Updated
Many people with well-controlled heart conditions trek gorillas safely, but the trek can mean several hours of steep, slippery hiking at 1,500 to 2,500 m, far from hospitals. See your cardiologist well before booking, explain what the trek involves, and get written advice on whether it is safe for you and what precautions to take. Good travel insurance with medical evacuation is essential.
Reducing the strain
Ask for an easier family when you book and at the briefing, though trek length is never guaranteed. Hire a porter to carry your bag and help on slopes, walk at your own pace and rest often. Stay hydrated, avoid heavy meals before the trek, and carry your medication and a summary of your condition. People with limited fitness can also hire a sedan chair carried by porters.
Warning signs and emergencies
Stop and tell your guide immediately if you have chest pain, unusual breathlessness, dizziness or palpitations. Guides carry radios and can arrange porters to carry you out. Bwindi Community Hospital in Buhoma can stabilise patients, and serious cases need evacuation to Kampala or abroad.
Before you book
Practise hill walking in the months before your trip, ideally with your doctor’s approval. The gorilla permit costs US$800, or US$600 in April, May and November. See our guides to fitness requirements, trekking with limited mobility, emergency evacuation from Bwindi and altitude at Bwindi.
Frequently asked questions
Often yes, with your cardiologist’s approval and sensible precautions.
Bwindi’s altitude is moderate, but the exertion on steep slopes matters more; ask your doctor.
Stop and tell your guide immediately; porters can carry you out.
Yes, cover for medical evacuation is essential.
