Introduction
There is no longer a need for apprehension regarding the inclusion of elderly family members, such as mothers or grandmothers, in mountain gorilla trekking excursions. This adventurous activity is accessible to all, including both youthful and energetic individuals as well as older adults. Provided they are able to board a flight and are at least 15 years of age, they can engage in gorilla tracking. Notably, studies show that a significant portion of those who embark on gorilla trekking adventures fall within the age range of 40 to 60 years. If they are capable of flying, they can enjoy the remarkable experience of observing gorillas in their natural habitat.
Among the various primates on Earth, mountain gorillas stand out as particularly captivating. Their allure compels many to seek opportunities to observe them in their natural surroundings, as they do not flourish in zoos like lowland gorillas do. To encounter mountain gorillas in their habitat, one must travel to Africa, where they are found solely in three nations: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In Rwanda, visitors can find them in Volcanoes National Park, while in the Democratic Republic of Congo, they inhabit Virunga National Park. Uganda is particularly significant, as it protects more than half of the world’s wild mountain gorilla population, with two key national parks dedicated to their preservation: Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
Most Appropriate Park for Elderly & Senior Citizens.
Among the various national parks dedicated to gorilla trekking, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park stands out as the most suitable choice for elderly visitors. Situated in less rugged terrain, Bwindi is distinct from the other three national parks as it is not part of the Virunga mountain range. The park is located at a lower elevation, and its trekking paths are generally flatter in comparison to those found in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. The gorilla families residing in Bwindi are found at lower elevations, making the hikes considerably easier. Furthermore, Bwindi is home to a larger number of habituated mountain gorilla families, with more than 17 families available for tracking.
Bwindi is divided into four distinct sectors: Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, and Ruhija. Each of these sectors is home to its own unique families of mountain gorillas. For elderly travelers, trekking in the Ruhija sector presents notable advantages, although, the location of the gorillas can be unpredictable, regardless of the selected sector. Some tourists may be fortunate enough to encounter their designated gorilla family within a mere 30-minute walk from the starting location. By securing their trekking permits well in advance, elderly visitors can be assigned to a gorilla family located in close proximity to the starting point.
Arrangements
Arrangements for gorilla trekking for older travelers is conducted in a manner similarly to that of other visitors. The notable difference is that older participants are designated to gorilla families that are much nearer to the park offices. For those elderly individuals who find it challenging to walk long distances, there is a greater opportunity to hire a personal porter and/or utilize a sedan chair.
Gorilla trekking permits are priced equally for all individuals. The procedure for booking these permits for elderly individuals is the same as for others. In Uganda, the fee for an individual gorilla trekking permit is $700, in Rwanda it is $1,500, and in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, it is $400. Visitors can obtain the East African Tourist Visa, which grants entry to Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya. This visa enhances the convenience of engaging in gorilla tracking activities across both Rwanda and Uganda.
The Sedan Chair Option
A sedan chair, commonly known as an African Helicopter, serves as an innovative means to assist senior citizens and individuals with mobility difficulties in enjoying the exhilarating experience of gorilla trekking in comfort both in Uganda and Rwanda. These sedan chairs, equipped with handlers, a sturdy steel frame, and safety belts, are designed to elevate elderly individuals or those unable to walk long distances. An alternative to the sedan chair involves being transported through the forest on a stretcher crafted from local bamboo.
The elderly person is carried by a team of twelve strong local porters, with four porters at a time managing the load. As the initial group of four porters tires, others will take their place, ensuring continuous support. These porters possess extensive knowledge of the terrain and the dense forest, having lived in the area for most of their lives. They are committed to keeping the elderly individual off the ground until they reach the designated mountain gorilla family. Following the encounter with the gorillas, the porters will carry the elder back to the starting point, where the company driver will be ready to assist
This sedan chair option is available at various Gorilla tracking spots within Bwindi Forest National Park. The cost ranges from USD 350 to USD 500 per chair per tracking depending on the client’s weight. This fee covers both the chair itself and the porters who will carry you to see the mountain Gorillas and back to the park headquarters after the trek. Prices also vary based on demand. Due to the limited number of sedan chairs, it’s a good idea to inform your tour operator in advance if you’ll require one, to ensure one is secure for you.
Preparing for the Trek
Mountain gorilla trekking is so demanding, depending on which gorilla group a traveler is assigned to. Some mountain gorilla families live closer to the starting point for trekking; you can find gorilla families nearby in less than 30 minutes. However, gorilla trekking can last up to seven hours or more. It is very important to be ready, well prepared, and in good physical shape. When organizing your mountain gorilla trekking adventure, it is essential to take into account various factors, with distance being a significant consideration. The distance to the gorilla habitats can vary widely depending on the specific region you choose to explore, whether it be in Uganda or Rwanda.
