Gorilla Trekking While Pregnant – Tips for a Safe Trip

Gorilla trekking is one of the most popular tourist activities in Africa, attracting travelers from around the world. It involves hiking for several minutes or even hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family.

Trekking mountain gorillas can be challenging, especially in bad weather when the trails become muddy and slippery.

Pregnant women can also go gorilla trekking, but it requires careful planning due to the risks involved. Below are important things to consider if you plan to trek while pregnant.

Pregnant women should inform their tour operator in advance so that the operator can prepare and notify park wardens to allocate you to a gorilla family that is closer and easier to reach.

Choose a Luxury Safari

When planning to trek gorillas while pregnant, it is best to choose a luxury gorilla tour rather than a budget option. This may involve taking a flight from Entebbe International Airport to Kisoro or Kihihi airstrips, depending on the sector where your gorilla permit is booked.

The flight to Bwindi takes only 2 hours, while driving takes 9 to 10 hours. After landing, it is recommended to use a Land Cruiser with good suspension for comfort on the bumpy countryside roads.

If you cannot afford a flight, you can use road transport from Kigali to Bwindi or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which takes about 4 to 5 hours and is shorter than driving from Kampala.

Selecting Gorilla Sectors

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park has four sectors, some of which are easier for trekking than others. Your tour operator should book your permit in the Buhoma sector, which is easier to trek, while the Nkuringo sector should be your last option.

On the morning of your trek during the briefing, remind the park warden of your condition. During the allocation process, factors such as age, physical abilities, health conditions, and pregnancy are considered.

Sedan Seat Stretcher

While gorilla trekking is good exercise, too much hiking can be risky during pregnancy. Sedan seat stretchers are available for pregnant women, elderly visitors, and those with physical challenges.

You will be carried to the gorillas and back to the starting point. Though it is expensive, it is the safest option for pregnant women and should be booked in advance, especially during peak season.

Visit During Dry Months

Uganda’s dry seasons are from June to August and December to February, which are the best times to go gorilla trekking. During these months, the roads are in better condition, and the trails are less muddy and slippery.

Accommodation

Choose your accommodation carefully during your gorilla trekking safari. If you inform the lodge about your pregnancy, they can prepare a comfortable bed and allow you to select meals you prefer.

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