Uganda Gorilla Habituation Trek: An Unforgettable Wildlife Experience
"A fleeting glimpse—deep within Bwindi’s dense rainforest, a mountain gorilla watches from the shadows."
📌 All images in this post were taken by the author during a real gorilla habituation trek in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda (2023). This account reflects the events exactly as they happened.
Introduction
The jungle was already pushing back against us, testing every step. But nothing prepared me for what happened next.
I held my breath as the female gorilla suddenly mock-charged.
She wasn’t coming for me—but for the tracker, standing right next to me.
Instinctively, I dropped my gaze, heart hammering in my chest.
I whispered, “Oh, shit. Oh, shit. Oh, shit” but held my ground, muscles locked in place. She tested us, but we didn’t move.
For what felt like an eternity, she stared us down—then, just as quickly, she turned away, ripping leaves from the vines as if nothing had happened.
At that moment, I understood why this experience was so different from a standard gorilla trek.
This wasn’t about quietly observing a fully habituated gorilla family—this was part of the process of earning their trust.
Unlike a standard Uganda gorilla trek, where visitors spend only an hour with a gorilla family, we were part of the gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest—a rare opportunity that grants visitors four full hours with these incredible primates as they gradually adjust to human presence.
But before we could stand among them, we had to fight for every step.
📌 The steep, slippery, and humid terrain tested us at every turn.
📌 If we weren’t sliding on mud, we were slipping on thick jungle growth.
📌 Forest elephant tracks and fresh dung were everywhere—a reminder that we weren’t the only ones on this trail.
The jungle didn’t welcome us; it resisted us.
Living at sea level, my husband and I felt the altitude with every step.
📌 Sweat dripped as we pulled ourselves up vines, gripping anything we could to stay balanced.
📌 Our fellow trekker—a firefighter from the mountains of Canada—barely broke a sweat.
📌 Meanwhile, I might still be in that jungle if not for my porter.
🔴 Story continued…
“A gorilla sits quietly in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, gradually becoming accustomed to human presence—a crucial step in the habituation process."
What is Gorilla Habituation? Understanding Its Role in Conservation
Why Was Gorilla Habituation Created?
Mountain gorillas once faced near extinction due to poaching, habitat destruction, and human-wildlife conflict. With fewer than 700 remaining in the early 2000s, conservationists realized that protecting them required a shift—local communities needed an incentive to value live gorillas over hunting them.
This is where ecotourism changed everything.
✔ Gorilla habituation was introduced as a conservation strategy, providing sustainable income through tourism rather than illegal wildlife trade.
✔ The high cost of permits funds anti-poaching patrols, habitat protection, and community programs, encouraging conservation.
✔ By gradually acclimating gorillas to human presence, habituation reduces stress and ensures their survival.
Gorilla Habituation vs. Standard Gorilla Trekking: Key Differences
✔ Time with Gorillas – A standard gorilla trek allows one hour of observation, while the habituation experience grants up to four hours.
✔ Deeper Behavioral Insights – With more time, trekkers can witness:
📌 Grooming, feeding, and social interactions.
📌 Juveniles playing and learning.
📌 Subtle vocalizations and gestures.
✔ Research & Conservation Focus – Habituation treks include researchers and conservationists, offering a deeper look into the process of earning gorillas' trust.
✔ Limited Group Size – Only four visitors per day are permitted, ensuring minimal disturbance and a more exclusive experience.
The Gorilla Trekking Experience: A Journey into Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Our group was small—just three visitors (my husband, a woman from Canada, and me). By mid-morning, we set off with our guide, porters, and two armed guards, whose role was to fire warning shots if we encountered forest elephants—one of the few animals mountain gorillas fear.
The jungle quickly proved unforgiving.
📌 Steep inclines, thick vegetation, and muddy trails from the previous night's rain made every step a challenge.
📌 At times, the dense undergrowth forced us to duck under branches or step over tangled roots, all while trying to keep our footing on the slick, uneven terrain.
