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Essential Rules & Regulations for Gorilla Trekking
There are rules and regulations for gorilla trekking that trekking travelers are required to follow when meeting the gorillas in their natural habitat.
The wildlife conservation governing bodies within the Virungas (i.e., Virunga NP, Volcanoes NP, and Mgahinga NP), including Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, commissioned for sustainable conservation and preservation of wildlife, clearly state the rules and regulations for gorilla trekking. These procedures have allowed the endangered apes to flourish, and tourists are now able to visit them in the wild.
Before setting out on your trek, you will be required to go through a briefing session that covers all the main rules for gorilla trekking. The rules and regulations for gorilla trekking will help you to stay within the conservation laws while fully enjoying the awe-inspiring experience. Here’s a quick overview of the main rules you must know:
Rules for Gorilla Trekking
- According to the rules and regulations for gorilla trekking, you have a maximum of one hour with a family of habituated gorillas you find.
- There can be no more than eight people in a group. It minimizes the risk of their exposure to human-borne diseases and behavioral disturbances.
- Gorilla trekking is open to anybody as long as they are above the trekking age of 15 years and possess a gorilla trekking permit.
- Photography and video are allowed throughout without flash.
- No garbage is allowed to be left. Everything must be carried out.
- It is forbidden to eat, drink, or smoke near the gorillas.
- You should speak softly and refrain from making loud noises or sudden movements.
- During the trek to and from the gorillas, you are permitted to ease yourself anywhere off the track as long as it is not near any water source. Be aware that human waste must be buried in a hole at least 30 cm deep when it comes to solid waste. The ranger will be carrying a small shovel, so just let them know if you want to ease yourself.
- You must maintain a safe distance of 7 m (21ft) from the gorillas and on no account attempt to interact with them by making sounds or touching them.
- Gorillas are susceptible to contracting human diseases, so protecting them from human contact is important. Although wearing face masks became common during the COVID-19 pandemic around the world, it has often been a requirement when visiting the gorillas to keep them safe.
- You will not be allowed to go trekking if you show symptoms of a cold or other contagious diseases.
- Visitors will be required to carry light equipment to minimize the need for porters and consequent crowding.
- The gorillas may charge sometimes. At this point, follow the guide’s instructions, i.e., crouch down slowly and do not look the gorillas in the eyes when they are agitated. You will have to wait for the animals to pass, and do not attempt to run or make hasty movements.
