How physically demanding is gorilla trekking? Best trekking tips & advice on how to prepare for gorilla safaris
Mountain gorilla trekking is one of the best wildlife experiences in Africa. Trekking to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat entails hiking and navigating through thick forest cover in unpredictable weather to search and observe these magnificent creatures. If you are up for this adventure, then it is important to know that gorilla trekking requires a decent level of physical fitness. How physically demanding is gorilla trekking? Gorilla Trekking requires a moderate level of physical fitness and good preparation. Although generally trekking doesn’t need you to be too fit, being in decent shape will surely increase your chances of completing the trek.
For regular hikers or hillwalkers, you are likely to enjoy trekking mountain gorillas. Just make sure you have your gorilla trekking permit and the right packing list and indulge in the jungles for this experience. This complete guide is designed to make you understand how difficult mountain gorilla is, what makes trekking difficult, and how best you can prepare for your gorilla trekking safaris holiday to Uganda and Rwanda.
How difficult is gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda? – How physically demanding is gorilla trekking?
With our experience in organizing gorilla trekking tours for the past two decades, one of the questions we have been asked by most travelers is How physically demanding is gorilla trekking? or How difficult is gorilla trekking? If you are up for gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda and Rwanda, you need to know that gorilla trekking requires a decent level of physical fitness.
How difficult is gorilla trekking? Mountain gorilla trekking is a physically demanding wildlife experience that involves hiking through dense forest and ruged terrains to reach the gorilla habitat. The level of difficulty of a gorilla trek is influenced by a number of factors such as location of the gorilla family, weather condition, and the nature of the terrain of your allocated area.
Although generally there are no strict fitness requirement for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda, a moderate level of physical fitness is best recommended when preparing for a gorilla trekking safari Tour. Mountain gorillas live in thick impenetrable forest with high altitude of about 2500 – 4000 meters above sea level. Navigating through the forest to see these animals is challenging. Expect navigating through steep and rugged terrains, trekking for long distances, and climbing in high altitudes under unpredictable weather conditions. Nevertheless, the experience is really worth it and a must do if you are a primate lover travelling to Uganda or Rwanda.
Arrangements can be made for you to have all the necessary support to complete your gorilla trekking tour. Porters, sedan chairs, and hiking stick are all available to make your trekking much easier.
How best to prepare for a gorilla trekking Safari? Best tips & Advice – How physically demanding is gorilla trekking?
Although generally, mountain gorilla trekking does not need one to be too fit, it is important to keep in mind that good preparation will help you have a successful gorilla trek. When preparing for a gorilla trekking Safari tour to Uganda or Rwanda, there are some things you can do to stay fit.
Regular exercise and workouts
When preparing for a gorilla trekking holiday, one of the best ways to keep your body fit is by doing regular exercise and workouts. Working out will help you to keep your body fit and in shape before your gorilla trekking adventure. When you work out, your body will be strong and ready for any hiking challenge, and this will help you to avoid getting tired during the trek and also to avoid injuries.
Practice Cardiovascular Activities
Activities like running, cycling or swimming are some of the best cardiovascular activities that will help you improve your overall fitness levels. These activities will help you build strength as you prepare for the gorilla trekking experience. Other recommended activities include sit-up and weight lifting for developing muscle strength. Also do more stretching exercise such as yoga to improve your reflexes and flexibility.
Choose nearby gorilla families
If you are worried about your ability to trek for long distances in the forest, we recommend choosing a shorter trek. The allocation of gorilla families is usually based on your physical fitness levels. We recommend choosing a nearby gorilla family if you are not sure of your fitness levels and ability to hike in the forest.
Carry a good packing list
It is essential to have all the recommended items in your packing list when going for gorilla safaris. Make sure to carry the right clothing and footwear when going for gorilla trekking tours. We also recommend carrying a backpack, water, and snacks.
Book your gorilla trekking tour with Acacia Safaris Limited and experience life changing adventure in Uganda and Rwanda. Our well crafted packages will take you to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park for gorilla adventures