Gorilla Trekking with Kids

Gorilla Trekking with Kids: What You Need to Know

Planning a family trip with kids for a thrilling gorilla trek in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park? While it’s an unforgettable experience, there are some important guidelines you need to keep in mind when traveling with children.

Minimum Age Requirement for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Under the current policy by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), the minimum age for participating in a gorilla trek is 15 years. Children younger than 15 are generally not allowed to trek mountain gorillas due to safety and health concerns. However, there are exceptions to this rule, and Excursia Adventures can guide you through the process if you wish to include a younger child in your gorilla trekking experience.

Why Are Children Below 15 Years Not Allowed to Trek Gorillas?

There are several key reasons why children under the age of 15 are not permitted to trek gorillas in Uganda:

• Behavioral Concerns: Children may not be able to stay quiet or follow instructions during the trek. Unpredictable behavior, like running or making loud noises, could provoke the gorillas, making them act aggressively.
• Health Risks: Mountain gorillas and humans share about 98% of their DNA, and certain diseases, such as the common cold or flu, can be easily transmitted from humans to gorillas, which could be fatal for these endangered animals.
• Physical Demands: Gorilla trekking involves navigating through challenging terrain, including hilly, slippery, and rugged paths, which may be difficult for younger children to handle safely.

What About Children Aged 15?

Children aged 15 are allowed to join a gorilla trek, but they must pay the same permit fee as adults. They will typically be grouped with their parents or guardians during the trek for easier supervision. It’s important to note that the UWA will verify a child’s age via passport review, so be sure to carry valid documents. If your child is under 15, they may not be allowed to trek, even if you’ve secured a permit.

While kids under 15 can’t trek, they can still enjoy other activities like nature walks or community visits while parents go trekking. These activities offer a fantastic opportunity to learn about the local culture and wildlife.

Elderly Travelers on Gorilla Treks

There is no maximum age limit for gorilla trekking, and many older visitors (even in their 70s and 80s) have successfully trekked to see the gorillas. For elderly travelers, options such as hiring a porter or using a sedan chair to assist with the trek are available. A sedan chair service, which carries individuals through the forest, is priced around $300 per person.

About Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The park is divided into four sectors: Rushaga, Buhoma, Ruhija, and Nkuringo, each offering unique trekking experiences. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Gorilla Trekking Permits and Availability

Gorilla permits are required for trekking, and only 8 people are allowed per gorilla family per day. Therefore, it’s essential to book your permit in advance to secure your spot. Excursia Adventures can check permit availability for your desired trekking dates, reserve permits, and provide payment details. Once confirmed, we’ll send you a receipt from the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Where to Stay in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget to luxury, depending on your preferences and which sector you will be trekking from. For example:

• Buhoma Sector: Buhoma Community Camp (budget), Buhoma Havens Lodge (mid-range), Mahogany Springs Lodge (luxury), Gorilla Forest Camp (up-market)
• Rushaga Sector: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Four Gorillas Lodge
• Nkuringo Sector: Nkuringo Bwindi Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

When you book your gorilla trek with Excursia Adventures, we’ll suggest accommodation options based on availability in the sector where your trek is scheduled.

Why Choose Excursia Adventures for Gorilla Trekking with Kids?

Excursia Adventures is a leading tour operator specializing in gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda. We’re committed to providing eco-friendly, unforgettable experiences while helping preserve biodiversity, support wildlife conservation, and uplift local communities. Our highly rated services have earned us positive reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor, and we strive to provide every traveler with a smooth, stress-free safari experience.

Whether you’re traveling with kids or embarking on a solo adventure, Excursia Adventures is here to help you plan the perfect gorilla trekking safari. Feel free to reach out to us for more details and to start planning your once-in-a-lifetime experience with mountain gorillas.