Tracking Giants: My First Encounter with Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi
There are few experiences on Earth that can match the emotion of locking eyes with a wild mountain gorilla. Deep in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, I found myself just meters away from a silverback named Kakono, the dominant male of the Habinyanja family.
Our trek began before sunrise. With the guidance of expert trackers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority and support from Pant-Hoot Ape Trekkers, we climbed through tangled vines, thick mist, and endless birdsong. After three hours, the moment arrived — stillness, heart pounding, and then… gorillas.
Kakono’s calm dominance and the playful juveniles reminded me how close we truly are to these beings. It’s an encounter that humbles, heals, and ignites a lifelong commitment to protect.
If you’re looking for a journey that changes how you see the world, start with a gorilla trek. But go with purpose — go with Pant-Hoot.
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