The Ultimate Guide to Uganda Gorilla Tracking Safari Experience

There are very few experiences on earth that compare to locking eyes with a wild mountain gorilla deep in the misty rainforests of Uganda. The heartbeat of Africa comes alive in those moments the heavy scent of vegetation, the rustle of bamboo as a juvenile gorilla swing playfully, and the commanding presence of a silverback surveying his domain. Gorilla tracking in Uganda is not just another safari activity; it is a transformative journey into one of the last remaining strongholds of these endangered primates.

Uganda is home to more than half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, found only here, in Rwanda, and in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Unlike other wildlife safaris where you view animals from the comfort of a vehicle, gorilla tracking takes you on foot into the heart of the rainforest. The anticipation builds as you hike through thick vegetation, cross streams, and ascend steep slopes, all while guided by expert rangers who track the gorillas’ movements. When the moment finally comes and you stand just a few meters away from a gorilla family, time seems to stand still.

Exceptional Uganda Gorilla Tracking Combined with East Africa Wildlife Safari Packages

The Magic of Gorilla tracking in Uganda 2027 Guide

This guide takes you through everything you need to know about the Uganda gorilla tracking safari experience. From when to go, where to trek, how to plan, what to pack, and even what to do when you finally meet the gorillas, it is designed to be the ultimate resource for travelers seeking this life-changing encounter.

What the Uganda Gorilla tracking Safari Experience is Like

The gorilla tracking safari experience in Uganda is often described as emotional, raw, and deeply humbling. It begins early in the morning at the park headquarters, where trekkers gather for a safety briefing. Excitement fills the air as groups are assigned to different gorilla families, and rangers explain what lies ahead. The trek itself can take anywhere from half an hour to several hours, depending on the gorillas’ location that day.

The journey through the forest is an adventure in itself. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are both characterized by dense vegetation, rugged trails, and breath-taking scenery. The soundscape is dominated by birdsong, buzzing insects, and the occasional distant call of a monkey. Rangers and trackers cut paths through thick undergrowth with machetes, guiding you safely through terrain that can be both challenging and exhilarating.

Meeting with the Mountain Gorilla Family

Then comes the moment of magic your first glimpse of the gorillas. Perhaps it’s a juvenile peeking curiously from behind a tree, or the silverback seated regally amidst the foliage. Observing their behavior is captivating: mothers gently grooming their infants, playful youngsters tumbling in mock wrestling, and the dominant silverback watching over his family with quiet authority. For one precious hour, you become part of their world, witnessing interactions that reflect a surprising similarity to our own.

Many trekkers describe the experience as spiritual. Being so close to these gentle giants reminds us of our shared ancestry and the importance of protecting such rare species. It’s not just about the thrill of adventure it’s about conservation, empathy, and the privilege of seeing one of nature’s most endangered wonders in its rightful home.

 

Best Time to Go Gorilla tracking in Uganda

Uganda offers gorilla tracking year-round, but the timing of your safari can greatly shape your experience. The best months are during the dry seasons — June to September and December to February. During these periods, the forest trails are less muddy and slippery, making hiking much easier. The skies are generally clearer, which enhances photography opportunities and reduces the likelihood of rain disrupting your trek.

That said, gorilla tracking during the wet seasons — March to May and October to November also has its unique charm. The forests are lush and vibrant, with waterfalls and streams at their fullest. Fewer tourists visit during this time, which means a quieter experience on the trails and sometimes easier access to permits. Additionally, gorillas don’t migrate they are present year-round. So even in the rainy season, your chances of encountering them remain extremely high.

Are Rainy Seasons (Rainy Months) Challenging on Gorilla Tracking?

However, trekking in the rainy months comes with challenges. Trails can be slippery, rivers may swell, and steep climbs become more strenuous. A good pair of hiking boots, walking sticks, and waterproof clothing become essential. For those who don’t mind the added adventure, the wet season offers a rawer, more dramatic encounter with the rainforest environment.

Ultimately, the best time depends on your personal preference. If you prioritize comfort and accessibility, aim for the dry months. If you want solitude, dramatic scenery, and potentially discounted accommodations, the rainy months might be for you. Either way, Uganda delivers unforgettable encounters with gorillas regardless of season.

