Can I see gorillas in Tanzania: The ultimate guide

Is there gorilla trekking safari in Tanzania? Are you in early stage of planning your Tanzania safari and you wish to include gorilla trekking experience to your wish list but wondering whether you can have the experience in Tanzania? The answer is no, there is no gorilla trekking experience in Tanzania. This is because these endangered great apes not endemic to Tanzania, they are natives to Virunga massif range which is shared by Uganda, Rwanda and democratic republic of Congo. The limited adaptability of mountain gorillas makes it almost impossible for them to live in any other place other than the said Virunga massif geographical setup.

The specific geographical composition that can inhabit mountain gorillas include the montane forest on the high altitude of about 2500metres above the see level, the bamboo forest as they majorly feed on bamboo shootings. Such setting is not available making it practically impossible to inhabit mountain gorillas in Tanzania. In short, Tanzania lacks suitable environment to support a sustainable number of mountain gorillas to support gorilla trekking experience in this prime destination. However, you can still combine Tanzania wildlife safari with gorilla trekking experience in Uganda or Rwanda. We shall help you arrange such experience.

Main tourism attraction in Tanzania

Now that you know that Tanzania won’t offer you gorilla trekking experience, let us look at what this prime destination has to offer you during your safari adventure. Tanzania boosts a range of safari destination nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, beach lovers, primate enthusiasts, among others. Places like Serengeti national park which is a UNESCO World heritage renown for its high concentration of big cats.

The park is also known for its endless plain and is the home for famous wildebeest migration which is a year-round activity. This is the biggest animal migration recorded all over the world and it draws thousands of revelers to come and witness this once in a lifetime experience. Other famous destination in the northern part of Tanzania is Ngorongoro conservation area where the biggest unbroken caldera in the world is found. The Ngorongoro crater is home to all the big five of Africa and credited with its high concentration of wildlife that can be encountered in the crater and the standout landscape.

Furthermore, for mountain climbers, you will be able to hike the highest peak on African continent in Kilimanjaro Mountain. This five-to-seven-day event is a dream to any mountain climber as you will be able to go to the top of the highest standing peak above the sea level in the world. Finally, you can choose combine adventure with relaxation by visiting the Zanzibar highlands where you will enjoy the beach on these historic beaches.

Best places to see gorillas in Africa

Mountain Gorillas are endemic to African continent and can be trekked from Virunga national park of Congo, volcanoes national park of Rwanda, Mgahinga national park of Uganda. These three parks make up the great Virunga massif range. Another park where you can see gorillas which the home to over half of the total gorilla population is is Bwindi impenetrable forest national park of Uganda.

Bwindi impenetrable forest national Located in southwestern part of Uganda on Uganda- DRC border is the home with over a half of mountain gorilla population. The park has four sectors where gorillas can be encountered during the visit. These sectors are Nkuringo, Rushaga, Buhoma and Ruhija sector. Rushaga also offer gorilla habituation experience on top of gorilla trekking experience. Rushaga is the only place where you can have 4 hours with mountain gorillas in the wild.

Mgahinga gorillas national park

Another place in Uganda where you can see mountain gorillas in their natural habitats is Mgahinga gorillas national park, this smallest park in Uganda is the home to one gorilla family called Nyakagezi family. Beside gorilla trekking, the park is also a haven for the hikers with volcanic mountains like sabinyo volcanic mountain forming part of the park.

Volcanoes national park.

You can also encounter mountain gorillas in volcanoes national park, a home to over 20 percent of the total gorilla population. Beside gorillas, you can also encounter golden monkeys which are also endemic to the great Virunga Mountain national park. For hikers, five volcanic mountains are within this park including mount Karisimbi which is the 11th highest mountain on African continent.

What to consider as you are planning gorilla trekking safari?

Various factors have to be considered as you are planning a gorilla trekking experience in Uganda, Rwanda or D.R. Congo. Here is what we think you must look at before taking the decision.

Choose the right place to see gorillas

With four national parks offering gorilla experience, you to decide which place is suitable for the gorilla trekking experience. Currently Virunga national park of Congo is closed due to political unrest, making it impossible to trek gorillas in Congo currently. That leaves Uganda and Rwanda as the only two places where mountain gorillas can be encountered in their natural habitats. However, as you are choosing which place to go to you need to look at the price of gorilla trekking permit.

The gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs 1500 dollars for one hour encounter with mountain gorillas at volcanoes national park. On the other hand, the Ugandan gorilla trekking permit costs 800 dollars for one hour encounter with gorillas from either at Bwindi national park or Mgahinga national park. You can trek gorilla in Uganda from Kigali Rwanda.

Obtaining gorilla permit

Gorilla permits are limited in supply which makes it essential to secure your permit before starting your safari to Africa. This is more essential in peak season as permit can get sold out so quickly. Therefore, pay for your permit in advance to avoid any disappointment related with missing out on your dream adventure.

Packing essential for gorilla trekking

Packing the right item for gorilla trekking experience will greatly influence your gorilla trekking experience. Things that you must include while packing for your safari include sturdy hiking boots, long trousers, a waterproof jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to capture unforgettable moments with the gorillas. Additionally, carrying snacks, water, and a small backpack can help sustain you during the trek. Having right item will lead to a great experience during your stay in Tanzania.

The great apes safari packages in Uganda and Rwanda

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