Gorilla Trekking Age Limit

Gorilla Trekking Age Limit: What You Need to Know

If you’re planning to take children on a gorilla trekking safari to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda, it’s important to understand the gorilla trekking age limit. According to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), the minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years old. Children under 15 are considered minors and are generally not permitted to trek mountain gorillas.

Why is There an Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking?

There are several reasons behind this policy:

1. Safety Concerns: Trekking through Bwindi’s rugged, hilly terrain can be challenging. The path can be slippery and uneven, which may be difficult for younger children to navigate.
2. Gorilla Behavior: Children are often more likely to make noise or act unpredictably, which could cause distress to the gorillas. Since gorillas are wild animals, loud noises or sudden movements might provoke them, leading to potentially dangerous situations.
3. Health Risks: Humans and gorillas share a significant percentage of their DNA, making mountain gorillas susceptible to human diseases such as the flu or cold. For this reason, children—who are more likely to carry communicable diseases—are restricted from trekking.

Can a Child Under 15 Trek Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi?

In rare circumstances, minors may still have the chance to trek if special arrangements are made, but generally, they are not allowed. If a child is under the age of 15, they can still join the safari and stay at the lodge while the parents go on the trek. Children can participate in activities like nature walks or community visits, but they will not be able to engage in the actual gorilla trekking.

Do Children Pay the Same Price as Adults?

Yes, children aged 15 and above pay the same price for gorilla permits as adults. However, children who are part of a family group are typically trekked with their parents for better management and supervision. A passport check is required to confirm the child’s age, and if found to be underage, they will not be allowed to trek, even if a permit has been purchased in advance.

Trekking with the Elderly

There’s no maximum age limit for gorilla trekking in Bwindi, but the trek can be physically demanding. For older visitors, there are options to make the experience more accessible. You can hire a porter to carry your bags and assist you with the trek, or opt for a sedan chair service. This service costs around $300 per person and provides a comfortable way for elderly visitors to reach the gorillas. Many visitors in their 70s and 80s have successfully trekked and seen the gorillas with this assistance.

Why Choose Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for Gorilla Trekking?

Bwindi is one of only two places in the world where you can see the magnificent mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. With over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas residing in this park, you’ll have an incredible chance of spotting them during your visit. The park is divided into sectors, including Rushaga, Buhoma, Ruhija, and Nkuringo, each offering a unique trekking experience.

Each gorilla family in the park is habituated and led by a dominant silverback, making every trekking experience truly special. Since there are only 8 permits available for each gorilla family per day, it’s essential to book your gorilla permit in advance to secure your spot.

How to Book a Gorilla Trekking Safari to Bwindi

When booking a gorilla trek with Trek Africa Gorillas Ltd, we make it easy for you. Simply provide your preferred travel dates, and we’ll check permit availability for you. Once the permits are confirmed, we will send you an invoice for payment. After payment is received, your permit will be secured, and we’ll send you the official receipts from the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Where to Stay in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is divided into four sectors for gorilla trekking: Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija, and Rushaga. Your choice of accommodation will depend on which sector you’ll be trekking from. Once you check the availability of permits with us, we’ll guide you to the sector with available permits and recommend the best accommodation options in that area.

Each sector offers a range of lodging options, from budget-friendly to luxury. Here’s a breakdown of accommodations by sector:

• Buhoma Sector:
  • Budget: Buhoma Community Camp
  • Mid-range: Buhoma Havens Lodge
  • Luxury: Bwindi Lodge, Mahogany Springs Lodge, Buhoma Lodge
  • Upmarket: Gorilla Forest Camp
• Rushaga Sector:
  • Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Four Gorillas Lodge
• Nkuringo Sector:
  • Nkuringo Bwindi Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

Each of these accommodations offers a comfortable stay, ensuring you’re well-rested before your unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking Safari with Us?

At Trek Africa Gorillas Ltd, we organize exceptional gorilla trekking safaris to both Uganda and Rwanda. We’re proud to be highly rated and reviewed on TripAdvisor, known for providing memorable experiences that combine eco-friendly adventures with luxury. Our safaris go beyond gorilla trekking, offering a range of exciting activities, including:

• Chimpanzee trekking
• Big 5 safaris and game viewing
• Mountain hiking
• Boat cruises
• Cultural encounters

We are dedicated to supporting wildlife conservation, preserving biodiversity, and uplifting local communities through sustainable tourism practices. Whether you’re exploring Uganda’s Bwindi Forest or visiting top African safari destinations like Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia, we ensure every aspect of your trip is unforgettable.

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions, including details about the gorilla trekking age limit or accommodation options in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.