As part of our blog series, Q&A with Professional Safari Guide, Mark Homann, we interviewed Mark Homann (seen in the image to the left)—Hills of Africa Travel safari guide, safari consultant, and private safari guide—on what it’s like to explore the forests of Uganda and Rwanda on a gorilla trekking safari.

See below for the interview:

1. Describe a typical day on a gorilla trekking safari.

A Gorilla trek starts with an early wakeup call and a drive to the National Park head quarters; here you are organized in to groups. You will meet your guides who will give you a detailed briefing on safety, how to behave, and what to expect. From here, you will proceed to your starting point from where your trek begins. The length of your walk will depend on how far the group of gorillas is from where you happen to be. The walk can be a great opportunity to take in the life of the forest, which, hopefully, your guide will share with you, as well as show you signs left by the gorillas themselves.

Once the moment comes and you find the gorilla group you are following, you have an hour to spend in the company of some of our closet relatives. Gorillas share over 95% of our DNA. Little can be said to describe the many emotions that you will experience, being one of the privileged few to have shared such precious moments with these fascinating and very rare creatures.

2. Are there any physical prerequisites to going gorilla trekking? In other words, is it a strenuous activity that makes it difficult for certain individuals to take part in?

A gorilla trek can be quite short or it can take quite some time. Depending on where you look for the gorillas you can be in very dense forest or a more welcoming environment. One does not need to be superfit, but you should expect to spend a number of hours walking at a comfortable pace. If you have the flu or a cold you will not be allowed to trek for fear of passing on the virus to the gorillas.

Also, you must be at least 15 years old. Be aware of feeling light headed as you climb higher into the mountains. You can request to search for a group that is known to be closer but there are no guarantees.

3. What types of activities and behaviors do safari-goers witness the gorillas performing while on a gorilla trekking safari?

Viewing gorillas is like all other safari experiences; you never know what you are going to get. You may find the gorillas busy, feeding and moving through the forest. Or, you may be fortunate to spend time with them as they interact with one another (in some cases even with you!). I have never met anyone who has not had a life-changing experience with these fantastic primates. I would suggest doing two days of trekking, when feasible, to make sure that you have the best experience possible.

4. For travelers who are concerned about the safety of gorilla trekking safaris, what would you say to them?

Gorillas aren’t the scary, aggressive animals that early Hollywood portrayed them to be; they are vegetarians who are just as happy to absorb us as we are them, but, I am sure they find us less interesting. If you follow the instructions of your guide you will be very safe and so enthralled you will not even have time to feel afraid. Uganda and Rwanda offer the best opportunities to see gorillas today. Both are safe and stable countries (Today, Rwanda is billed as one of the safest countries in Africa!). Tourism is the best chance Gorillas and other African primates, such as golden monkeys and chimpanzees, have to survive in their natural habits. The rainforests of Central and West Africa are viewed as a resource to a mass of impoverished humanity. Tourism is the only chance for these countries to utilize this very rare and none renewable resource in a sustainable manner.

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Below are 5 of the top things to see and do while visiting Rwanda:

Embark on a gorilla trekking safari in Parc des Volcans: Witness one of the world’s most powerful and awe-inspiring creatures in Rwanda’s acclaimed national park, Parc des Volcans, on a high-energy gorilla trekking safari. During this specialized safari experience, you’ll have the opportunity to hike up one of the six Virunga Volcanoes to come in contact with the giant mountain gorillas of Rwanda. The lush terrain provides an enchanting atmosphere for gorilla trekking, where visitors pass through bamboo forests and rainforests in search of this famous creature. While traveling up the slopes of Parc des Volcans, guests can witness a variety of other primate species, as well as an abundance of birds.

Where to stay: Sabyino Silverback Lodge

Visit Akagera National Park: Located on the border of Tanzania, Akagera National Park is covered with wildlife-clad swamps and lakes, and characterized by its sprawling savannah landscape and towering acacia trees. Visitors to the area can embark on exciting game drives to witness giraffe, zebra, impala, spotted hyena, hippopotamus, crocodile, fish eagle, shoebill stork, and giant herds of elephant and buffalo. Because of the region’s seclusion from other famous game viewing destinations, Akagera National Park offers guests a completely private and personalized experience that brings them deep into the wilderness of Rwanda.