Recommended Reading: When to Go for Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda?

 

Where to Go for Gorilla tracking in Uganda

Uganda has two incredible destinations for gorilla tracking: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

How to Plan Your Gorilla tracking Safari Experience in Uganda

Planning a gorilla tracking safari in Uganda requires careful consideration of logistics, permits, accommodations, and transportation. Unlike a typical game drive, this adventure involves trekking through some of the most remote and rugged landscapes in East Africa, so preparation is essential for a smooth experience.

Securing A Gorilla Tracking Permit

The first and most important step is securing a gorilla tracking permit. As of 2025, permits cost USD 800 per person and are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). Because gorilla tracking is in such high demand and only a limited number of visitors are allowed daily, permits often sell out months in advance, especially in peak seasons (June–September and December–February). It is strongly recommended to book your permit through a Deks Safaris & Tours, who can also arrange transportation and accommodation tailored to your trekking sector.

Which Gorilla Park to Visit?

Next, you’ll need to decide which gorilla park to visit Bwindi Impenetrable or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Within Bwindi, you’ll also choose which sector to trek from (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, or Nkuringo). Your choice may depend on factors such as fitness level, the type of trek you want (shorter or more challenging), and accommodation options available.

Transportation is Another Key Factor

Bwindi and Mgahinga are located in the far southwest of Uganda, roughly an 8–10-hour drive from Kampala or Entebbe. Some travelers choose domestic flights from Entebbe to Kisoro or Kihihi airstrips to cut travel time, while others prefer scenic road trips that include stopovers at national parks like Queen Elizabeth or Lake Mburo.

Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly community lodges to luxurious forest retreats overlooking the misty hills. Staying close to your assigned trekking sector is crucial to avoid long morning transfers. Finally, don’t forget to prepare physically and mentally — trekking can be strenuous, so light exercise before your safari will improve your endurance. With permits secured, logistics arranged, and packing essentials ready, you’ll be well-prepared for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

 

The Briefing: Preparing for Your Encounter with Mountain Gorillas

Every gorilla tracking in Uganda begins with a mandatory pre-trek briefing at the park headquarters. This is not just a formality but an important session that ensures your safety and the wellbeing of the gorillas. The briefing sets the tone for the adventure and provides valuable insights into what to expect.

Rules of Gorilla tracking

Rangers and guides explain the rules of gorilla tracking. The most critical guideline is maintaining a safe distance of at least 7 meters from the gorillas to prevent the transmission of human diseases. You’ll also be instructed to avoid direct eye contact with the silverback, as it may be interpreted as a challenge, and to remain quiet and calm in the gorillas’ presence. Photography is permitted, but flash is strictly prohibited because it can startle the gorillas.

Safety in the Forest

The briefing also covers safety in the forest. Uganda’s gorilla habitats are home to other wildlife, including elephants, forest hogs, and monkeys. Rangers explain how to behave in the unlikely event you encounter other animals. They also emphasize the importance of following your guide’s lead at all times they are highly experienced in reading both the forest and gorilla behavior.

Group Allocation

Another key part of the briefing is group allocation. Trekkers are divided into groups of no more than eight people, each assigned to a specific gorilla family. The allocation often takes into account your fitness level and age. If you prefer shorter treks, you can inform the rangers, and they will try to assign you a gorilla family that is closer to the trailhead. Conversely, more adventurous hikers may be placed in groups requiring longer treks.

This preparation ensures that once you step into the forest, you are confident, informed, and ready. The briefing builds anticipation a reminder that what you are about to experience is rare, fragile, and extraordinary.

 

Why Rangers Carry Guns and Machetes During Gorilla tracking

One of the first things visitors notice when setting off on a trek is that rangers carry both firearms and machetes. This can feel intimidating at first, but their presence is purely for protection and practicality rather than aggression.

The guns are carried as a precaution against potentially dangerous wildlife. While gorillas themselves are gentle and habituated to human presence, the forests also harbor animals like elephants, buffaloes, and occasionally leopards. These species can be unpredictable and dangerous if surprised. The firearms are not intended to harm but to fire warning shots to scare away aggressive animals if necessary. Incidents are extremely rare, but the precaution ensures trekkers’ safety in the unpredictable wild.

