Gorilla Trekking Rules and Guidelines
Gorilla trekking is one of the rarest wildlife encounters on Earth—a privilege shared by only a limited number of visitors each day. Because mountain gorillas are critically sensitive and live in fragile ecosystems, strict rules and guidelines are in place to protect them and ensure the safety of visitors. Understanding these rules helps you enjoy the experience responsibly while supporting conservation efforts.
Maintain a Safe Distance
While trekkers are often allowed to be as close as 7 meters, gorillas sometimes approach on their own. Even then, it’s important to remain calm, avoid sudden movements, and give them space. This distance reduces the risk of transmitting human diseases to the gorillas, who share about 98% of our DNA and are highly vulnerable to infections.
One Hour With the Gorillas
Once the gorilla family is located, visitors can spend a maximum of one hour observing them. This limit minimizes stress on the gorillas and ensures that multiple groups do not disturb the same family. Every minute of this hour is magical—watching adults forage, juveniles play, and the silverback oversee his family.
Group Size is Limited
Only eight visitors per gorilla family are allowed each day. Smaller groups help reduce noise, environmental impact, and disturbance to the gorillas. It also makes the experience more intimate and respectful.
No Trekking When Sick
If you have a cold, flu, cough, diarrhea, or any infectious illness, you cannot trek. Because gorillas are susceptible to human diseases, protecting them from infection is essential. Rangers may deny access if they notice symptoms, so it’s important to be honest about your health.
Wear a Mask Near the Gorillas
In most gorilla trekking destinations, visitors must wear a face mask before approaching the gorilla family. This practice reduces the chance of transmitting respiratory droplets to the gorillas and reflects modern conservation standards.
Do Not Touch the Gorillas
Even if a curious juvenile gorilla approaches you, do not touch them. Physical contact increases the risk of disease transmission and interferes with natural behavior. Standing still and avoiding direct interaction ensures the encounter remains safe for both you and the gorillas.
Keep Noise Levels Low
Speak softly and avoid sudden movements. Gorillas are gentle but can become alarmed by loud noises. Quiet behavior helps you blend into the forest and allows a calm, natural observation of the family.
No Eating, Drinking, or Smoking Near Gorillas
Food smells attract gorillas and disrupt their natural behavior. Tourists must avoid eating, smoking, or drinking within the gorillas’ presence. These activities also increase the risk of dropping particles that could spread disease.
Flash Photography is Not Allowed
Flash can startle gorillas and cause aggressive reactions. Always turn off your camera flash before the trek. Using natural light allows for more authentic, respectful photographs.
Follow Ranger Instructions at All Times
Your ranger guides are experts in gorilla behavior and forest safety. They understand the mood of each gorilla family and know when to approach, retreat, or stand still. Always follow their instructions carefully, especially when the silverback is present.
Stay in Your Group
Visitors must stay close to their group while trekking. The forests can be dense, slippery, and steep, and wandering off can be dangerous. Staying together ensures safety and reduces environmental impact.
Do Not Leave Anything in the Forest
Littering is strictly prohibited. Even biodegradable items like fruit peels disrupt the forest ecosystem. Every visitor must leave no trace—this is crucial for preserving gorilla habitats.
Minimum Age Requirement
The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years. This limit helps ensure that trekkers understand the rules, follow instructions, and maintain calm behavior throughout the experience.
Respect the Forest and Its Wildlife
Gorillas are not the only inhabitants of their habitat. Trekkers may encounter monkeys, birds, butterflies, or other forest animals. The same rules apply: move slowly, avoid disturbing them, and follow the ranger’s lead.
Gorilla Habituation Rules
For those doing the Gorilla Habituation Experience, the same rules apply—only the time spent observing is longer (up to four hours). Visitors are reminded to be extra calm, as these gorillas are still learning to feel comfortable around humans.
Conclusion
Gorilla trekking rules are designed to protect these magnificent animals and keep visitors safe. By following guidelines such as keeping distance, staying quiet, wearing masks, and respecting ranger instructions, you contribute directly to gorilla conservation. These simple actions help ensure that future generations can continue to experience the wonder of meeting mountain gorillas in their natural home.