Where to stay: Akagera Game Lodge

Gain unique cultural insight at the Iby’Iwacu cultural village: Discover the local traditions and culture of Rwandans in the cultural village of Iby’Iwacu. During your visit, you’ll meet and interact with local people and take part in some of their daily activities. Some of the things you might do while visiting include community walks, watching traditional dances performed by community members, learning about Rwanda’s musical instruments and performances, visiting local schools, and cooking traditional cuisine with the locals. You might also enjoy a visit with a local traditional healer to discover his various medicinal plants or perhaps you’d like to witness how locals prepare their traditional local banana beer. The list goes on and can be completely customized based on your interests and personal preferences.

Where to stay: Virunga Lodge

Primate and bird watching safaris in Nyungwe Forest National Park: Speckled with Zen-inducing waterfalls, stunning wild orchids, and delicate butterflies, Nyungwe Forest National Park is an enchanting land that appears to have been plucked from a fairytale. Some of the primates that can be witnessed on a primate safari include grey-cheeked mangabeys, vervet monkeys, Rwenzori colobus monkeys, silver monkeys, and l’Hoest’s monkeys. In terms of bird species that can be witnessed in the park, Nyungwe Forest is a sanctuary for more than 300 species of bird, 27 of which are endemic to the region. Some of the birds visitors can see include the mountain sooty boubou, yellow-eyed black flycatcher, Rwenzori Hill babbler, a variety of sunbird species, handsome francolin, and the red-collared mountain babbler—just to name a few.

Where to stay: Nyungwe Forest Lodge

Discover the history and culture of Rwanda at the National Museum: One of the best ways to take in all of the history and culture of Rwanda is by visiting the National Museum of Rwanda. Located in Butare, the National Museum is home to unique artifacts and traditional tools, as well as monochrome photographs taken in pre-colonial years. The museum also houses some of the traditional art that is still produced in Rwanda today, which includes baskets, ceramics, woodcarvings, paintings, and more. Much of the museum reveals the history of Rwanda at the end of the 19th century when the first Europeans came to the area.

Where to stay: Nyungwe Forest Lodge

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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?

Did you know nearly 20% of mammal species currently are endangered or threatened? Several factors have contributed to the decreasing populations of certain mammal species, including poaching and environmental factors.

With a rapid increase in endangered species in Africa, Hills of Africa Travel is dedicated to the conservation of these decreasing populations. We work closely with African reserves, parks, lodges, hotels, camps, and eco-tourism companies committed to the conservation of wildlife in Africa.

One of our most respected eco-tourism companies is Wilderness Safaris. Devoted to saving the environment, as well as the community, Wilderness Safaris created the Wilderness Safaris Wildlife Trust, which was established 20 years ago. According to the Wilderness Wildlife Trust website, the Trust “has supported a wide variety of wildlife management, research and education projects in southern Africa. These projects address the needs of existing wildlife populations, seek solutions to save endangered species, and provide education and training for local people and their communities.”

Some of the Wilderness Safaris’ ongoing and upcoming projects include: the Hwange Anti-Poaching Project, Botswana Rhino Ecology Project, Makuleke Large Mammal Reintroduction Project, and many other projects with similar causes.

Observing the endangered species of Africa in their natural environment on African safari tours is one of the most rewarding and rare experiences one could have because years from now, these creatures may be vanished from the earth forever.

Some endangered species in Africa include:

• The African Wild Ass: These gorgeous creatures are critically endangered largely because of habitat loss and hunting. They greatly resemble their relatives, the zebra and the horse.

• The African Wild Dog: The African wild dog population has dramatically decreased, primarily because they are shot by farmers. African wild dogs are killed because they are known to frequently feed on livestock. It is now illegal to kill an African wild dog.

• The Black Rhinoceros: Killed primarily by poachers for their horns, the black rhinoceros is critically endangered. Horns are frequently sold in the black market for more than $20,000 each!

• The Bonobo (Pygmy Chimpanzee): The bonobo is slightly smaller than the chimpanzee and can be found in the tropical and subtropical Central African forests. The main threats to their existence include habitat loss and hunting.

• The Cheetah: This creature, found in Sub-Saharan Africa, is the world’s fastest land animal and can run more than 60 mph. High infant mortality, decreased food sources, and habitat loss are large factors that have caused this species to be endangered.

• The Gorilla: Famous for being the largest primate, the gorilla is often killed for bush meat trade and trophy poaching. The gorilla’s habitat is also steadily decreasing from forest clearing. These stunning creatures can be seen on an African family safari or honeymoon safari in the hills of Uganda and Rwanda.

• The Mountain Zebra: Threatened by hunting and habitat loss, the mountain zebra is one of South Africa’s most endangered species. The few mountain zebras left can be found on mountainous slopes and plateaus, feeding on grass, bark, fruit, and leaves.

