The Eastern gorilla is one of the endangered species of the genus Gorilla, alongside the Western gorilla.
Eastern gorillas inhabit East and Central Africa, in the countries of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, living in lowland rain-forests.
Eastern gorillas are subdivided into two subspecies:
- Mountain Gorillas: Mountain gorillas are among the most endangered species, with about 1,000 individuals remaining in the wild. They inhabit the forests of the Virunga Mountains in Central Africa, specifically in the national parks of Volcanoes (Rwanda), Bwindi Impenetrable (Uganda), and Virunga (Democratic Republic of Congo). Mountain gorillas have longer hair than Eastern lowland gorillas and are slightly larger, with shorter arms.
- Eastern Lowland Gorillas: Eastern lowland gorillas are found in the eastern forests of the Democratic Republic of Congo, specifically in Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Maiko National Park, Tayna Gorilla Reserve, Usala Forest, and the Itombwe Massif. They are among the largest gorillas, with stocky bodies, large hands, bulky skulls, long arms, and jet-black coloring, similar to mountain gorillas.
Behavior
Eastern gorillas live in groups, each led by a dominant silverback, with about 2 to 20 individuals in a group.
The silverback has several roles, including mating with the females, protecting the group, and deciding when and where the group will eat, sleep, and nest.
Eastern Gorilla Trekking Cost & Permits
Trekking to see Eastern gorillas requires booking a permit, which grants access to visit these gorillas.
On the day of the trek, visitors must follow the rules and regulations set by the guides.
Some of the key rules include maintaining a distance of about 7 meters from the gorillas, not using flash cameras, no smoking, and keeping noise levels low.
Mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda costs up to 1,500 USD, and 800 USD in Uganda.
Eastern lowland gorilla trekking in the Democratic Republic of Congo costs around 400 USD in Kahuzi-Biega National Park.
Other Activities that you can engage in include: nature walks, mountain hiking, community walks, and bird-watching among the rest.
Gorillas can be trekked year-round, but the best time is during the dry season, from January to February, and May to September.
Requirements to Carry include: hiking boots, sunglasses, hat, food and water and gorilla permits among the rest.
In conclusion, the Eastern gorilla is a majestic and fascinating creature and an essential part of the rich biodiversity of East and Central Africa.
However, their numbers are declining at an alarming rate, threatened by habitat loss, poaching, and disease. It is our responsibility to take action and protect these incredible animals and their habitats.
By supporting conservation efforts and making sustainable choices, we can help ensure the survival of the Eastern gorilla for generations to come.
