Gorilla Tracking
Highlights
Hike on some of the most scenic and beautiful trails in Uganda
Track and observe the gorillas of Bwindi National Park
Work with villagers and schools on several community service projects
Understand the history of Rwanda, including the genocide in 1994, and how the country has promoted healing and reconciliation in the years since
Introduction
This trip engages students in several learning, physical and service opportunities during their 8-day trip. From the moment they land in Kigali until the time the students leave Africa, they will be immersed in the culture, conservation and community of Rwanda and Uganda.
Starting with a remembrance of the past events in the 1990’s, students will visit Nayamata Church and the Genocide Memorial (Museum) as well as witness the healing of Rwanda in the bustling markets and locally owned businesses. Our focus, as well as remembering the past, is to celebrate and support local business growth managed by upcoming Rwandan and Ugandan citizens.
The students will spend a lot of time hiking: through the jungle in search of Silverback Gorillas, in the forest looking for Golden Monkeys, through mountain villages to witness how people live, and through the old tribal lands of the Batwa people. Every effort is made to give an in depth understanding of the cultural and traditions of eastern Africa.
And perhaps most importantly, we’ll engage with the local community in a hands-on giving back project. At a primary school at the top of a bluff in Rushaga, Uganda, we will replace broken windows, install a gutter system that brings rain water into the community water tank, and install a water filtration system that will allow the local community to get clean water without cutting down trees to boil the water before it’s drinkable
Heath and Safety
Health and sanitary conditions will vary depending on location. Major cities like Kigali have a much higher level of sanitation than remote areas. That said, all the hotels we stay in on the trip are of a high standard and with Western amenities. International private hospitals have good standards and can be found in Kigali. Health services in the major cities are easy to access and include big hospitals and small clinics. Minor issues such as cuts or bruises are easily handled by our guides. For major issues such as broken bones, surgery, head injuries etc., a trip back to Kigali is often recommended.
It is important that students are covered with the correct insurance to deal with this, and we can assist with how to apply for this. There is also a hospital very close to the Volcanoes National Park in case of any issues. They have a doctor on hand all the time and were able to handle emergencies. It is essential that all participants follow their doctor’s advice. Food and water is very safe, fresh, and delicious.
All of our guides are first aid trained. We have with us at all times a full and well-equipped medical kit. The contents of this can be shared with you prior to departure.
Students are required to provide us information on dietary requirements, allergies and their health and travel insurance before departure. All allergies and dietary requirements can be taken into consideration and managed
Pre Trip Activities
The level of support we offer our clients varies depending on their requirements. We can meet with students and parents to advise on all aspects of the trip, including kit lists, preparation, what to expect and how to get the best out of the experience. We can also work with the school or parents when it comes to students with specific dietary and allergy concerns so that all concerned parties are comfortable knowing that important issues have been addressed prior to departure. If you inform us of what level of support you require, we will ensure you receive it.
This Trip is best for
Students who are:
Wanting to learn about and observe Gorillas in the forests of Uganda
Looking for a strong teamwork ethic to achieve a shared goal from a Physical challenge
Happy to work with local people in villages around Bwindi National Park on several projects that enhance the community’s way of life
FAQs
What is the weather like?
It will be sunny in the morning and increasingly rainy in the afternoon in a predictable pattern. We will have pleasant daytime temperatures and then it will cool down to about 10-15 Celsius at night.
What is the accommodation like?
Our entire trip will be spent in hotels and lodges and all accommodation is to a medium to high standard, depending on our location on the trip.
Health & Safety
All of our guides are fully qualified and have first aid training. When interacting with animals we are with highly trained government rangers who work with these animals every day.
Is food and water safe?
Yes all food and water is provided by either pre-selected restaurants or the lodges that we stay at and is served to a high standard.
Is there Malaria?
As we will spend most of our time at over 2000m above sea level the risks of malaria are lowered. That said, Rwanda and Uganda are areas known to have malaria so we strongly suggest you consult your doctor in advance of travel.
How fit do I need to be?
The majority of the trip does not require strong fitness although students should come injury-free. The volcano trek is strenuous and requires good fitness. There is a less difficult option for those who wish not to participate. Gorilla tracking also requires good fitness, although not to the level of the volcano hike.
Do the monkeys or gorillas attack?
The animals are wild and as a result need to be approached with caution and respect. Our park rangers have vast experience in working with them and will inform us of exactly how to behave to stay safe. It is very important that we always follow their instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable day.
Are Rwanda and Uganda safe to visit?
Rwanda and Uganda are generally considered safe to visit, as per the foreign travel advice of the UK Government. When in Bwindi National Park we are accompanied by armed park rangers, as is standard operating protocol, to protect the National Park from poachers. It is important that we follow best practices regarding petty crime and health in developing countries.
Detailed advice for both countries can be found a http://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
Contact us
If you have questions about this trip, would like to know more or thinking about booking this trip with us, then please contact us at:
info@mountainquests.com
+971 4 368 2687