Enjoy a last morning game drive in Ishasha this morning before proceeding by vehicle to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas and designated as a World Heritage Site. Some of the gorilla families have been habituated to human presence, and it is possible to visit them in their natural habitat within the forest. Bwindi also contains many other primate species and offers interesting and more relaxing walks for visitors around the lower levels of the forest.
Prior to trekking, you will have an orientation at the park headquarters to become familiar with gorilla tracking ethics. It is very important that under no circumstances are the gorillas to be touched by humans. This is to protect the animals from communicable diseases to which they are very susceptible. Spend your days in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest on two full day treks to view two different families of mountain gorillas. The search, with experienced trackers leading the way, can take up to eight hours although the gorillas are usually found after two to four hours. Some hiking areas lie at altitudes above 7,500 feet over rough and muddy terrain. Although the hike can be physically demanding, the beauty of the forest and surrounding scenery make the trek worthwhile. Once the gorillas are located all fatigue is forgotten, as the experience is often described as the most profound natural history experience in the world. Picnic lunches are provided and it is important to take plenty of water. Cameras and plenty of fast speed film are recommended. It can rain at a few minutes notice, hence water proof clothing is a good idea, also zip lock bags for cameras and film. Return to camp for the evening meal and relaxation. Three nights accommodations at Gorilla Forest Camp.
This video was taken by clients at Gorilla Forest Camp. Because the camp is inside the borders of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest gorilla families occasionally visit the camp. This is a rare occurrence, but speaks to the very special location of this lodge.