I was traveling in Uganda with twin sisters, Jayne and Kris, who were experienced safari-goers and were keen to see the endangered Mountain Gorillas of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. I joined them for the first trek where I had a porter pushing me up the steep inclines through the lush foliage. The 4-hour hike was challenging, (it’s called the impenetrable forest after all!) yet immensely rewarding when we finally reached the Rushegura family of gorillas. The silverback was feeding on the rich assortment of greens, moving to get a new variety every few minutes. The mothers were cradling their babies and attentive to the youngsters who were swinging on tree branches and young females helped with this group. The adolescent males occasionally wrestled with each other. An hour never felt so short!
The next day they went off on their second trek and I went off to do site inspections of other properties in the area. They returned to report an incredible experience with a young female gorilla. Jayne had been outfitted with red gaiters by the guide that morning. While sitting on the ground observing the family, this young female noticed the bright red gaiters on Jayne and came close enough to attempt a nibble. Jayne stayed calm as the gorilla explored, knowing the ranger was right behind her, which allowed enough time for the gorilla to discover the gaiters were in fact not edible and meander on. Kris was next to the ranger and caught the entire interaction on video. We heard later that this young gorilla loved the color red.
I was astonished to see the video later that day and wished I had joined them that morning! While most guests were hanging out in the camp lounge, Kris looked up and saw a gorilla walking up the path right into the camp. She could barely get the words out, “Guys, gorilla!” Everyone scrambled to their feet as this gorilla proceeded leisurely past the lounge, to a young banana tree just outside the camp kitchen.
The entire staff and all the guests watched as this gorilla pulled the entire tree down and tore into the juicy middle to enjoy a feast. Cameras were clicking and we all couldn’t believe our luck that this gorilla had visited us! This young male had been ousted by the silverback, probably because he was becoming a bit of a challenge, so he was wandering around on his own. He stayed in camp all night and went off the next morning. Bonus gorilla time!
Up in the misty mountains or right in camp, a thrilling encounter with these gentle giants is a memorable and unpredictable adventure!
Carol Oken – Founder