🔴 Story continued…
"On a Bwindi Trail: Moments Before Stepping Off and Into the Dense Jungle"
This image captures a pivotal moment of our gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, as part of our group navigates a narrow trail through the dense jungle. While most of the group was ahead, my porter was just out of the shot, and a guard followed closely behind. We were just moments away from stepping off-trail to begin our close encounter with endangered mountain gorillas in Uganda. The trek through steep, muddy terrain adds to the excitement of this once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience.
My porter was invaluable.
📌 With every climb, she offered a steadying hand, helping me navigate the more treacherous sections.
📌 She carried my daypack, allowing me to focus on moving safely through the thick forest.
📌 When the footing was particularly tricky, she anticipated the best routes, often scouting ahead and motioning me toward firmer ground.
Without her, the trek would have been far more grueling.
The trackers had been in the jungle since sunrise, following the gorillas' trail and communicating via radio.
📌 They began their search where the gorillas had nested the night before, reading broken branches, trampled vegetation, and fresh dung to track their movements.
📌 Our guide and the trackers stayed in contact using walkie-talkies and mobile phones.
At one point, we had to turn around on the trail—the gorillas had changed direction. The jungle makes no promises, and no two treks are ever the same.
Then, finally, the call came through.
📌 The gorillas had been located.
🔴 Story continued…
Why Hire a Porter?
Hiring a porter is not just about convenience—it’s a way to support the local economy while ensuring a safer, more enjoyable trek.
✔️ Creates Local Employment & Supports Conservation – Porters are often from nearby communities, and their wages contribute directly to local families. By providing sustainable jobs, porter programs help deter people from turning to poaching or other harmful activities to make a living.
✔️ Eases the Physical Strain – Gorilla trekking can be demanding, with steep climbs and unpredictable terrain. A porter helps carry your gear, allowing you to conserve energy.
✔️ Provides Stability and Assistance – Many porters are experienced in the terrain, offering a steadying hand and guidance through difficult sections.
✔️ Enhances the Experience – With less weight to carry, you can focus on the beauty of the jungle and the anticipation of meeting the gorillas.
Deep in Bwindi’s wilderness, the path forward is anything but easy—each step a test of endurance and patience.
📌 Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the most biologically diverse rainforests in Africa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Its rugged terrain and dense vegetation have helped protect its wildlife for centuries, but they also make it one of the most challenging landscapes to navigate. What feels like a difficult trek for us is simply life for the creatures that call this forest home.
Final Approach: Leaving the Trail Behind
Once the trackers confirmed the gorilla family’s location, we left the main path behind. The well-trodden trail faded, replaced by dense undergrowth and near-vertical slopes.
📌 From here, we weren’t just hiking—we were climbing.
✔ We gripped vines and tree roots to steady ourselves, pulling ourselves up steep ravines.
✔ The jungle pressed in on all sides—thick, tangled, and unrelenting.
✔ Each step forward required us to push through dense foliage, step over fallen logs, and navigate around deep elephant tracks filled with fresh mud.
The guide ahead used his machete, carefully slicing away vines to clear the most overgrown sections. The air was thick, damp, and humming with unseen life.
📌 This was the wild. There were no shortcuts here.
🔴 Story continued…
"In Bwindi, the untrained eye sees only jungle—but just beyond the leaves, something is watching."
Face Masks On, Walking Sticks Down, Cameras Ready
The jungle closed in around us—steep, tangled, and unyielding. The thick canopy filtered out much of the light, casting deep shadows over the forest floor.
I scanned the dense undergrowth, but to my untrained eye, it was an impenetrable wall of green. The trackers, however, saw what I couldn’t.
Then, just ahead, one of them motioned for us to stop.
📌 I squinted into the foliage but saw nothing—just layers of tangled vines and leaves.
And then, a dark hand lifted in the brush.
📌 The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and crushed leaves.
📌 The first gorilla was in sight.
🔴 Story continued…
Why Are Face Masks & Walking Sticks Left Behind?
✔ Face masks protect gorillas from human-transmitted diseases. Since gorillas share 98% of our DNA, they are highly susceptible to illnesses that wouldn’t affect us severely but could be fatal for them.
✔ Walking sticks and bags are left behind to minimize unnecessary movement and noise. Gorillas are highly perceptive, and unfamiliar objects can make them uneasy.
