Gorilla trekking is a tourism activity where tourists search for mountain gorillas on foot in their natural habitat, assisted by game rangers and tour guides. In most scenarios, mountain gorilla trekking is known to be a physically demanding activity, typically suited for physically fit tourists or clients, as it can be very challenging. However, the disabled can also participate in mountain gorilla trekking, just like the rest of the tourists. I know right now you have a lot of questions about how this is possible, as you continue to read below, you will get some answers to those burning questions.
Where is mountain gorilla trekking done in East Africa?
Mountain gorilla trekking is done in only three countries, which are Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Uganda, which happens to have the highest number of mountain gorillas among these three countries. In Rwanda, Mountain gorillas can be trekked in Volcanoes National Park, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, they can be trekked in Virunga National Park, and in Uganda, mountain gorillas can be trekked in both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Maghinga National Park.
How is gorilla trekking for disabled conducted?
When a disabled person or tourist reaches the park headquarters or the starting points for gorilla trekking, they are seated in a special chair called a sedan chair, which costs approximately 300USD to 400USD to rent. They are securely fastened with belts for safety. A group of about 10 to 12 able-bodied porters carries the tourists throughout the entire trek until they finally see the gorillas.
These porters are also hired at a cost of about 16 USD to 20 USD for their services. So, if you are out there, whether old, elderly, or disabled, or both, and you dream of seeing mountain gorillas or participating in a gorilla trekking activity, consider your dream fulfilled. Because we can make it happen, and you will have a story to tell for your entire lifetime.
What are the requirements of doing gorilla trekking for the disabled?
There are different requirements that one should have to do or carry out a gorilla trekking activity for the disabled, and some of these include,
First and foremost, just like any other physically fit tourist, a disabled tourist is very much advised to book a gorilla trekking permit a few months or beforehand for the mountain gorilla trekking activity. This should be done to ensure that all the things he or she will need for a successful and comfortable gorilla trek are put into place before the due date.
Emergency/ first aid kit
A disabled tourist needs to have his or her first aid kit since he or she is a special case. The first aid kit should have recommended medications from your travel or personal doctor. In case of an accident during the gorilla trekking activity, first aid with the help of this kit can be administered to the tourists.
What should I pack for the disabled gorilla trekking?
Trekking boots
The disabled tourists should also consider putting on or packing a pair of trekking/ hiking boots, which will help protect their feet from cold and scratches from tree branches.
Hat or cape
To protect your head from direct sunlight rays, you are advised to pack either a cap or a hat while heading for the gorilla trekking activity.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses will be able to protect your eyes from direct sunlight.
Sun screen
For the case of skin protection, you are recommended to pack sunscreen along since it will protect your skin from direct sunlight.
Insect repellant
Since you will be going into a new place which is covered with different vegetation that harbours different types of insects, it will be good if you consider packing along insect repellent since it will help protect you from insect bites, which may sometimes be poisonous.
Raincoat or jacket
Since the inhabitants of these mountain gorillas are covered with vegetation, they tend to be very cold most times, so bringing or packing either a raincoat or jacket will be a very good thing for you. Also, since you do not have a say about climate change, you should consider bringing either of the two so that in case it rains, you will be kept dry and warm all the time.
Binoculars
Although a pair of binoculars is somewhat optional, it will be good if you pack it since you will be needing them to spot the different types of birds that will be around the gorilla habitats all the way.
What is the best time for gorilla trekking for the disabled?
Just like gorilla trekking for physically fit people or tourists, the best time for gorilla trekking for the disabled is during the dry season of the year. This is because during this time of the year, is when most of the outdoor tourism activities are done. During the dry season, the weather is more favorable for gorilla trekking, and the trekking trails are more accessible than during the wet season of the year.
Where can I get the gorilla trekking permits?
Gorilla trekking permits can be obtained through trusted licensed tour operators or companies, just like our company. When booking or paying for a gorilla permit, you are always advised to pay for one approximately 2-3 months beforehand. This should be done because there are a lot of people or tourists who are interested in this activity, and few permits are issued daily.
What is the price of a gorilla trekking permit?
A gorilla trekking permit of Maghinga National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, found in Uganda goes for approximately 800USD for foreign non-residents, 700USD for foreign residents, and about 300,000UGX for East African citizens.
So, have you been wishing all your life to trek or habituate mountain gorillas, but all that has been holding you back is the fact that you are disabled, elderly, or both? Well, say no more, you can now make your dream come true with us.