilla family, Nshogi gorilla trekking family, Kahungye Bweza and Bushingye. The last two families are still under the watchful eye of Uganda wildlife Authority but can gorilla permits are available on spot.

Mgahinga national park is also part of the mountain gorilla habitats in Uganda. It is home to Nyakagezi gorilla family but gorilla trekking permit availability is confirmed if the gorilla are present in the park. They at times cross to the neighbouring Rwanda.

Gorilla tracking in Rwanda takes place in Volcanoes National Park. This park is composed of gorilla families like Susa gorilla family, Sabyinyo gorilla family, Group 13 gorilla family, Amahoro gorilla family, Hirwa gorilla tracking family and Kwitonda gorilla tracking family

Gorilla Tracking Experience.

Although several people think that it’s a strenuous activity, the rewards after gorilla trekking are enormous. Gorilla trekking starts in the morning at about 8.30 am with briefing from the UWA ranger guide. At this point you have to listen carefully to the ranger because of his knowledge and experience about the jungle. Later, you move into the forest to begin searching for what to eat so you have to follow there movements to get them. The time you may take is very unpredictable due to the above factors. The ground is quite slippery because of the irregular rains and steep due to volcanic work in this area. There are some trails that were created by the regular trackers but you may have to pass through some thick creepers depending on the suspected location of the gorillas. Birding in this park is another added advantage.

The moment you are with the gorillas, you have to stay at least 7 meters away from them. Do not touch them because they are wild animals that are susceptible to human diseases. Use a sound proof and flash less cameras to take there photos. UWA permits just one hour with the gorillas because if you take long in there presence they may become uncomfortable with your presence.