Starting out on the trek seemed pretty easy and I was wondering why there was two guides with Machetes and a military guy with a rifle. Silly white woman!Meet Emanuel, my personal Rainforest Saviour. Emanuel speaks very little English outside of: my name Emanuel, stinging nettle, gorilla poopie (along with a giggle)
and thank you along with a big smile when I tipped him every dollar in my wallet for bringing me back safely. We did not need to say much, I just hung on to his hand and prayed that my Rainforest Saviour knew what he was doing!
My prayers were answered as Emanuel was very skilled in the muddy Rainforest which challenged us with slippery slopes and muddy spots where we would quickly sink up to our knees. The guides led the way cutting down branches and vines so we could pass through. The sharp shooter kept an eye out for wild elephant and bison that could potentially charge the group. The worms were bigger than the snakes I have seen in NC! It took a little over two hours of non stop movement to reach the Gorillas but we made it!!!
We reached the Sabyinyo family of 7 Mountain Gorillas led by a Silverback. It was 10:30 am and they were eating breakfast. We stayed with them for about an hour - during that time, our guides made "gorilla noises" which made them feel safe around us. The Gorillas were aware of us but were more interested in feeding than our presence.
I should have brought a change of underwear (or Depends) because when the Silverback stood up, pounded his chest and screamed - announcing it was time for the group to move - I just about lost it! You may get a little seasick at that part of the video :) Enjoy!
1 comments:
What an incredible experience to see God's creatures in their homes and share the time with them. I loved the video!
Post a Comment