Did you know mountain gorillas hum while they eat? Yes … just like that content little tune you hum over a delicious slice of cake, these gentle giants sing their satisfaction with every bite of forest buffet.
In this extract from an episode of 'Spy in the Wild', a spy gorilla witnesses wild mountain gorillas singing, a phenomenon caught on camera for the first time.
Dian Fossey, the legendary gorilla researcher, cataloged 16 various vocalisations—from the classic “roar” of an angry silverback to the soothing “belch” sounds of a peaceful troop. These vocalisations help gorillas express everything from joy and contentment to fear and alarm. The good news is that if a gorilla group belch when you are on your gorilla trek, this indicates they are comfortable with you in their territory and accept your presence.
The most recent census of gorilla populations taken in 2019 showed that wild mountain gorilla numbers have increased in the Virunga Massif region of central Africa that spans across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) - to just over 1,060! Gorilla trekking tourism has contributed a large part to keeping the conservation of mountain gorillas a priority. For more details about this positive recovery of gorilla populations, see our blog How many African Mountain Gorillas are there in the wild?
Scientists have noticed that gorillas break into little food songs when munching, and even when they’re anticipating their next leafy snack. It’s like their version of a dinner bell and a food review rolled into one. These melodic munchies might even offer clues into how human language evolved. After all, if you think about it, the line between "mmm, tasty!" and primitive speech isn’t that wide.
Sharing about 98% of our DNA, gorillas are the soulful foodies of the jungle. And since they live in dense rainforests where they often can't see each other, they rely heavily on their vocalisations to keep in touch—grunts, hoots, chuckles, and even farts (don’t ask).
So next time you're enjoying a meal and feel the urge to hum, remember—you’re just channelling your inner gorilla!
Witnessing mountain gorillas in the wild is among the most extraordinary wildlife experiences on the planet.
Gorilla trekking safaris in Africa rightfully earn a spot on many travellers' top 10 bucket lists. There are 3 East African gorilla trekking destinations: Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where mountain gorillas live in the beautiful rainforested areas of the Virunga Mountains that straddle the border between the three countries.
Because of the unstable political situation in the DRC, Rwanda and Uganda remain the most popular destinations for gorilla trekking in Africa. See The Big Guide to Gorilla Trekking in Africa for the lowdown on what to expect on a trek and essential tips on preparing for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Volcanoes National Park, a breathtaking expanse of rainforest and volcanic peaks in Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. It is also famously associated with the pioneering work of Dian Fossey, whose groundbreaking research and conservation efforts helped bring global attention to the plight of mountain gorillas.
Rwanda’s relatively well-developed infrastructure, including good roads and reliable transport, adds to the ease and appeal of visiting this extraordinary destination. To learn more, see When is the Best Time for Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tours in Africa?
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is an unforgettable experience set against the backdrop of lush equatorial rainforests, sweeping savannahs, and the dramatic Great Rift Valley. The highlight is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a high-altitude UNESCO World Heritage Site where visitors can encounter endangered mountain gorillas in the wild. In addition to gorilla trekking, Uganda also offers incredible opportunities to track other primates, making it a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts. To learn more, see The Best Time to Visit Uganda for Gorilla Trekking, Wildlife Safaris & More.
Uganda and Rwanda are two stunning African countries that offer unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences. Both have their unique appeal, with pros and cons to consider when choosing where to go. In Gorilla Trekking Uganda vs Rwanda: Which is Best for Gorilla Safaris in Africa? We highlight the key differences to help you decide which country is the best fit for your gorilla trekking adventure.
Gorilla Safari FAQs: A Quick Guide to Gorilla Trekking in Africa provides answers to the most common questions about gorilla trekking, including where to go, the safety of the experience, and the level of fitness required. It covers key logistical and practical details, such as costs, planning pro tips, and other important considerations to help you prepare for your adventure. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned traveller, this no-fuss guide will give you everything you need to know about trekking with mountain gorillas in Africa.
Africa Budget Safaris has a full range of Gorilla Trekking Safaris & Tours to suit every budget and timeline. Speak to an expert travel consultant to discuss your options.
Apart from gorilla trekking, Africa offers some of the world’s best primate safaris, from chimpanzee tracking in East Africa to spotting lemurs in Madagascar. If you're seeking unforgettable encounters with our closest animal relatives, Best Primate Safaris in Africa to see gorillas, chimps, lemurs and more? gives you an inside track on the top primate bucket list experiences to explore.
For more information, contact African Budget Safaris.
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