✔ Leaving extra gear with the porters ensures that trekkers have both hands free for balance in the dense jungle terrain.
First Contact: The Blackback in the Brush
The first gorilla we saw wasn’t the dominant silverback—it was a blackback, a younger, lower-ranking male, camouflaged deep within the brush.
📌 He methodically pulled leaves into his mouth, chewing slowly, barely acknowledging us at first.
📌 But every few seconds, he glanced over his shoulder, his dark eyes locking onto ours.
He wasn’t running. He wasn’t charging. But he was watching.
"The first gorilla sighting—a blackback calmly feeding, occasionally glancing back to assess our presence."
📌 Tears welled in my eyes. The feeling was indescribable.
📌 My legs shook as I slowly raised my camera, hands trembling.
📌 I held my breath and pressed the shutter.
I had dreamt of this moment for so long, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer gravity of standing face to face with a wild gorilla.
🔴 Story continued…
A Diet Fit for the Jungle
📌 Mountain gorillas are true foragers, relying on the dense vegetation of their high-altitude habitat.
✔ Their diet consists of leaves, stems, roots, bark, wild celery, thistles, and bamboo shoots—a fiber-rich menu that supports their massive size and strength.
✔ Unlike lowland gorillas, which consume large amounts of fruit, mountain gorillas eat mostly vegetation, often stripping plants with their powerful hands and teeth.
✔ With an opposable thumb and remarkable dexterity, they can carefully pluck nutritious leaves and shoots, ensuring they get the best parts of each plant.
Gorilla Families & Social Structure
✔ Silverback – The dominant male, leader, and protector of the group, responsible for making decisions on movement, food, and safety.
✔ Blackbacks – Subordinate males between 8-12 years old. Some remain in the group, while others eventually leave to form their own troop.
✔ Females – Bonded to the silverback, they play a vital role in nurturing young, forming social bonds, and maintaining group cohesion.
✔ Juveniles & Infants – The youngest members, full of curiosity and energy, learning behaviors through play and mimicry.
📌 Every gorilla family is unique, with deep social bonds and distinct personalities.
📌 The habituation process requires patience and respect, allowing the gorillas to gradually accept human presence without stress or disruption.
The Resting Family: A Nervous Female & A Relaxed Silverback
The tracker raised his hand, signaling for us to stop.
“There,” he whispered, pointing down the ravine.
I followed his gesture, and my breath caught.
📌 A silverback, several females, and juveniles were resting under a massive tree, partially hidden by dense foliage.
📌 Some lay sprawled out, completely at ease. Others lazily plucked leaves, chewing in slow, rhythmic movements.
But one gorilla wasn’t relaxed.
🔴 Story continued…
"Farther down the ravine, we catch our first glimpse of the gorilla family—one female watching us carefully as we approach, her gaze unbreaking."
📌 The female in the foreground looked tense.
📌 She never looked back at the silverback.
📌 She wasn’t grooming, wasn’t resting—her muscles were tight, her head slightly lowered, her gaze darting toward the tracker.
Something was off.
I glanced at the tracker beside me, watching for any sign of concern. His body language stayed neutral, but I could tell he had noticed it too.
📌 I whispered, "She doesn’t look comfortable."
He gave a slight nod but motioned for us to stay still. We had to observe first, not react.
And so, we waited.
🔴 Story continued…
"Slow, deliberate movements were key as we observed the gorilla family—capturing the moment without disturbing their world."
Gorilla Communication & Behavior
Mountain gorillas communicate in subtle yet powerful ways. Understanding their body language, vocalizations, and behaviors is key to interpreting their responses.
✔ Body Language – A stiff posture, direct gaze, or raised shoulders signal unease. Relaxed grooming, lying on their backs, or casual foraging indicate trust.
✔ Vocalizations – Deep rumbles offer reassurance within the group, while grunts serve as mild warnings. Sharp barks or roars signal distress or dominance. Mothers and infants exchange soft murmurs and chuckles, reinforcing bonds.
✔ Scent Marking & Expression – Silverbacks emit a strong musky scent when agitated or asserting control. Small facial expressions—pursed lips, a slight squint—can reveal mood shifts within the group.