The Use of Machetes During Uganda Gorilla Tracking

Machetes, on the other hand, are indispensable tools for navigating the dense rainforest. The trails in Bwindi and Mgahinga are often overgrown, with vines, thorny bushes, and bamboo shoots blocking the way. Rangers use machetes to clear paths and make trekking safer and more manageable. In many ways, the rhythmic chopping of a machete clearing undergrowth becomes the soundtrack of your journey deeper into the forest.

The sight of rangers armed with guns and machetes is also a reminder of how remote and wild these habitats are. Unlike game drives on savannah plains, gorilla tracking takes you into truly untamed environments where human infrastructure is minimal. The rangers’ role is to ensure that despite these challenges, your trek remains safe, smooth, and focused on the ultimate goal: meeting the mountain gorillas.

 

The Role of Porters in Your Gorilla tracking Safari

One of the most underrated yet invaluable aspects of gorilla tracking in Uganda is the assistance of porters. At the start of each trek, you’ll have the option to hire a porter — typically a local community member trained to support trekkers on the journey. Many visitors underestimate the difficulty of trekking until they’re deep in the forest, and it’s at this point that the true value of porters becomes clear.

Porters carry your backpack, water, camera equipment, and snacks, allowing you to focus on the hike without being weighed down. They also provide physical support, lending a steady hand during steep ascents or slippery descents. In muddy conditions, they can quite literally help pull you up or stabilize you with a firm grip. For older travelers or those with less hiking experience, having a porter can make the difference between struggling and fully enjoying the experience.

Way of Giving Back to the Local Community

Beyond the physical support, hiring a porter is a way to give back to the local community. Many porters are former poachers or individuals who once depended on the forest for unsustainable livelihoods. Through employment as porters, they now earn income that supports their families and promotes conservation. The small fee you pay usually around USD 20–30 directly contributes to community development and reinforces the value of protecting gorillas.

It’s worth noting that using a porter is not a sign of weakness. Even seasoned trekkers often hire them as a way to conserve energy for the highlight of the trek: the precious hour spent with the gorillas. By relieving yourself of the burden of carrying gear and receiving assistance when needed, you enhance your chances of reaching the gorilla family comfortably and in good spirits. In short, porters are both your helping hand and your silent heroes of the forest.

 

How Long Does the Trek Take and Time Spent with Gorillas?

One of the most common questions for first-time trekkers is: “How long will I actually spend with the gorillas?” The answer has two parts: the trekking time and the observation time.

Between 30 Minutes to 7 Hours

The trek itself varies greatly depending on the location of the gorilla family, terrain, and trail conditions. On average, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 7 hours. Some gorilla groups are closer to the trailhead, making the hike relatively short, while others require navigating steep slopes, dense undergrowth, and river crossings. The variability is part of the adventure each trek is unique, and the challenge adds to the satisfaction once you finally spot the gorillas.

Strict Maximum of One Hour

Once you locate the gorilla family, visitors are allowed a strict maximum of one hour with them. This hour is carefully monitored by rangers to minimize stress on the gorillas and ensure the safety of trekkers. During this time, you can observe their behavior, photograph them, and even interact with their environment but always under strict guidelines. The intensity of this hour cannot be overstated; many trekkers describe it as life-changing, immersive, and emotionally overwhelming.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

Because gorilla tracking time is so variable, it is crucial to prepare physically and mentally. Trekking boots, gloves, long-sleeved shirts, and walking sticks are essential to endure long, sometimes slippery hikes. Remember, the trek is as much a part of the experience as the encounter itself. It builds anticipation and makes the moment you meet the gorillas even more rewarding.

1-Hour Gorilla tracking vs 4-Hour Gorilla Habituation Experience

Uganda offers two distinct types of gorilla encounters: the standard 1-hour trekking experience and the more immersive 4-hour habituation experience. Understanding the difference is key to choosing the right adventure for your interests.

