Gorilla Trekking: Age Limits & Permits

Eligibility for Mountain Gorilla Trekking

A face-to-face encounter with critically endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitats is everyone’s dream. All travelers both men and women at all ages would surely prefer to spend some time with these endangered species who share over 98% of human genes hence the close relatives to human beings. For who ever planning a gorilla tour, advance planning and preparation is very essential to avoid any disappointment at the last hour.

Planning involves contacting any trusted tour operator after doing an extensive research regarding his/her trip advisor reviews. Also, if possible, consider references from the past travelers as well that tour operator’s membership with government bodies such as Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) in Uganda and Rwanda Development Board (RDB) in Rwanda. Much as trekking gorillas is everyone’s desire, not everyone is allowed to meet and interact with these gentle giants. Find out who is eligible to trek mountain gorillas:

Who is Eligible to Trek Mountain Gorillas

1. Those aged 15 years and above

All travelers to take part in gorilla trekking must be aged 15 years and above. Age restriction is very serious and all travel agents in all countries emphasize it to avoid any disappointment to travelers. To ensure all travelers are of age, all travelers making inquires are asked to submit in their passport details to clarify their date of birth. One of the reasons for for age limit is the strenuous nature of gorilla trekking that include hiking through deep forests with slippery muddy grounds, which are difficult for the young kids.

Also, though mountain gorillas are habituated and used to people, the endangered species remain wild and can charge anytime if disrupted. It’s believed that young children may not adhere to the trekking rules and regulations such as keeping a distance of seven meters and keeping calm. However, in case a child is remaining with a few days to celebrate his 15th birthday and is physically fit, he/she is allowed to see gorillas but with the parent agreeing to the terms and conditions with the responsible bodies.

2. Those with gorilla permits

For whoever going to see mountain gorillas, a gorilla permits is a must have. Also known as gorilla pass/ gorilla permits are issued out by Uganda wildlife authority in Uganda, Rwanda development board in Rwanda and Virunga national park in Democratic Republic of Congo. Interestingly, travelers can book and these permits through tour operators who are arranging their gorilla tours to any of the gorilla destination. On the actual day of trekking, all travelers are reminded to carry their permits without which no one is allowed to trek gorillas.

The price of gorilla permits vary from country to country but the experience is more of the same. Rwanda’s offers the most expensive permit at 1500 USD per permit, Uganda at 600 for foreign non-residents, 500 for foreign residents and 250000 shs for east African residents. In DRC at, gorilla passes cost 450 USD hence the best gorilla safari destination for budget travelers. Travelers are required to book as early as 6 months prior the trekking date to secure these permits that are highly demanded. Travelers are also reminded to carry other travel documents such as passports, visas and other related papers for clarification

3. Travelers with good health

All travelers must be free from any kind of sickness especially communicable diseases such as cold, flu and cough which easily spread from people to mountain gorillas. For this case all travelers must come along with their medical letters to prove their good health and yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Also, the fact that mountain gorillas are close relatives to human genes, the gentle giants are susceptible to human illnesses, which put them at risk. In addition travelers are reminded to turn back their faces from the gorillas in case one is coughing and sneezing. Travellers are reminded to visit their doctors for check up and get medication to prevent any upcoming sickness. In case a traveler becomes critically sick the night to the trekking date, he/she is refunded or allowed to trek another day but not on that day for the safety of gorillas.

 Rwanda Gorilla Trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for travelers

4. Those who are Physically fit

Gorilla trekking is not a walkway tour but rather a strenuous adventure through deep forests, thorny bushes and steep slopes. For one to enjoy his safari therefore, he/she must be physically fit to avoid altitude sicknesses. Travelers are reminded to do exercises such as running, walking and hiking to prepare for the strenuous hikes. Those are physically unfit can opt for the stretches were they carried to and from the forest without walking at all.

Four men who are local residents carry one traveler on their shoulders in the stretcher at a cost of 400 USD. Porters are also very helpful in carrying travelers baggage as well as providing support were necessary at a relatively low cost. Hiring a porter is an indirect support for local people since the one earned is used to improve people’s standards of living.

NOTE: The qualities and requirements for all gorilla trekkers are similar in both gorilla destinations. These are volcanoes national park in Rwanda, Virunga national park in Democratic Republic of Congo, Bwindi impenetrable forest national park and Mgahinga gorilla national parks in southwestern Uganda.

Rwanda gorilla trekking tours in Rwanda

FAQs on Eligibility for Mountain Gorilla Trekking

How physically demanding is the trek?

Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding. You may hike through thick woods and uneven ground. There is no set fitness rule, but being in good shape helps. It makes the trek safer and more fun. Try to stay active before your trip to be ready.

What should I bring for the trek?

You will need key items like sturdy boots, a camera (no flash), gloves, snacks, sunglasses, bug spray, a hat, a small bag, socks, binoculars, long shirts, long pants, a raincoat or poncho, and a sweater. These will keep you safe and comfy on the trek.

How do I obtain a gorilla trekking permit?

Gorilla trek permits come from the wildlife groups in each country. In Uganda, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) gives them out, and in Rwanda, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) handles them. Getting a permit needs early planning because they often sell fast, especially in busy travel times. Permits are given to those who ask first, so booking early through a trusted tour operator is a good idea.

Are there any restrictions on group size?

To protect the gorillas and their home, only eight people can visit a gorilla group each day. This limit helps keep the trip small and respectful.

What guidelines should trekkers follow during the trek?

Trekkers must follow strict rules to keep the gorillas and their home safe. These rules include staying at a safe space, not looking into the gorillas' eyes, and keeping quiet. Each trek allows only a small group, usually eight people, to reduce harm to the gorillas and make the trip better for visitors.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go gorilla trekking?

Yes, it is smart for hikers to get shots for common sicknesses, especially ones that can spread from people to gorillas. Shots to think about include yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus. It's wise to talk to a travel doctor before your trip to check if you need any shots.

Can I see gorillas if I am pregnant?

Pregnant women are often told not to do gorilla hikes because it can be hard on the body, like climbing steep and rough paths. It may also risk harm to the mother and baby. If you're pregnant and want to hike, talk to a doctor before deciding.

Is gorilla trekking safe for solo travelers?

Yes, solo travelers can go gorilla trekking. However, a licensed tour guide or group tour is required as part of the trek. The guide ensures that safety guidelines are followed, such as maintaining a proper distance from the gorillas. Traveling with a tour operator can provide added convenience and peace of mind when trekking alone.

How many gorilla groups are available for trekking?

The number of available gorilla groups for trekking varies by country and park, as habituated groups are regularly monitored. For example, Rwanda has about 12 habituated mountain gorilla groups in Volcanoes National Park, while Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest offers several trekking sectors with multiple groups. It's essential to check with the park authorities or tour operator for current group availability and permit allocations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, gorilla trekking is a lifetime experience you should not miss out on your Safari to Africa. Book a gorilla tour to Uganda, Rwanda and Congo, carry your permit and meet these gentle giants in the wild.