Rwanda Gorilla trekking
Gorilla trekking
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Silverback gorilla |
Most visitors to Rwanda come to track the endangered mountain
gorillas in the far northwest of the country, on the slopes of the
Virunga Mountains within the Parc des Volcans. Despite their fierce
reputation, gorillas are peaceable primates, the largest and most
ferocious looking of the ape family, and the chance to view them
from up close is a thrilling as well as awe-inspiring experience.
Tracking them can entail anything from a one- to four-hour trek
through the forest, and on steep mountain slopes, but groups are
only permitted to stay with the gorillas for one hour once they
have been located, to prevent behavioural disturbances and the
possible transmission of diseases from humans to gorillas. Gorillas
share 95% of their genes with humans and people with even a common
cold are not allowed to join a group, as this could be fatal to the
animal. All treks are led by experienced guides, trackers and
anti-poachers, with permits allowing for a maximum of eight
visitors per group. Booking is through the Rwanda Tourism Board
offices (ORTPN) in Kigali or Musanze.
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