Gorilla trekking safaris are one of the amazing and adventurous experiences to encounter during a trip to Africa. Done in only three countries of Eat Africa, – Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo, the tours offer the rare opportunity to encounter the endangered mountain gorillas in the jungle. But as you are preparing for the gorilla trek in one of the mentioned three countries, please note that it requires careful attention to health precautions, both for your own safety and to protect the gorillas, which are highly vulnerable to human diseases.
Since at Primate safari experiences limited, we prioritize the safety of our clients, we have written an article showing almost all the health precaution one should note before going on a gorilla trek and these include; essential health requirements for gorilla trekking, health guidelines for gorilla trekking, and physical fitness information that will ensure you’re well-prepared for an extraordinary encounter with mountain gorillas in Uganda, Congo or Rwanda. Enjoy reading through this well revised article for a comprehensive understanding of gorilla trekking health precautions and other information.
- Acquire recommended vaccinations
While traveling to East Africa for a gorilla trekking safari, acquire the recommended vaccinations and preventive medication to prevent yourself from catching any kind of illness during safaris. Some of these vaccinations include; yellow fever card and this is compulsory to all travellers especially those from regions where yellow fever is endemic. Other vaccinations are; hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus, influenza and COVID 19.
- Physical fitness
Gorilla trekking involves traversing through the dense forests in search of the endangered mountain gorillas. For that case, it can be physically demanding due to the terrain and altitude and thus preparation with moderate exercise (like hiking or stair climbing) before the trip is helpful. Also, some gorilla families are found at high altitudes. For that case, we advise you to bring your altitude sickness medication if you’re sensitive to altitude changes.
- Travel insurance
Obtaining comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for gorilla trekking. This insurance should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and evacuation in case of unforeseen circumstances. Check that your policy explicitly covers adventure activities like gorilla trekking, providing peace of mind for your journey.
- Pre-trek health screening
For the safety of both trekkers and mountain gorillas, health screenings are conducted before gorilla trekking excursions. Visitors may undergo temperature checks, and those exhibiting signs of illness may be restricted from trekking to prevent the transmission of diseases to the gorillas. It’s important to disclose any health concerns or recent illnesses during the screening process.
- What to pack for the trek?
As you are preparing for your gorilla trekking safari, endeavor to at least pack a small kit with essentials like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and blister treatments. Also, bring a broad-spectrum sunscreen and a lip balm with SPF, as sun exposure can be intense even on forested trails.
- Post-Trek Health Monitoring
After returning from the trek, monitor for any symptoms like fever, diarrhea, or respiratory issues and seek medical care if necessary. In case of unusual symptoms post-trip, consult a travel health specialist, especially if symptoms could indicate malaria or other infections.
In conclusion, gorilla trekking is an adventurous experience that brings you close to the incredible mountain gorilla in their natural habitats. By following these health precautions and consulting with a travel clinic before your trip, you can ensure both your health and the health of the gorillas you’re visiting.