Greeting Gorillas

I have recently returned from an African safari, which included a visit with the mountain gorillas. My inspiration for this trip came not from the movie, “Gorillas in the Mist,” but from a cover story in your Travel Section (“Tracking Gorillas,” Aug. 7, 1988), months before the movie came out. Therefore, I thought you might be interested in the hassles now involved in obtaining the proper permit for such a visit.

The tour company, Tracks, based in London, claimed that when all 18 of us signed up, we each had a reservation for a visit with the gorillas. It wasn’t until we arrived at the park campground that the driver informed us that we only had six reservations (which were for the day before we arrived, so, in reality, we had no reservations). He said our only chance was through cancellations. We had to choose lots to establish the order.

The first day there were no cancellations. The second day we managed six, the third day five, and the fourth and final day, two (of which I was one). This meant that five people, who were guaranteed, never even got a chance. It also meant that those of us low on the waiting list sat on pins and needles for days, stressed out.

Africa is a wonderful adventure, and the gorillas are worth the incredible effort involved. Your readers, however, should be aware of the logistics involved, and be prepared to go through a little stress . . . or book with a reputable company.

MARK A. GORDON

Mar Vista