The fitter you are, the easier and more enjoyable your gorilla trekking experience will be. However, you don’t need to be an elite athlete or capable of extreme physical feats to take part. Trekkers are grouped according to age and fitness levels, with those who are older or less fit generally assigned to gorilla families located closer to the starting point. Rest assured, you will not be separated from your family or friends.

The group moves together at the pace of the slowest member, ensuring everyone stays safe and comfortable throughout the trek. Younger or fitter participants are typically assigned to gorilla families that require a longer hike to reach. The guides are highly experienced and will assess the group’s stamina, stopping when necessary for water breaks, to take in scenic views, or to enjoy a snack.

Packed lunches often include water, energy-boosting foods like roasted cashews or peanuts, bananas, apples, chocolate bars, muffins, small sandwiches, and local treats like ‘rolled eggs’—a type of cold omelet. Trekking is generally easier during the dry season, as trails can become muddy and slippery in the wet season, making the hike more challenging.

Rain may also cause the gorillas to take shelter in nests or trees, making them harder to locate. Bringing a pair of lightweight binoculars can help you observe their expressions and behavior up close. It’s important to remember that not all gorilla families will be lounging in the sun, peacefully munching on leaves. Some will be on the move, and since they are far better adapted to navigating the rainforest than we are, you’ll need to keep up!

How Can the Elderly, Seniors, and People with Disabilities Do Gorilla Trekking?

Gorilla trekking for older travelers is organized similarly to other treks, with the key difference
being that seniors and those with mobility issues are assigned gorilla groups located closer to the
park offices. If an elderly person cannot walk long distances, they have the option to hire special
porters and use a sedan chair for assistance.


Why Gorilla Trekking is So Popular?

Mountain gorillas are fascinating primates that cannot thrive in captivity, which is why they can only be found in specific regions of Africa. The trekking experience involves visiting gorilla families in remote national parks in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

  • Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
  • Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park
  • Congo: Virunga National Park

The cost of a permit is high, with $1,500 in Rwanda and $800 in Uganda, due to conservation efforts aimed at protecting these endangered animals.

Physical Challenges of Gorilla Trekking

The trek can be physically demanding, depending on the gorilla family’s location. Some families are easy to reach, requiring as little as 30 minutes of trekking, while others can take up to six hours to find.

  • Terrain: The trek involves navigating mountainous terrain, steep slopes, and muddy trails.
  • Weather: The dry season is generally easier for trekking, as the wet season can cause slippery trails and make the gorillas harder to locate.

Gorilla Trekking for Seniors and Those with Disabilities

Many seniors worry about their ability to participate in gorilla trekking. However, the trek is organized in such a way that it accommodates people of all fitness levels, including those over 60 years old.

Special Considerations for Elderly Trekkers

  • Fitness Level: Seniors in good physical shape can request a longer trek for added adventure. However, those with limited mobility are assigned gorilla families located closer to the park offices.
  • Pre-Trek Assessment: At the briefing, park rangers assess each traveler’s fitness and assign suitable groups.

Special Assistance for Elderly and Disabled Travelers

  • Porters and Sedan Chairs: Seniors can hire porters to help carry backpacks or assist with walking. Special sedan chairs or bamboo stretchers are available for travelers with significant mobility challenges.
  • Cost: Hiring a porter ranges between $15-$20, while sedan chair rentals cost between $400-$500.

Hiring porters not only helps trekkers but also supports local communities, as many porters are students or breadwinners.

Best National Parks for Elderly Travelers

  • Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda): This park is more suitable for elderly trekkers due to its relatively lower altitude and flatter trails compared to other parks.
    • Best Sector: The Ruhija Sector offers shorter treks compared to other sectors. However, the trek length can vary, so it’s always best to check the current locations of the gorilla families with tour operators.

Security and Safety

Gorilla trekking is highly secure in Uganda and Rwanda, with armed rangers leading groups to protect travelers from wild animals like elephants and buffalo. There have been no security incidents in these countries for over two decades.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the security situation can be less predictable, but extensive measures are in place to ensure traveler safety.

Traveling to Bwindi: Reducing Travel Time for Seniors

The long drive to Bwindi can be exhausting, taking over eight hours from Entebbe or Kampala. However, there are alternatives:

  • Fly to Kigali (Rwanda): A flight to Kigali followed by a three-hour drive to Bwindi is much quicker.
  • Chartered Flights: Direct flights from Entebbe or Kajjansi to Bwindi airstrips take only one hour.

Accommodation Options for Elderly Trekkers

Lodges near gorilla trekking parks cater to different budgets, from luxury lodges with premium amenities to budget lodges with basic facilities. Many accommodations are designed to be accessible for people with limited mobility.

Preparing for Gorilla Trekking as a Senior Traveler

To ensure a smooth trek, it’s important for seniors to prepare physically. Engaging in light exercises like hiking, climbing stairs, and long-distance walking can help condition the body for the trek.

Packing List for Elderly Trekkers

A well-packed bag ensures comfort and safety. Essentials include:

  • Hiking boots
  • Face mask and gloves
  • Rain jacket
  • Warm sweater
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat
  • Long-sleeved shirts and pants
  • Walking stick
  • Insect repellent
  • First aid kit
  • Water and energy snacks

Conclusion

Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that can be enjoyed by travelers of all ages. With the right preparations, assistance, and support, elderly trekkers and those with mobility challenges can have a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Contact Mukuru Valley Safaris today to book your gorilla trekking adventure and take part in this breathtaking primate experience!