It is very possible for pregnant women to trek however those who are below 7 months are the one who are advised to participate in the activity. Pregnant women are not exempted from taking this magical experience with the great apes. Gorilla tracking is among the great adventures which one should consider when planning a trip to Africa. It can only be done in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park (which has half of the world’s population of gorillas) and Mgahinga in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in Congo. However, there are some factor considered before pregnant women undertake a gorilla tracking experience as noted below:
Visit during Peak Season
They are also advised to book their trips during high season because it is dry season in the gorilla habitats. Dry season months include June – early October and Mid – December to February. The tracking area isn’t slippery so they can easily participate. For those who cannot manage to track on foot.
Use Sedan seat stretchers
It is advised for those who are in the late months of the pregnancy. They can be carried by potter and will be changed between $350 -$500 depending on the weight of the person and the distance to cover. You will only get to touch the ground during your magical hour with the gorillas. These Sedan Seat stretchers need to be booked in advance as they get sold out quickly
Transport means
Charter flights are highly recommended from Entebbe to Bwindi instead of road transport which takes about 9 hours with uncomfortable roads which can be of harm to the mother and the fetus.
Accommodation Facilities
The type of accommodation they should choose Luxury or mid-range lodges, these provide a comfortable and conducive environment. They also prepare food recommended for pregnant women and are flexible in case of a special food craving.
Tracking Region
An accessible trekking region should be selected for the pregnant women, Buhoma and Rushaga have families that are easier to track one doesn’t need to walk for many hours until they can spot the gorillas. Ruhija is however more accessible from the main highway, so when planning a trip she can choose to track in one of the 3 sectors.
Lastly, the UWA ranger guides should be informed in advance that a pregnant woman will be taking part in gorilla tracking that day so that they can know which gorilla group is close for the pregnant women to track without any difficulty.
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