Gorillas are found in ten countries in Africa. As a great fun of primates, Uganda, Rwanda and Congo (DRC) are the best incredible spots in the world for seeing gorillas both lowland and mountain gorillas. The three countries are dominated with impressive wild jungle forests surrounded by down to earth communities that value conservation and wildlife. The truth is that choosing the best gorilla trekking safari in Africa suit for your holiday depends on the country of your interest,, budget but the experience is totally the same. Are you travelling to Africa and want to see Gorillas?, here are the top gorilla trekking destinations based on daily trekking experiences and permit prices.
There are several places where wildlife enthusiasts enjoy gorilla watching. Here are the top 5 best places to enjoy this once in a life time experience;
- Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
- Virunga National Park, DR Congo
- Odzala National Park, Republic of Congo
- Kahuzi Biega National Park, DR Congo
Volcanoes National park Rwanda
The only great place to see gorillas, the Volcanoes Park in northern Rwanda and everything about this park trekking experience is something you will love. The park rangers and guides are experienced and knowledgeable that after briefing, gorilla trekking kicks off immediately with a search of the incredible primates in the jungle bamboo forest. You will be surprised by the forest network among rangers guides to where the mountain gorillas are. Remember you divided into groups of eight, the allowed number to meet a particular gorilla group per a day for reasons of conservation.
Every Rwanda gorilla safari is confirmed basing on availability of gorilla permits. The booking process is easy and gorilla permits are handed over to clients before the start of the trip. Tours here start at 7.am at the entrance to volcanoes national park famously known as park headquater.You can stay in any accommodation of your choice nearby but prices differ from Budget, mid-range and luxury. However those on day gorilla trips can spend a night in Kigali and leave Kigali early morning by 4.am in order to catch up with the morning briefing an open session for every gorilla trekking adventure in volcanoes national park.
Bwindi Forest National Park, Uganda
Seriously if it is “classic gorilla trekking experience you seeking for then it does not get any better than in Bwindi National Park Uganda which is closest to the well known Mgahinga National Park a second gorilla park in the pearl of Africa. Besides, it’s very easy to connect to other Uganda national parks as well as other country attractions while in Bwindi especially if one wants to explore Rwanda and Congo Uganda closest neighboring countries.However, guests surely track gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda and experience the two unique gorilla trekking experiences in Bwindi forest and volcanoes national park.
Some guests track gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and track golden monkeys in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi gorilla permits cost US$800 year round but expect to pay less if you choose to visit in April, May and November. The roads are passable; accommodation is available in all sectors for every kind of budget so nothing will disappoint you during your gorilla safari. So if you want the best gorilla trek, arrange your Gorilla safari well in advance, book permits ,accommodation and other safari essentials prior to your travel date.
Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo
A Park bursting with unspoiled beauty in wilderness surrounded by great scenic views of hills, mountains and volcanoes. Congo (DRC) has some of Africa’s most desirable primate viewing spot and among them Virunga National park is the best a home to mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, birds and other wildlife. However, no gorilla trekking safari in Congo can end without enjoying impressive views of Nyiragongo active volcano and mountain Elgon of Uganda.
If you fit enough, don’t leave the country without hiking Nyiragongo volcanoes and stand at the edge of the gigantic vocanic crater, staring at the red hot bubbling lava that is stunning, amazing and exciting if I may say. Hiking Nyiragongo is surely one of the coolest adventures in the world. Whether you’re looking for a luxury gorilla trekking safari or a basic camping gorilla trek, a trip to Nyiragongo is an essential part of your Congo Gorilla tour.