Trek with Gorillas In Uganda, The most epic experience
Exploring the Heart of the Jungle: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Nestled in the lush mountains of southwestern Uganda lies a hidden gem for wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers alike—Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Known for its rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers an experience that is both humbling and exhilarating: gorilla trekking.
The Journey Begins
Setting out on a gorilla trek in Bwindi is like stepping into another world. The dense foliage and misty canopy create an atmosphere of mystery and wonder. As you navigate through the winding trails, guided by expert trackers familiar with the forest's secrets, anticipation builds with every step. Using Expedite Wildlife Tours enabled us the best access to these wonderful creatures as Phenny’s local community links enabled us to choose the best suited group for our trekkers. I encourage everyone to use reputed local guides for your journey!
What gets me the most when plunging into the rainforest here is just how vertical it is compared to other rainforests I have experienced, this creates a unique challenge and a sense of ever lasting awe. Trekking conditions can be challenging but on our previous trip we were lucky enough to discover a closer group of Mountain Gorillas, with just over 1000 remaining in the wild it is a true pleasure to get the opportunity to do this trek.
Face to Face with Majestic Giants
The real magic unfolds when you finally encounter a gorilla family. Observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat is a privilege few get to experience. Their human-like behaviors, social interactions, and soulful eyes provide a profound connection to the natural world.
Now the part where the adrenaline really kicks in, we found our Gorilla group, 17 strong with 2 silverbacks and several youngsters, feeding in the canopy. This is their primary source of eating and can last a while. We waited patiently for the Silverback to move, as his word is final…
One Silverback did move and we half expected the other Gorillas to come crashing down the trees as soon as he moved but this was a subordinate male and not in charge, our patience had to continue. This was of course perfectly okay with us, seeing these majestic creatures gracefully dance through the trees was a delight until one decided to make our patience grow thinner…
As we looked up into the dense canopy a small shower had started from the treetops, and when we discovered that it indeed was not raining, we realised that the Gorilla of choice had decided to urinate on its viewers. In the Gorillas defence if I had 8 binocular holding “nature freaks” staring at me whilst I was eating, I would try my best to deter them.
After a short while, and after the intense humidity had rendered the urine gone, we were treated to the Alpha male Silverback climbing down the tree and the rest of the group following. For some reason, in my end they would come down the trees in a graceful and elegant manner, considering they do this every day. But apparently not, as they clambered down in a rather strange fashion, certainly one to see for yourself!
The entire group eventually came to the ground and our real trek began… This is where the magic occurs, being eye level, on foot with one of our closest relatives is the most magical experience I have ever had, the calming nature and close proximity of the group was soothing and adrenaline boosting at the same a time, a combination of emotions you can only know when in the moment of what is the most exclusive of wildlife encounters.
The two highlights of the trek were as follows:
Suckling baby - I never thought I would have the opportunity to witness a new born baby gorilla in the wild, it had never occurred to me. But when we were fortunate enough to witness a new born suckling on its mother from just several metres away, I was gobsmacked, we all were! The tender eyes searching for something but never finding and the Mother, relaxed, laying back and taking it all in, blissfully unaware of our presence. I must admit the rangers in Bwindi have done an incredible job of habituating the Gorillas safely and effectively. This is an entire blog post/video on its own as we had the chance to visit the rangers who made this possible in 1990… so stay posted for this!
“Do you want to know how strong he is?” Now this is not something you want to hear when stood 4/5 metres away from a Silverback Gorilla, arguably one of the most powerful creatures on this planet… But it tuns out I didn't have much choice as a very young and, I must say rather curious baby gorilla was stepping closer to us to check out our unique skin tones and odour. (it was a long trip in Uganda) This was easily the best photographic opportunities we had as this young baby Gorilla was giving us quite the show, as we were all getting carried away, stuck in or lenses and laser focused on the baby, we had forgotten about the very large and quite frankly daunting Silverback only a few yards away… But luckily, our expert guide comforted us all by asking if we wanted to know how powerful/strong this Silverback is? Out of pure curiosity we did want to know… He quite simply said, take one step further towards the baby and he will show you. Now I don't know about you but that was just about the trigger I needed to take a few steps back and we were quickly corrected for our eagerness. But wow, what an experience! I could go on forever talking about our trek, but if I did that, you may never want to come?!
Conservation and Community
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi not only supports conservation efforts but also benefits local communities. The revenue generated from tourism contributes to the preservation of these incredible creatures and fosters sustainable development in surrounding areas. By embarking on this journey, you become part of a larger mission to protect these majestic animals and uplift the people who call this region home. Bwindi is incredible and tight knit community with anti-poaching organisations such as reformed poachers Bwindi and the retired rangers I eluded too earlier who helped set up the habituation of Gorillas all those years ago. On top of this expedite wildlife tours donates 10% of all profits to Bwindi via a charity named selflesshandsBwindi, run by Phenny Mbabazi who runs expedite. This is the tour company I have and will be using in the future as the combination of wildlife and community experiences is truly special.
Preparing for Your Adventure
Before you embark, ensure you're well-prepared. Pack light but include essentials like sturdy hiking boots, waterproof clothing, and insect repellent. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, as the trek can be challenging. Always follow the guidelines provided by your guides to ensure both your safety and that of the gorillas.
Conclusion
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is more than just an adventure; it's a transformative experience that connects you to nature and highlights the importance of conservation. Ready to embark on this once-in-a-lifetime journey? Visit our website to learn more about our upcoming tours and be part of the conservation story. Alternatively send a message below using the form suggested.