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Have you ever dreamed of seeing mountain gorillas in their natural forest habitat?
Maybe you think it’s too hard because you’re older, less mobile, or have a disability. But don’t let that stop you! Picture yourself sitting quietly in a cool, misty jungle, watching a huge, gentle silverback gorilla nearby.
It’s one of the most magical experiences you can have in nature. And guess what? Even if walking in the forest is difficult, Orugano Safaris can make this dream come true.
Mountain gorillas live deep in the mountain forests of Uganda, Congo, and Rwanda, where thick trees, steep hills, and muddy trails make trekking a real challenge. But here’s the good news: our specially trained local porters, who know the jungle well, can carry you safely on a special sedan chair.
These amazing porters carefully carry visitors through the forest so everyone can enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. By hiring a porter through Orugano Safaris, you help not only yourself but also support the local communities who protect the gorillas and their home. So, no matter your age or ability, you can take part in this incredible journey and create memories that will stay with you forever.
Gorilla trekking is possible for people with disabilities or limited mobility, thanks to the support of specially trained local porters and equipment designed to make the journey easier and safe.
If walking long distances or navigating steep, muddy forest trails is a challenge, you don’t have to miss out on this incredible experience.
One of the main ways people with disabilities are helped is through the use of a sedan chair or gorilla stretcher. This is a sturdy, padded chair with seat belts that four strong porters carry through the forest.
The porters take turns carrying you, ensuring you stay comfortable and secure throughout the trek. The porters we work with are highly experienced and know the forest terrain well, so they move carefully to protect both you and the environment.
In some cases, a stretcher made of local bamboo is used instead of a chair, but the idea is the same: to carry you through the tough, uneven paths so you don’t have to walk. The porters will carry you from the starting point all the way to where the gorillas are, and then back again, so you can enjoy the full trekking experience without the strain of hiking.
Because the gorilla habitats are in mountainous and often rugged forests, wheelchairs cannot be used on the trails. The sedan chair or stretcher carried by porters is currently the safest and most practical option for visitors with physical disabilities.
It’s very important to inform Orugano Safaris about any mobility or fitness issues before booking your trip. This allows us to arrange the right support for you, including the porters and the sedan chair, and plan your trek with your needs in mind.
Gorilla trekking permits cost the same for everyone, whether you have a disability or not. In Uganda, a permit currently costs $800 per person (2025 price). In Rwanda, the permit is $1,500 per person. This fee covers park entrance, a ranger guide, and one hour spent with the gorillas.
If you need extra help, such as hiring porters or a sedan chair, there is an additional cost. A team of four to eight porters carrying a sedan chair usually costs around $300. If you only need a porter to help carry your bags or offer support during the trek, that typically costs between $15 and $20 per person.
While these extra costs increase the price, many travelers find it worthwhile for the unforgettable experience of seeing mountain gorillas up close.
Hiring porters through Orugano Safaris also helps support local communities, providing income for many families living near the parks.
If you have a disability, traveling long distances by car can be tiring. Luckily, Orugano Safaris offers better travel options to make your trip easier. One of the best places to see mountain gorillas is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. But driving there from Entebbe or Kampala can take 8 to 9 hours, which is a long trip.
A great option we suggest is to start your journey from Kigali in Rwanda. The drive from Kigali to Bwindi is only 3 to 4 hours, which is much shorter and more comfortable.
You can also fly from Entebbe or Kajjansi to an airstrip near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, like Kihihi or Kisoro. The flight takes just one hour and gives you a beautiful view of Uganda’s hills and forests.
When you land, your Orugano Safaris guide will pick you up and take you to our lodge (Orugano Bwindi Lodge) near the park.
If a chartered flight is not within your budget, traveling by road is still a rewarding option. You’ll drive through green hills, tea farms, and local villages, with stops to stretch, take photos, or visit cool spots like the equator line.
To make the trip easier, Orugano Safaris includes breaks in other national parks with disabled-friendly activities. At Lake Mburo National Park, you can enjoy a peaceful boat cruise or a short game drive to see zebras and antelopes.
Queen Elizabeth National Park offers amazing boat rides on the Kazinga Channel and drives to spot elephants, lions, and hippos — all from your safari vehicle. We use comfortable vehicles with enough space and support, making the journey smooth and relaxing for travelers with disabilities. You’ll enjoy every mile, even before you meet the gorillas.
Choosing the right place to stay during your gorilla trek is very important, especially if you have a disability. In Uganda, Orugano Safaris recommends Orugano Bwindi Lodge, an excellent choice for travelers with special needs. Located close to the park, it offers easy access to the trekking start point.
The lodge is thoughtfully designed for comfort and accessibility, featuring wide walkways, gentle ramps, spacious rooms, and bathrooms equipped with support bars. The friendly staff are always ready to assist you with anything you need.
Whether you’re using a sedan chair or just require extra care, Orugano Bwindi Lodge makes sure your stay is both safe and relaxing. Surrounded by peaceful forest views and the soothing sounds of birds, it adds a special touch to your unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure.
Packing the right clothes and gear will make your trek safer and more comfortable.
You’ll need a rain jacket, long-sleeved shirts and trousers, and gloves to protect your hands from branches. A sunhat, insect repellent, and sunscreen are also important.
Don’t forget any personal medicines, snacks for energy, drinking water, and a small first aid kit. If you’ll be in a sedan chair, porters can carry your bags, but it’s a good idea to keep your important items close. A small neck pillow or seat cushion can make your ride more comfortable too.
Some gorilla families live closer to the starting point than others. If you have limited mobility, the park rangers will try to assign you a group that’s easier to reach.
To help with this, book your trek early and let Orugano Safaris know about your needs. We can request a group in an easier area where trails are not too steep.
This helps you enjoy your trek without too much effort.
Gorilla trekking is a dream that can come true — even if you have a disability.
With good planning, the right support, and a positive mindset, you can experience one of the world’s most amazing wildlife adventures.
From the start of your trip to your meeting with gentle mountain gorillas, every moment is worth it.
Friendly porters, helpful guides, accessible lodges, and careful planning all come together to ensure nothing stops you from this once-in-a-lifetime journey.
At Orugano Safaris, we believe everyone deserves to experience the magic of gorilla trekking. No matter your ability, we will plan every detail of your trip with care and understanding. From arranging accessible transport and comfortable lodges to providing skilled porters and guides, we make sure your journey is safe, smooth, and unforgettable. Contact Orugano Safaris today to start planning your tailor-made gorilla trekking adventure. Let us help you create memories that will last a lifetime!
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Nkuringo Sector- Uganda
+256-701-230-309
info@oruganosafaris.com