Packing List and Preparation Tips for Gorilla tracking

Packing appropriately for a gorilla trek is essential to ensure comfort, safety, and enjoyment. Unlike a game drive, gorilla tracking takes you deep into a rainforest environment, where weather, terrain, and insects present challenges. Physical preparation is equally important. Gorilla tracking can be strenuous, especially in sectors with steep inclines or slippery slopes. Light cardio or hiking exercises prior to the safari can help improve endurance and prevent fatigue. With proper preparation and packing, trekkers can focus fully on the forest adventure rather than being distracted by discomfort or inadequate gear.

Etiquette Around Mountain Gorillas

Gorilla tracking is a privilege, and respecting gorilla etiquette is crucial both for your safety and for the wellbeing of these endangered primates.

Some key guidelines include

• Maintain at least 7 meters distance: Getting too close can transmit diseases or provoke defensive behavior.
• Avoid sudden movements: Quick gestures or loud noises may alarm gorillas.
• No touching or feeding: Human contact and food can harm gorillas.
• Do not make direct eye contact with the silverback: In gorilla culture, staring can be interpreted as a challenge.
• Turn off camera flash: Flash can startle gorillas and disrupt their natural behavior.
• Follow ranger instructions: Rangers are trained to read gorilla behavior and will guide you to stay safe.

Observing these rules ensures a safe, respectful, and immersive experience. Gorillas are gentle and curious by nature, but they are also strong and can be unpredictable if they feel threatened. Adhering to etiquette helps maintain the delicate balance between humans and wildlife, allowing you to witness these magnificent creatures without interference.

Comparing Gorilla tracking in Bwindi vs Mgahinga

While both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offer unforgettable gorilla tracking experiences, each destination has its own unique characteristics. Choosing between them can shape your safari adventure significantly.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi is Uganda’s flagship gorilla destination. Covering approximately 321 square kilometers, Bwindi is home to more than 400 mountain gorillas and boasts over 20 habituated families for gorilla tracking. The park’s four sectors; Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija, and Nkuringo each offer a slightly different trekking experience. Buhoma is the most developed and accessible, perfect for first-time trekkers. Rushaga is known for more challenging trails and the rare opportunity to participate in gorilla habituation experiences. Ruhija offers scenic hikes through less crowded trails, while Nkuringo provides more physically demanding treks with rewarding encounters for experienced hikers. Bwindi’s dense vegetation, misty slopes, and diverse wildlife make it a truly immersive rainforest experience.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Though smaller, has its own appeal. Located in the Virunga Mountains, it has only one habituated gorilla family, making the trekking experience more intimate. The park is less crowded, which allows for a quieter and more personal encounter. Its landscapes are dominated by volcanic peaks, crater lakes, and bamboo forests, offering breathtaking scenery alongside the gorilla encounter. Mgahinga also provides additional experiences, such as golden monkey tracking and cultural visits to the Batwa pygmy communities, adding depth to your safari.

Ultimately, Bwindi is ideal for those seeking multiple trekking options, a higher chance of gorilla encounters, and accessibility, while Mgahinga is suited for travelers seeking solitude, scenic diversity, and cultural interactions. Some adventurers even combine both parks to enjoy the best of Uganda’s gorilla tracking opportunities.

 

What Are the Chances of Seeing Mountain Gorillas in Uganda?

Visitors are often curious about the likelihood of encountering mountain gorillas. The good news is that your chances are extremely high over 95%. Uganda has a well-organized system of daily gorilla tracking, where rangers and trackers monitor the movements of habituated families and communicate their locations before treks begin.

The careful management of gorilla families ensures that trekkers almost always succeed in finding them. Unlike some wildlife sightings that rely on luck, gorilla encounters are deliberate and orchestrated, though still natural and unpredictable in behavior. While trekkers cannot control where gorillas are located on a given day, the rangers’ expertise guarantees that almost every group will have a successful encounter.

Even during the rainy season or in sectors requiring longer hikes, visitors rarely return without seeing gorillas. For those combining gorilla tracking with other wildlife safaris in Uganda, this reliability makes it a standout experience. Knowing that you are virtually guaranteed to meet these endangered primates adds confidence to planning and ensures the trek remains a highlight of any East African safari.

Photography Rules and Tips While with Gorillas

Capturing the magic of your gorilla tracking encounter is high on every traveler’s list, but there are essential rules and tips to follow to protect both the gorillas and yourself.