• Pygmy Hippopotamus: Found in the marshlands and forests of West Africa, the pygmy hippo is smaller than other species of hippo and lives mostly on land—unlike their hippo relatives who spend much of their time in the water. They are endangered due to hunting and habitat loss.

It’s a rare treat to witness these endangered species, as well as other endangered species on an African family safari or honeymoon safari. Their fate appears unfortunate, but with the support of eco-tourism companies, you can lend a hand to wildlife conservation in Africa. Let Hills of Africa Travel create for you a customized itinerary around your every preference, and experience the sheer magic of Africa. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802.  We’re looking forward to making your dreams come true . . .

Many of us tend to believe the lion is the fiercest of the African safari animals, but there is one mammal that unexpectedly might be more ferocious than the lion . . . the hippopotamus. Compared to lions and snakes, the hippo has killed the most humans. Although hippos tend to look cute and cuddly, they have a vicious side to them and will stop at nothing when charging full speed. So, if you’re ever standing between a hippo and a lion (which would never happen on a safari!), it might behoove you to walk toward the lion . . .

Hippos usually live in water during their entire day, either completely underwater or partially submerged. Usually, the only time a hippo goes on land is at night to feed on grass. They must do this because they do not eat plants that grow in the water.

Hippos have a large variety of features that are highly adaptable for life in the water. The thick fat beneath the hippos’ skin enables them to stay buoyant enough to float on the surface if they wish. Their four-toed hooves are webbed, which allows them to easily swim throughout the water. Hippos love water so much that their babies are even born underwater.

Did you know?

• Weighing up to 4,400 lbs, the hippo is the second largest non-marine mammal.

• Hippos use their tails to fling feces at each other as a way of marking their territory . . . it’s true. And, disgustingly enough, baboons enjoy eating “hippo territory.”

• The eyes, ears, and nose on a hippo are located on the top of its head, which makes the hippo highly adapted for living in water.

• Hippos typically rise to the surface after about five minutes to take a breath of air, but can stay submerged for up to 15 minutes.

• Hippo groups usually consist of 10 – 15 females and one alpha male.

• A hippo’s mouth can open a shocking 150 degrees wide.

• Hippos sweat red. Their modified sweat glands secrete a red, sunscreen-like substance when they become too hot, which enables them to protect their delicate skin from the sun and repel pesky bugs.

• According to Animal Planet, “the hippopotamus is more closely related to whales and porpoises than it is to other land animals.”

Are you ready to take an adventure of a lifetime, full of wild game-viewing, and thrilling activities? You can on an unforgettable African family safari or honeymoon safari. Let Hills of Africa Travel create for you a detailed itinerary tailored around your every individual preference. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802. A world of spectacular beauty and adventure awaits you . . .

• Communicable human diseases have been known to affect the gorilla population. Gorillas can catch the flu, measles, tuberculosis, and other viruses from human contact.
• Full-grown male adults weigh approximately 500 lbs.
• When threatened, the mountain gorilla will push off the ground, balance on its back legs, and pound its chest.
• Mountain gorillas are classified mainly as herbivorous, but have been known to eat small animals.
• Wild mountain gorillas usually live to be around 35 years-old.
• Species of gorilla include the western lowland gorillas, eastern lowland gorillas, and the mountain gorillas.

When many people think of an African safari, they only envision one type—an adventure in a rugged vehicle, bouncing about the rolling terrain of Africa. This is absolutely true, but there are also several other types of safaris that are just as exhilarating, and shouldn’t be overlooked when planning your trip to Africa. Although a vehicle safari is a must while on your African safari trip, there are plenty of other types of safaris you may not be aware of, that are unique and just as exciting.

Did you ever think there could be five different types of an African safari vacation?

