Western Lowland Gorillas:
Trekking for Western Lowland Gorillas in Loango National Park is an unforgettable rain forest adventure for two main reasons; you will never forget that moment when you get your first glimpse of a wild gorilla & then gently delve into the private & humble daily lives of our habituated group. Traversing the various habitats that the gorillas reside in will give you the adventure of a lifetime that even the most experienced traveler probably hasn’t encountered. Think hiking through rain forests, wading through swamps or lakes, and climbing over mangroves in your quest to reach the gorillas.
Where are the Gorillas?
An hour boat ride from Loango Lodge is the gorilla research camp & tourism centre. The gorillas have a 20km home range in this area.
After a welcome talk and health & safety briefing your guide will contact the team in the forest to find the gorillas’ exact location. You will then commence your trekking adventure.
What do I Wear for Gorilla Trekking?
This can often be overthought and then turn unnecessarily costly. There really is no need to buy special clothes for this because…you will get wet, sweaty, muddy & dirty. Old clothes you may be have around the house are my recommendation. Please avoid bright colours and dark colours. Bright might scare wildlife, dark attracts annoying flying insects.
Typically the gorilla team wear loose shorts and t-shirts. Trousers are fine if you can either roll them up or you do not mind walking in wet trousers. Loose, light shirts could replace t-shirts if you prefer to keep a bit more covered but, do not be disillusioned into thinking this will prevent mosquito or tsetsi flies biting you. Mosquito repellent is the only way to combat this & there are some really good products on the market that are not to strong or corrosive on materials i.e. Tabard, Peaceful Sleep, and Citronella products.