Have you ever imagined, dreamt of spending a significant amount of time observing the majestic mountain gorilla families in their natural habitat? Then look no further than the incredible gorilla habituation experience in Uganda! This unique Gorilla Habituation in Uganda is an encounter that allows you to delve deeper into the world of these gentle giants than ever before.
The adult male gorillas on their back have a sliver look, the reason why old males are called silverbacks, mountain gorillas are the descendants of ancient monkeys and apes found in Africa and Arabia during Oligocene epoch about (34 to 24 million) years ago.
However the evolution history is still not very clear, watching these creatures on a gorilla habituation in Uganda may remind you about human history of evolution and stages of human life that spans approximately 6 to 8million years, from the emergence of human lineage to present day, something which makes gorilla habituation a must activity on a Uganda safari.
What is Gorilla Habituation?
Gorilla habituation in Uganda is a meticulous process where wild gorillas are gradually accustomed to human presence. Researchers meticulously visit a chosen gorilla group daily over a period of two to three years. This allows them to study individual gorillas, their behavior, and eventually, name them.
Once the gorillas are comfortable with the researchers, it’s of no doubt that a mock exercise is introduced, with a small group of people like scientists and journalists participating. If the gorilla family successfully navigates this mock encounter, they are then deemed ready for trekking by tourists.
Where to Experience Gorilla Habituation in Uganda
Gorilla Habituation in Uganda is carried out with two gorilla families, located in the southern Nkuringo and Rushaga regions of Bwindi Impenetrable national Park are dedicated specifically for the gorilla habituation in Uganda. The Mubare gorilla group was the first to become available for tourism in Uganda in April 1993.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is Uganda’s oldest and most biological divers rain forest, which dates back over 25000 years ago and a UNESCO World heritage Site, a habitat to more than half of the world’s population of Mountain Gorillas , actually there is over 300 Gorillas living here and more than 19 habituated gorilla families.
Why Choose Gorilla Habituation in Uganda Over Gorilla Trekking?
While gorilla trekking allows a precious hour with these gentle giants, gorilla habituation experience in Uganda offers an unparalleled depth of experience. This gorilla experience grants a chance to spend a remarkable four hours observing gorilla behavior, witnessing their social interactions, feeding habits, and playful antics, habituation provides a more intimate and personalized experience compared to trekking groups.
What is the cost of gorilla habituation in Uganda?
The cost of gorilla habituation in Uganda is USD 1,500 per person for foreign nonresidents, USD1000 for foreign residents and Ugandans are only charged a lower price of UGX750000. This permit grants you access to spend a much longer time with the gorillas (4 hours) compared to gorilla trekking (1 hour). Be sure to book well in advance (6-7 months) as there are only eight permits issued daily.
When is the best time for gorilla habituation in Uganda?
Ultimately, the best time for gorilla habituation depends on your individual preferences and priorities the period od (June-September & December-February) being the best for Gorilla habituation experience in Uganda with pleasant Weather less rain translates to drier trails, making trekking easier and less muddy. Better Visibility, the thinned foliage allows for easier spotting of the gorillas within the forest.
Where to stay on your gorilla habituation in Uganda
There are a number of accommodation facilities ranging from budget, midrange and luxury where you can stay during your gorilla habituation safari, the best choice of lodge is also those accommodation facilities that promote conservation, near to the habituation starting points and those with a good view scenery and opportunities to immerse yourself into the wild, some lodges are not far away from wildlife habitats which is an added experience.