Gorilla Trekking in Uganda for Families – Is It Kid-Friendly?
Gorilla Trekking in Uganda for Families is an exciting activity, but it is not considered kid-friendly due to strict age restrictions. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has set the minimum age for gorilla trekking at 15 years. This means that children under 15 are not allowed to participate in this activity. The reason behind this rule is to ensure safety for both the tourists and the gorillas.
Gorillas, while generally peaceful, can sometimes charge if they feel threatened. A charging gorilla usually stops when people remain calm and stay low, but children may panic, scream, or run when frightened. Running from a charging gorilla can provoke the animal to chase, which can be dangerous. The fear and unpredictability that children might experience in such a situation make it risky for them to participate in gorilla trekking.
Gorilla trekking is a very popular activity in Uganda, especially in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Many tourists come from around the world to see mountain gorillas because of their close resemblance to humans and their fascinating social behavior. A gorilla family is typically made up of 6 to 24 individuals, led by a dominant male known as a silverback. These families are close-knit, and the silverback protects and cares for all the members, especially the young ones. Watching these gorillas interact is an emotional and memorable experience for many travelers, and it’s understandable that families may want to share this special experience together.
However, the reality is that gorilla trekking is not suitable for young children. Aside from the dangers posed by a charging gorilla, children are more prone to illnesses like colds and coughs, which can be transmitted to gorillas. This is a major concern because diseases like the flu can be deadly for gorillas, whose immune systems are not equipped to handle such infections. Moreover, children may find it difficult to complete the trek, which can be physically demanding, especially in Bwindi where the terrain is steep and challenging. The trek can involve hiking for several hours through mountains, muddy trails, and thick forests, which requires a good level of fitness and endurance. Adults are generally more prepared for such challenges, but children may struggle to keep up or lose interest if they get tired.
Additionally, children may have trouble following the strict rules that are in place to protect both the gorillas and the trekkers. For example, trekkers must keep a distance of at least 7 meters from the gorillas, avoid loud noises, follow instructions from guides, avoid littering, and refrain from making direct eye contact with the gorillas. Young children may find it difficult to follow these rules, which could put both the gorillas and the group at risk.
How to Do Gorilla Trekking with Kids
Even though there is an age restriction for gorilla trekking, it is still possible to travel to Uganda with children. If a child is 14 years old and close to turning 15, parents can request special permission from the Uganda Wildlife Authority for the child to participate in the trek. In such cases, parents must write a letter providing the child’s age and photos, and they must take full responsibility for the child’s safety during the trek. The child will only be allowed to trek in the same group as the parent.
For families with younger children, there are still ways to enjoy a gorilla trekking trip. While the parents are out trekking, hotel staff can take care of the children and engage them in other activities. Many lodges and hotels offer alternative activities for children, such as nature walks, visits to local schools, or traditional dance performances. The nature walks are usually led by experienced guides who can help children spot rare birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. Another option for families is for one parent to go gorilla trekking while the other stays behind with the children, and then they can switch the next day.
What Is Required for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Book a Gorilla Permit
To participate in gorilla trekking in Uganda, you must have a gorilla permit. The permits are sold on a daily basis, with a limited number of permits available for each gorilla family. Only eight people are allowed to visit each gorilla family per day in order to reduce the impact on the animals. Permits are given on a first-come, first-served basis, and payment is required to secure a permit.
When booking a permit, you will need to provide details from your passport, such as your full name, nationality, date of birth, and passport expiration date. In Uganda, gorilla permits are sold by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, but you can also book a permit through a licensed tour operator like Iconic Africa Safaris.
Reserve Accommodation
There are many accommodation options in and around the gorilla trekking destinations in Uganda and Rwanda. In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you can choose from several lodges, including Gorilla Forest Camp, Buhoma Lodge, Ruhija Gorilla Lodge, and Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge. Mgahinga National Park, which has only one gorilla family called Nyakagezi, has fewer accommodation options. However, you can stay in Kisoro town, which is about 30 minutes away from the park, and choose from places like Gahinga Lodge or Kisoro Tourist Hotel.
Cost of Gorilla Permits
As of now, the cost of a gorilla permit in Uganda is $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, and 300,000 Ugandan shillings for East African residents. The permit covers park entrance fees, the services of a ranger guide, security during the trek, and an hour spent observing the gorillas. It also supports local communities and gorilla conservation efforts. However, the permit does not include transportation to the park, accommodation, porter fees, tips, or personal expenses.
