According to a recent newsletter from Volcanoes Safaris, a Uganda newspaper, New Vision, claims that the population of mountain gorillas in Virunga Massif has increased 26.3% in the past seven years. This is a spectacular feat for these endangered mountain gorillas—one that will hopefully continue to produce positive results for this remarkable species.
Famous for being the largest primate, the gorilla is often killed for the bush meat trade and trophy poaching. The gorilla’s habitat has also steadily decreased over the past years due to deforestation.
Today, you have the rare chance to witness these riveting creatures in their natural habitat on a gorilla tracking safari in Uganda and Rwanda. And I assure you, there is nothing more riveting and glorious than the sight of a 500 lb. silverback, male gorilla beating his chest with the force of ten men.
What can you expect while on a gorilla tracking safari?
Vast scenic beauty: Uganda and Rwanda are comprised of mountainous terrain, thick bamboo forests, majestic swamplands, volcanoes, lakes, and stunning national parks, which all offer a unique insight into the region’s awe-inspiring wildlife. Some places to be sure to visit include: Bwindi National Park in Uganda and Parc National des Volcans in Rwanda—perfect for gorilla tracking and photographing wildlife; Ishasha—home to the tree climbing lions; Kasenyi plains—ideal for game drives; Lake Nyinambuga—a volcano crater that filled with water ages ago; and the Kyambura Gorge—famous for exceptional chimpanzee tracking safaris.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Sunset in Rwanda
Riveting primates: Explore the enchanting Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Parc National des Volcans in search of the elusive silverback gorilla, as well as a wide spectrum of other primate species including the black-and-white colobus monkey, red-tailed monkey, blue monkey, baboon, and others. Home to nearly half of the world’s population of gorillas, Bwindi is the only place on earth where chimpanzees and mountain gorillas live amongst each other.
During these safaris, you’ll witness gorillas interacting with each other, noisy chimps, and branch-dangling monkeys without the constraints of a controlled environment or gates. You’ll truly feel alive as your heart simultaneously pounds and melts as you stare into the eyes of these intricate creatures.
For those who want to endure more strenuous physical activity, you may want to consider full-day gorilla tracking safaris, while individuals who prefer a more relaxed vacation might opt for the half-day gorilla tracking safari. Since these safaris do require physical activity and lots of walking up the lush mountainsides of Uganda and Rwanda, it’s important to plan only a few days for gorilla tracking so that you’re not tired for the rest of your trip.
A Golden Monkey
An abundance of diverse wildlife: While on game drives and walking safaris, you’ll have the opportunity to witness nearly 350 species of bird and 80 species of mammal, including elephant, lion, buffalo, and bush duiker.
And one of the most spectacular creatures in this area is the mysterious tree climbing lion. These rare lions have been found climbing trees in Uganda and Tanzania and can often be seen resting on a tree limb, high above the ground. So don’t forget to look up while on your game drives.
Lavish accommodations: Celebrated for opulent accommodations, Uganda and Rwanda offer the discerning traveler a wide selection of sensational lodges and hotels, built with relaxation and seclusion in mind. Whether you want to stay near the city center of Uganda or retreat to vast natural surroundings, these countries have luxury accommodations to suite your specific preferences.
Some of our preferred accommodations include Volcanoes Safaris’ lodges—Virunga Safari Lodge in Rwanda and Bwindi Lodge in Uganda; the Emin Pasha Hotel—a luxurious hotel located near Uganda’s city center; the Ndali Lodge—situated on the edge of a volcano crater; and the Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge—located on the Great Rift Valley.
Adventurous activities: Although Uganda and Rwanda are famous for their exceptional gorilla tracking safaris, these areas also offer excellent game drive, hiking, climbing, and boating opportunities. With such a diverse terrain, Uganda and Rwanda are an adventurist’s paradise. These areas are also celebrated for their banana plantations and legendary tea plantations—perfect for exploring on a guided tour. And you can’t visit Uganda without hiking the Muhavura and Gahinga Volcanoes.
Would you love to take a trip to Uganda or Rwanda?
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These pictures are beautiful! It seems like no matter which location you pick, it is going to be the right choice. With all of the picturesque landscapes and vast varieties of wildlife, it is sure to be a once in a lifetime experience.