Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations

Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations in Rwanda, Uganda and Congo

The Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations are guidelines and standards set up by government wildlife bodies to safeguard and protect the endangered mountain gorillas against humans threats during the trekking adventure.  The same rules are also aimed at human safety against the gorillas as well. During gorilla trekking, there is need to ensure that gorillas are not affected by the presence of humans and vice versa. Visitors are advised to follow the set rules strictly for safety reasons on the side of gorillas and humans. Any action against the set standards could lead to diseases, violence or death. The rules and regulations are part of the gorilla conservation efforts for the survival and continuity of the endangered species. Mountain gorilla trekking takes place in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Virunga National Park in DR Congo and  Bwindi Impenetrable forest and Mgahinga gorilla national park in Uganda. In these four parks found in the three countries of East Africa, the trekking rules and regulations for gorillas are almost the same. Once a visitors understands the rules very well, he is good to go and see gorillas in any of the mentioned countries and parks.

Here are some of the rules and regulations for trekking gorillas in the wild:

  • Keep your distance

Maintain a minimum distance of 7 meters (21 feet) from the gorillas. In case the gorillas come close to you, move back gradually or remain fixed in one place or immobile.

  • Stay in a group

Ensure that you remain solidly in a group and do not leave the entourage alone in seclusion.

  • Be quiet

Try to keep your voices low even when you are asking the guide some questions regarding gorillas.

  • Do not touch the Gorillas

Avoid touching the gorillas as they are wild animals, they may harm you or cause disease transmission either way.

  • Flash photography prohibited

Taking photography with flash is completely forbidden as this may terrify the gorillas and prompt them to charge.

  • Avoid eye contact with gorillas

Do not look the gorillas directly into the eyes as they may misunderstand it for aggression. Your body language matters a lot when with gorillas. Try not to lift your arms or hands as such gestures might be considered to be signs of hostility. Also standing taller above their highest and staring may also be mistaken for antagonism.

  • Limit your time

The maximum time allocated for spending with the gorillas is usually one hour during gorilla trekking and four hours for gorilla habituation experience. In case the gorillas are distressed, the guide may end visit early.

  • Know what to Carry or Bring

When coming for the adventure, know the items bring or carry in order to enjoy the visit. Such items include insect repellent, hiking shoes, energy snacks and drinking water. Also bring a raincoat, binoculars, garden gloves, long sleeved shirts, cameras and extra batteries, backpack for item safety, face masks, sunscreen, hat, pants and warm sweater among others.

  • Get vaccinated

It is recommended that you get a yellow fever vaccine to enter Uganda, Rwanda or Congo.

  • Be at least 15 years old

To visit gorillas, you must be at least 15 years of age to be permitted into the park for a gorilla trekking adventure.

  • Do not litter

Carry all your rubbish back with you, including food wrappers, bottles or any other tissues.