• A game-drive safari or vehicle safari could be considered the most traditional. The thrill of the vehicle’s invigorating speed and ruggedness create a truly authentic safari. Vehicle safaris offer an exceptional view of wild game throughout the area, and allow you to sit back and enjoy the excitement of a lion attacking its prey unravel before your eyes. Most luxurious lodges and camps offer excellent vehicle safaris.
• A walking safari allows you to connect with nature on a whole new level. The movement and feel of this safari is completely opposite to a vehicle safari, as you can feel the ground beneath your feet, and are on a different height level than a vehicle. A walking safari offers the same fantastic game-viewing experience and adventure as a vehicle safari, while offering a different perspective on nature. Zambia’s Luangwa National Park is famous for its exceptional walking safaris.
• A canoe safari boasts a fresh perspective on animal behavior. The rivers and water holes provide a place for animals to bathe, play, and drink from. Watch a hippo charge into the water or a baby elephant play with his mother. In addition to observing animals behaving in a different environment, a canoe safari boasts a large variety of birds and water-dwelling animals, which cannot be seen on any other type of safari. The Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe is the ideal place to enjoy a canoe safari.
• A balloon safari is one of the most interesting safaris there is. This one-of-a-kind safari is truly a unique adventure since riders have a bird’s-eye-view of the land, and can observe nature from a whole new perspective. Game-viewing is spectacular as you glide above the treetops, and soak in the picturesque moments. Enjoy a hot-air balloon safari at Singita Grumeti Reserve in Tanzania, and experience an out-of-this-world escapade.
• A horseback safari is arguably one of the most adventurous safaris there is. Running with a herd of zebra on horseback is an experience that cannot be matched by any other. Feel the adrenaline rush through your veins as you ride along the sprawling hills and observe spectacular creatures and the Big Five at close proximity. Singita Grumeti Reserve in Tanzania now offers horseback safaris for experienced riders.

Don’t miss the bountiful opportunities that await you in Africa. Let Hills of Africa Travel plan the perfect, tailored itinerary for your next African family safari or honeymoon safari. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802, and experience an unforgettable journey.

Planning a trip to Africa can be difficult, but with Hills of Africa Travel, it couldn’t be simpler. With so many places, activities, and accommodations to choose from, it’s extremely important to find the ones you’re most interested in. Hills of Africa Travel is dedicated to planning the perfect African safari trip, catered to each individual preference. We make the planning process for our clients fun, easy, and delightful to be a part of.

Hills of Africa Travel doesn’t believe in providing clients with generic, prepackaged trip itineraries. We want our clients to experience all of the amazing aspects of Africa they would find interesting. A luxurious African safari vacation is a trip of a lifetime, and is unlike any other. We strive to provide clients with a detailed itinerary filled only with activities they want to do, and places they want to stay. We believe in tailoring personal itineraries around every preference.

In order to ensure that the perfectly crafted itinerary is made, we send a detailed questionnaire to all our clients. No detail goes unnoticed, and everything is taken into account. A trip this luxurious, stunning, and adventurous is well-worth our time finding you exactly what you want. Nothing pleases us more than making our clients happy.

One of our expert Hills of Africa travel agents will create an original itinerary molded around your personality and preferences. We carefully combine authentic safaris, personalized services, activities of your choosing, and accommodations of your choosing, to create a life-alerting vacation, filled with spectacular memories.

Our questionnaire includes questions that are unique and carefully designed to ensure we plan the perfect trip for you. Some sample questions are:

• Have you traveled to Africa before?
• What are your hobbies, interests, passions?
• What is your favorite flower?
• Do you like champagne or wine?
• Do you prefer red or white wine?
• What car do you drive?
• For a last minute getaway, where would you choose?

Once you’ve answered the questionnaire, we set up a phone call with you to discuss what you’re specifically looking for on your African safari vacation. Your answers to these detailed questions allow us to craft from scratch, the activities that fit your preferences. For example, if you’re a wine connoisseur, and not just any wine connoisseur, a red wine connoisseur, we would suggest an itinerary which includes Cape Winelands in it. Not just anywhere in Cape Winelands, but a plantation famous for its bold, red wines.

For a couple interested in a honeymoon safari, they’re most likely looking for a romantic getaway, filled with memories sure to last a lifetime. On honeymoon itineraries we add detailed activities, including private dinners in the bush, rose petals leading from the game-drive vehicle to a warm bath accompanied by a bottle of champagne, a couple’s massage, a picnic dinner on Table Mountain, private dinner on the patio, and so much more. Hills of Africa Travel believes in first-class service. This means, no group tours (unless it’s the group you’re vacationing with), only privately guided tours with the best experts in the area.

We want to make your dreams come true. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802 to begin planning your trip of a lifetime. Africa awaits you . . .

We all like to celebrate the arrival of a new year, where are you celebrating this year?

I will be on a beach in Hilton Head, celebrating with friends and family.

Last year, our clients James and Jennifer Fox, celebrated in style at Azura in Mozambique whilst on their African safari honeymoon, and Dennis & Michelle Ventry celebrated with full champagne glasses at Kensington Place in Cape Town.

This year, the Heneault family will be celebrating at Makalolo Plains in Hwange National Park, whilst on their African Safari vacation.

Hills of Africa Travel would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very happy, healthy and abundant 2009!

Live the Magic of Africa - call Hills of Africa Travel today and book your trip of a lifetime.