Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park

Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park

If you’re planning a family gorilla tour to Mgahinga National Park in Uganda, you may be wondering about the age requirements for trekking with your children. At Trek Africa Expeditions, we’re here to provide you with all the information you need regarding the age limits for gorilla trekking.

Location and Overview

Mgahinga National Park is situated in the Kisoro district of southwestern Uganda, within the renowned Virunga volcanic mountain chain that spans Rwanda, Congo, and Uganda. As the smallest national park in Uganda, it is bordered by Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mgahinga is famous for its mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, featuring diverse ecosystems including tropical rainforests and montane bamboo forests.

Minimum and Maximum Age for Gorilla Trekking

According to the Uganda Wildlife Authority, the minimum age for gorilla trekking in Mgahinga is currently set at 15 years. Any child under this age is considered a minor and is not permitted to trek with the mountain gorillas. This policy is in place for several important reasons.

Firstly, young children can be unpredictable. Their behavior, such as running or making noise, could provoke the gorillas and result in dangerous situations. Secondly, there is a concern about communicable diseases. Children can carry illnesses like coughs and flu, which can be transmitted to the mountain gorillas, whose genetic makeup is closely related to that of humans.

Although the minimum age is 15, children who meet this requirement will pay the same permit price as adults. Typically, they are grouped with their families during the trek for ease of supervision. When obtaining permits, the passport of each participant will be reviewed to ensure compliance with the age policy. If a child is found to be underage, they will not be allowed to trek, even if a permit has already been secured.

For families traveling with younger children, there are alternative options. Minors can stay behind at their accommodations or with a driver-guide while their parents enjoy the trek. They can still engage in other activities, such as nature walks and community visits.

Maximum Age for Gorilla Trekking

There is no maximum age limit for those wishing to trek in Mgahinga National Park, as long as the individual is fit to travel. For elderly visitors, there are services available to facilitate their experience. You can hire a porter to assist with carrying belongings and provide support during the hike. Additionally, a sedan chair can be arranged for around $300, allowing elderly trekkers to be carried to and from the gorillas. We have welcomed visitors in their 70s and 80s who have successfully trekked and experienced the wonder of seeing gorillas in their natural habitat.

Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park

Mgahinga National Park offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those interested in gorilla tourism in Uganda. Gorilla trekking allows you to observe the rare mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, witnessing their beauty and behavior as they move, feed, and interact with one another. With approximately 99% of their DNA shared with humans, these magnificent creatures provide an incredible opportunity for connection and awe.

The park is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family, the only habituated group available for trekking. Each day, a limited number of eight visitors are allowed to spend one hour with these gentle giants, ensuring an intimate experience that respects their natural behavior.

Planning Your Gorilla Trek

To participate in a gorilla trek in Mgahinga, you will need to secure a valid gorilla permit through the Uganda Wildlife Authority. The current prices are USD 800 for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. On the day of your trek, you’ll begin by driving to the park headquarters, where you will receive a briefing on the rules to follow in the forest. Experienced guides and park rangers will accompany you as you navigate through the dense rainforests and steep mountainsides.

The trek itself offers a rewarding experience, allowing you to come within 5 to 7 meters of the gorillas, where you can observe their daily activities and social interactions. After your hour of viewing, you’ll return to the starting point to receive a certificate commemorating your successful trek.

Getting to Mgahinga National Park

Reaching Mgahinga National Park is convenient, especially from Kigali, Rwanda. The drive takes about four hours via the Chanika border crossing between Uganda and Rwanda. You can start your journey from the airport or your hotel in Kigali, including a city tour before heading to Kisoro district for lunch and an overnight stay.

If you’re traveling from Entebbe or Kampala, expect a drive of approximately 9 to 10 hours along the Kampala-Mbarara-Kisoro highway. Alternatively, you can opt for a flight from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip, which takes about two hours to reach Kisoro Airstrip. Daily scheduled flights are available with Aero Link Uganda and other airlines, and charter flights can also be arranged.

We can help tailor your trip to include visits to other parks, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching safari experience.

Where to Stay in Mgahinga National Park

There are several accommodation options near Mgahinga National Park, ranging from budget to luxury lodges. Many of these lodges are located on the outskirts of the forest, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Options include:

• Gahinga Lodge: A luxury option that offers top-notch amenities.
• Lake Chahafi Lodge and Lake Muhele Lodge: Mid-range to budget-friendly accommodations.
• Additionally, travelers may choose to stay in hotels in Kisoro town, just a 30-minute drive from the park headquarters. Some visitors also opt for lodges or camps in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is about an hour’s drive from Mgahinga.

Why Book with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in creating unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda and Rwanda. Highly rated on TripAdvisor, we focus on eco-friendly safaris that not only provide thrilling adventures but also support biodiversity conservation and uplift local communities. Our offerings include not just gorilla trekking but also chimpanzee tracking, Big Five safaris, mountain hiking, boat excursions, and cultural encounters, ensuring you have the best possible African safari experience.

If you have any questions about the age limits for gorilla trekking in Mgahinga or need assistance with your safari plans, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help you make the most of your adventure!