Are you planning to go on a gorilla safari in Africa?
- August 4, 2024
- Posted by: chosen@202q
- Category: Prepare To Travel Tips
Are you planning to go on a gorilla safari in Africa?
Taking an African Gorilla Safari: With 98% of our DNA shared, gorillas are our closest living relatives, behind chimpanzees and bonobos. Even though gorillas are considered a critically endangered species, it is still possible to see them in the wild. Trekking and gorilla safaris have an impact on sustainable tourism and contribute to conservation efforts. There are multiple justifications for embarking on an African gorilla expedition.
Information on Mountain Gorillas
There are two different species of gorillas in the world: equatorial African gorillas and eastern gorillas. It should be mentioned that there are lowland and upland subspecies of both species. There are two species of gorillas in the Western Hemisphere: the Western Lowland Gorilla and the Cross River Gorilla. The Eastern lowland gorilla and the Mountain gorilla are the two species of gorillas found in Eastern Africa.
The best ways to see mountain gorillas in their natural environment
In contrast, mountain gorillas live in alpine forests between 8,000 and 13,000 feet in elevation. Despite having thicker fur to help them survive in colder regions, gorillas are in bad health due to habitat destruction and human encroachment. Despite being an endangered species, mountain gorillas have seen an increase in population in recent years, with over 1065 individuals remaining, despite concerns such as poaching and human encroachment that could cause their numbers to drop.
- Interesting facts about gorillas: 98.4% of human DNA is shared with gorillas.
- Gorillas have unique nose imprints, yet their fingerprints resemble those of humans.
- Their lifespan in the wild is 35 years.
- Mountain gorillas range in height from 4 to 6 feet and weight from 300 to 485 pounds.
- abide by the park rangers’ instructions.
- Please stay off the gorillas if you are sick, as they can easily contract human illnesses.
- Newborn mountain gorillas grow twice as quickly as human beings.
- They eat up to forty pounds of vegetation a day, making them primarily herbivores
What makes mountain gorillas extremely vulnerable?
The explanation for why mountain gorillas are a vulnerable species. Even though their numbers keep growing annually, we need to make sure that this pattern keeps up. As shown below, they are susceptible to a number of hazards in the wild.
stealing;
Even though gorillas are always on the move, poachers frequently target them, and they might unintentionally become caught in snares. They are purposefully caught by other poachers for bush meat. Adult gorillas are sometimes killed when infant gorillas are abducted for zoos or the illegal pet trade. The government has sent armed guards to patrol the areas where mountain gorillas live in the wild in order to ensure the animals’ protection.
habitat destruction
The number of gorilla habitats has decreased due to human development, and mountain gorillas are being driven from their homes. Additionally, lands have been cleared for livestock and cultivation. The government has to stop all of this and expand and secure the areas where mountain gorillas live in order to ensure their existence.
illnesses
Mountain gorillas can contract common human diseases like diarrhea, coughing, and the flu. To increase their chances of surviving in that environment, gorillas in the wild are continuously viewed by researchers and tourists—they are closely observed. Veterinarians can treat sick or injured gorillas.
Warfare and unrest
Refugees have been compelled to migrate to the Virunga Mountains as a result of war and civil unrest in Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which has increased habitat loss and poaching. Additionally, landmines in the jungle have killed them.
To ensure gorilla survival in the wild, there are thankfully gorilla conservation programs and government organizations like the World Wildlife Fund, local partners Rwanda Development Board, Uganda Wildlife Authority, and the Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature to combat the incident.
Locations for Mountain Gorilla Viewing: Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are the three countries in which mountain gorillas can be seen in the wild.
Rwanda
One of the greatest locations to see mountain gorillas in the wild is Rwanda, as it is widely called. With some of the top gorilla safaris in the world, Volcanoes National Park is one of the best locations for gorilla safaris worldwide. Gorillas may be encountered up close, and visitors may even wander a short way outside the park’s boundaries. Rwanda offers stunning scenery and a high probability of seeing gorillas.
Uganda
Consider heading towards the gorillas if you’re unsure of where to go. Going gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is highly recommended. As a component of the Virunga Conservation Area, Mgahinga National Park is home to mountain gorillas.
The Congo’s Democratic Republic
In Congo’s Virunga National Park, you can view mountain gorillas, but you need exercise extreme caution and ask your tour operator for advice on this ever-changing situation.
Thinking of Taking a Gorilla Tour?
If you are considering a holiday with a gorilla safari in Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of the Congo, get in touch with knowledgeable tour operators so they can help you organize your travel. Here are some things to think about before setting out on your safari adventure to go gorilla trekking.
Is It Safe to Go Gorilla Trekking?
Indeed, you shouldn’t worry about your safety when around gorillas. All you need to do is adhere to the policies and procedures that your advisors have agreed upon with you. It is important to remember that families of mountain gorillas are quite accustomed to living with people. Sadly, traveling to the Democratic Republic of the Congo is not safe, but a tour operator may be able to provide you with further details.
Additional information: Avoid staring the gorillas in the eyes.
Keep your flash out of them when taking pictures.
Things to Pack for a Gorilla Trek
- Waterproof hiking boots
- insect repellent
- Wear long sleeves and long pants to protect yourself from plants, bugs, and red ants.
- Sufficient mineral water for consumption
- Comfortable hiking boots
- a pair of magnifying glasses
- a camera with enough batteries
- trekking sticks
What time of year is best for a gorilla safari?
The dry season, which runs from June to mid-September and from December to February, is the best time to go on a gorilla safari.