Gorilla trekking and gorilla habituation are now some of the most popular tourist activities in Africa. Gorilla trekking can be done in Virunga National Park in Congo, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda.
However, gorilla habituation is only done in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. Since it takes place in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi, it is also convenient for tourists starting their trips from Kigali.
What is the difference between gorilla trekking and gorilla habituation?
Gorilla habituation is a process where mountain gorillas are slowly trained to get used to people.
This process takes about 2 to 3 years. During this time, rangers and researchers visit the gorilla group every day. They study the gorillas’ behavior and give names to each individual.
When the gorillas are calm around people, a mock trek is done. If the group responds well, they become ready for tourist visits.
Gorilla trekking is when tourists visit a gorilla group that is already used to human presence.
Number of Trekkers
In Uganda, only eight people are allowed to trek a habituated gorilla group per day.
Gorilla habituation is more limited, allowing only four people to visit a gorilla group each day.
This means that gorilla trekking permits are easier to get, while gorilla habituation permits can be harder to find, especially during the busy travel season.
Price of Permits
The prices for these activities are different.
Gorilla trekking permits cost $800 in Uganda, $400 in Congo, and $1500 in Rwanda.
Gorilla habituation permits cost $1500 and are only available in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda.
Time Spent with Gorillas
Gorilla habituation allows tourists to spend more time with the gorillas. Visitors spend four hours observing and learning about them.
Gorilla trekking allows only one hour with the gorillas.
You can find habituated gorilla groups for trekking in Bwindi, Mgahinga, Volcanoes, and Virunga national parks.
But only two gorilla families are being habituated: the Bikingi and Bishaho groups.
Gorilla trekking and gorilla habituation both offer unforgettable experiences.
Your choice depends on your budget and how much time you want to spend with the mountain gorillas.
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