Gorilla Trekking for Seniors and Travelers With Disabilities in Rwanda
Age is no barrier to gorilla trekking in Rwanda. How porters, sedan chairs, easier gorilla families and the right vehicle make the trek accessible.
Gorilla trekking is open to anyone aged 15 and over, and plenty of travellers in their sixties, seventies and beyond complete it every year. With the right preparation, seniors and people with reduced mobility can meet mountain gorillas too. Here is how it works.
Easier gorilla families can be requested
Some gorilla families range close to the park boundary and require a shorter, flatter walk. At the morning briefing, tell the head guide about your fitness and any mobility needs. Guides do their best to assign you to a nearer family so the trek is manageable.
Porters and walking support
Hiring one or two porters is the single best decision for an easier trek. They carry your bag, offer a steady hand on slopes and help you keep your footing on muddy ground. A walking pole also helps a great deal.
The sedan chair option
For travellers who cannot manage the walk, a sedan chair carried by a team of porters is available for an extra fee. It must be arranged in advance so the team is ready on the day. This has allowed many wheelchair users and less mobile visitors to reach the gorillas.
Getting to the trailhead comfortably
The drive from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park takes around three hours on good tarmac, with the final stretch on murram road. A comfortable 4x4 with a driver, or a self-drive vehicle with high clearance, makes the journey easy. See our Volcanoes National Park car rental guide or consider a chauffeur option.
Preparing for altitude
The park sits high, so allow time to acclimatise, drink plenty of water and take the pace slowly. Start early and dress in layers.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an upper age limit for gorilla trekking?
No. There is only a minimum age of 15. Many older travellers complete the trek each year.
Can wheelchair users go gorilla trekking?
Yes, with a pre-booked sedan chair and a porter team, the gorillas are reachable for people who cannot walk the trail.
How do I request an easier gorilla family?
Tell the head guide at the morning briefing. Assignments consider fitness and mobility where possible.
Planning any of these trips? We deliver a serviced 4x4 to Kigali International Airport or your hotel and hand it over in about 15 minutes. Call or WhatsApp us on +250 791 356 080 to book.
