We made it out of the Kampala region to go to the mountains in the south and see the gorillas. The trip took us 3 days in total. It was fantastic to see some of Uganda. It is truly one of the most beautiful and diverse countries we've ever been to.There are only about 700 mountain gorillas left and the Ugandan wildlife authority allows a small number of people to go and track the gorillas in the forests with the rangers everyday. Due to a small amount of wheeling and dealing, I suspect, on the part of our travel guides, we managed to get a private tour with 2 of the rangers. We stayed overnight in a tent on a wooden platform overlooking the park and the mountains. The scenery was just spectacular. Have never woken up to a better view....
Seeing the gorrillas in their own habitat was pretty exciting. And the forest was just beautiful.
Below is a female gorilla. Mother to the 3 year old youngster pictured above.
The experience was slightly marred for Catherine by the fact that she was charged and knocked flying by the gorilla below. He came running down the hill at full pelt and barged into her. He was allegedly only playing.The Gorilla below weighing aroun half a ton, ran at her in the playful nudging sort of way Gorillas do to other Gorillas but when about half a tonne of endangered species decides to 'play' with you, you can't help but wonder which of you is the most endangered!!
This primate playtime came as quite a shock to Cathy, being half the size of your average male Gorilla. Cathy was battered, bruised and a bit shaken, the camera which she had around her neck was unscathed, allowing me to take a photo of the culprit below as he tried to make his escape
A description has been distibuted, the assailant was about 6 feet tall, heavy build and dark haired if you see him do not approach...
So Uncle Frank, above, was apparently pleased to see us. Not sure the feeling was mutual for Cath! Now nursing some bruises and a very stiff neck... Lucky nothing more serious. 
No comments:
Post a Comment