In Uganda: the country is politically stable, and trekking groups of up to eight people are accompanied by an armed ranger trained to recognize gorilla behavior and end a trek early if the animals show signs of stress or aggression. Uganda also deploys tourism police who patrol the parks day and night, including camping in the bush to help ensure visitor safety.
In Rwanda: the country is considered one of the safest in Africa and has been stable since the end of the genocide. As in Uganda, armed rangers accompany trekking groups in Volcanoes National Park.
Your own behavior also plays a role in trek safety. Listen closely to the pre-trek briefing and follow all instructions while with the gorillas, since while typically calm and gentle, they can become aggressive if they feel threatened. Most lodges near the parks also employ armed guards for guest and property security. The full trekking rules below cover the specific behaviors expected of visitors.