📌 The silverback barely moved, his massive frame relaxed, eyes half-closed as if the world held no threats.
📌 The juveniles climbed vines nearby, chasing one another in slow-motion play.
📌 A female behind the silverback casually plucked fruit from a branch, chewing methodically.
📌 But the nervous female never settled.
The jungle around us was silent—except for the occasional crunch of leaves beneath her hands.
I turned to the tracker and whispered, “Is it okay to lift my camera?”
📌 He gave a small nod.
Slowly, carefully, I raised my camera and snapped a few photos, moving deliberately so as not to startle them.
📌 The moment felt fragile, as if any sudden movement might shatter it.
🔴 Story continued…
"From a relaxed stretch to a quiet moment of feeding, every gesture reveals something about gorilla communication—comfort, trust, and the simple rhythm of life in the forest."
📌 The tension lingered. She remained watchful.
Then, the tracker lifted his machete—
📌 A quick swipe at the dense foliage to clear our view.
📌 A deliberate motion, part of the habituation process.
And everything changed.
The First Mock Charge: A Sudden Explosion of Motion
The tracker’s machete sliced through the undergrowth with a sharp swish.
📌 The sound shattered the quiet hum of the forest.
📌 The nervous female snapped her head toward the tracker.
For a split second, she froze—muscles taut, eyes locked.
Then—she lunged.
📌 Leaves and branches snapped as she charged, a blur of black fur and sheer force.
📌 Teeth bared, her low, guttural warning filled the jungle air.
📌 She wasn’t coming for us—she was testing the tracker.
Instinct took over.
📌 I dropped my gaze.
📌 Beside me, the Canadian firefighter grabbed my arm, her grip tight.
📌 My heart slammed against my ribs.
The tracker didn’t move. He stood firm, machete still in hand—unwavering.
He had seen this before. He knew it was a test.
And just as suddenly as she had lunged—she stopped.
📌 A breath away from the tracker, she froze.
📌 A silent standoff—eyes locked in unspoken challenge.
📌 Then, with a sharp exhale, she tore a handful of leaves from a vine and resumed eating.
The jungle held its breath.
📌 The silverback hadn’t moved.
📌 The juveniles paused their play but showed no sign of fear.
📌 Only she had reacted.
I exhaled—a shaky, uneven breath I hadn’t realized I was holding.
📌 This was the moment from the beginning of this story.
📌 The moment I whispered, “Oh, shit. Oh, shit. Oh, shit” under my breath.
📌 The moment she tested us.
🔴 Story continued…
"After the female’s mock charge, the silverback remained unbothered—secure in his leadership, needing no display of force. Moments of power, moments of peace—both equally part of gorilla society."
Understanding Gorilla Charges: A Test, Not an Attack
To an untrained eye, a gorilla charge feels like an imminent attack—but in reality, it’s a controlled display of power.
✔ Mock charges establish dominance – The nervous female’s lunge wasn’t an attack; it was a reaction. The sudden movement of the machete slicing through undergrowth triggered her instinct to defend her space.
✔ Gorillas react to sudden movements – Hyper-aware of their surroundings, they respond instantly to changes. Her charge was a warning, not an ambush.
✔ Silverbacks charge for leadership – While females may charge out of uncertainty or protectiveness, a silverback’s charge asserts control.
✔ The absence of physical contact matters – Though she closed the distance with shocking speed, she stopped just short—asserting her presence without escalating to aggression.
📌 In the wild, respect is earned. The tracker’s stillness, our quiet observation, and our refusal to react instinctively told her we understood. And that, in the end, was enough.
After the Mock-Charge: Observing Life in the Jungle
I turned to the tracker, still standing completely unfazed beside me.
He gave me a knowing smile.
📌 "Now," he whispered, "she will decide if she trusts us."
📌 I wasn’t sure whether to feel relieved—or brace for what came next.
The tension slowly eased.
📌 The nervous female settled into a slow rhythm—chewing leaves, shifting her weight, watching.
📌 The silverback stretched out again, lazily scratching his fur, as if nothing had happened.
