The Rules of Gorilla Trekking You Should Know About

The Rules of Gorilla Trekking You Should Know About

Planning a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of Congo is a bucket-list adventure for many wildlife enthusiasts. But this unique experience in a lifetime is accompanied by several gorilla trekking regulations which guarantee the security of the mountain gorillas, as well as of the tourists. Knowing these guidelines before you trek enables you to get both mentally and physically ready, as well as making sure your visit is worth the conservation of these grand primates.

The Reasons Why Gorilla Trekking Rules Are Important

Gorilla trekking involves entering the fragile habitats of mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Volcanoes National Park, and Virunga National Park. These gorillas are very prone to human diseases, stress, and human interference with their habitat. The gorilla trekking regulations are meant to safeguard the gorillas, promote conservation, and improve their visitor experience so that gorilla trekking safaris can be sustainable for future generations.

Gorilla trekking Age limit

One of the first rules to know is the age restriction for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda. The people who can engage in gorilla trekking are only visitors who are above 15 years old. This age restriction is also to avert dangers since little children have unpredictable behaviour that might unsettle the gorillas or might not be able to withstand the physical challenges of walking in the deep forests and mountains.

Health Regulations and Policy on Sickness

Gorillas are susceptible to human diseases; visitors with communicable diseases like flu, cough, diarrhoea are not permitted to trek. On the day of your trek, in case you fall sick, it is crucial to tell your guide or park authorities. This rule might not be considered ideal; nevertheless, it plays a very important role in safeguarding the gorillas against diseases that may easily destroy entire families in the forest.

Limits of Group size and viewing time limits

The number of people who could be in a gorilla trekking group is not more than eight people per gorilla family per day. This limitation will reduce pressure on the gorillas, and the habitats will be disturbed minimally. Visitors are also given an hour of maximum time around the gorillas after they have been located. The one-hour rule contributes to keeping the gorillas wild and unhabituated to human beings so that they can preserve their natural behaviours and minimise the chances of being dependent and aggressive.

Safe Distance

When on a gorilla trekking safari, you must always observe a minimum of 7 m (approximately 21ft) distance between yourself and the gorillas at any given time. Gorillas are normally curious and can come up to you, but you should never touch them or get closer as this increases the chances of spreading diseases, and the gorillas may feel threatened. When in the presence of the gorillas, always take the cue from your ranger on where to position and how to move.

No flash Photographs

During gorilla trekking, photography is permitted, but it is not permitted to use flash. The gorillas can be scared by flash and may behave aggressively or run further into the forest, which interferes with your experience and that of the subsequent visitors as well. Be sure to preset your camera to take clear pictures in the dim light of the rainforest.

Keep Your Voice Down

Visitors are expected to speak in low tones when tracking and when with the gorillas. Loud noises can disturb the gorillas and other wildlife, leading to agitation or causing the gorillas to hide. In silence, it is also a big plus since you may be immersed in the atmosphere of the jungle and listen to the sounds of the forest.

Forbidden Objects and Littering

Litter such as plastic bags, food wrappings, among others, is a big no-no during gorilla trekking. Anything you bring into the forest is what you have to take out to conserve the environment. One is also not allowed to eat or drink in front of the gorillas lest they become attracted or involved in unnecessary fights.

Trek Preparation and Physical Fitness

Gorilla trekking varies in time, like it can last 30 minutes to 7 hours, depending on where the family of gorillas is found on the day of your trek. The landscape is usually rugged, slippery and lush. Tourists are recommended to ensure good fitness training, bring good hiking shoes, plenty of water and wear long trousers and long-sleeved shirts to ward off stinging nettles and insect bites.

Never disobey Ranger Instructions

You will be escorted all the way by well-trained rangers and trackers who are familiar with the gorilla behaviour and forest security. You should always obey their orders to keep yourself safe and not to interfere with the natural activities of the gorillas. The rangers will also inform you where to stand, how to run in case a gorilla comes in your direction and what you have to do in case the gorillas become aggressive.

The Gorilla Permits Role

You have to buy a gorilla trekking permit in advance to engage in gorilla trekking. In Uganda, permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, while Rwanda issues permits through the Rwanda Development Board. These permits finance conservation activities such as anti-poaching patrols, community projects, and tracking of the gorillas that assist in conserving the mountain gorillas and at the same time boost the lives of the locals.

Final Thoughts: Respect, Observe and Enjoy

The rules of gorilla trekking are necessary as a way of protecting the gorillas, maintaining their habitats, and thereby providing you with a secure and fulfilling experience. By following these instructions, you will also be contributing to the conservation of wildlife and having one of the world’s greatest wildlife experiences. Whether you find yourself trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, your responsible gorilla trekking will have a long-lasting positive impact.

Would you like to plan your gorilla trekking safari? Contact us now to book your gorilla permit and start planning your amazing safari in the heart of Africa.