Compare lowland gorilla trekking and Mountain gorilla trekking

A comparison between lowland gorilla trekking and mountain gorilla trekking experiences rotates around the two subspecies of eastern gorillas. Are you looking for the differences between lowland gorillas and mountain gorillas? This complete guide to gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo will enlighten you about the differences between trekking lowland gorillas and trekking mountain gorillas.

Gorilla trekking is one of the most popular safari activities that have gained fame over the past decades, especially in East Africa. In East Africa, gorilla trekking adventures or gorilla trekking safaris take place in only three countries namely; Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. These activities can be done in five national parks. These include; Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda), Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda), Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda), Kahuzi-Biega National Park (D.R. Congo), and Virunga National Park (D.R. Congo). If you are looking for an amazing gorilla trekking safari in East Africa, these places should not be missed on your list.

With the help of an expert tour organizer or reputable tour company in Uganda or Rwanda, combining mountain gorilla trekking and lowland gorilla trekking tours is a rewarding experience. This is an opportunity for travelers to differentiate or compare lowland gorilla trekking and mountain gorilla trekking in a single trip or safari. Book your combined lowland and mountain gorilla trekking safari now and create a signature of everlasting memories.

What are the differences between lowland and mountain gorillas?

Mountain gorillas and lowland gorillas are all subspecies of the eastern gorillas. There are slight differences between lowland gorillas and mountain gorillas. We can base on size, color, areas of location, and behaviors to distinguish or compare lowland gorillas and mountain gorillas. It is after understanding the differences and similarities between lowland gorilla trekking and mountain gorilla trekking that you will be able to book or plan your amazing gorilla safari to Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Comparison by size

Mountain gorillas have a more robust and pronounced body compared to lowland gorillas. Their larger size helps mountain gorillas to adapt to lower temperatures in the higher altitudes. This is why they are found in mountainous areas, unlike the lowland gorillas which dwell in lowland areas. Additionally, Mountain gorillas have larger skulls with a more pronounced sagittal crest, which is the bony ridge on top of the skull that provides attachment for the jaw muscles. This feature is more prominent in adult male mountain gorillas, indicating their greater physical strength.

The arms of lowland gorillas are slightly taller than those of mountain gorillas. Both lowland and mountain gorillas use their arms to grab food such as fruits, and shoots, and do other tasks like carrying their babies and sometimes walking. This difference in arm length is thought to be an adaptation to their respective habitats and locomotion patterns.

Comparison by habitat and location

Lowland gorillas are located in the lowland areas of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in East Africa. They roam the lowland bamboo forests and can be seen in Kahuzi-Biega National Park on your Congo or Rwanda gorilla trekking safari. On the other hand, mountain gorillas live in the higher altitudes and rainforests of East Africa. They are found in areas with lower temperatures. Mountain gorilla trekking in East Africa and the world at large takes place in the Virunga Conservation Area. The area covers four national parks in Uganda, Rwanda, and D.R. Congo. These include; Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Volcanoes National Park, and Virunga National Park.

Book your combined Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo gorilla trekking safari now and meet these magical primate species and turn your moments into memories.

Comparison by body color and fur

Lowland gorillas typically have shorter and lighter hair compared to mountain gorillas. The hair of lowland gorillas can vary in color, ranging from light brown to dark brown or even reddish tones. The Silverback, which is the dominant adult male in a gorilla group, gets its name from the silver or grayish coloration of the hair on its back. This silver color develops with age and is more pronounced in mountain gorillas. Lowland gorillas, on the other hand, may exhibit a lighter or more brownish coloration on their backs.

Comparison by group size and social behavior

Both mountain gorillas and lowland gorillas are social animals living in groups called families. However, mountain gorillas live in smaller groups compared to lowland gorillas. Mountain gorilla families usually comprise an of average 12 members, unlike lowland gorilla families which comprise up to 30 members. Irrespective of the size of the family, gorillas are social animals that combine effort in feeding, defense, reproduction, and other aspects of life.

Comparing lowland gorilla trekking and mountain gorilla trekking

Both lowland gorilla trekking and mountain gorilla trekking are equally rewarding safari activities in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. The activities involve a group of tourists following a particular gorilla family and spending one hour in their presence. All activities require a professional guide to be successful. Additionally, one requires a valid gorilla trekking permit to take part in any of these activities. However, mountain gorilla trekking is more challenging and requires more physical fitness compared to lowland gorilla trekking. This is because of the altitude in which mountain gorillas live. Trekking the forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Virunga National Park can be challenging especially during the dry season.

If you are looking for a less challenging gorilla trekking adventure, taking a tour of Kahuzi-Biega National Park can be a rewarding experience.