🔴 Story continued…
"Even in a moment of stillness, she remained watchful—chewing, observing, deciding whether to trust."
For the first time since arriving, it wasn’t about anticipating their next move—it was about watching their world unfold.
📌 A female picked through another’s fur, grooming her carefully.
📌 The silverback cracked open nuts with his powerful hands, chewing with slow, deliberate movements.
📌 A juvenile scratched its belly, rolling onto its side before flopping onto its back.
📌 The jungle was no longer still. It was alive with quiet interactions.
🔴 Story continued…
"Gorilla society thrives on balance—dominance and reassurance, power and peace. Here, the silverback scratches his head, a quiet moment after the earlier tension."
The Jungle Awakens
Then, a small shift.
📌 The juvenile grew restless, climbing a nearby tree.
📌 It peeled off pieces of bark, chewing them with exaggerated effort.
📌 The blackback—who had been watching from the shadows—disappeared down the ravine, moving toward another gorilla we hadn’t seen.
We couldn’t see them anymore—but we could hear them.
📌 Leaves rustling. Branches snapping. The low, steady grunts of gorilla communication.
📌 The family was beginning to stir.
🔴 Story continued…
"A juvenile gorilla peels bark from a tree, a quiet moment of learning and play."
"A quiet moment of curiosity—peeling bark with careful precision, learning from the forest itself."
The Final Charge: A Test of Trust
The nervous female moved first, still feeding as she slowly followed.
📌 She moved closer, eyes flicking toward the tracker.
📌 The silverback wasn’t far behind, mirroring her slow, deliberate movements.
📌 Every step was cautious, every glance a test.
Then, the tracker made his move.
📌 He lifted his machete again. Another swipe at the thick undergrowth.
And just like before—everything changed in an instant.
But this time…
📌 They both exploded forward.
📌 A synchronized charge, raw power surging through the jungle.
📌 Teeth bared, muscles rippling, eyes locked on the tracker.
The force of the silverback’s roar sent shivers through my body.
📌 This time, the tracker was 15 feet away from me.
📌 My knees went weak.
📌 My husband was up the ravine. The Canadian firefighter was beside me—and she grabbed my arm…again.
📌 This wasn’t just about dominance. This was the final test.
🔴 Story continued…
Silverback Strength: A Force of Nature
📌 How big is a silverback?
✔ Up to 450 pounds (204 kg) with a 7-foot (2.1 m) arm span—built for power and dominance.
📌 How strong are they?
✔ 4–10 times stronger than a human, capable of bending thick branches with ease.
✔ A bite force twice as strong as a lion’s, used for crushing tough vegetation.
✔ Yet, true power isn’t about aggression—a single charge is often enough to command respect.
"In the world of gorillas, power is silent until it isn’t. The silverback’s authority is absolute—whether through a calm gaze or a sudden charge."
The Mock Charge Was Over. The Jungle Held Its Breath.
The nervous female stopped first, her energy shifting—no longer testing, no longer challenging. She turned away, fading into the foliage.
📌 The silverback had made his statement. His power wasn’t in prolonged aggression, but in a single, decisive act—a charge that needed no follow-up.
📌 It happened in a flash—an explosion of movement, then silence. My heart was still racing, my hands unsteady as I raised my camera.
📌 With no more threats to address, he lowered himself to the ground. A deep exhale. A stretch. The tension melted from his body as if the charge had never happened.
📌 Power and peace—two sides of the same presence.
The Trek Back: Leaving the Jungle Behind
The mountain gorillas slowly began moving deeper into the forest, their massive forms vanishing into the dense foliage. The sounds of rustling leaves and quiet grunts faded as they slipped further down the ravine.
📌 We had spent three hours with them—watching, photographing, and earning their trust.
📌 I exhaled, feeling the weight of the experience settle over me. “I think that’s enough for today,” I murmured.
The Canadian firefighter nodded. My husband, standing slightly behind me, did the same.
📌 We had been given something rare—an intimate glimpse into the daily lives of wild gorillas. We felt it was time to leave them to it.
