At 65, I’ve had my fair share of adventures. I’m Mark Rayson from Texas, and I’ve spent my life chasing thrills—from hunting whitetail deer in the Texas Hill Country to fishing for marlin off the coast of Cabo. I’ve trekked the Grand Canyon and explored wild places all over, but nothing prepared me for the experience that awaited me in the misty forests of Bwindi, Uganda. Tracking mountain gorillas in their natural habitat—it was the thrill of a lifetime.
When I first learned about the chance to see Uganda’s gorillas, I was captivated. There’s something about standing face-to-face with one of the world’s most powerful and endangered animals that stirs a man’s soul, even at my age. With my mind made up, I booked a ticket to East Africa, dusted off my camera, and braced myself for an adventure like no other.
The journey was long but worth every hour. An internal flight from Entebbe to Bwindi made the trek much easier, sparing me the long drive and offering a stunning aerial view of Uganda’s lush landscapes. Once I touched down, I was met by my guide from H & W Signature Journeys—a top-notch professional who knew every detail of the forest and was as passionate about wildlife as I am. The vehicle provided was excellent—comfortable, reliable, and equipped to handle the rough terrain of Uganda’s highlands.
The highlight of my stay was the Gorilla Forest Camp. Nestled right in the heart of Bwindi, the camp offered a level of comfort and service I’d never experienced. After a long day in the forest, returning to a hot meal and a warm, luxurious bed felt like paradise. The staff went above and beyond, and I could see they genuinely cared about the guests and the gorillas alike.
The next morning, the real adventure began. I was paired with two porters who were invaluable during the trek, helping with my gear, offering a hand on steep trails, and making sure I stayed safe. We set off into the jungle, the air thick with mist and the sounds of the forest all around us. The terrain was challenging—muddy, humid, and steep. But with every step, I felt a deep sense of purpose. I wasn’t just hiking; I was on a journey to encounter one of nature’s greatest wonders.
After nearly two hours, our guide stopped and motioned for silence. He pointed ahead, and there, not more than 30 feet away, was a massive silverback gorilla. He was reclining on a bed of leaves, completely at ease, with his family around him. I could hardly breathe. Here I was, just a few steps from these magnificent creatures, feeling a connection I can’t put into words.
For an hour, we watched as the gorillas went about their day. A mother cradled her infant while a young gorilla tumbled around, full of playful energy. The silverback occasionally looked our way, his calm, powerful gaze meeting mine in a way that felt deeply personal. I had to remind myself to take a few pictures, but honestly, I was more focused on soaking in the moment. It was surreal, almost like stepping into another world.
The rangers who accompanied us were incredibly knowledgeable, sharing insights about the gorillas’ behaviors, their role in the ecosystem, and the conservation efforts that keep them safe. Their passion for protecting these creatures was evident, and it added even more depth to the experience.
When it was time to leave, I felt a sense of reverence and gratitude. The hike back was filled with quiet reflection. What I’d just witnessed wasn’t just another adventure to add to my list. It was a reminder of the beauty and fragility of our world, a call to protect the wild places that still exist.
Back in Texas, I share my story with anyone who’ll listen, though words barely do it justice. Tracking gorillas in Bwindi was more than just an adventure; it was an encounter with the extraordinary, an experience that changed me in ways I’m still coming to understand. For anyone with a sense of wonder and a love of wildlife, Uganda is calling. And I can promise, you won’