Who Can Go Gorilla Trekking?

Age Requirements for Gorilla Trekking

Most gorilla trekking destinations set a minimum age limit of 15 years. This rule is in place to ensure the safety of both visitors and the gorillas, and to help guarantee that participants are mature enough to follow important guidelines inside the forest. There is no official maximum age limit, and many older travellers successfully complete gorilla treks each year, provided they are in adequate physical condition and comfortable walking on uneven terrain.

Parents or guardians are not allowed to bring younger children on treks, even if they appear capable, because unpredictable behaviour or difficulty following instructions can disturb gorilla families and pose potential safety concerns.

Fitness and Physical Ability

Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding. Trails often involve steep slopes, dense vegetation, muddy sections and varying altitudes. Treks may last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours depending on the location of the gorilla family that day. For this reason, participants should be reasonably fit and able to walk for extended periods.

However, you do not need to be an athlete. Many parks offer support to make the trek more accessible. Porters can carry your backpack, steady you on difficult terrain or assist with walking poles. Some parks also offer sedan chair options—paid-for assistance carried by trained teams for travellers who have difficulty with longer or steeper hikes. With proper planning, people of many different fitness levels can enjoy the experience.

Health Considerations

Gorillas are closely related to humans and can catch many human illnesses. To protect them, travellers with flu-like symptoms, fever or contagious infections may be denied entry to the trek. This precaution helps keep gorilla populations safe from disease outbreaks that could be devastating.

Trekkers must follow guidelines such as maintaining a minimum viewing distance whenever possible, avoiding sudden movements and covering their mouth when coughing or sneezing. In some parks, wearing a mask during the viewing hour is recommended or required.

Visitors with medical conditions, such as asthma, joint problems or heart concerns, are encouraged to consult their doctor before travelling. Being honest about your abilities allows operators to assign you to an appropriate trek based on difficulty level.

Preparing Mentally and Emotionally

Gorilla trekking is a thrilling but unpredictable experience. You may walk through thick jungle, cross streams, climb slopes or encounter insects and mud. Being mentally prepared for adventure—rather than expecting a smooth, easy walk—helps ensure you enjoy the experience fully.

Participants should also feel comfortable following ranger instructions at all times. Gorillas are gentle by nature but powerful, wild animals. The rules set by the park authorities protect both you and the gorillas and are essential for keeping the experience safe and respectful.

Accessibility and Support Options

Many travellers worry about whether they are fit enough to make the trek, but gorilla parks and local communities offer a range of options to help. Hiring a porter is highly encouraged—not only for increased comfort and safety, but also because it supports local livelihoods. Walking sticks are available and extremely helpful on slippery terrain.

For travellers with mobility limitations, pre-arranged assistance such as sedan chairs or extended porter teams may be available for an additional cost. These options make gorilla trekking more inclusive and allow people who may not manage long hikes to still experience the magic of seeing gorillas in the wild.

Is Gorilla Trekking Right for You?

Anyone aged 15 or above who is reasonably fit, healthy and able to follow conservation rules can participate in a gorilla trek. The activity suits adventurous travellers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, nature lovers and those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience. With proper preparation and realistic expectations, people from all walks of life successfully enjoy gorilla trekking each year.

Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal comfort, health, fitness and willingness to embrace the unpredictability of the forest. If you are eager for a meaningful wildlife encounter and prepared for a physical challenge, gorilla trekking may be one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have.