Gorilla Trekking Age Restrictions

Gorilla Trekking Age Restrictions: What You Need to Know

Planning a gorilla trekking adventure with children under 15 years old? It’s important to be aware of the age restrictions for trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Congo’s Virunga National Park. The minimum age for gorilla trekking in these parks is 15 years and children younger than that are not permitted to trek with the gorillas. However, there are some exceptions and considerations when traveling with children.

Why the Age Limit Exists for Gorilla Trekking

The primary reason children under 15 are not allowed to trek gorillas is safety. Children may be unpredictable, making noise or running, which could potentially cause the gorillas to become agitated or act unpredictably. Furthermore, since gorillas and humans share similar DNA, there is a concern about the transmission of diseases such as coughs and colds from children to gorillas. The trekking environment is also physically demanding, with steep, slippery terrain that may be challenging for younger trekkers.

Can Children Participate in Gorilla Safaris in Uganda, Rwanda or Congo?

While the official minimum age for trekking is 15, children under this age can still join a safari but they will not participate in the gorilla trekking itself. Parents can arrange for a child to stay with a guide or at the lodge while they go on the trek. Children can also enjoy other activities such as nature walks and community visits.

Special Considerations for Children on Gorilla Treks

If you are considering bringing a child under 15 on a trek, it is important to note that children who are 15 or older pay the same price as adults for a gorilla permit. While minors are not permitted to trek, they are welcome to join the family for other activities. Additionally, when a child’s age is in question, their passport will be checked and if found to be under the required age, they will not be permitted to trek, even if a permit has been purchased.

What to Expect for Elderly Gorilla Trekkers

Gorilla trekking has no maximum age limit and visitors in their 70s or 80s can still enjoy the experience with the right assistance. Options like hiring a porter or using a sedan chair for an additional fee can help elderly trekkers navigate the rough terrain and reach the gorillas. This support ensures that trekking remains accessible for a wide range of ages, allowing everyone to experience the magic of seeing gorillas in the wild.

What Is the Gorilla Trekking Experience Like in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it one of the best places for gorilla trekking. The park is divided into four sectors: Rushaga, Buhoma, Ruhija and Nkuringo, each with habituated gorilla families available for trekking. Gorilla trekking involves hiking through dense jungle terrain but the reward is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Gorilla Permits and How to Book Your Trek

To participate in a gorilla trek, you must secure a gorilla permit, which is required for entry to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. There are only eight permits available per gorilla family per day, making advance booking essential. Once you’ve selected your preferred trekking dates, Trek Africa Gorillas can help secure your permit and ensure you have everything you need for a successful trip.

Costs of Gorilla Permits in Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo

• Uganda: A Gorilla Permit in Uganda costs $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for residents and $80 for East African citizens. The permit allows you to spend one hour with mountain gorillas in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. For a longer, more immersive experience, you can opt for the Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi, which costs $1500 and allows you to spend four hours with semi-habituated gorillas under the guidance of researchers and trackers.
• Rwanda: In Rwanda, the Gorilla Permit for Volcanoes National Park costs $1500 for foreign non-residents, $500 for foreign residents and $200 for East African citizens. The permit grants access to one hour with the gorillas.
• DR Congo: For trekking in Virunga National Park (Mountain Gorillas), permits are $400 during the high season (mid-December to mid-March and June to October) and $200 during the low season (mid-March to mid-May and mid-October to mid-December). Kahuzi Beiga National Park (Lowland Gorillas) permits cost $400 for foreign non-residents and $200 for East African residents.

Important Note: Gorilla permit costs do not include accommodation, meals, transport or other expenses. Be sure to check with your tour operator for a complete package.

Best Gorilla Trekking Destinations for Families with Kids

If you’re considering a family adventure, gorilla trekking with kids is an experience that’s hard to beat. Africa offers a few incredible destinations where you can enjoy this unforgettable journey. The main countries where you can go gorilla trekking are Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). These countries are home to the world’s remaining mountain gorillas and each offers its own unique trekking experience.

Top Gorilla Trekking Parks for Families with Children

• Uganda: Known as the best option for families traveling with kids, Uganda offers two primary parks for gorilla trekking: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These parks are home to over half of the world’s mountain gorillas and are considered some of the most family-friendly trekking destinations.
• Rwanda: Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park offers exceptional gorilla trekking experiences, though it does come with a higher price tag.
• DR Congo: Congo is home to Virunga National Park (for mountain gorillas) and Kahuzi-Biega National Park (for lowland gorillas). While these parks are less visited, they offer a unique experience for adventurous families.

What You Need to Know About Gorilla Trekking with Kids

When planning a gorilla trekking trip with children, age restrictions are an important consideration. In Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo, the minimum age for trekking is 15 years. However, if you have children under 15, there are still options. They won’t be able to trek with the gorillas but they can enjoy other activities such as nature walks, community visits and relaxing at the lodge while you trek.

Where to Stay in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with Kids

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is divided into four sectors: Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija and Rushaga. The sector where you trek will determine your accommodation options. We’ll help you choose the best place to stay based on availability and your preferences.

Here are some family-friendly accommodation options in each 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:
  • Budget: Rushaga Gorilla Camp
  • Mid-range: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
  • Luxury: Four Gorillas Lodge
• Nkuringo Sector:
  • Mid-range: Nkuringo Bwindi Lodge
  • Luxury: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

Why Choose Trek Africa Gorillas for Your Gorilla Trekking Trip?

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we pride ourselves in organizing exceptional gorilla trekking safaris across Uganda and Rwanda. We’re highly rated on TripAdvisor for providing personalized, eco-friendly safari experiences that support wildlife conservation and local communities.

In addition to gorilla trekking, we offer a wide range of exciting safari activities, including chimpanzee trekking, Big Five safaris, boat cruises, cultural tours and more. Our goal is to provide a seamless, unforgettable experience that blends adventure with responsible tourism.

Book your gorilla trekking adventure with Trek Africa Gorillas today and let us help you create lasting memories with your family!

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about gorilla trekking with kids or the age restrictions in place. We’re here to help!