Gorilla Trekking With Family: Teenagers, Children and Mixed Ages

You can go gorilla trekking with family if everyone who treks is at least 15: that is the minimum age in Rwanda and in Uganda, and a younger child cannot join the trek. Teenagers aged 15 and over who are used to walking can manage the hike, which lasts from 30 minutes to four hours or more in Rwanda. Younger children can enjoy other activities while the older members trek. The permit costs US$1,500 per person in Rwanda for international visitors (Rwanda Development Board, checked in October 2026).

This guide explains how to plan a trek with teenagers or mixed ages, how to prepare, and what younger children can do. It supports our complete guide to gorilla trekking in Rwanda.

It is 15 in Rwanda and in Uganda, checked against passports. A child who is 14 on the trek date cannot join, whatever their fitness. There is no maximum age. Read our age limit guide for the rules and the questions parents ask most.

• Walk uphill together for several weeks in the boots they will wear.
• Pack properly. Long trousers, a long-sleeved top, waterproof jacket, gloves and boots. See the packing list.
• Explain the rules. Stay at least 7 metres away, speak quietly, no flash, no touching, and no trekking if unwell.
• Hire a porter. It helps with bags and steep sections.
• Set expectations. The walk can take four hours or more, and the hour with the gorillas is the reward.

Children under 15 can join cultural and nature activities, such as a visit to the Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village, a village walk, a canoe trip on the Twin Lakes or a day in Akagera National Park. A carer arranged by your operator or a parent can stay with them at the lodge. See the 6-day Akagera safari and the guide to cultural experiences. For Tanzania with younger children, read the family safari guide.

Each gorilla group is limited to eight visitors. A family of up to eight can trek together, and a larger family is split across groups. Rangers assign the family on the day. If your family has different fitness levels, tell your operator so the information can be passed on. Read about groups in group gorilla trekking in Rwanda.

Four days is the minimum, and five or six days allow rest. Our 4-day Rwanda gorilla trekking tour and the 5-day gorilla trekking and Akagera safari suit families. Read what it costs and how to book permits, which sell out in the dry months.

• Families with teenagers aged 15 and over
• Multi-generation groups where grandparents are active walkers

• Families where all children are under 15
• Anyone who cannot walk several hours on steep, muddy ground

• Booking permits before checking ages. Check on the trek date.
• Assuming a fit teenager needs no preparation.
• Forgetting plans for children who cannot trek.
• Booking late. Permits are limited.

No. The minimum age is 15.

Yes. There is no maximum age if they are fit. Read gorilla trekking for seniors.

Tell us the ages and fitness of everyone and our tour specialist can plan a trip that works for all. Talk to Our Tour Specialist.

Source: Rwanda Development Board.