Interaction Guidelines: How to Behave Around Mountain Gorillas

Interacting with gorillas requires mindfulness, respect, and adherence to strict guidelines. Although gorillas are generally gentle and shy, they are powerful animals, and their safety, as well as yours, depends on careful conduct.

 Understanding Gorilla Behavior and Diet

Observing gorillas in their natural habitat provides a window into their complex social structures and daily routines. Mountain gorillas are predominantly herbivores, spending a large portion of their day feeding, resting, and interacting with family members. Gorilla tracking through Bwindi or Mgahinga, you may notice gorillas plucking leaves, stripping stems, munching on bamboo shoots, or tearing apart bark to access nutrients. Occasionally, they supplement their diet with insects, such as ants or termites, which provide essential protein.

Gorilla social behavior is equally fascinating. The silverback is the dominant male who protects and leads the family, ensuring cohesion and safety. Juveniles engage in playful wrestling and climbing, which strengthens bonds and develops survival skills. Mothers are nurturing and attentive, constantly grooming and comforting their infants. Observing these behaviors offers insight into the intelligence, emotional depth, and social sophistication of gorilla’s qualities that make the gorilla tracking experience both educational and profoundly moving.

Gorilla diet is closely linked to the forest ecosystem. The dense vegetation of Bwindi and Mgahinga provides a rich variety of food sources, which vary seasonally. Leaves, shoots, stems, fruits, bamboo, and occasionally roots form the core of their nutrition. Understanding what gorillas eat and how they forage helps trekkers appreciate the delicate balance of the rainforest ecosystem and the importance of conservation efforts to protect their habitats.

 

How Much Does a Silverback Eat Per Day?

The silverback is the central figure of a gorilla family, and its diet reflects its size and energy requirements. On average, a silverback consumes 18–30 kilograms (40–65 pounds) of vegetation daily. Feeding is a dominant activity for the silverback, as maintaining strength and stamina is essential for protecting the family from threats and managing group dynamics.

A typical day begins with foraging in the early morning. The silverback identifies nutritious plants and leads the family through the forest, strategically choosing feeding spots. The variety and abundance of plant life in Bwindi and Mgahinga mean that the gorillas are rarely short of food. Silverbacks also regulate group feeding by guiding juveniles and ensuring that weaker or younger members receive access to food.

The feeding habits of a silverback demonstrate both strength and leadership. They move deliberately, balancing foraging with the protection of the family. Observing a silverback feed highlights the intricate connection between gorilla behavior, diet, and social structure and underscores because their protection is so critical to conservationists.

 

Why Uganda is the Ultimate Gorilla tracking Destination

Gorilla tracking in Uganda is more than just a wildlife safari; it is a life-changing encounter with one of the planet’s most endangered and magnificent species. From the mist-covered slopes of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to the volcanic landscapes of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, every step through the forest is an adventure filled with anticipation and wonder.

The experience blends physical challenge, emotional impact, and conservation education. Trekkers witness the remarkable intelligence, social behavior, and gentleness of mountain gorillas, while learning about the delicate ecosystems that support their survival. Uganda’s well-managed parks, skilled rangers, and community-based conservation efforts ensure that visitors not only have high chances of seeing gorillas but also contribute directly to their protection.

With careful planning, respect for wildlife, and preparation for the challenging terrain, a gorilla tracking safari in Uganda becomes an unforgettable journey. From understanding the role of silverbacks, mothers, and playful juveniles to observing feeding habits and capturing the perfect photograph without disturbing the animals, the experience is immersive and transformative.

Uganda is the ultimate destination for anyone seeking a profound connection with nature, an adventure that tests both body and spirit, and a once-in-a-lifetime encounter that leaves travelers inspired, humbled, and deeply moved. Every trek, every sighting, and every quiet moment spent observing these incredible primates is a reminder of the power, beauty, and fragility of the natural world and why protecting it is a responsibility shared by all who are fortunate enough to experience it.

