The Question – Is Gorilla Trekking Worth It? – the Answers.
“Is Gorilla Trekking Worth the Money – the Time and Effort? Thousands of Trekkers think so
Is Gorilla Trekking Worth the Money – Time and Effort? Over a decade of taking clients from across the globe on mountain gorilla treks, not everyone has expressed disappointment or felt that their investment in the safari, the effort exerted, and the Time dedicated were unworthy.
While it is true that some individuals may occasionally voice concerns or complaints about aspects such as their lodge experience or feeling that the ranger allocated insufficient Time for a Gorilla Habituation Experience, these instances are relatively rare.
A few individuals might also mention unfavorable weather conditions, bothersome flies, the physical demands of the trek, or delays in transportation. However, none of these complaints relate to the encounter with the gorillas. The Time spent with a gorilla family is consistently described as an awe-inspiring experience surpassing monetary considerations.
After completing a gorilla trek, the focus is not on financial aspects or regrets about the money spent. Instead, the conversations revolve around the indescribable joy of being in the presence of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom. The profound connection and unforgettable memories forged during these encounters far outweigh any concerns about expenses or physical exertion.
The words of David Attenborough come to mind: “Spending time with these gentle creatures in their natural habitat was a profoundly moving experience.” Is Gorilla Trekking Worth the Money – Time and Effort? We think so, and so do our clients.
Is Gorilla Trekking Worth the Money – Time and Effort?
1. Is Gorilla Trekking Worth the Money Spent on It?
Yes, Gorilla Trekking is one of Africa’s more costly tourist activities. Yet, suppose you ask any Gorilla Trekker about their experience with a gorilla family and inquire whether it was worth it. In that case, the typical response is an emphatic affirmation – “It was well worth it, a priceless experience.”
Regarding pricing, Gorilla Trekking in Uganda presents an immediate advantage over its neighboring counterpart, Rwanda. Trekking permits in Uganda are priced at $700, compared to Rwanda’s $1,500, resulting in a substantial saving of $800. A Gorilla Safari in Uganda costs approximately half as much as the equivalent safari in Rwanda.
Whether Gorilla Trekking is worth the financial investment depends on one’s priorities. If cost is the sole focus, without considering the invaluable experience of encountering these gentle giants of the rainforest, then Gorilla Trekking might not be the ideal choice.
However, for those who understand that the permit fees contribute to Gorilla Conservation efforts, the worth of Gorilla Trekking extends far beyond monetary considerations. Thanks to Gorilla Tourism, the population of Mountain Gorillas has been steadily increasing, and they are no longer classified as critically endangered.
According to those fortunate enough to have encountered these gentle giants of the forest, Gorilla Trekking is worth every US Dollar, UK Pound, or Euro spent, as it offers an extraordinary and unparalleled experience that transcends mere currency.
2. Is Gorilla Trekking worth the Time invested?
Indeed, engaging in Gorilla Trekking requires a significant commitment of Time as it unfolds within the untamed wilderness of sanctuaries. It transcends a mere allocation of Time; once again emphasized, it is an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Mountain Gorillas cannot be found within the confines of a zoo. Despite attempts, these remarkable creatures do not thrive in captivity. To witness them in all their glory, one must journey to their natural habitats in Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of Congo.
A typical gorilla safari typically spans three days, allowing for a comprehensive immersion in this captivating endeavor. On day one, you embark on a journey to the park, setting the stage for the adventure. Day two is dedicated to the awe-inspiring gorilla trek, an encounter that will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Finally, on day three, you have the option to continue your safari explorations or make your way back to the airport for your departure. Anything less than three days compromises the fullness and quality of the experience, as it requires adequate Time to appreciate the magnificence of these gentle giants.
For convenient access, you can fly to Uganda’s two Gorilla Parks from Entebbe International Airport or Kigali. Additionally, for those seeking an extended and immersive safari experience, there are options available to incorporate gorilla trekking as a significant highlight of your journey.
Gorilla Trekking beckons you to embrace the profound rewards of investing your Time and venturing into these extraordinary wilderness sanctuaries. It is an opportunity to witness nature at its most majestic and to forge a connection with these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
3. Is Gorilla Trekking Worth the Effort?
Gorilla Trekking is far from a stroll through a park; it requires substantial effort and can be physically challenging. Whether ascending the volcanoes in Mgahinga Gorilla Park or navigating the ridges of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, the trek poses a significant challenge for many visitors who witness the Mountain Gorillas.
While in the past, porters were available to assist trekkers; it’s important to note that in the post-COVID era, the Uganda Wildlife Authority no longer recommends their usage to minimize the number of individuals near the gorilla families.
However, for trekkers with disabilities, special arrangements can be made to ensure their participation. This includes the provision of a sedan chair, where porters carry the trekker in and out of the trekking area.
Undoubtedly, Gorilla Trekking demands considerable effort, and trekkers often feel tired upon their return. Yet, one could say they are “well-drained,” and the sentiment expressed by many is that the experience was undoubtedly worth the effort invested.
While the trek itself may be physically uncomfortable and strenuous, nobody complains about the experience of encountering these gentle giants. The sheer magnificence of being in the presence of the Mountain Gorillas eclipses any temporary discomfort or exhaustion, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
In summary, Gorilla Trekking is an adventure requiring effort and determination, but the rewards of witnessing the Gentle Giants firsthand far surpass any temporary challenges encountered.
Is Gorilla Trekking Worth the Money – Time and Effort?
Is Gorilla Trekking worth the investment of money, Time, and effort? Despite the existence of Gorilla Trekking naysayers, the majority of whom have never embarked on an actual trek with these magnificent creatures, thousands of visitors each year consider their African safari incomplete without the inclusion of Primate Trekking.
Over 90% of the requests we receive for safaris specifically include Gorilla Trekking or the even more immersive experience of spending extended Time with the gentle giants through the Habituation Experience. Many of our clients choose to trek multiple times, often engaging in two or three Gorilla Habituation experiences. Remarkably, none of them express dissatisfaction with the cost, as they unanimously agree that the experience is undeniably worthwhile.
The testimonials from our clients are filled with enthusiasm about the unparalleled experience of being near the Gentle Giants of the Forest. Whether in the majestic Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or the captivating surroundings of Mgahinga Gorilla Park, they rave about the profound connection they establish and the extraordinary encounters they witness.
In conclusion, the overwhelming sentiment from those who have ventured on Gorilla Treks is that the investment of money, Time, and effort is unequivocally justified. The awe-inspiring experience of being up close with these extraordinary creatures leaves an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those fortunate enough to partake in this adventure.
Where is it better to track Gorillas – Rwanda or Uganda – here is a comparison.
Back to the question: Is Gorilla Trekking Worth the Money – Time and Effort?
Here is why Gorilla Trekking is Worth the Money – Time, and Effort:
The Uganda Gorilla Trekking Advantage:
- $700 Gorilla Permit Price: A gorilla Safari in Uganda costs half the price in neighboring Rwanda without compromising the quality of the experience.
- Luxury Gorilla Safaris at Hundreds of Dollars Less: A Luxury Gorilla Trekking Safari will cost you much less in Uganda without compromising the experience’s quality.
- More Gorilla Permits: Uganda has half of the endangered Mountain Gorillas. The country has more Habituated (used to Humans) Gorilla Families, meaning Uganda has the most available permits for Gorilla Trekking.
- Safe-Secure Guerrilla-Free Trekking: Uganda is the only Mountain Gorilla Destination with no guerrilla activities in the last 20 years.
