Can Seniors and Elderly Travelers Trek Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda?

Can Seniors and Elderly Travelers Trek Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda?

Absolutely! Senior citizens and elderly travelers can enjoy the incredible experience of gorilla trekking in Rwanda, even if they face physical challenges. Whether you’re planning to trek with your elderly parent, grandparent, or someone with limited mobility, Excursia Adventures ensures the experience is tailored to their needs.

There is no maximum age limit for gorilla trekking as long as travelers can make it to the park. However, there are helpful options to make the trek more comfortable for elderly or less fit individuals:

• Hire a Porter: Porters can carry your backpack and offer physical support during the trek.
• Sedan Chair Option: For about $300 per person, elderly travelers can be carried in a sedan chair to and from the forest.

Over the years, we’ve had visitors in their 70s and 80s successfully complete gorilla trekking. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that shouldn’t be missed!

Tips for Organizing Gorilla Trekking for Seniors

When planning a gorilla trekking experience for elderly travelers, here are some key considerations:

1. Safety and Security

• Gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is extremely safe. Armed rangers accompany every trek to ensure protection from wildlife such as elephants or buffaloes.
• Both Uganda and Rwanda have had no militia activity in over two decades, and park authorities take security seriously.
• For those considering gorilla trekking in Congo, while the security situation has improved, there are more security checks and escorts required compared to Rwanda and Uganda.

2. Accommodation for Seniors

• Lodges around the gorilla parks cater to various budgets, including luxury, mid-range, and budget options. Many accommodations are senior-friendly, with ramps and easy accessibility.
• Options include grass-thatched cottages, self-contained tented camps, and standard hotels designed to accommodate travelers with disabilities.

3. Preparing for the Trek

• For seniors or travelers who feel unfit, preparing physically is important. Light activities like walking, hiking, or climbing can help build stamina before the trek.
• Pack appropriately for the trek. Essential items include:
  • Comfortable hiking boots
  • Gloves
  • Rain jacket
  • Long-sleeved shirts and pants
  • Walking stick
  • Insect repellent
  • First aid kit

4. Sedan Chair Option

For elderly travelers who may not be able to hike, sedan chairs are a convenient solution. Trained porters will carry the chair through the forest, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience.

Best Time for Seniors to Go Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is possible year-round, but the dry seasons are ideal for seniors:

• January to February
• June to September

During these months, trails are less muddy, and vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot the gorillas.

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Located in the northwestern region of Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park (Parc des Volcans) is a top destination for gorilla trekking. It’s part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, home to five extinct volcanoes: Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, Mount Karisimbi, and Mount Bisoke.

The park is renowned for its mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and other wildlife like forest hogs, bushbucks, monkeys, and various bird species. The region also offers a glimpse into Rwanda’s unique culture.

Thanks to gorilla tourism, Volcanoes National Park has significantly contributed to Rwanda’s economic development and conservation efforts. Trekking here provides a chance to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, an experience that truly stays with you for a lifetime.

How Many Gorilla Permits Are Available Daily in Volcanoes National Park?

If you’re planning a gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda, you may wonder about the availability of permits in Volcanoes National Park. The park is home to 10 habituated gorilla families, and only 8 visitors are allowed to trek each family per day. This means there are a total of 80 gorilla trekking permits available daily.

With a 99% chance of encountering the mountain gorillas, the trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. Guided by experienced rangers, trackers, and guides, you’ll witness how gorillas eat, move, and interact.

Gorilla Trekking Schedule

• Start Time: Treks begin daily at 7:00 AM with a briefing session at Kinigi.
• Duration: The trek can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the gorillas’ location in the forest.
• Important Notes: While gorillas share 99% of their DNA with humans, they remain wild animals. Visitors are required to adhere to the guidelines shared by their guides during the briefing.

How Much Does a Rwanda Gorilla Permit Cost?

To trek gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, you’ll need a gorilla permit issued by the Rwanda Development Board. The permit costs USD 1,500 per person, regardless of nationality. This fee allows you one hour of observation and photography with the gorillas.

Gorilla trekking is an extraordinary experience, often described as a bucket-list adventure. At Excursia Adventures, we help travelers secure permits and create tailor-made itineraries for a memorable journey.

How to Book a Rwanda Gorilla Permit

Booking a gorilla permit in Rwanda is simple and straightforward. Here’s how it works:

1. Contact Excursia Adventures: Let us know your planned trekking dates and preferences.
2. Check Availability: We’ll check the Rwanda Development Board’s online system for available permits.
3. Confirm Booking: If permits are available, we’ll send you an invoice for payment. Once payment is received, we’ll secure your permits and share a copy of the receipt with a booking ID.
4. Flexible Dates: If your preferred dates are unavailable, we’ll help you choose alternative dates.

We highly recommend booking your permits months in advance, especially for the high season (January, February, July, August, September, and December). Gorilla permits often sell out quickly during these peak months.

Why Book Gorilla Trekking for Seniors with Excursia Adventures?

At Excursia Adventures, we are committed to creating a seamless and unforgettable gorilla trekking experience for all travelers, including seniors and elderly visitors. Here’s why you should book with us:

• Tailored Packages: We offer a variety of safari packages for all budgets, including budget, mid-range, and luxury options.
• Permit Assistance: We take care of booking your gorilla permits and ensuring all logistics are in place.
• Experienced Team: Our knowledgeable consultants and guides are always ready to answer your questions and offer personalized advice.
• Trusted by Travelers: With glowing TripAdvisor reviews, we have a proven track record of delivering exceptional experiences.

Whether you’re trekking gorillas for the first time or planning a trip for an elderly loved one, we guarantee a safe, comfortable, and memorable adventure.

Ready to Book Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure?

Contact Excursia Adventures today to begin planning your Rwanda gorilla trekking experience. From securing permits to crafting personalized itineraries, we’ll ensure you enjoy a hassle-free and life-changing safari.

Let’s make your dream of seeing the majestic mountain gorillas a reality!