Gorilla trekking is one of the most expensive tourist activities in Africa. You wouldn’t want to travel all the way from your country and miss the chance to see mountain gorillas, especially after paying for a permit.
That’s why planning your gorilla trekking safari is very important.
Before buying a permit, it’s good to know the rules and regulations for gorilla trekking and to understand who is allowed to do this activity.
Gorilla Trekking Permit
A gorilla permit is a document issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority that allows you to trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
These permits can only be bought from the Uganda Wildlife Authority or through a trusted tour operator.
Without a permit, no one is allowed to trek mountain gorillas. In Uganda, a permit costs $800 per person per trek. For gorilla habituation, the cost is $1,500 per person per trek.
Healthy Adults
Only healthy people are allowed to trek mountain gorillas.
This is because mountain gorillas are easily affected by human diseases, and they have weak immune systems.
If one gorilla gets infected, the sickness can quickly spread and cause many deaths.
Anyone with an infection or diseases like flu or cough will not be allowed to trek. In such cases, the Uganda Wildlife Authority will refund part of the trekking fee.
People Above 15 Years Old
Gorilla trekking is allowed only for people who are 15 years and older.
This is because children under 15 might get scared when they see gorillas. They might scream or try to run, which could make the gorillas aggressive.
Even though mountain gorillas are usually gentle, they can become aggressive if disturbed.
Children and very old people may also find it hard to trek in the forest, as mountain gorillas live in high areas that need physical fitness.
Children can sometimes get lost if they wander off the path, and older people may not manage the trek on foot.
Older people who want to trek can use a sedan seat stretcher, and children who are almost 15 may be allowed to trek after an interview on the morning of the trek. If they pass, they can join the group.
Good Physical Shape
Mountain gorillas live in high areas of the rain-forest.
If you don’t plan to use a sedan seat stretcher, it is important to be in good physical shape before coming for gorilla trekking.
The trek can take between 1 to 7 hours, depending on where the gorilla family is located.
However, the group always moves at the pace of the slowest person.
In conclusion, gorilla trekking rules must be followed, especially when near the gorillas.
Permits should be bought in advance, at least 3 months before your trip, especially during the peak seasons from June to September and December to February.
