TheGorilla trekking guidelines in Uganda and Rwanda focus on minimizing disease transmission and disturbance of the endangered mountain gorillas. Rules such as maintain 7m distance, keep voices low, don’t eator drink or smoke near them, avoid direct eye contact, move slowly, and don’t touch, only 8 visitors per group for one hour, wear muted colours and masks, wash hands before, and follow your guide’s instructions like crouching if they charge to stay safe and protect the gorillas.
Gorilla trekking guidelines before the trek
- GorillaPermits: A valid gorilla permit must be secured in advance from the Uganda Wildlife Authority or the Rwanda Development Board.
- Age Limit: The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years old.
- Health: Do not trek if you have a contagious illness; cold, flu, cough, diarrhea.
- Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly before starting and wear a mask.
- Attire: Wear muted colours like greens, browns to blend in, long sleeves and trousers to prevent scratches, and sturdy hiking boots.
- Gear: Pack light, water and snacks to eat and carry a camera without a flash and sound.
- Briefing: Attend the pre-trek briefing and follow all guide instructions at the Park Head Quarters.
- Porters: If you need a hand as you hike or someone to carry your back pack, request a Porter at the Park headquarters.
During the trek & near gorillas
- Distance: Keep a minimum 7 meters away from gorillas when you find them in the forest.
- Group: Stay in a tight group with your guides and rangers
- Noise: Keep voices low, but it’s okay to ask your guide questions.
- No Food/Drink: Do not eat, drink, or smoke near them to prevent disease spread. Guides will show you best spots to eat, not close to the gorillas
- Photography: No flash and sound from your camera, move slowly and carefully.
- Body Language: Avoid direct eye contact. Do not raise arms, and do not touch them.
- Time Limit: You will have a maximum of one hour with the gorillas
After the gorilla trekking Guidelines
- Voice: Keep voices down until you are 200 meters away from the gorillas.
- Return to the Park Head Quarters, follow your guide on the tracks to return to the park to receive a certificate for successful gorilla trek
- Tipping: You can tip your guides, Porters, rangers at your on discretion.
Wilder Africa Holidays will help you book your safari, whether it is flying or Road safari for gorilla trekking in Bwindi impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga gorilla National Park. Contact us on email info@wilderafricasafaris.com to book your flight, entrance permits, activities and all services.