The distance to the gorilla trekking starting point is just the beginning; elderly trekkers as well as any trekker, must account for the distance they will cover while searching for the gorillas in their natural habitat. This can vary from a short, manageable hike to a more strenuous trek that may take several hours. The level of difficulty to the distance is influenced by the time of year, as weather conditions affect trail accessibility and the movement patterns of the gorillas. This distance not only affects the logistics of your trip but also influences the level of physical exertion required during the trek.
Understanding the elevation changes and the type of terrain you will encounter will help you prepare adequately, ensuring that you have the stamina and equipment necessary for a successful trek. Proper preparation for these distances, including physical fitness and appropriate gear, will enhance your adventure and ensure you are ready for the challenges that may arise. Therefore, it is vital to assess your own physical fitness level and choose trekking the location and route that aligns with your capabilities.
For elderly and senior travelers who may not be in optimal physical condition, it is advisable to begin preparations well in advance by engaging in hiking activities near your residence. If you reside near a forest or in a hilly or mountainous area, take advantage of this environment to engage in physical activity as you ready your body for the upcoming gorilla trekking adventure. Other beneficial activities include casual walking, light running, climbing, and undertaking extended walks. When embarking on your mountain gorilla trekking journey, ensure that you carry sufficient energy-boosting water and snacks, as these will be essential for maintaining your stamina.
The Actual Gorilla trek
The elderly trekkers’ journey will begin with a trip to the park headquarters for registration and an educational session about gorillas and the Bwindi Forest National Park. This session will cover what participants can expect during the trek, outline crucial guidelines, and feature a cultural performance by local groups. Following this, trekkers will be organized into small groups, typically consisting of no more than eight individuals, before embarking on the remarkable adventure of gorilla tracking. It is recommended that trekkers come prepared both physically and mentally before starting the trek.
Although gorilla tracking can be physically strenuous, particularly for seniors, there are solutions available to facilitate their participation. The assignment of Gorilla families occurs on the day of the tracking. If you face any mobility challenges, please communicate this to your tour operator or guide. They will ensure that you are assigned to a suitable group or provide a sedan chair and porters to aid you.
Allocation of mountain gorilla families
At the time of the briefing, Park Rangers and wildlife wardens meticulously review all passports and identify travelers who may need special consideration. Generally, travelers who are 60 years of age or older and are physically capable are assigned to a nearby mountain gorilla family. If a traveler is 60 years old yet maintains excellent and outstanding physical condition, they are encouraged to request a longer gorilla trek to enjoy a more exhilarating experience in the authentic African wilderness. It is important for travelers to consider their own desires rather than settling for a less challenging gorilla trek based solely on the advice of others.
Other Considerations
Apart from physical fitness and the ability to hike, there are additional essential factors that influence the allocation of mountain gorilla families, such as the demand for gorilla trekking permits. When a significant number of these permits are sold, it can pose challenges for many travelers seeking a more manageable trekking experience. Elderly travelers are particularly encouraged to book their mountain gorilla trekking safaris at least three months ahead of their trekking dates to increase their chances of being assigned to a gorilla family that is nearer to their tracking location.
Tourists wishing to engage in double gorilla trekking, which involves tracking mountain gorillas on two separate days or more, will be assigned to a different gorilla group than the one they encountered previously. A maximum of eight individuals are permitted to track a mountain gorilla family in a single day, a measure implemented to mitigate stress on these primates and reduce the risk of human diseases resulting from extended contact.
Before you embark on planning your mountain gorilla trekking journey or reaching the park’s starting location, it is essential that you to familiarize yourself with the various mountain gorilla national parks and their respective sectors. Understanding which gorilla sector aligns with your interests is vital, and seeking guidance from your tour operator can be beneficial in determining if you can be assigned to a specific mountain gorilla family. The tour operator’s knowledge and experience can greatly assist you in navigating the options available within the gorilla sectors and families.
Terrian & Level of difficulty
Mountain gorillas are found in high-altitude mountainous regions, typically between 2,300 and 4,500 meters above sea level. Before reaching your assigned mountain gorilla family, the trek requires traversing demanding terrain, which consists of muddy slopes, steep inclines, and slippery trails. Those with disabilities, injuries, older adults, and individuals who are not in optimal physical condition may struggle with these challenging conditions.
Sightings
The experience of trekking mountain gorillas is filled with numerous discoveries. Throughout the journey, visitors are enveloped by an exquisite variety of flora and fauna, featuring diverse bird species and a multitude of insects, butterflies, and moths, alongside different primate species including De Brazza monkeys, Red-tailed Monkeys, Blue Monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, Potto, Demidoff’s Galago, Spectacled Galago, Baboons, and Chimpanzees. Notably, this region is home to over 400 individuals of the 5,050 chimpanzees found in Uganda.
