Essential Guidelines for Gorilla Trekking in Africa

Essential Guidelines for Gorilla Trekking in Africa: Dos and Don’ts

Essential Guidelines for Gorilla Trekking in Africa — Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it comes with great responsibility. Mountain gorillas are endangered and highly vulnerable to human diseases and stress. To ensure their well-being and safety, strict guidelines have been put in place. At Trek Africa Expeditions, we’re committed to promoting ethical tourism and helping you experience gorilla trekking in a way that protects both visitors and gorillas.

Below are the essential rules you must follow when tracking gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of Congo:

1. No Trekking If You’re Sick

Why it matters: If you have a cold, flu, or any infectious illness, you may be denied access to the gorillas. Even minor human illnesses can be deadly to these great apes.

2. Limited Group Sizes

Only one group of eight tourists is allowed to visit a gorilla family per day.
Why: Small groups reduce stress on the animals and minimize the risk of spreading infections.

3. Minimum Age: 15 Years

Only individuals aged 15 and above can participate in gorilla trekking.
Why: Young children are more likely to carry contagious childhood illnesses like measles, mumps, or chickenpox.

4. One Hour Maximum with Gorillas

Your time with the gorillas is limited to 60 minutes.
Why: This reduces disturbance and the potential transmission of human diseases.

5. No Flash Photography

Why: Flash can startle the gorillas and may provoke aggression.

6. Keep a Safe Distance (At Least 7 Meters)

Stay at least 7 meters away at all times. If a gorilla comes closer, slowly move back to maintain distance—or remain still if instructed by your guide.
Why: This protects the gorillas from disease, stress, and over-habituation to humans.

7. Stay Together as a Group

Avoid spreading out or encircling the gorillas.
Why: Keeping a tight formation gives the gorillas space to move freely and reduces the chance of them feeling threatened.

8. Crouch or Sit Down Near Gorillas

Where possible, sit or squat instead of standing tall.
Why: Standing upright can be perceived as a threat, especially by silverbacks.

9. Watch Your Body Language

Avoid raising your arms, pointing, or staring directly at the gorillas.
Why: These actions can be interpreted as aggressive or confrontational.

10. Do Not Disturb Vegetation

Don’t clear plants for a better view or photo. Let your guide handle this, if needed.
Why: Disturbing vegetation can frighten or agitate the gorillas.

11. Don’t Run If a Gorilla Charges

If a gorilla displays dominance—like chest-beating or mock charging—stay calm and follow your guide’s instructions.
Why: Running may escalate the situation. Remaining still is the safest response.

12. No Eating, Drinking, or Smoking Near Gorillas

Stay at least 200 meters away before eating or drinking.
Why: Food smells attract gorillas and may cause behavioral changes or disease transmission.

13. Keep Noise to a Minimum

Speak softly or whisper. Even when stung by insects or nettles, try not to scream.
Why: Loud noises can frighten the gorillas, especially those still becoming accustomed to humans.

14. Cover Your Mouth When Sneezing or Coughing

Turn away and use a tissue or your elbow to contain it.
Why: This reduces the risk of airborne disease transmission.

15. Proper Waste Disposal

All human waste must be buried at least 30 cm deep. Ask your guide for assistance if needed.
Why: Feces can carry harmful pathogens that pose serious risks to gorillas and other wildlife.

16. Take All Litter With You

Do not leave behind any trash, including tissues, wrappers, or small items.
Why: Litter can harm animals if swallowed and spread disease or parasites.

What to Wear and Pack for Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Gorilla trekking is one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences in Africa—but it can also be physically demanding. Depending on where the gorilla family is located, you may need to hike for hours through steep, muddy terrain, sometimes in the rain. Here’s what you should wear and pack to stay comfortable and prepared for the journey.

Clothing Tips for Gorilla Trekking

Start your trek dressed for both warmth and protection. Mornings can be chilly, so a light sweater or sweatshirt is recommended. It will also help shield you from stinging nettles and branches.

• Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip to handle slippery slopes.

• Thick trousers and a long-sleeved shirt will help protect your arms and legs from thorns and nettles.

• Bright or dark colors don’t make much difference—gorillas are well habituated to human presence.

• Gardening gloves are useful for grabbing vegetation and moving through thick bush.

• Use older clothes if possible, as they’re likely to get muddy.

What to Carry

Keep your daypack light and waterproof if possible. You’ll be hiking for several hours, so pack only the essentials:

• A rain jacket or poncho, especially in the wet season.

• At least 2 liters of water to stay hydrated. Bottled water is available at most lodges and camps.

• Snacks or energy bars for long treks.

• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, regardless of the season.

• Camera gear, well protected in a plastic bag if your pack isn’t waterproof.

Binoculars are not necessary for seeing the gorillas, but bird watchers may want to bring a pair for spotting forest species along the trail.

Gorilla Trekking Rules and Etiquette: What You Need to Know

Gorilla trekking comes with strict guidelines to protect the health and safety of the endangered mountain gorillas. These gentle giants are susceptible to human diseases, and their continued survival depends on minimizing human impact during visits.

Health and Safety Protocols

• You must maintain a minimum distance of 7 meters (about 21 feet) from the gorillas. If a curious juvenile approaches you, follow your guide’s instructions and slowly move away if possible.

• Time with the gorillas is limited to a maximum of one hour.

• Eating, drinking, or smoking near the gorillas is strictly forbidden.

• Do not trek if you’re sick with a cold, flu, or any other potentially contagious illness.

• If you need to sneeze or cough, turn your head away and cover your mouth and nose.

Although gorillas are calm and used to humans, they are still wild animals with their own social behaviors. Always listen to your guide’s advice, especially if a silverback displays dominance or charges. Do not run. Stay calm and still—your guides are trained to handle such situations.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Gorilla Safari?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we organize unforgettable gorilla trekking safaris across Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking for a luxury experience, we offer tailor-made safari packages to suit your travel style.

We’ll take care of everything—from securing gorilla permits to arranging comfortable accommodations and transportation. Our experienced safari consultants are always ready to answer your questions and guide you through the booking process.

Don’t just take our word for it—check out our reviews on TripAdvisor and hear from travelers who’ve had incredible gorilla adventures with us.

Let Trek Africa Expeditions turn your dream of meeting mountain gorillas into a life-changing reality. Contact us today to start planning your gorilla trekking safari!