How to book a Gorilla Permit for a Minor (under 15 Years). The best way to book a gorilla permit for a minor under 15 years is through a local licenced gorilla tour operator like Realm Africa Safaris™. Remember that only in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park can a minor be allowed to trek gorillas. With over 15 years of organizing Gorilla tours in Uganda, we have a reliable network of servicemen and personnel willing to assist you in booking and arranging a stress-free Gorilla trekking holiday, including securing special permits for minors under 15 years.
Key considerations when booking a Gorilla Permit for a minor under 15 years of age.
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Parental Consent: If a child under 15 is allowed to trek (in some cases, like in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park), parents must provide a letter requesting permission from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and accept responsibility for the child’s well-being during the trek.
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Indemnity Form: The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) may require parents to sign an indemnity form to protect the organization from liability in case of any issues during the trek.
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Alternative Activities: If a child is not allowed to trek, the parents can still travel with them and leave them to participate in other activities with no age restrictions, such as nature walks or community tours.
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Communicable Diseases: Children are more susceptible to communicable diseases, which could harm the gorillas. This is another reason why trekking with children under 15 is generally discouraged.
How much is a Gorilla permit for a minor under the age of 15?
No matter whether of correct gorilla trekking age (15 years) or a minor under 15 years of age, the price of a gorilla permit remains fixed. Gorilla permits in Uganda cost;
- Foreign Non-resiednets pay $800 per person/permit.
- Foreign Residents pay $700 per person/permit.
- East Africans pay Uganda Shillings- UGX300,000 per person/permit.
- Africans from the rest of Africa pay $500 per person/permit.
Best time to book/go gorilla trekking for a minor under 15 years
The best time to consider booking a gorilla permit is 03 – 06 months in advance. This is because the process of securing a gorilla permit for a minor can be quite bureaucratic and does require ample time filling and presenting all the necessary paperwork to support the application for a special permit for a Minor under 15 years.
The best weather for gorilla trekking remains June – August, September- October, or December – February. These are the drier season/months of the year. The rest of the year is characterised by rains that make the trails muddy, slippery and challenging to navigate.
What to wear for Gorilla trekking.
- Long-sleeved shirts: Protect against scratches from branches, thorns, and insects.
- Long trousers: Protect against scratches, thorns, and insects.
- Sturdy hiking boots: Essential for navigating the often rough and uneven terrain.
- Waterproof jacket: Rain can be unpredictable in gorilla trekking areas, so a waterproof jacket is crucial.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from scratches and pricks when holding onto branches.
- Hat: Protects from the sun and rain.
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun’s glare.
- Thick socks: Help keep your feet warm and comfortable.
- Insect repellent: Protect yourself from mosquitoes and other biting insects.
- Water bottle: Stay hydrated during the trek.
- Binoculars: Enhance your viewing of wildlife, including the gorillas.
- Camera: Capture the memories of your gorilla trekking experience.
- Walking stick: Can be helpful for support on uneven terrain.
- Warm sweaters: Temperatures can drop in the mornings and evenings.
- Rain poncho: A lightweight alternative to a jacket.
- Neutral-colored clothing: Avoid bright colors, which can attract insects.
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