Into the Mist

Journey to Uganda’s Mountain Gorillas

From Windhoek to Bwindi, a Namibian Dreamer follows her 37-year wish into the heart of the rainforest. I always had this dream of Africa. A romantic Impression of its wilderness and untamed spirit. Its variety of landscapes — the desert, the oceans, the savannas, the rainforests, and the endless sky.

And I always had the secret dream that one day, I would live my life in Africa. And here I am — living that dream in the country of my choice: Namibia, with its desert, ocean, savannas, endless sky, wildlife, and people. I simply can’t get enough. Every day brings adventure.

But there was another dream I carried for 37 years: to see the mountain gorillas and visit them in their natural Habitat — the rainforest. I watched the movie Gorillas in the Mist and was deeply moved by the story and passion of Dian Fossey, and her conservation work to save the mountain gorillas. It left a big impression on me — as did the gorillas themselves. I can’t quite explain why, but perhaps it’s because they’re so human-like. Still, words fall short.

This year, finally, that dream came true. I planned a trip to Uganda with one clear goal: to meet the mountain gorillas. I was beyond excited! These are not animals you just see anywhere — there are only about 1,063 left in the rainforests of Uganda and Rwanda. They’re officially classified as endangered. But thanks to intense conservation work and effort, their numbers are slowly increasing.

Maybe that’s another reason I find them so fascinating.

find a gorilla family ...

After a short flight from Entebbe, I arrived at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park — the rainforest. It was so green and moist. Immediately I could feel it on my skin; even my hair felt softer. The air was filled with the earthy scent of wet leaves and forest floor. I sat on my balcony and listened to the many languages of the birds. I breathed in the forest smell and stared at the stunning variety of greens, just outside my balcony.

After a short briefing on how to behave around the gorillas and the work of the rangers and trackers, I set off in a small group of eight to find a gorilla family. I felt a mixture of excitement and nervousness — would we have to hike for hours? Would the trails be difficult in the damp, humid conditions?

But I was lucky. We hiked and slid downhill for just 25 minutes before the rangers said, “The gorilla family is just in front of us.”

My excitement spiked! I walked carefully, watching my footing, my eyes scanning the greenery.

And then — there they were. In the middle of an open clearing, enjoying their breakfast. I had tears in my eyes. I was overwhelmed — a mix of years of longing, finally being there, and witnessing their calmness, patience, and peaceful way of being.

In moments like these, I feel humbled, grateful, at Peace — deeply connected to nature.

We were allowed exactly one hour with them, and it passed in what felt like seconds. We watched them move, eat, and interact with each other in the most natural, peaceful way. It left a lasting impression on me.

The next day, we tracked another family — this time deeper into the forest. This group was larger, with 17 members. Some were up in the trees, throwing fruit to others below. Some were eating. Some were grooming each other. A nine-month-old baby entertained us (and its family!) with climbing stunts and even seemed to seek interaction with us humans. I was amazed at the many similarities to us — their curiosity, relationships, body language.

Even though it was my second encounter, it was just as exciting, grounding, and emotional as the first. This was one of the most special experiences of my life, and I am so grateful for the opportunity.

After eight days in Uganda and many unforgettable impressions, I was ready to return to Namibia — the country I chose and can now proudly call home.

Do you have an experience of a lifetime to share?

deardiary@myeishanamibia.com

Until next time,

From Sandra’s pen, Namibia