Gorilla trekking experience in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of the magical, unforgettable life time experiences one should not miss on a bucket list in Africa. I and my friend Ann spent a couple of days here after our golden monkey hike in Rwanda. We were not disappointed and indeed our gorilla safari tours in the park will remain one of the best things that we have ever done. Here at Mgahinga park we did a safari to see the mountain gorillas and also separately to hike with the Batwa tribe.
There is so much to do in this park: Gorilla tracking, Golden Monkey Tracking, hiking to Sabyinyo Gorge, to Mount Gahinga, and two other volcanoes, plus there is also the Batwa Cultural Trail and so much plus along with giant earthworms on the path.
Very early in the morning, we woke up to have our morning breakfast, guided by an armed ranger, the trek was exciting as it was up the mountainside with the guide really actually chopping down our path with his machete. We passed the spoor of buffalo and even when we saw one on the path we felt very safe in the hands of the guides. Entering the bamboo zone, we met the trackers who had located the mountain gorillas. This very local subspecies of the blue monkey is delightful to watch as they gambol amongst the foliage.
Once we were near the gorilla family, it got so exciting because you could hear them. We were very lucky to hear the alpha male call out and had splendid views of many individuals at very close range, the designated hour went very quickly and we descended through the forest with huge smiles on our faces! Then as a bonus we were shown both male and female Ruwenzori 3 horned chameleons and a tree hyrax, outstanding. Starting with some spectacular birding with the guides at the main gate (Ruwenzori Batis, white starred robin, African hill babbler, cinnamon bracken warbler etc.) we set off back up through the forest.
It must be said that due to the altitude the ascents can be tiring, but the guides are aware and are happy to allow frequent rest stops (we took a lot!). On the gorilla trek our guides were always pointing out interesting wildlife on the trek (from deafening cicadas to the call of Ruwenzori turaco). Meeting with the trackers after about 1.5 hours we were taken to the Gorillas, words cannot describe how incredible the encounter is, but to share an hour of one’s life with all the 4 silver back males, an adult female, a juvenile male and a baby, all getting on with their daily lives is one of the most amazing experiences. Words can’t describe it.
The trackers and guides are on hand to provide interpretation on the life and behaviour of the gorillas. One recommendation, try just watching the gorillas without filming or looking through a lens of a camera, at least for a portion of the hour you are permitted and you will leave with only the best possible memories. Seeing the magnificent gorillas was the experience of a lifetime. Spending an hour with them, watching their interactions with each other and with the silver backs was something I’ll never forget. And watching two baby gorillas playing…. OH, this was so thrilling to see and enjoy.
It was on a similar trail as the mountain gorillas, but not as high up that was led by a few gentlemen from the Batwa tribe, with a park ranger who translated for us. They showed us where they lived, how they hunted and entertained us with songs & dance performances at the end. We enjoyed it!
Having said that, please know your fitness level and plan accordingly. I am reasonably fit but found the trek is somehow tiresome! The issue is that you never know how far you’ll have to hike to find the gorillas, and most people think they might be hiking an hour or two, which is common. However, for our group of 8, we hiked 2 and half hours before getting to the gorillas and that was non-stop hiking, with only a couple of minutes break here and there for water and a snack. We didn’t stop for lunch until after we’d see the gorillas, which was about 11:00am in the morning. Yes, the porters are extremely helpful, but don’t underestimate the potential for a very long and arduous day!
Prior to our trek, I’d read tons of articles about what to wear and bring, but basically you need good hiking shoes, lots of water, a few quick snacks, and a small lunch. It became very hot shortly after our trek began, so wear layers that you can take off to be cool. Also, no one in our party was bothered by any type of bug or insect, so don’t worry about wearing the right coloured clothing or reapplying bug spray all day. Those issues were non-existent.
I cannot thank the guides and the trackers and indeed the gorillas enough for allowing us such a most magical and memorable experience. So many people visit Bwindi, but at Mgahinga you are taking the trek less traveled. Take the trip of a lifetime to see these wonderful animals but be prepared and forewarned about the potential for a very long and strenuous day.
