Gorilla Trekking Age Limit in Africa
The age limit for gorilla trekking in Africa is 15 years.
Gorilla trekking age limit in Africa is set to govern the visitors visiting Rwanda and Uganda for gorilla trekking and also for protection. Currently the gorilla trekking age limit in Africa is at 15 years and any people below the age of 15 is not eligible to do gorilla trekking.
Gorilla trekking in Africa is done only in three countries and four gorilla destinations that is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in DR.Congo. Unfortunately, Virunga National Park is closed for gorilla trekking.
To be deemed eligible for gorilla trekking in Africa, you need to be 15 years and above and you have to prove this while purchasing a gorilla permit.
Why the Gorilla Trekking Age Limit in Africa is 15 Years
The gorilla trekking age limit in Africa’s gorilla trekking destinations, Uganda and Rwanda is 15 years and any one below this age is considered to be young and not eligible for gorilla trekking. Even with the good physical ability to trek gorillas, those below the minimum age of 15 years is considered not fit.
Here is why
- The behavior of children below the age of 15 is very unpredictable which might alert gorillas and cause them to strike. Mountain gorillas live in dense forests and for their safety, children are limited from accessing the forest. In case a silverback charges towards anyone during the trek, one is expected to slowly crouch down and avoid looking directly at the gorillas, something minors could not be able to do. Children might decide to run or make nose which may call the attention and attack from the gorilla. To avoid such scenarios only individuals above 15 years are allowed to trek mountain gorillas as they could easily understand and follow the set gorilla trekking rules and regulations.
- Mountain gorillas share about 98% of their DNA with humans, therefore they are susceptible to contracting human diseases. Individuals below the age of 15 – “children” are known to usually have communicable diseases like flu and cough. These can easily be transmitted to the mountain gorillas leading the even deaths within the already endangered mountain gorilla population. For conservation of mountain gorillas, person below 15 are not allowed to trek the endangered species.
- Trekking gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda requires a certain level of fitness since Bwindi Impenetrable National Park ranges in altitude from 1,190 to 2,607 meters and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park raises to about 3,474 m. children under the age of 15 years are perceived not to be physically fit to undertake these hikes. However, it could not be the case for some children.
Can Children below the age of 15 trek Gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda?
Though the age limit for gorilla trekking in Africa is 15 years, there are incidences where individuals below the age of 15 can be allowed to trek gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda. With a few exceptions from the Uganda Wildlife Authority and Rwanda Development Board, children below the age of 15 can be allowed to trek gorillas after being approved. Here are the two requirements to trek gorillas for children below the minimum age.
- Children almost 15 years
Children who are almost 15 years maybe about 2-3 months to their 15th birthday and are in good health position could be allowed to trek mountain gorillas. Parents should make prior arrangements with Uganda Wildlife Authority and Rwanda Development Board, inform them of their child’s age, hiking ability and they should be at least 6.0 inches tall. A parent will be required to attach photos of the child and their passport.
The right however remains with the park authority to approve these minors.
- Children trekking with parents
Children below the age of 15 years could be allowed to trek gorillas in Uganda if they are almost the age limit and are trekking alongside their parents.
Parents have to sign a consent and liability agreement to ensure that they are liable for anything concerning their child during gorilla trekking. The agreement is made with the Uganda Wildlife Authority and Rwanda Development Board through a tour operator, once approved you child will be allowed to trek gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda.
