Gorilla Trekking in Africa for Pregnant Women
When it comes to going on Gorilla Trekking in Africa, pregnant women can still join in the adventure. Whether it’s in Uganda or Rwanda, pregnant women can go gorilla trekking without any worries. If you’re pregnant and planning to go gorilla trekking, it’s important to let your tour operator, like Iconic Africa Safaris Ltd, know about your condition ahead of time. This helps us plan everything accordingly, including assigning you to a gorilla group that’s easier to track.
Where to Go for Gorilla Trekking?
The best places for gorilla trekking are Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (D.R. Congo). These three countries are home to the majority of the world’s mountain gorillas, with only four national parks where you can see these endangered species. These parks include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the D.R. Congo.
What to Follow for Gorilla Trekking When Pregnant?
- Inform the Tour Operator Early: Let your tour operator in this case Iconic Africa Safaris Ltd know about your pregnancy when booking your gorilla trekking safari. They’ll then inform the park authorities in advance to make necessary arrangements and ensure you have a comfortable experience.
- Book Sedan Chairs: If you’re around 7 months pregnant, it’s recommended to use sedan chairs during the trek. These chairs are carried by a group of porters and make it easier for you to move through the forest. You can ask the porters to put you down for photography or to get a better view of the gorillas. Sedan chairs can be booked through your tour operator in advance.
- Consider a Flight: Instead of traveling by road, consider taking a flight to Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park. Your tour operator can arrange chartered or scheduled flights from Entebbe Airport to nearby airstrips. From there, you’ll be transferred to the park in a comfortable safari vehicle.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of drinking water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated throughout the trek. This will help you stay strong and make the hiking easier.
- Do Physical Exercises: Gorilla trekking involves hiking through forests and steep slopes, so it’s important to be physically prepared. Engage in regular physical exercises to ensure you’re fit enough for the trek.
- Pack Properly: Make sure to pack essential items like insect repellent, a rain jacket, hiking boots, gardening gloves, first aid kits, sunglasses, long pants, a hat, a camera (without flash), a daypack, your gorilla permit, and long-sleeved shirts. These items will help you stay comfortable and safe during the trek.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking During Pregnancy
Gorilla trekking is something anyone can do, even if they’re pregnant. But it’s smart to pick the best time to go. The dry season is the top choice because it has better conditions. That means less rain and paths that aren’t as muddy. In most places where you can go gorilla trekking, the dry season usually happens from June to September and then again from December to February.
Accommodation Tips
When you’re planning where to stay, it’s important to think about comfort and safety, especially if you’re pregnant. There are lots of options for where you can stay, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious. In Bwindi National Park, some of the best places to stay while you’re gorilla trekking are Chameleon Hill Lodge, Gorilla Forest Camp, Silverback Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Buhoma Lodge, Ichumbi Lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, and Rushaga Gorilla Lodge. If you’re headed to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, you can choose from places like Kisoro Travelers’ Rest Hotel, Mount Gahinga Lodge, Mucha Hotel, Lake Chahafi Resort, and more.
