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Are you in Nigeria and dreaming of an unforgettable wildlife adventure? Gorilla trekking in Africa is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to see these incredible primates up close in their natural habitat. Whether you’re in Lagos, Abuja, or anywhere else in Nigeria, this guide will help you plan the perfect gorilla trekking tour to Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Where to Go for Gorilla Trekking in Africa
The best places to see mountain gorillas in the wild are:
- Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park
- Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): Virunga National Park for mountain gorillas and Kahuzi-Biega National Park for lowland gorillas
Gorilla trekking requires a permit, and due to high demand, it is advisable to book your trip at least five months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the peak season (June to September).
How to Get There from Nigeria
To start your gorilla trekking tour, you will need to fly from Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) in Lagos or Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV) in Abuja to either:
- Entebbe International Airport (EBB) in Uganda (for Bwindi and Mgahinga)
- Kigali International Airport (KGL) in Rwanda (for Volcanoes National Park)
From there, you will take a road transfer to your chosen national park, arranged by your tour operator.
What to Expect During Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking involves hiking through dense forests, crossing rivers, and navigating steep terrains to find a gorilla family. The trek can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. Once you find them, you will spend one hour observing their behavior and taking photos. If you want more time with the gorillas, Uganda offers the Gorilla Habituation Experience, where you spend four hours with semi-habituated gorillas.
Cost of Gorilla Trekking and Permits
Uganda Gorilla Trekking Costs
- Gorilla Trekking Permit: $800 per person (Foreign Non-Residents)
- Gorilla Habituation Permit: $1,500 per person
- Number of Permits Available Daily: 152
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Costs
- Gorilla Trekking Permit: $1,500 per person
- Number of Permits Available Daily: 96
Congo Gorilla Trekking Costs
- Virunga National Park Permit: $400 (High Season) | $200 (Low Season)
- Kahuzi-Biega National Park (Lowland Gorillas) Permit: $400
Why Choose Uganda for Gorilla Trekking?
Uganda is considered the best destination for gorilla trekking because:
- It offers a more affordable experience compared to Rwanda.
- It is safer for travelers compared to DR Congo.
- It provides more permits daily, increasing your chances of securing a spot.
- It has both gorilla trekking and habituation experiences, giving you options based on your budget and interest.
Booking Your Gorilla Trekking Tour from Nigeria
To book your gorilla trekking adventure, you can:
- Book directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
- Use a trusted tour operator like Trek Africa Expeditions, which specializes in tailor-made gorilla trekking tours from Nigeria.
Important Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Dry season (June to September) for the best trekking conditions.
- Fitness Level: Moderate to high fitness is required due to challenging terrains.
- Packing Essentials: Hiking boots, waterproof clothing, insect repellent, and a good camera.
Gorilla trekking is an experience like no other, allowing you to connect with nature and witness one of the most fascinating wildlife encounters on Earth. Start planning your journey today and make memories that will last a lifetime!
Gorilla Trekking Age Limit in Africa
The minimum age requirement for gorilla trekking in Africa is 15 years, while the maximum age limit is generally 85 years, depending on an individual’s fitness level. However, seniors and travelers with mobility challenges can still experience gorilla trekking, particularly in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Special sedan chair carriers are available, allowing porters to assist visitors who are unable to hike through the dense forest. These chairs can be booked in advance or on the day of the trek, with costs ranging from $400 to $500.
Gorilla Permit Cancellation Policy in Africa
A valid gorilla permit is required for all gorilla trekking activities in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. If a traveler cancels their trip, standard cancellation penalties apply:
- Cancellations made 0 to 8 days before the scheduled trek result in a 100% loss of the permit fee, meaning no refunds are issued.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Africa
Gorilla trekking is available year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons:
- January to February
- June to early September
During these months, the trails are less muddy, making the hike more manageable. Additionally, gorillas are easier to spot due to the shorter vegetation.
Packing List for Gorilla Trekking
To fully enjoy your gorilla trekking adventure, it’s important to pack appropriately. Here are essential items to bring:
- Comfortable, waterproof hiking boots
- Lightweight long trousers and a long-sleeve shirt (for protection against nettles and insects)
- Insect repellent
- Gardening gloves (for gripping vegetation during the trek)
- Hat and sunscreen
- Rain jacket (essential for unpredictable forest weather)
- Binoculars (for birdwatching and spotting other wildlife)
- Camera and spare batteries
- Water bottle and energy snacks
- Sweater or fleece (for chilly mornings and evenings)
Why Book Gorilla Trekking Tours from Nigeria with Trek Africa Expeditions?
Trek Africa Expeditions organizes unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. Whether you’re traveling on a budget or seeking a luxury safari, we provide tailored packages that include gorilla permits, accommodation, and transport. Our expert team ensures a seamless booking process and top-notch service, as reflected in our excellent TripAdvisor reviews.
Plan your dream gorilla trekking tour with us and experience the thrill of encountering mountain gorillas in the wild. Contact Trek Africa Expeditions today for more details on booking your gorilla trekking tour from Nigeria!