What is the best time to take on a gorilla trekking safari?

Gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo is an all-year-round activity. The activity can be done on public holidays and weekends depending on the needs of the clients and permit availability. However, the dry seasons (June to September and December to February) are the best time to do a gorilla tour in East Africa. This is when trekking trails are less slippery.

Sándor Jakubinyi

14:31 22 Feb 24

2019 megigazulás

12:45 21 Feb 24

We went on a two-week trip with my family, organised by Coleb from Standard Safaris.

I had my concerns about organised trips, but this one didn’t justify any of those. Everything went very smoothly, even when some problems arose with one of the cars it got fixed by next morning, the accomodations were clean and comfortable, the programs were exciting and well-balanced - everything was done to a truly high standard.

If you plan to visit Uganda and are looking for a guide, I warmly recommend Coleb and his team. In case you have a choice of drivers, go for Godwin, his presence made this trip even more enjoyable - cheerful, helpful, good sense of humour, generally a great person. Just look for the guy with a big smile and big heart:)

Bert Simoens

09:38 08 Jan 24

We recently embarked on a safari adventure with Standard Safaris in Uganda, which was truly exceptional. Our guide, Yonah, was outstanding - his kindness, knowledge, and discretion significantly enhanced our experience. He was the heart of our trip.

The local company's planning was offering a tailor-made journey that matched our interests. We saw an array of wildlife in Murchison, enjoyed rafting at Jinja, and experienced mountain biking at Sipi. A visit to Kidepo National Park was a highlight and comes highly recommended.

The vehicle provided was comfortable and reliable. We highly recommend Standard Safaris for anyone seeking an unforgettable safari in Uganda. Their professionalism and the exceptional guidance of staff like Yonah make them an great choice.

Michał Kostrzewa

00:41 15 Nov 23

We are all extremely grateful Standard Safaris for an incredible East Africa experience. I recently booked a custom trip for group of 8 people, including an 8-year-old boy, from Kampala through Queen Elizabeth National Park and on to Rwanda and Burundi. Coleb delivered on everything that was discussed and agreed upon beforehand.

The car provided was in great condition and our driver Meddy went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable, informed, and had the best possible time. He was friendly, knowledgeable, and professional. All local services were inlcuded in (reasonable) price that we agreed, so there was no need to worry about payments during the 6 day trip. Also Standard Safaris agreed took care about safety and security by helping us organize armed ranger while in the park.

The whole trip was hassle-free and smooth. We saw amazing wildlife in Queen Elizabeth NP, took in the sights of Rwanda and Burundi, and made lifelong memories.

I would happily book with Standard Safaris again in a heartbeat and recommend them wholeheartedly to anyone looking for the best East Africa trip. They provide top-notch service while ensuring you have an incredible, customized experience. If you want a hassle-free, flawlessly organized African adventure, Standard Safaris is the tour operator to book with.

Ivan Nammanda

18:31 27 Oct 23

Very organized travel operator who chose awesome guide to make our trip wonderful.

We booked a nine days trip with Standard Safaris and all was perfect from start to finish. Coleb was very prompt at replying and easy to liaise with ahead of the trip. We had done a lot of research and had an itinerary in mind and Coleb helped us to put everything together to make this happen for a very reasonable price.  On the trip we had a private vehicle for the whole tour which was exactly what we wanted. Bryan was our driver and an amazing guide - really friendly and knowledgable, working hard to find the things that we wanted to see and quickly understanding what was of interest to us/how much information to give.

Would highly recommend a trip to Uganda with Standard Safaris. We are definitely coming back soon!

MUGAIGA KENNETH

18:01 27 Oct 23

The company has very courteous tour guides with wide knowledge of fauna and frola in the whole of East Africa.
The choice of safari Lodges is good with first class treatment.
Game drive security is assured.
Almost The whole of September I was traversing through DRC, Uganda,and Rwanda on a gorilla tour and wildlife expedition.
Everything was arranged and booked perfectly by Standard Safaris.
The owner, Coleb was always helpful whenever we needed to ask questions about this gorilla safari in Uganda and beyond.
It was a complex expedition but Standard safaris and Coleb made it look amazingly easy.
I’ll recommend Standard safaris 200%, for all gorilla safaris in Uganda, Rwanda and wildlife tours in east africa.

travel uganda

16:35 27 Oct 23

This is so far the best gorilla trekking company in Uganda, and africa, by far. I had a wonderful time with Standard Safaris as a solo traveler.
My guide was excellent and our safari planner, Coleb was quick with responses and the prices were very friendly.
I’ll definitely book with Standard safaris on my next gorilla tour in Rwanda and Uganda.