Gorilla trekking is one of the major tourist activities in Uganda, Rwanda and D. R. Congo and a major source of income for these countries. The endangered species of mountain and lowland gorillas are endemic to only national parks in these three countries in Africa. There are only about 1600 surviving gorillas worldwide and thus these almost extinct species must be protected at all cost.
This calls for strict rules during gorilla trekking tour and this ought to be followed strictly to ensure continued existence of the species.
Before setting out for gorilla trekking, one must wash their hands, and should one show signs of cold or other contagious disease, it’s advised that you volunteer to stay behind so as to avoid spreading diseases to the gorillas as these affect them severely since they have low immunity. Another session for trekking will be organized for you or a refund will be affected in case of this.
One should possess a valid gorilla permit issued by respective government authorities and should be 15 years or above to take part in gorilla trekking. Trekkers are briefed about the rules of gorilla trekking before they set off.
Only 8 trekkers per day are allowed to visit a single family in order to minimize exposure to human diseases and disturbance of the gorilla’s day routine.
Trekkers should keep their voices low at all times but are allowed to ask the guides questions occasionally.
It is advised to stay at least 7 metres away from the gorillas as getting closer to them would make them more uncomfortable.
Guides will lead you to where gorillas were left the previous day from where you will follow the trails until you find them. Gorillas build nests and sleep wherever the night finds them and thus they are known to set off from there the next morning.
Trekkers should stay with the group while near the gorillas for safety. Whereas gorillas are habituated, they are still wild and might charge. In case they charge, it is advised to crouch down slowly and don’t try to run away.
It is also advised that you don’t look at the gorillas straight to their eyes as they could take this for a threat or hostility. Also, don’t lift your arms as this could be mistaken for an intending attack and they could charge. Do not wear sunglasses since a reflection of the gorilla could make them attack you. If a gorilla comes close enough to look at you, do not touch it or the young ones.
Trekkers are allowed a maximum of one hour with the gorillas but in case they become agitated, the guide is usually forced to end the visit early.
The guide will usually inform you when it is best to take pictures of gorillas but flash photography is not allowed as it could scare gorillas.
After the visit, trekkers are advised to keep their voices low until they are at a safe distance from the gorillas.
Do not eat or smoke while with the gorillas as this could increase risk of infection of their gorillas.
Do not litter the park. One should leave with whatever they came with to the park.
Always turn away from the direction of gorillas in case you want to sneeze or cough to prevent transmission of illness.
In case a health issue arises among trekkers while in the park, the affected party should be evacuated immediately.
In case you need to ease yourself while in the park, ask the guide to dig up a hole which you can use and this should be covered up after. The hole should preferably be at least 30cm deep.
Luggage should be left behind or at least 50 m away while approaching the gorillas.
Trekkers are also advised to wear good trekking shoes for easy navigation of the park and some essentials like sunscreen, mosquito repellent, rain gear and a hat for weather uncertainties.
