Going on a Gorilla Safari in Africa: After bonobos and chimps, gorillas are our closest living relatives, sharing 98% of our DNA. Furthermore, they are classified as a critically endangered species, yet it is feasible to go to view gorillas in the wild. Going on gorilla safaris and trekking trips helps conservation and has an influence on sustainable tourism. There are several reasons why you should go on an African gorilla safari.
Mountain Gorilla Information
There are two types of gorillas in the world: Western gorillas and Eastern gorillas, both of which inhabit equatorial Africa. It should be noted that both species have upland and lowland subspecies. The Cross River Gorilla and the Western Lowland Gorilla are the two species of Western gorillas. More specifically, the two Eastern gorilla species, are the Eastern lowland gorilla and the Mountain gorilla.
How to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat
Mountain gorillas, on the other hand, dwell in mountain forests at elevations ranging from 8,000 to 13,000 feet. While gorillas have thicker fur to help them survive in cold climates, habitat devastation, and human encroachment have put them in poor health. Although mountain gorillas are an endangered species, their population has expanded in recent years to more than 1065 individuals, despite threats like poaching and human encroachment, which may lead their numbers to decline.
Gorilla facts that are interesting;
Humans and gorillas share 98.4% of their DNA.
They have human-like fingerprints, but gorillas have distinct nose impressions.
In the wild, they have a lifetime of 35 years.
Mountain gorillas are 4 to 6 feet tall and weigh between 300 and 485 pounds.
Follow the directions of the park ranger guides.
If you are unwell, please do not go trekking since gorillas may quickly become infected with human ailments.
Mountain gorilla newborns grow twice as fast as humans.
They are mostly herbivores, consuming up to 40 pounds of plants per day.
Why are Mountain Gorillas Critically Endangered?
The reason mountain gorillas are a threatened species. While their numbers continue to rise year after year, we must guarantee that this trend continues. However, they are vulnerable to a variety of dangers in the wild, as noted below.
Poaching;
While gorillas are on the move on a regular basis, they are often targeted by poachers and can be trapped in snares indirectly. Other poachers intentionally catch them for bush meat. In certain cases, baby gorillas are taken for zoos or the illicit pet trade, and adult gorillas are killed as a result. To safeguard the safety of the creatures, the government has deployed armed guards who patrol the areas where mountain gorillas reside in the wild.
Destruction of habitats
Human developments have limited the number of gorilla habitats, and mountain gorillas are being evicted. Lands have also been cleared for agriculture and animals. To safeguard the survival of mountain gorillas, the government must put a stop to all of this and extend and protect the regions where they inhabit.
Diseases
Mountain gorillas develop human illnesses such as the flu, cough, and diarrhea. In that situation, gorillas in the wild are constantly sighted by researchers and visitors to give them a greater chance of survival – they are closely watched. Sick or wounded gorillas can be treated by veterinarians.
Unrest and war
War and civil upheaval in Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo have forced refugees to migrate to the Virunga Mountains, resulting in more habitat loss and poaching. They’ve also been slain by landmines in the jungle.
Fortunately, there have been Gorilla conservation programs or government organizations to fight the incident, such as the World Wildlife Fund, local partners ”Rwanda Development Board, Uganda Wildlife Authority, and the Institut Congolais pour Ia Conservation de la Nature ” in order to ensure gorilla survival in the wild.
Mountain Gorilla Viewing Locations;
Mountain gorillas may be observed in the wild in three nations across the world: Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Rwanda is well-known for being one of the best places to witness mountain gorillas in the wild. Volcanoes National Park is one of the greatest gorilla safari places in the world, featuring some of the best gorilla safaris in the world. It is possible to see gorillas up close or venture a little distance from the park’s perimeter. In Rwanda, there is a good chance of sighting gorillas, and the environment is beautiful.
Uganda
If you’re wondering where to go, try going for gorillas. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is a great place to go for gorilla trekking. You may also see mountain gorillas in Mgahinga National Park, which is part of the Virunga Conservation Area.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo
Mountain gorillas can be seen at Virunga National Park in Congo, but you should be very cautious and consult with your tour operator for guidance on this shifting scenario.
Considering a Gorilla Tour
If you are planning a gorilla safari vacation in Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of the Congo, you should contact competent tour companies who can assist you in planning your trip. Here are a few things to consider before embarking on your gorilla trekking safari excursion.
Is Going Gorilla Trekking Safe?
Yes, you should not be concerned about your safety in the presence of gorillas. All you have to do is follow the rules and guidelines that your advisors establish with you. It should be noted that mountain gorilla families are fully acclimated and used to humans. Unfortunately, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is not a safe place to visit, but you may get additional information from a tour operator.
Other facts: Do not gaze directly into the gorillas’ eyes.
When photographing them, avoid using a flash.
What to Bring on a Gorilla Trek
Hiking boots that are waterproof
Repellent for insects
Protect yourself from red ants, pests, and plants by wearing long-sleeved shirts and long trousers.
Enough mineral water to drink
Hiking boots that are comfortable
a set of binoculars
a camera with sufficient batteries
Trekking sticks
When is the best time to go on a gorilla safari?
The optimum time to go on a gorilla safari is during the dry season, which lasts from June to mid-September and from December to February.
