I am trying to decide on which safari I will be booking for 2012. I am unsure of how "fit" one needs to be in order to do the gorilla trekking in Rwanda. I am overweight but can do a reasonable amount of exercise. For example, I have climbed the steps inside the great pyramid in Egypt, so I am able to do physical things. I just know that I'm not in shape for things like climbing mountains or running a lot.
Can anyone give me an idea of what to expect on a gorilla trek? Thank you!
Fitness for Gorilla Trekking
It can be quite hard going trekking to see the gorillas. Trekking through the jungle can be quite strenuous as the ground is uneven and you will often find logs blocking the path, so a small bit of climbing will be involved, simply to continue along the path. Groups can be split into smaller groups depending on how far away the gorillas are that particular day, e.g. 1 hour trek compared to trekking for 4 hours.
This does not mean though that you will only trek for an hour as the gorillas may have moved. You will need to be of reasonable fitness to feel you can handle the differing terrain.