How Challenging is Gorilla Trekking?
Gorilla trekking is not as hard as everyone makes out, but yes, you do have to be of decent fitness. We always say that if you can walk to the top of a set of stairs and not be out of breath then that should be your basic fitness level to work from. Read on to discover more on fitness levels required for gorilla trekking.
How Challenging is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
The terrain in Uganda is slightly harder work than that of Rwanda There is a reason it is called Bwindi Impenetrable Forest! The terrain is steep up and down and it can often be thick vegetation.
It is impossible to say just how long your trek will take. We've seen groups contact a gorilla family within 45 minutes, but equally, you could be trekking for five hours or more before coming across a gorilla family.
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How Challenging is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Rwanda is slightly less dense vegetation and can be less steep. This does all depend however on what specific gorilla group you are allocated to track and where they are on the day in question. The Susa Group is usually the most demanding to track whereas the Sabyinyo Group is usually the easiest to track and navigate to.
Mountain gorillas live in thick jungles with uneven ground and high humidity but don’t be put off, it’s doable for those with even moderate fitness.
Altitude is another consideration when tracking gorillas in Rwanda. Your trek will take place at elevations between 2,500 and 3,000 meters. Whilst this isn’t going to cause any altitude sickness it can bring on breathlessness even in individuals that are physically fit. If you’re worried, then we’d encourage spending a day or two in Kinigi to get acclimated to the altitude before beginning your treks.
Keep in mind that as with Uganda, guides are there to clear paths with machetes when required and there’s always the assistance from porters if required.
What to Expect from a Gorilla Trek
Gorilla Trekking Fitness Tips
Useful things that are going to result in you having a better experience when gorilla trekking include:
Go in the Dry Season if you’re Concerned about your Fitness
The dry season is usually better than the wet season for getting around as the ground is not as muddy. The wet season often provides better photo opportunities as the rain clears away the dust, allowing for better visibility of the gorillas.
Walking Stick
Either bring your own or accept the offer of one from the gorilla trekking headquarters. You will be surprised how useful a walking stick is when trekking through the rainforests of Central Africa! Walking sticks offer you stability that is often required and equally assist in holding back some of the thick bush that can block your path.
Gaiters
Bring them, it does not matter if they are not fashionable! If you hit thick mud which is more than likely to be the case, then you will not regret having gaiters. These both protect your boots and lower half of your trousers from either filling up with muddy water or getting covered in mud, but also stop any creepy crawlies from making their way down into your boots!
Porter
Don't be proud! Take a porter. This will help you, and the money you pay goes back into the local community and supports local families; every penny counts. A porter also becomes your inside line into the local life and community of the gorilla parks; they will often become your friend, willing you on along the way and helping you in what is their terrain. And finally, it is challenging work trekking through rainforests so let someone else carry your bag that knows the terrain!
In Summary
If you are worried about your fitness or which season to travel in, then contact us below and one of our gorilla experts will talk through your requirements to advise you on the best course of action.