Bold and Daring: Gorilla Trekking Is My Next Dream Trip

My agency recently hosted a webinar with Clint Saint—a native of South Africa and the founder of Live Life African Safari Getaways. Clint’s firsthand knowledge and passion for Africa’s wilderness captivated everyone, and when he started talking about gorilla trekking, my jaw simply dropped.

Picture this: you’re hiking through dense jungle, the sunlight filtered by towering trees. The air is rich with the sounds of birds and the occasional rustle of leaves. Then, you see them—a family of mountain gorillas, unbothered by your presence.

This isn’t just a sightseeing trip; it’s an immersive encounter that reminds us of our shared place in the natural world. With permits strictly regulated to protect the gorillas, only a small number of people can experience this each day. The thought of one day being among those lucky few fills me with excitement and anticipation.

Clint recommends pairing gorilla trekking with a traditional safari, creating an itinerary that blends lush rainforests with the savannas of Kenya or Tanzania. You would start your journey in the tropical jungles of East Africa, meeting gorilla families, and then heading to the Maasai Mara or Serengeti for the iconic “Big Five” safari experience.

A 12-day itinerary allows you to fully enjoy these contrasting landscapes without feeling rushed. You might trek for gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, explore the Serengeti during the Great Migration, or marvel at Amboseli’s elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop. The opportunity to experience Africa’s diversity—from its wildlife to its landscapes—is what makes this trip so appealing to me.

One of the aspects I find most inspiring about gorilla trekking is its physical challenge. These treks involve hiking up to eight miles over uneven, often steep terrain. This is a level of physical activity that would require some preparation on my part and make the trip all the more rewarding. What an incredible payoff to experience in the end. Clint shared that even travelers in their 80s have successfully completed the trek, so we should all be able to see ourselves doing this with a little time to get read. It is common to enlist the help of porters who carry bags and assist with tricky terrain.

While the experience is already life altering, it’s hard to imagine that the journey doesn’t end when you leave the rainforest. I would pair gorilla trekking with a safari in Kenya or Tanzania, or even a relaxing visit to Zanzibar’s pristine beaches. It is vacation after all, and we need to create a balance of adventure and relaxation. This combination is ideal for me and others that might be looking to recharge while making memories to last a lifetime.

One thing Clint emphasizes—and I wholeheartedly agree with—is the importance of planning a trip like this well in advance. Gorilla trekking permits are limited, and the best safari lodges often book out a year or more ahead. By planning early, you can secure the perfect itinerary and have the added joy of anticipating your adventure for months.

Clint also highlighted the customizability of these itineraries. Whether you prefer luxury lodges with private plunge pools or more immersive tented camps where you can hear lions calling at night, there’s an option for every traveler.

I’ve always believed in the importance of taking time away from the grind of everyday life. As someone who used to leave no vacation days unused, I know the restorative power of travel. Now, as a travel agent, I’ve made it my mission to help others plan trips that aren’t just escapes but life-changing experiences.

This dream trip is a reminder to myself to keep exploring, to stay curious, and to prioritize the moments that make life truly extraordinary. It’s not just about seeing gorillas or ticking a box—it’s about embracing the challenge, experiencing awe, and creating memories that will inspire me for years to come.

If a trip like this sparks your curiosity, private message me on LinkedIn. Whether you’re also dreaming of gorilla trekking, exploring the Serengeti, or relaxing on the beaches of Zanzibar, I’d love to help you imagine—and plan—your own African adventure.

Life is short. Have a cookie. Eat a pizza. And keep dreaming of your next great journey.