Gorilla Trekking for the Disabled – Gorilla trekking is an activity where tourists search for gorillas and spend one hour with them after acquiring a gorilla permit.
Gorilla trekking takes place in four national parks: Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
For gorilla trekking, only 8 people are allowed to trek each gorilla family for just one hour in 24 hours. This makes the activity very interesting and competitive, as a limited number of permits are sold each day.
Gorilla trekking involves hiking through dense forests and hilly mountains, which can be challenging for physically disabled individuals. This is why there is a need to make gorilla trekking inclusive so that everyone in society can participate and benefit from the adventure.
On average, a gorilla trekking exercise takes about 2 to 6 hours. To make it easier for persons with physical disabilities, friendly trekking hours and routes are introduced and arranged. This is done by using less challenging routes and special equipment.
Special traditional bamboo stretchers or modern steel-based sedan chairs with seat belts and handles are provided.
These carriers are used to transport persons with disabilities through the mountainous areas and dense vegetation in the jungle during their gorilla trekking exercise.
The carriers are carried by about 12 able-bodied men who are skilled in handling these special needs equipment.
It is important to note that the cost of hiring porters and special equipment is separate from the cost of gorilla trekking permits.
Cost for Hiring Stretchers and Porters
- It costs 15 to 20 USD to hire a porter.
- It costs 300 to 400 USD, depending on the choice, to hire either bamboo carriers or sedan chairs.
Be sure to book your special needs package in advance to avoid getting stranded at the last minute, as these services are limited.
