Trekking with the Kwisanga Mountain Gorilla Family in Rwanda

 

Imagine entering a world where time seems to stand still, and the boundaries between human and wild disappear. That's precisely the enchanting experience our group had while trekking with the Kwisanga family of gorillas in Rwanda. "Kwisanga," meaning 'welcome,' turned out to be the perfect introduction to a journey that would leave an indelible mark on our hearts.

Our adventure began with the warm welcome of Mr. D and Patrick, our knowledgeable ranger guides. As we walked through picturesque potato fields, we couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation building up. The air was charged with excitement, and the distant sounds of the protected national park forest teased our senses.

Crossing the threshold into the forest, our anticipation turned into awe as we stumbled upon the majestic silverback of the Kwisanga family. He ambled towards us, a living testament to the wild beauty that awaited. The magic truly began when, midway through our group, he gracefully sat down, effectively splitting us into two, each on either side of this gentle giant.

For the next hour, we became honorary members of the Kwisanga family. Mr. D, our guide, demonstrated a unique form of communication—speaking to the gorillas in soft grunts that seemed to resonate with them. It was a fascinating dance of connection that transcended language barriers.

One of the most heartwarming moments occurred when a baby gorilla approached its mother for a tender nursing session. The connection between mother and child mirrored our own familial bonds, a reminder of the universal threads that bind us all.

Meanwhile, juvenile gorillas swung and clambered in the bamboo around us, their playful antics echoing through the forest. The cracking of branches and the rustling of leaves created a symphony of wilderness that enveloped us in the gorilla's natural habitat.

As we moved through the forest alongside our newfound gorilla companions, time seemed to lose its grip. Every moment was a snapshot of harmony, an immersion into the rhythm of their daily lives.

However, all good things must come to an end. Our hour with the Kwisanga family concluded, and we reluctantly began our journey back. Yet, nature had one final surprise for us. A young gorilla, full of energy and mischief, came hurtling past our group, hip-checking everyone in its path. Laughter and joy echoed through the forest as we bid our unexpected friend farewell.

Our trek with the Kwisanga family was not just a wildlife encounter; it was a magical journey into the heart of nature's wonders. The echoes of grunts, the sight of nursing babies, and the playful energy of juvenile gorillas will forever linger in our memories—a testament to the incredible bond that can exist between humans and the majestic creatures that share our planet.

Me and Patrick, after a successful gorilla trek

Everyone is expected to hire a porter for the trek. They help carry your bags and cameras, as well as lend a hand on the slippery terrain.

Mom and baby sharing a tender moment.

After the trek, we stopped at the new Ellen DeGeneres campus of the Diane Fossey Gorilla Fund. It is an immersive museum experience that shouldn't be missed

Just amazing, this photo was taken with an iPhone. We were quite close to the group.

We had quite the entourage. This is our group, plus rangers and porters.

A close pass by the silverback.

Pyrethrum crop, a natural insecticide.

Edwina Bauer, showing all her fans how to properly suit up for a gorilla trek.

Our group was the only group allowed to spend time with this family of gorillas all day, and it was just one hour. This team of trackers does stay with the gorillas all day, leaving them at night. Then they pick up the trail the next morning.

A powerful stare, portrait of a gorilla.

The separation between the farms and the forest.

Kris and his porter, looking ready for adventure.

Dangling gorilla, up in the tree.

Gorillas have opposable thumbs just like us. However, they also have opposable big toes, which is what you are looking at here.

The thinker