There are 1000 criticisms on how great the Gorilla trek is, so you don’t need me to reiterate that. Many tourists say that they treasured the time they spent with the Gorillas. What I hope I can give advice on the physical fitness required when going Gorilla trekking.
Couples in 30’s used to get involved in the fitness industry back home, I was very surprised to see how many unfit, out of shape people sign up for this. No regard given to the fact that you will be hiking at a certain altitude, up hill, often with adverse conditions, such as muddy trekking trails among others. One time during trekking, a group of trekkers consisted of there 3 ladies who experienced issues and had to be carried up the mountain by porters. On my side, here is an advice though it may come off as harsh more so to those who don’t possess the minimum fitness level to hike up to the Gorillas, they should not expect Rwandan porters to carry them up the mountain on a stretcher just because you spent $1500 on a permit!
In this case, the 3 ladies had requested an easy and close group, but since the Gorillas are wild animals and unpredictable due to their movement in their natural environment, this group had moved an hour or two more deep into the forest.
Even me as a tour consultant, when I signed up for the gorilla trek, I made a plan so that I would be able to complete the trek. I didn’t know if we would hike for 1 hour or 7 because I had some advice from a friend who had once trekked gorillas. So what I wanted is to be prepared.
So if you are not willing to do some basic hiking, cardio training, gym workouts 4-6 months before the trek then is not only not safe, but also the tracking will not be enjoyable for you.
Most of the clients who come for gorilla trekking and become successful, some say that they practice hiking while others live an active lifestyle back home and they find no difficult in this memorable experience. They added and said they make it slow, and finally make it to the Gorillas.
In the 10 years I have worked in the tourism industry I have seen many people encounter health problems when they are out of shape and try to do too much such as heart issues, low blood sugar, and too much exertion. What will happen to you if you have a serious issue mid trek? Help isn’t so close – read more on the gorilla trekking guideline.
So, if you plan on doing a gorilla trek, plan when it’s not too late on getting in shape. Walk, hike, jog, attend fitness classes, hire a trainer….do anything, but do rather than relaxing and expecting to gain fitness on the trekking day. You know you will be hiking for at least one hour with your heart rate at 65-85% of your max, so train for this in advance at home. Trust me because it will make your trek incredible, more enjoyable, and it won’t kill you to get our closest relatives- the Gorillas!