Top Facts About What Mountain Gorillas Eat

Top Facts About What Mountain Gorillas Eat

Top Facts About What Mountain Gorillas Eat- Mountain gorillas are a subspecies of the Eastern Gorilla known scientifically as Gorilla beringei beringei. They live only in a few mountainous regions of Africa. These include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. Others live in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Bwindi alone hosts nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, found in the sectors of Nkuringo, Rushaga, Buhoma, and Ruhija. These gentle giants roam freely in their natural habitats, making them one of the most precious wildlife species on earth.

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes Rwanda

What Do Mountain Gorillas Eat?

Mountain gorillas are mainly herbivores. Their diet consists mostly of plants found in the forest. Because they live at high altitudes where fruit is less abundant, they rely heavily on leafy vegetation for sustenance.

They feed on:

• Leaves
• Shoots
• Stems
• Bark
• Roots
• Wild fruits (when available)
• Mushrooms
• Occasionally, insects like ants

An adult gorilla can consume up to 18 kilograms of food each day. They are selective feeders. For example, they peel stems to eat the soft inner pulp, while from Mimulopsis plants, they eat mainly the leaves.

Do Gorillas Drink Water?

Interestingly, mountain gorillas rarely drink water directly.
Most of the plants they eat are full of moisture. This provides all the hydration they need.

The vegetation in their habitat is cool, moist, and fresh, making additional water intake unnecessary.

How Gorillas Move While Feeding

Gorillas do not feed in one place for long.
After eating, they move to another spot.
This behavior allows vegetation to regrow naturally, supporting the sustainability of their forest ecosystem.

Mountain Gorilla Family Structure

Rushaga Bwindi Forest National park

Mountain gorillas live in families of up to 20 members.
Each family is led by a dominant male called a Silverback.

Family members include:

• Females
• Juveniles
• Blackbacks (younger males)
• Infants

Mothers care for their babies until around 2 years of age. Each gorilla builds its own nest to sleep in, except infants, who share with their mothers.

Gorillas are mostly gentle, playful, and social animals.

Gorilla Trekking Experience

Gorilla trekking is one of the most memorable wildlife activities in Uganda.
It begins at the park headquarters, where groups of eight are assigned to a specific gorilla family.

The trek can take 2 to 8 hours, depending on the movement of the gorillas. It requires physical and mental preparedness because the terrain is mountainous and sometimes steep.

Once you find the gorillas, you are allowed one full hour in their presence.
You will later receive a gorilla trekking certificate as a souvenir.

Gorilla Habituation Experience

If you want more time, the Gorilla Habituation Experience is perfect.
It allows up to 4 hours with the gorillas.
This is ideal for photographers, researchers, and adventurers seeking a deeper connection.

Best Time to See Mountain Gorillas

Gorilla trekking is possible all year round.
However, the dry seasons (June–September and December–February) offer easier hiking conditions, less mud, and better visibility.

Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking

Accommodation options around Bwindi and Mgahinga include:

• Luxury lodges
• Mid-range eco-lodges
• Comfortable budget camps

Examples:

• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge (Luxury)
• Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge (Mid-range)
• Buhoma Community Rest Camp (Budget)

Combine Gorilla Trekking With a Safari to Murchison Falls

Many travelers combine gorilla trekking with wildlife safaris in Murchison Falls National Park.
This creates a complete Ugandan adventure that includes primates, big game, and the spectacular waterfall.

Uganda Wildlife Safari

How to Book a Safari  With Chimp Homes Uganda Safaris

To experience gorilla trekking and a safari to Murchison Falls, book with Chimp Homes Uganda Safaris.
We handle:

• Gorilla permits
• Accommodation
• Transportation
• Professional guides
• Park entrance fees
• Customized itineraries

 Contact Us Today

Travel with us for unforgettable wildlife and cultural experiences in Uganda.
WhatsApp / Call: +256 742874045
Email: info@chimphomesafaris.com