Age limit for gorilla trekking in Uganda & Rwanda (15 years)
When planning a mountain gorilla safari to Uganda or Rwanda, it is important to note that the Age limit for gorilla trekking/Minimum Age for Gorilla Trekking is 15 years. Mountain gorilla trekking is one of the most exciting safari activities in Africa, a must do for primate lovers. Mountain gorillas are an endangered primate species and only a few individuals (about 1,000 gorillas) are left in the wild. Since they are endangered, travelers from all over the world visit Uganda and Rwanda for an opportunity to encounter these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. It is however important to know that both Uganda and Rwanda have a set Minimum Age for Gorilla Trekking which is 15 years.
Mountain gorillas Trekking in the wild is a captivating adventure that takes you into the dense impenetrable jungles of Africa for an opportunity to encounter a gorilla family and spend quality time observing them as they go through their day. The experience is guided by a team of armed ranger guides and trackers that are knowledgeable about the forest and the gorillas. It is a safe experience, worth doing while on your African Holiday Tour. In this guide, we talk about the gorilla trekking age limit/Minimum Age for Gorilla Trekking and why an age restriction for gorilla trekking is necessary.
What is the Minimum Age for Gorilla Trekking?
The Minimum Age for Gorilla Trekking/ Age limit for gorilla trekking in Uganda & Rwanda refers to the lowest age that is considered grown up enough and eligible for the mountain gorilla trekking experience in both countries. The Age limit for gorilla trekking is applicable in all three gorilla trekking countries (Uganda, Rwanda, and D.R Congo) as a conservation and safety measure for both tourist and mountain gorillas during gorilla trekking experience.
Although at some point someone below 15 years can be allowed to track, especially in Uganda, the Minimum Age for Gorilla Trekking/Age limit for gorilla trekking, it is recommended for any traveler visiting Uganda and Rwanda keep in mind that only persons of 15 years and above can be issued the gorilla trekking permits. The age limit for gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo was set by respective Authorities that are responsible for protecting, conserving, and managing the gorilla trekking National Parks.
Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Uganda is one of the most popular gorilla trekking destinations in Africa, thanks to its two gorilla trekking National Parks; Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. In Uganda, the Minimum Age for Gorilla Trekking/Age limit for gorilla trekking set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) is 15 years. Only travelers with 15 years and above are guaranteed gorilla permits in Uganda, both for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
The gorilla permits in Uganda cost around USD 800 per person for foreign visitors, about USD 700 for foreign residents with working permits, UGX 300,000 for East African Nationals and about USD 500 for travelers from the rest of Africa. We can help you check for availability and book your gorilla trekking permits in Uganda.
Note: Gorilla Permits sell out quickly, especially during the high season so we recommend booking well in advance.
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda
Rwanda is another popular gorilla trekking destination in Africa, also known as the most accessible gorilla trekking destination in Africa. Travelers from all over the world visit Rwanda every year for an opportunity to encounter the majestic gorillas in their natural habitat. The Volcanoes National Park, which is located in the far Northwestern section of the country near the border with Uganda and D.R Congo is the primary destination for Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safaris/Rwanda Safaris.
The Rwanda Development Board is therefore responsible for setting the Minimum Age for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda and issuing gorilla permits. A gorilla permit in Uganda costs around USD 1,500 per person/trek. Although its is more expensive compared to Uganda, it is more accessible, just 2 hours drive from the airport to Volcanoes National Park.
Reasons why the Age limit for gorilla trekking is 15 years
Children below 15 years are considered miners and are likely not to follow the set gorilla trekking guidelines and rules during the trek. Some of the set gorilla trekking rules and guidelines include; maintaining a safe distance, not touching the animals, covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and staying calm when gorillas feel agitated among others. Children are likely to struggle with following these rules thus putting both gorillas and trekkers at risk. Gorillas are wild animals however, occasionally the come too close to travelers during the trek and in such instances, a child’s behavior is unpredictable, some may scream or run away, which could send a wrong signal to the gorillas.
Mountain gorilla trekking is physically demanding. Unlike the usual African safari where you get to seat in a car and drive through different parts of the park, gorilla trekking is done on foot. Children below 15 years may not be physically fit and mentally prepared for this adventure. The trek to see gorillas in the wild involves navigating thick vegetation and uneven terrain that is challenging. Mature traveler are strong enough and can easily navigate through the jungles.
Children below 15 years are likely to slow down the trek. Since the trek is usually challenging, children might find it hard to keep up with the speed and may require constant stopping or waiting during the trek which can usually elongate the whole experience. They are likely to struggle to navigate the forest and also have a high chance of failing to complete the trek.
Children below 15 years usually have weak immune systems and can easily catch communicable diseases like flue and cough. It is important to know that mountain gorillas share DNA with humans and are highly susceptible to human diseases and if they are infected, it may lead to death. To protect them, only persons aged 15 years and above are allowed to go for the trek.