How difficult is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?
One of the frequently asked questions about Gorilla Trekking in Uganda is how difficulty is it to track gorillas? This is an important question because if planning to trek gorillas in Uganda, it’s important to prepare extensively for the trek. In this article we answer this question and also share tips on how to prepare for your gorilla trekking safari in Uganda.
How difficult is gorilla trekking in Uganda?
Gorilla trekking is moderately-difficult because it involves hiking through a forest to get to the mountain gorillas however if you ably prepare for the gorilla trek then the hike will be manageable. Gorilla Trekking in Uganda happens in two national parks that is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Both these national parks are majorly forested areas so the typical expectation is that you will be trekking through a forested area with muddy and slippery ground, that is why preparing for the gorilla trek and having the right shoes is very important.
In terms of physical fitness for the gorilla trekking adventure, one should be physically fit as the hike can be rather strenuous and require a physical skill set to navigate the slippery and muddy ground in the forest. One of ways you can prepare for the gorilla trek is to involve yourself in exercise like walking and running before your safari so that by the time you get to Uganda, you are physically fit and ready to embark on the gorilla trekking adventure. All in all gorilla trekking in Uganda is doable and over the years a significant number of visitors of all ages have been able to go gorilla trekking. The Uganda Wildlife Authority has also done a commendable job in making sure that gorilla trekking is smooth for all visitors to Uganda. Ranger guides, trackers, tour operators and potters are all available and hands on to ensure that visitors have an amazing experience tracking the mountain gorillas.
What to pack when going gorilla trekking in Uganda?
What you pack for gorilla trekking is very important and makes the gorilla trekking experience smoother for you. The most important thing to pack are hiking boots, we recommend choosing proper hiking boots as the areas for tracking in Uganda are muddy and slippery. Having the right hiking boots means that you will have comfort and protection along the hiking trails in Bwindi Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
We also recommend packing long-sleeved shirts and trousers. Being forested areas the parks have insects that sting and invertebrates so the long-sleeved clothes act as protection.
You can also pack insect repellent, a back pack and a camera. In addition pack extra batteries for the camera so that you are able to switch batteries when you run out of power. The entire gorilla trekking experience can take between 2-8 hours depending on the where a gorilla family is located and the fitness level of the members so we also recommend packing snacks and lunch. If you have booked your safari with a tour operator you do not have to worry as the lodge and reservations manager will make sure you have a packed lunch to go for the gorilla trek.
