A new African Dawn

One of the most unique safaris to go on is an African gorilla safari. With only about 600 mountain gorillas left in the wild seeing them in their natural habitat is something few people get to experience, but those that do agree it is an amazing experience. The only places where you can see mountain gorillas are along the borders of Rwanda and Uganda in the extinct volcanic region of Virunga Range, and in the rainforest of Bwindi, Uganda. Some tourists may be put off from visiting Rwanda because of its troubled past, but nowadays the county is stable and is increasingly gearing itself towards tourism. Facing a similarly poor reputation among tourists is Uganda, which despite its beautiful landscapes and abundant wildlife remains one of the least visited safari countries in Africa. Both countries have been trying to appeal to tourists by investing in safari facilities and setting up unique safari experiences, marketing themselves as the only countries in the world where you can see mountain gorillas.

One place in Uganda, the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park set in the National Park, where you can see gorillas. Mgahinga is situated towards the bottom of the Virunga Mountains in the south western corner of the country, bordering Rwanda and the Congo. The park only covers 25 square miles but within this space you will find leopards, buffalo, monkeys as well as gorillas. Bwindi is in south-west Uganda and within its 200 square miles of dense rainforest you will find about half of the population of all mountain gorillas.
Rwanda
Where Rwanda borders Uganda on the Virunga Mountains you will find Rwandas only park that has a gorilla population, Virunga National Park. Covering an area of about 50 square miles the terrain is less dense than at Bwindi and therefore it is easier to spot, and photograph, gorillas. Day trips from Uganda can take you to the park, where a tour guide will lead you.
A short trip to Rwanda for gorilla watching can be incorporated into a Ugandan safari. Whereas Rwandas facilities are still relatively basic by western standards, there are a range of tourist facilities on offer in Uganda. Luxury safaris to Uganda, incorporating a trip to Rwanda's Virunga National Park, can be booked on Kuoni's website and several other tour operators offer similar deals. When booking a trip trekkers must be at least 15 years old, fit and fully equipped with warm clothing and trekking gear. Taking out some decent travel insurance is essential on a trip like this as you will be in the close vicinity of wild (but normally docile) gorillas.