We turned and began the long trek out of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
📌 My legs were weak, unsteady from hours of balancing on steep inclines. Every step felt heavier, a reminder of the brutal terrain we had conquered.
📌 Yet my porter stayed close—her grip steady each time I faltered, her quiet encouragement keeping me moving forward.
As the thick jungle gave way to familiar trails, I stole one last glance over my shoulder.
📌 They were gone, swallowed by the impenetrable green.
But I knew I would carry this moment with me forever.
The Final Steps: Leaving the Jungle, Changed
The last stretch blurred. Every muscle was tired, my boots were soaked in mud, and my mind still raced—reliving every glance, every charge, every silent moment in the presence of the mountain gorillas of Bwindi.
📌 We had covered 9 ½ miles that day, pushing through steep inclines, tangled vines, and relentless humidity.
📌 I had come to see them, but in the end, they were the ones who revealed something to me.
That jungle wasn’t ours to conquer. It wasn’t there for our amusement or even for our admiration. It belonged to them.
And for a brief moment, they had let us in—not as equals, but as tolerated observers.
But mixed with the awe, there was something else—a quiet melancholy.
📌 This was the fragile balance they lived in now— a world shaped by both survival and human presence, with trackers, machetes, and the constant process of habituation.
📌 Encroachment had pushed them into fragments of their once vast range. Poaching had nearly wiped them out. Ecotourism had been created to save them—a necessary compromise, but a compromise all the same.
I wished they had a space of their own, vast and untouched. A place where they could exist without interference.
📌 But without human intervention, they wouldn’t have a future at all.
As we stepped out of the thick forest and into the clearing, I turned for one last look at the tangled green behind me.
📌 There was no sign of them now. No rustling branches, no distant grunts. Just the hum of the jungle, vast and unknowable.
But I knew they were there.
And somehow, I felt different.
📌 I wasn’t just leaving the forest. I was carrying it with me.
🔽 A final glimpse of my day with Bwindi’s gorillas.
Planning Your Own Gorilla Habituation Trek in Uganda
Book with a Trusted Tour Operator
Gorilla trekking permits must be acquired in advance and are strictly regulated by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or Rwanda Development Board (RDB). To ensure a seamless and ethical experience, book through a trusted and reputable tour operator specializing in responsible wildlife tourism.
✔ Why Use a Trusted Operator?
✅ They secure the necessary permits and handle all logistics.
✅ They ensure ethical practices that prioritize gorilla conservation and community support.
✅ They provide experienced guides and trackers, enhancing safety and the overall experience.
✔ Permit Scams: What to Watch Out For
Permits must be obtained directly through UWA (Uganda) or RDB (Rwanda). Be cautious of operators offering:
❌ "Discounted" or last-minute permits—permits are strictly regulated and non-transferable.
❌ No proof of official booking directly with UWA or RDB.
📌 Want to know which operator I used? Feel free to ask in the comments! 👇
Best Time to Visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
✔ Dry Seasons (Best for Trekking): June–September & December–February – Less rain, easier trails, and better visibility for photography.
✔ Wet Seasons (More Challenging but Fewer Tourists): March–May & October–November – Lush scenery, fewer crowds, but trails are muddy and more difficult.
Gorilla Habituation Permit & Costs (As of this publication; fees are subject to change)
✔ Gorilla Habituation Trek Permit: $1,500 per person – Allows up to four hours with the gorillas.
✔ Standard Gorilla Trek Permit: $800 per person – Limited to one hour with the gorillas.
✔ Porter Fee: $10–$20 (plus tip; see below) – Highly recommended for navigating the challenging terrain.
✔ Ranger, Guide & Tracker Fees: Included in the permit cost, but tipping is expected.
Tipping Etiquette
Tipping is an important part of the experience, as the guides, trackers, porters, and armed guards work long, physically demanding days.
📌 It is recommended that each person tip individually, rather than as a couple, to ensure fair distribution. Below are standard guidelines, but feel free to tip more based on your experience.
✔ Porters – Tip separately and privately, as they provide invaluable support throughout the trek.
💰 Suggested Amount: $20 per person, with an additional $5–$10 as a show of appreciation for their assistance.
