Can a person with disabilities trek mountain gorillas.

Can a person with disabilities get an advance to trek mountain gorillas.

The allure of gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest knows no bounds, and Satellite Adventures is committed to ensuring that this captivating experience is accessible to all. In this blog, we explore the measures and considerations in place to accommodate persons with disabilities on a gorilla trek, fostering an inclusive and enriching adventure.

Advanced Planning and Communication:

For individuals with disabilities, advanced planning is paramount. Communication with Satellite Adventures allows for a thorough understanding of specific needs and preferences. Sharing information about mobility constraints, medical requirements, and any other considerations enables the team to tailor the experience accordingly.

Accessible Permits and Group Assignments:

Gorilla trekking permits are essential for all participants, including those with disabilities. Kigezi Harambe Discoveries  Ugandaworks closely with the Uganda Wildlife Authority to secure accessible permits and strategically assign individuals to gorilla families based on factors such as trekking duration and terrain difficulty.

Tailored Trekking Routes:

The experienced guides and trackers from Satellite Adventures adapt trekking routes to accommodate persons with disabilities. By selecting trails with less challenging terrain, the journey becomes more accessible without compromising the authenticity of the gorilla trekking experience.

Porter Assistance:

Porter assistance is available for those who may require extra support during the trek. Porters can carry equipment, provide stability on uneven terrain, and assist individuals with disabilities throughout the journey, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

After confirming a tour and indicating that you are disabled, unfit or an elder, the tour operator will begin arranging things on the ground. The tour operator will arrange for a special sedan chair with porters to carry it. The tour operator will also arrange a special safari van to take you up to the starting point of the trek.  Once there, you will find the porters and sedan chairs ready. The sedan seats have seat belts, a steel-base and handlers which make it easy for the porters to lift up.  Four porters carry the sedan chair at any given point. The other 6 porters follow the group and wait for their turn to takeover. The porters will carry the traveler until the gorillas are found. After you have spotted the gorillas, taken photos and enjoyed the fun, the porters will take you back to the starting point where you will find the company Driver/Guide waiting.

Customized Trekking Pace:

The pace of the trek is tailored to the capabilities and comfort of the participants, including those with disabilities. The guides and trackers are adept at adjusting the speed to accommodate different walking abilities, ensuring that everyone can savor the beauty of the forest and the enchanting encounter with mountain gorillas.

Communication Devices:

For individuals with hearing impairments, communication devices can be arranged to facilitate interaction with guides and fellow trekkers. Clear communication is crucial for safety and enjoyment during the trek.

Educational Sessions and Sensitization:

Kigezi Harambe Discoveries conducts pre-trek educational sessions and sensitization efforts to ensure that both staff and fellow trekkers are aware of and prepared for the presence of individuals with disabilities. This fosters a supportive and inclusive atmosphere throughout the trek.

Post-Trek Accommodations:

The commitment to inclusivity extends beyond the trek itself. Satellite Adventures ensures that accommodations meet accessibility standards, providing a comfortable and seamless experience for individuals with disabilities.

What is the cost of gorilla trekking for older travelers needing a Sedan chair?

The cost of gorilla trekking for elderly travelers is the same as those of any other traveler. The only difference is that they need to top-up between $400 to $500 for hiring the stretcher or sedan seat and about 10 porters.  The porters carry the elder in turns while the rest carry their cameras, bags, sanitary items, foods and drinks. Hiring these porters is one way of supporting the local people financially.

Best place for gorilla trekking for people with disabilities.

The ideal gorilla trekking destination for the elderly or people with disabilities is Bwindi Impenetrable National park in Uganda. Unlike other mountain gorilla destinations, Bwindi Impenetrable National park is located on a lower attitude. The relatively flatter terrain, makes it easier for older travelers and those who are unfit to find the gorillas. Bwindi impenetrable national park is also arguably the most popular gorilla trekking destination. It is a home to almost half of the total population of mountain gorillas in the world. Of the 52 gorilla groups in Bwindi, 20 are habituated.

Additional information about gorilla trekking for those with disabilities

Whereas Bwindi is considered to be the best park for gorilla trekking, driving to the park takes about 8 hours. In order to avoid this long distance drive, an elder is advised to book a flight from Entebbe International Airport to one of the 2 airfields close to Bwindi. Aero Link has domestic flights from Entebbe to Kisoro and also Kihihi airstrip. They charge about $283 for a one-way flight. Though expensive, charter flights cuts traveling time by 8 hours.

Some budget travelers may not afford the domestic flight to Bwindi. In this case, they should request for a comfortable car which is customized for people with disabilities if applicable. The driver should make stopovers so that the elder has a chance to rest, take lunch and visit the toilet. In order to reduce on driving time, the elder can book trips to other national parks along the way. In this way, the tour operator can make stops in the other national parks for safaris before proceeding to Bwindi or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

There are countless lodges within and outside Bwindi impenetrable forest offering budget, mid-range and luxury accommodation facilities. Elderly travelers or those with disabilities must ensure that the lodge chosen has the right facilities or is built to allow comfortable movement.

What about the packing list?

Ensure that you travel with all your medical equipment and medicines. Do not forget to come with a rain jacket, cap and sunglasses. Expect to get hungry or thirsty while out tracking the primates. Request your hotel to pack for you bottled water and light snack before heading out to the park offices. Other import items to include are;

Sanitizers,

face masks,

insect repellents and toiletries.

Finally, do not forget to pack the right hiking boots and clothes that cover as much part of your body as possible.

Conclusion:

Satellite Adventures is dedicated to making the awe-inspiring journey of gorilla trekking accessible to all, regardless of abilities. By fostering open communication, adapting trekking routes, and providing the necessary support, the aim is to create an inclusive and enriching experience that allows everyone to share in the magic of encountering mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. As we strive for inclusivity, let the spirit of adventure and appreciation for nature unite us all in this extraordinary journey.