Gorilla tracking in Uganda is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that is now accessible to everyone, including seniors and individuals with mobility challenges. Thanks to innovations like the sedan chair—often called an “African Helicopter”—even those who may struggle with the rugged terrain can experience the magic of encountering mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Preparation is key to making your trek enjoyable and comfortable. Essential items to bring include a packed lunch, plenty of drinking water, sunglasses, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, shoe protectors, insect repellent, a walking stick, and a fully charged camera. Your day will start at the park headquarters with registration and an informative briefing about gorilla behavior and the unique ecosystem of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Here, you’ll also enjoy cultural performances by local communities before being grouped with fellow trekkers, typically in groups of no more than eight.

Gorilla tracking can range from a short 30-minute walk to a more strenuous trek lasting six to eight hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family. On the day of your trek, the allocation of gorilla families is carefully managed, taking into consideration individual preferences and abilities. For those with mobility challenges, simply inform your guide in advance. They will arrange for you to track a family that’s easier to access or provide assistance with porters and a sedan chair.

This thoughtful support ensures that everyone, regardless of physical ability or age, can immerse themselves in the breathtaking experience of observing mountain gorillas in the heart of Uganda’s lush forests. With proper planning and assistance, gorilla tracking is truly an adventure for all.

Logistics of the Sedan Chair

For those with mobility challenges, the sedan chair is a fantastic option to ensure a comfortable and accessible gorilla tracking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Available at various tracking points within the park, the sedan chair service costs between USD 350 and USD 450 per chair per trek. This fee includes the chair itself, as well as porters who will assist in carrying you to the gorillas and back to the park headquarters after the trek. Pricing can vary based on demand, so it’s important to book in advance. Given the limited number of available sedan chairs, we recommend notifying us ahead of time if you require one, ensuring we can secure it for you.

Getting to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Getting to Bwindi for your gorilla trek is quite manageable, though it does require some travel time. The park is approximately a 10-hour drive from Entebbe International Airport or Kampala. Alternatively, you can opt for a one-hour flight to Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrip, followed by a scenic one-and-a-half-hour drive to your accommodation within the park. For travelers coming from Kigali, Rwanda, the travel time will vary depending on the specific sector of Bwindi you plan to visit. Regardless of your mode of transportation, reaching Bwindi offers a scenic and rewarding journey to one of Uganda’s most unique and unforgettable wildlife experiences.

Gorilla Trekking Permits and Visas

For travelers interested in exploring gorilla trekking in both Uganda and Rwanda, the East African Tourist Visa offers a convenient option. This visa allows entry into three countries—Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya—making it easier to combine gorilla tracking experiences across borders. At Kenlink Tours, we also help all our clients to get their visas an not extra service fee. They just pay the visa fee. In Uganda, gorilla trekking permits are priced at USD 800 per person per day, offering a more affordable option compared to Rwanda, where permits are available for USD 1500 per day.

Accessibility for All

Gorilla tracking is an unforgettable adventure, and it’s now more accessible than ever for individuals with disabilities or seniors. Thanks to the availability of sedan chairs, also known as “African Helicopters,” those with mobility challenges can still experience the thrill of tracking mountain gorillas in the wild. The sedan chair service, which includes porters to assist you throughout the trek, ensures that anyone—regardless of age or physical ability—can participate in this unique and enriching experience.

With the guidance of experienced rangers and porters, and the support of a sedan chair if needed, visitors can enjoy the magical encounter with these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The journey not only connects you to the gorillas but also immerses you in the breathtaking beauty of Uganda’s forests and mountains.