Difficulty varies depending on which chimp family you visit and where they are located that day. Some treks can be quite strenuous, involving hiking through steep, muddy terrain at high altitude (1,500-2,500m). However, the experience is manageable for most people in reasonable physical condition. We can recommend easier treks for those with mobility concerns.

The best time is during the drier months of June-August and December-February when trails are less muddy. However, gorilla trekking is possible year-round. The rainy seasons (March-May and September-November) offer lush vegetation and fewer tourists, though trekking can be more challenging.

• Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers (for protection against stinging nettles)
• Gardening gloves for gripping vegetation
• Daypack with water, snacks, and camera equipment
• Walking stick (often provided by guides)

Gorilla permits often sell out 6-12 months in advance for peak seasons. We recommend booking at least 9 months ahead for June-August and December-January visits. For other times, 3-6 months in advance is usually sufficient. Last-minute bookings are occasionally possible but risky.