Safety & Security
Senior travelers often express concerns about safety and protective measures in the park, given their more fragile state. Fortunately, the safety and security protocols for mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda are highly effective. Each trek is supervised by armed park rangers whose duty is to protect visitors from wildlife threats, including forest elephants and forest buffaloes. It is important to highlight that there have been no militia activities in Rwanda and Uganda for over two decades, which underscores the efforts of park authorities to maintain a secure environment. In contrast, the security landscape in the Democratic Republic of Congo can be less predictable, influenced by past security incidents. Nonetheless, the security arrangements in Rwanda and Uganda are notably more robust, whereas trekking in Congo requires extensive security checks and additional escorts.
Travel to Bwindi Impenetrable forest national park
Traveling to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park for gorilla tracking is quite accessible. The park is located roughly a 10-hour drive from Entebbe International Airport or Kampala city, or you may choose a quicker option of a one-hour flight. The journey from Kigali is generally shorter, usually takes around 3 hours, compared to that from Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, which can take between 8 to 9 hours or more. For those starting from Kigali, Rwanda, travel times will vary depending on the chosen route. An alternative to reduce the lengthy travel time is to book a local charter flight from Kajjansi Airstrip or Entebbe International Airport to Bwindi. Upon arrival at Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrip, it takes approximately one and a half hours to reach your accommodation in the park. While local flights in Uganda may be costly, they offer a significant advantage, allowing you to reach the park in just one hour. Your local tour operator will assist in coordinating these arrangements and will be available to greet you at the airstrip and transport you to the park.
Should your budget not permit a local flight to Bwindi, there is no need for concern. The mountain gorilla trekking parks are located in areas that boast extraordinary natural beauty and impressive wildlife reserves. The drive from Entebbe or Kampala is filled with scenic views; travelers will encounter the enchanting African countryside, valleys, national parks, mountains, and the natural wilderness of the continent. Along the route, small breaks are typically included, allowing you to unwind and explore unique attractions such as the equator crossing and cultural centers. By integrating your mountain gorilla trekking experience with other wildlife encounters, your itinerary can be tailored to minimize the lengthy driving times, as you will be visiting various national parks each day leading up to your gorilla tracking experience.
Accommodation
The accommodations available for the gorilla trekking experience are of outstanding quality. Within the parks, options range from luxury lodges to mid-range and budget lodges, allowing travellers to choose according to their financial capacity. The facilities include standard cottages with grass-thatched roofs, dormitories, self-contained tented camps, and basic campsites. Most of these lodging options are also designed to accommodate elderly individuals. When organizing gorilla trekking for elderly persons, your tour operator will ensure that you are placed in accommodations equipped with amenities that cater to your special needs. It is important to note that Uganda and Rwanda currently have a limited number of accessible lodges for elderly persons; therefore, we recommend booking your gorilla tour approximately 4 to 6 months in advance of your intended trekking date.
What to carry for gorilla trek in Uganda or Rwanda?
When preparing for a gorilla trek in Uganda or Rwanda, it is essential to assemble a comprehensive packing list. Important items to include are sturdy hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts, warm sweaters, and long pants. Additionally, hand gloves, a first aid kit, rain jackets, sunglasses, a walking stick, and insect repellent are crucial for a successful trek. To ensure you are well-equipped for this adventure, do not forget to pack a lunch, sufficient drinking water, and a fully charged camera.
Best time to travel to track gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda
The most suitable time to arrange a gorilla trekking experience, for elderly persons, individuals with or without disabilities, is during the dry season. During this period, the gorilla parks experience the least amount of rainfall, making it significantly easier to locate these extraordinary creatures. The dry season generally occurs from June to September and from December to February. While trekking is possible during the wet season, which lasts from March to May and October to November, it is important to note that this time is associated with significant rainfall.
Share your physical challenges with the tour operator
Travelers are advised to disclose any fitness concerns or physical limitations to their tour operator before finalizing their gorilla trekking arrangements. Such disclosures are crucial for the tour operator to effectively plan and secure any special equipment required in collaboration with park authorities prior to the commencement of the trip. If your itinerary includes specific needs, such as a van, porters, or sedan chairs, these will be organized as necessary. The expenses for porters and rented sedan chairs will be added to the total cost of the trip, which will be communicated to you by the tour operator.
In conclusion
The popularity of gorilla trekking continues to rise, drawing visitors from across the globe who wish to observe these magnificent beings. Although those with physical limitations may encounter some difficulties, it does not mean they must miss out on this extraordinary journey. Do not allow age to hinder your pursuit of the remarkable adventure that is gorilla tracking. Thanks to the provision of sedan chairs and the expertise of knowledgeable guides, this extraordinary experience is accessible to everyone. Get ready for a unique opportunity to connect with these awe-inspiring creatures in their natural environment.