✔ Trackers, Guide & Armed Guards – A collective tip is typically given to the head guide in front of everyone to ensure fair distribution.
💰 Recommended Amount: $10–$20 per person.
✔ Be Prepared – Bring enough cash in small denominations to distribute tips appropriately. The remote nature of these treks means there are no ATMs nearby, so plan ahead.
What to Pack for a Gorilla Habituation Trek
✔ Sturdy, Waterproof Hiking Boots – Essential for steep, muddy trails.
✔ Long-Sleeved Shirt & Trousers – Protects against insects and thorny vegetation.
✔ Rain Jacket & Waterproof Backpack – Bwindi’s weather is unpredictable.
✔ Gaiters & Gloves – Helps with traction and prevents scratches.
✔ A Trusty Camera & Extra Batteries – Bring a camera you’re familiar with, as the fast-moving, low-light conditions demand quick reactions. Extra batteries are essential.
✔ Soft, Moisture-Wicking Cloths (Bring Two) – One for wiping sweat from your face, another for keeping your camera lens clear in humid conditions.
✔ Face Mask – Required to protect gorillas from human-transmitted diseases.
✔ Water & High-Energy Snacks – The trek can last 6+ hours.
Tips for Future Trekkers
✔ Train for the Trek. The altitude and steep inclines are demanding—cardio and leg strength training will help.
✔ Hire a Porter. They are invaluable for navigating difficult terrain and supporting local communities.
✔ Respect the Gorillas. Move slowly, remain calm, and follow your guide’s instructions.
✔ Be Mentally Prepared. In a habituation trek, a mock charge can happen—it’s a test, not an attack. Trust the process.
Gorillas: How You Can Help
Mountain gorillas have made an incredible comeback from the brink of extinction, but their survival still depends on ongoing conservation efforts. If this experience resonated with you, here are a few ways to support their future:
📌 Support Conservation Organizations
✔ Gorilla Doctors – Provides medical care to wild gorillas.
✔ The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund – Focuses on research, conservation, and community engagement.
✔ World Wildlife Fund (WWF) – Works to protect gorilla habitats and reduce threats.
📌 Travel Responsibly
✔ Choose ethical trekking experiences that prioritize gorilla well-being.
✔ Follow guidelines to minimize disturbance—every visitor plays a role in their habituation process.
✔ Hiring a porter not only helps with the trek but also supports local communities that once relied on hunting.
📌 Make a Difference From Home
✔ Donations, no matter the size, help fund conservation programs and habitat protection.
✔ Symbolic adoptions through conservation organizations support ongoing research and care.
✔ Sharing stories and raising awareness helps ensure their protection remains a global priority.
Every effort, big or small, contributes to the protection of these incredible primates. Their future depends on continued conservation—and those who care enough to act.
Would I Do It Again?
Without hesitation.
📌 This experience wasn’t just about seeing gorillas—it was about understanding them.
📌 Even if just for a moment.
📌 And that’s something I’ll carry with me forever.
Happy travels,
Lona
"Amid the lush greenery of Bwindi, a gorilla finds solace in its dense forest home—a fragile yet vital sanctuary."
About the Author
"Hi, I’m Lona—a traveler and nature photographer sharing stories of adventure and connection. From vibrant toucans in Costa Rica to the Antarctica Peninsula, join me in exploring the wonders of the natural world."
Learn more: About Me
📌 Watch the Trek in Action
➡️ Click here to watch portions of the trek on my Instagram reel: [Click Here]
📌 More from My Uganda Trekking Experience
➡️ Africa’s Gentle Giants: Photographing Mountain Gorillas in Uganda’s Bwindi Forest – A closer look at capturing the beauty and behavior of mountain gorillas through the lens. [Read here]
➡️ More Treks from This Adventure – I’m currently writing about the three other treks from this journey! Coming soon:
✔️ A standard gorilla trek in Uganda’s Mgahinga National Park
✔️ A golden monkey trek in Mgahinga
✔️ A chimpanzee trek in Kibale Forest
➡️ 10 Travel Photos That Bring Me Back to Awe and Discovery – A collection of moments that changed the way I see the world through photography.
