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Gorilla Trekking with an 11-Year-Old: What You Need to Know
Are you dreaming of a gorilla safari in Uganda with your 11-year-old child? While this adventure is a bucket-list experience for many families, it’s important to know the rules and guidelines before embarking on a trek to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Uganda Wildlife Authority’s policy sets the minimum age for gorilla trekking at 15 years, but there are ways for younger children to participate, including your 11-year-old.
Can an 11-Year-Old Trek Gorillas in Uganda?
Under Uganda’s current policy, children under 15 are generally not allowed to trek mountain gorillas. The reason for this is twofold:
- Safety Concerns: Gorilla trekking can be challenging, as Bwindi’s terrain is often steep and slippery. Children might struggle with the physical demands of the trek, and their behavior, such as making noise or running, could provoke the gorillas, creating safety risks for both visitors and animals.
- Health Risks: Gorillas share 98% of their DNA with humans, meaning they are susceptible to human diseases like the flu or cold. To protect these endangered creatures, children under 15 are generally not permitted to join the trek.
However, exceptions can be made for children under 15 in certain circumstances. You will need to secure special permissions and sign a waiver to take your child on a gorilla trek. This waiver acknowledges that you are accepting responsibility for your child’s participation in the trek.
What You Need to Trek with an 11-Year-Old
To take your 11-year-old on a gorilla trek, there are a few steps to follow:
- Gorilla Permits: Children aged 11 or older pay the same price as adults for gorilla permits. These permits are limited in number, as only eight people are allowed to trek each gorilla family per day. Make sure to secure the permit in advance for your chosen date.
- Waiver: You will need to sign a waiver acknowledging that you, as the parent, accept full responsibility for your child’s participation. This waiver confirms that both the tour operator and Uganda Wildlife Authority are not liable for any issues during the trek.
- Accommodation: Children are typically grouped with their families for easier management and supervision. Once your permits are confirmed, you can choose from a range of accommodations in the park’s various sectors, depending on where you will be trekking.
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi National Park with an 11-Year-Old
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of only two places in the world where you can trek the rare mountain gorillas. It’s located in southwestern Uganda, bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park is divided into four main sectors for trekking: Rushaga, Buhoma, Ruhija, and Nkuringo.
Each sector offers a unique experience, with different habituated gorilla families available for trekking. The trek itself is an unforgettable adventure, but it’s important to understand that only eight trekkers are allowed per gorilla family each day, so you’ll need to book your permit well in advance.
How to Book a Gorilla Trek with an 11-Year-Old
Booking a gorilla trek with an 11-year-old is straightforward, but securing a permit early is essential. Here’s how the process works:
- Choose Your Travel Dates: Let us know when you plan to visit Bwindi, and we’ll check the availability of permits for that date.
- Secure Your Permit: Once we confirm permit availability, we will reserve your permit and send you an invoice. Upon payment, we will finalize your booking and send you the permit details.
- Travel Logistics: We offer all-inclusive packages, including transport to and from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park from Entebbe. We’ll also guide you in choosing the best accommodation based on your trekking sector.
Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking with an 11-Year-Old
Accommodation options in Bwindi are varied, with something to suit every budget. Depending on the sector you’re trekking in, you’ll find budget, mid-range, luxury, and upmarket lodges.
- Buhoma Sector: Buhoma Community Camp (budget), Buhoma Havens Lodge (mid-range), Bwindi Lodge (luxury), Gorilla Forest Camp (upmarket).
- Rushaga Sector: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge (mid-range), Rushaga Gorilla Camp (budget), Four Gorillas Lodge (mid-range).
- Nkuringo Sector: Nkuringo Bwindi Lodge (mid-range), Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge (luxury).
- Ruhija Sector: Options include both budget and luxury lodges.
We will assist you in choosing the best accommodation based on the sector and availability of permits.
Why Book with Excursia Adventures for Your Gorilla Trek with an 11-Year-Old?
Excursia Adventures is a trusted tour operator specializing in unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda. We are highly rated on TripAdvisor and known for our eco-friendly, luxury safaris that combine adventure and wildlife conservation. In addition to gorilla trekking, we offer a variety of wildlife experiences, including chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 safaris, cultural encounters, and more.
Booking with us ensures that your family’s gorilla safari will be seamless, unforgettable, and tailored to your needs. Contact us today to plan your gorilla trekking adventure with your 11-year-old and create lifelong memories!
