Gorilla Trekking Rules

Gorilla Trekking Rules

Gorilla tourism is guided by well-thought-out rules that aim at protecting as well as the visitors. At all times, visitors in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park should adhere to these rules so that the conservation of the mountain gorillas and their habitat can be maintained.

On the way to see Gorillas

1) Always make sure your hands are washed before you head to see the gorillas.

2) A maximum of eight (8) visitors may visit a group of habituated Mountain gorillas in a day. This minimizes behavioral disturbance to the gorillas and the risk of their exposure to human-borne diseases.

3) You will be taken to where the guides left the gorillas the day before. From there, you will follow the mountain gorillas’ trail to find them. Look out for the gorillas’ nesting sites along the way!

4) When you reach the Mountain Gorillas, the guides will make sure you’re informed when you’re supposed to get your cameras ready.

5) Please always keep your voices low. You will also be able to observe the great birdlife and other wildlife in the forest.

6) Do not leave rubbish in the park. Whatever you bring into the forest should be carried back with you.

When you are with the Mountain Gorillas

1) Endeavor to keep your voices low at all times. However, it is okay to ask the guide (s) any questions.

2) You must stay in a tight group when you are near the mountain gorillas.

3) Please keep a minimum of 7 meters (21 feet) from the Mountain Gorillas. This is to protect the Mountain Gorillas from human disease transmission.

4) Avoid eating or drinking while you are near the mountain gorillas.

5) Sometimes the Mountain Gorillas charge. Follow the guide’s example, crouch down slowly. DO NOT look the Mountain Gorilla in the eye. Wait for the Gorillas to pass and do not attempt to run away, as this could increase the risk of attack.

6) Do not touch the Mountain Gorillas. They are wild animals. Please, they are not humans

7) Flash photography is not allowed. When taking pictures, move slowly and carefully.

8) The maximum time visitors are allowed to spend with the Mountain Gorillas is one hour. This is done to limit their disturbance. If the Mountain Gorillas become nervous, the guide will end the visit early.

9) After the visit, keep your voices low until you are 200 meters away from the Mountain Gorillas.

General Health Rules

Remember, Mountain Gorillas are very susceptible to human diseases. The following are ways to minimize the risk your visit might pose to them;

1) In case you are feeling ill or have a contagious disease when you are already at the park, please volunteer to stay behind. An alternative visit will be arranged for you, or you will be refunded your money as per gorilla reservation guidelines.

2) In case you’re feeling the urge to cough or sneeze when you are near the Mountain Gorillas, please turn your head away and cover your nose and mouth to minimize the spread of viruses or bacteria.

3) Always stay 7 meters (21 feet) away from the Mountain Gorillas. The further back you are, the more relaxed the group will be.

4) Respect the Gorilla limit imposed on the time visitors are allowed with the Mountain Gorillas each day. This minimizes the risk of disease transmission and stress to the group.

5) In case you need to go to the “toilet” while in the forest, please ask the guide to dig you a hole and ensure you cover it when you have finished.
6) Do not leave any rubbish in the park.

By following the rules above and through the purchase of a permit, you are contributing to the conservation of the Mountain Gorilla.

Any breach of these rules may lead to the termination of tracking without any refund.

Why You Should Adhere to These Rules

Conservationists put the above gorilla trekking rules and guidelines to make sure that tourism in Bwindi is sustainable. If tourist visits are not controlled, disastrous effects of mass tourism can happen in destinations that we need to preserve for not only the present but also future generations. Therefore, the rule of taking nothing but pictures must be adhered to so that we can promote sustainable tourism in not only Bwindi Impenetrable National Park but also other destinations that host the great apes!

According to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), tourists are required to maintain a minimum distance of 7 meters (about 23 feet) from mountain gorillas during trekking experiences in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

This rule is in place to:

• Protect gorillas from human diseases (they share ~98.4% of our DNA).
• Avoid stressing the gorillas.
• Ensure safety for both visitors and animals.

But in reality, gorillas don’t always follow the rules — and that’s when the experience gets magical.

Gorillas are wild but habituated to human presence during treks. In many cases, gorillas may approach tourists, especially the younger ones who are naturally curious. It’s not uncommon for trekkers to have a gorilla walk right past them or even sit down nearby.

What to Do If a Gorilla Comes Too Close to You

• Stay still and quiet.
• Avoid eye contact with the silverback.
• Do not make sudden movements.
• Wait for your ranger’s instructions.

UWA guides are trained to read the gorillas’ behavior and keep everyone safe.

What Is Gorilla Habituation and How Close Can You Get?

A Longer, Deeper Gorilla Experience you want to spend more time with gorillas and get an even closer connection, consider booking the Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi.

• Time with gorillas: Up to 4 hours.
• Group size: Only 4 people.
• Closeness: Often closer than 7 meters, especially during research and observation moments.

The habituation experience offers exceptional photography and emotional encounters. Hillary specializes in leading these extended treks and capturing stunning close-up shots.