One of the gorilla trekking rules is not to look a gorilla in the eye. You should avoid eye contact because it can make the gorilla feel threatened and may cause it to attack. It is better to look down calmly and respectfully.
On the morning of your trek, tourists will be given a briefing at the park headquarters about the rules for trekking mountain gorillas.
During the trek, a park ranger will guide you. If there are any signs of unusual gorilla behavior, the visit may end early to prevent any danger.
Other Gorilla Rules and Regulations
Before going gorilla trekking in Africa, tourists should be in good health, because mountain gorillas can catch human diseases easily. These infections can be very dangerous, since gorillas are critically endangered.
When near mountain gorillas, you should look away if you need to sneeze. If you are sick, you may not be allowed to trek with the gorillas.
Do not use cameras with flash, because the light can upset the gorillas. If you use a phone with a flash, please turn it off.
Tourists must keep at least 7 meters away from the gorillas and avoid touching them, as they are wild animals.
Visitors are not allowed to smoke, eat, or drink within 200 meters of the gorillas. This helps prevent dropped food from spreading disease.
When watching the gorillas, stay quiet or speak softly. Loud noises or shouting can scare them.
During the trek, stay close to your group and stay calm if a gorilla charges at you.
Trekking With Gorillas
Gorilla trekking can be done in Virunga National Park, Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Volcanoes National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
The cost of trekking is different in each country. Uganda charges $800, Rwanda charges $1,500, and Congo has the lowest price, at $400.
Gorilla trekking usually begins in the morning. After the gorillas are found, tourists are allowed to spend one hour with them.
Recommended Packing List
When planning a tour, remember that mountain gorillas live in high areas that often have rain.
You will need to hike to find the gorillas, so bring waterproof hiking boots, garden gloves, long sleeved warm clothes, raincoats, plenty of drinking water, and insect repellent. See our full gorilla trekking packing list for more detail.
Understanding Mountain Gorilla Groups
Mountain gorillas live in groups of 5 to 30 members. One silverback leads the group and decides when to eat, where to go, and when to build nests.
Mountain gorillas are shy and gentle, but they can become aggressive if they feel scared or disturbed. They show warning signs first, like beating their chests, making loud grunts, tearing plants, and throwing leaves or branches. Ready to see this for yourself? Book gorilla trekking today.