 

How Long Do Mountain Gorillas Live? Comparing Silverback Males and Females

Mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei), one of the world’s most iconic and endangered primates, have remarkable lifespans for wild animals, particularly given the challenges of their dense rainforest habitats. Factors such as predation, disease, food availability, and human threats can all influence longevity. Understanding their lifespan and how it differs between silverback males and females offers insight into their social structure, conservation needs, and behavior.

Mountain Gorilla Lifespan in the Wild and Captivity

On average, mountain gorillas live 40 to 50 years in the wild. Under optimal conditions, some individuals have been documented to live over 50 years, although such longevity is rare. Lifespan in the wild is influenced by access to abundant vegetation, protection from poachers, and the stability of the gorilla family group.

Silverback Males: Life Expectancy and Challenges

Silverbacks are the dominant adult males in a gorilla family and are central to the group’s leadership, protection, and cohesion. They usually reach sexual and physical maturity around 12 years old, but they rarely assume the role of dominant leader until 15–20 years old.

The role of a silverback is physically demanding. They are responsible for defending the family against rival males, guiding group movements through dense forests, and mediating conflicts within the family. These responsibilities, combined with occasional aggressive encounters, mean that silverbacks often experience slightly shorter lifespans than females.

Average Lifespan: 35–40 years in the wild.

Exceptional Individuals: Some may live into their mid-40s.

• Key Factors Affecting Longevity: Stress from leadership duties, injuries sustained during conflicts, and vulnerability to disease or habitat disruption.
• Despite these challenges, silverbacks play a crucial role in ensuring the survival and stability of the family, and their longevity directly impacts the reproductive success and safety of the group.

Female Mountain Gorillas: Life Expectancy and Roles

Female mountain gorillas typically mature earlier than males, around 8–10 years of age, and their social roles focus primarily on reproduction and infant care. Unlike males, females are less involved in territorial disputes and physical confrontations, which contributes to their slightly longer lifespans.

Average Lifespan: 40–45 years in the wild.

• Exceptional Individuals: Some females have been documented living up to 50 years.
• Key Factors Affecting Longevity: Reproductive health, ability to care for offspring successfully, access to adequate food, and protection from predators.

Females are essential for the long-term continuity of gorilla populations. Their reproductive lifespan and maternal care determine infant survival rates, and older females often serve as social stabilizers within the group, contributing to overall cohesion.

Key Insights and Conservation Implications

• Habitat Protection Matters: Lifespan is heavily dependent on the quality of habitat. Forests like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park provide abundant food, minimal poaching risk, and safe environments that allow gorillas to live longer.
• Human Activity Impacts Survival: Poaching, disease transmission from humans, and habitat encroachment can drastically reduce lifespan. Conservation programs have significantly mitigated these threats, improving survival rates.
• Social Roles Influence Longevity: Silverbacks’ physically demanding role slightly reduces their lifespan compared to females, whose nurturing and less confrontational lifestyle supports longevity.
• Conservation Success: Protected areas and anti-poaching measures have enabled mountain gorillas to achieve their full natural lifespan in recent decades, demonstrating the effectiveness of community-based conservation efforts.

Optional Comparison Table: Silverback vs Female Gorillas

Feature	Silverback Male	Female Gorilla
Maturity Age	12 years (dominant at 15–20)	8–10 years
Average Lifespan (Wild)	35–40 years	40–45 years
Exceptional Lifespan	Up to mid-40s	Up to 50 years
Primary Role	Leadership, protection, defense	Reproduction, infant care
Physical Challenges	High (fights, patrols, dominance)	Moderate (maternal care, foraging)
Impact on Family	Family cohesion and safety	Infant survival and group stability

Why Choose Uganda Gorilla Tracking Safaris with Deks Safaris & Tours

Embarking on a Uganda Gorilla Tracking adventure is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and choosing the right safari operator can make all the difference. At Deks Safaris & Tours, we offer expertly guided gorilla tracking experiences designed to immerse you in Uganda’s breath-taking landscapes, wildlife, and culture all while ensuring your adventure is safe, sustainable, and unforgettable.

Book Your Gorilla Tracking Safari in Four Simple Steps

At Deks Safaris & Tours, we believe every traveler is unique. That’s why designing your dream Uganda Gorilla Tracking safari is straightforward and personalized in just four steps: