Can Children Under 15 Trek Gorillas in Bwindi?

Can Children Under 15 Trek Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

If you’re planning a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with your children, you might be wondering about the age restrictions for this incredible experience. According to the Uganda Wildlife Authority, the minimum age for gorilla trekking is currently set at 15 years. This means that children under this age, classified as minors, are not permitted to participate in gorilla trekking activities.

While children under 15 cannot trek gorillas, they can still enjoy the adventure of a safari in other ways. The restrictions are in place for several important reasons. First and foremost, young children can be unpredictable; they might make noise or run, which could provoke a negative reaction from the gorillas. Additionally, children are more susceptible to transmitting communicable diseases, such as colds or flu, which can affect the health of the mountain gorillas. These magnificent creatures share about 98% of their DNA with humans, making them vulnerable to illnesses that humans carry.

Gorilla trekking can also be physically challenging. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is known for its steep and rough terrain, which may be difficult for young children to navigate. However, children aged 15 and older are welcome to join the trek and are charged the same permit price as adults. Typically, these teens are grouped with their families during the trek, ensuring they are well supervised.

It’s essential to note that even if you secure a gorilla permit for your minor, they will not be allowed to trek if they do not meet the age requirement. Instead, younger children can accompany their parents on safari, staying at the lodge or with a guide while the adults embark on the trek. They can also enjoy nature walks and community visits during this time.

Accessibility for Elderly Trekkers

There is no upper age limit for gorilla trekking, and many elderly visitors have successfully trekked to see these incredible animals. To facilitate this, options like hiring a porter to assist with carrying bags and providing support during the hike are available. Additionally, a sedan chair can be arranged for about $300, which allows elderly guests to be carried to and from the trekking sites. We have welcomed visitors in their 70s and 80s who have been able to trek and experience the magic of seeing mountain gorillas up close.

Why Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is one of the premier locations for trekking mountain gorillas, home to more than half of the world’s remaining population. The park boasts diverse ecosystems and breathtaking scenery, making it a fantastic destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The park is divided into several sectors, including Rushaga, Buhoma, Ruhija, and Nkuringo, each offering unique opportunities for gorilla tracking. Each gorilla family within the park is habituated to human presence and has its own distinct personality, often led by a dominant silverback male. To participate in a trek, visitors must have a valid gorilla permit, which allows a maximum of eight trekkers per gorilla family per day. This limited availability underscores the importance of securing your permit in advance, whether you’re planning a last-minute trip or a future adventure.

Booking Your Gorilla Trekking Safari

When you book your all-inclusive gorilla trekking safari with Trek Africa Expeditions, we take the hassle out of planning. Simply provide us with your preferred trekking dates, and we will check for permit availability. After tentatively reserving your permit, we will send you an invoice for payment. Once payment is made, we will secure your permit and provide you with the necessary documentation from the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Where to Stay in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Your choice of accommodation will depend on the sector you plan to trek from. Bwindi offers a range of lodging options, from budget-friendly camps to luxury lodges, accommodating all types of travelers. For example, in the Buhoma sector, you can choose from budget options like Buhoma Community Camp, mid-range accommodations such as Buhoma Havens Lodge, or luxury stays at Mahogany Springs Lodge. In the Rushaga sector, options include Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge and Four Gorillas Lodge.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Gorilla Trekking Experience?

Trek Africa Expeditions specializes in creating memorable gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda and Rwanda. With numerous positive reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor, we pride ourselves on providing eco-friendly, high-quality safaris that preserve biodiversity and support local communities. Our offerings extend beyond gorilla trekking to include chimpanzee encounters, Big Five safaris, mountain hiking, boat cruises, and cultural experiences throughout popular African destinations like Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia.

Feel free to contact us for more information about the total cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda, and let us help you plan the adventure of a lifetime!