Rules For Gorilla Trekking in Africa – Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations

To ensure a safe and enjoyable gorilla trekking experience for both humans and gorillas, it’s essential to observe the gorilla trekking rules and guidelines while on a Uganda gorilla trek or any other gorilla trekking adventure in Africa.

Gorilla trekking in Africa is a thrilling adventure that allows tourists to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, and Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega in the Democratic Republic of Congo offer gorilla trekking experiences with mountain gorillas found in Volcanoes, Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Virunga Parks and eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega.

The countries where these places are found have authorities and boards that have set up sets of rules and regulations to protect the people and the gorillas, and they include the Uganda Wildlife Authority, Rwanda Development Board, and ICCN (Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature).

These gorilla trekking rules and regulations are designed to protect the primates and visitors alike. Responsible tourism is crucial for their conservation, with only 1063+ lowland and mountain gorillas remaining in the wild, protected in four parks across Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo.

In this article, we will delve into the gorilla trekking rules and regulations for gorilla trekking in Africa, and the necessary precautions to take when interacting with lowland and mountain gorillas.

Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations to Follow Before a Gorilla Trek in Africa

Before embarking on a gorilla trek, tourists must familiarize themselves with these gorilla tracking rules and regulations set by the park authorities to ensure a safe and responsible experience for both humans and gorillas.

• Choose a reputable tour operator who follows responsible tourism practices to guide you through the steps of partaking in a gorilla trek safari.
• Obtain a valid gorilla trekking permit from the park authorities or respective boards like Rwanda Development Board (Rwanda), Uganda Wildlife Authority (Uganda), and ICCN or Virunga Foundation in Congo.
• Gorilla trekkers need to be physically fit and prepared for the trek challenge on the designated trails, as it can get strenuous.
• Attend pre-trek briefings and follow COVID-19 prevention measures.
• Visit early in the morning for maximized views of the majestic creatures.
• Always wash your hands and sanitize before embarking on gorilla trekking safaris to prevent the spread of human-borne diseases.
• Join a guided gorilla trek group that must have only 8 participants permitted to trek a single habituated gorilla family per day.
• To trek mountain gorillas and lowland gorillas, be of age 15 years and above. However, it is important to note that in some cases those reaching age 12 may be allowed to go gorilla trekking if in the company of an adult or parent.
• Tourists must be in good health and not show any symptoms of a cold or other contagious disease. Please note that in case of human illnesses or human diseases, a refund policy on gorilla permits exists or a reschedule for an alternate visit later.
• To track mountain gorillas and lowland gorillas, you must have or carry light equipment to minimize the need for porters.
• You must carry a packed lunch or food wraps and enough drinking water to last the day as head out to trek gorillas.
• Book a tour guide or armed ranger who will guide you through the trekking journey.

By following these rules for gorilla trekking rules and regulations, you are all set to embark on trekking mountain gorillas.

Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations to Follow During and When on the Gorilla Trek Safaris in Africa

When embarking on the gorilla trek and when with the gorillas, you need to follow these track gorillas, rules, and regulations listed below:

• Keep voices low and listen to guide instructions when on the gorilla trek
• Maintain a safe distance (7-10 meters) from the wild gorillas to avoid infecting them with any disease or triggering them to act violently.
• Avoid direct eye contact with the gorillas.
• Avoid imitating their body language, behaviors, and sudden movements that might trigger them to act violently.
• No flash photography from flash cameras when taking pictures because it triggers the gorillas.
• Do not feed or touch gorillas for your safety and that of the gorillas.
• Stay with your designated gorilla trekking group and follow the tour guide’s instructions
• Respect the critically endangered status of mountain gorillas and their natural habitat.
• Support conservation efforts and respect park rules issued on pre-trek briefings and during the treks.
• No littering or leaving rubbish from the snacks and lunches carried in the park.
• Bury human wastes deep in the ground to prevent gorillas from catching human diseases.
• Respect other fauna found along the trails when on gorilla treks, such as the great birdlife or bird species and other large mammals.
• Stay calm; act submissive if silverback gorillas charge at you
• Follow guide instructions if a gorilla charges at you.
• Spend only one hour with the gorillas to avoid behavioral disturbance.

By following these regulations for gorilla trekking rules, you contribute to the protection and safety of the mountain gorillas from human diseases, among other things.

Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations to Follow After the Gorilla Trek

Here are the lowland and mountain gorilla trekking rules and regulations to follow after the gorilla adventure experience.

• Keep your voices down until you’re 300 meters away from the gorillas
• Attend a debriefing session with your guide to discuss your experience and learn more about the gorillas.
• Show appreciation for your guide and porters by tipping them for their services.
• Provide feedback on your lowland or mountain gorilla trekking safari experience to help improve future gorilla treks.
• Support conservation efforts by donating to organizations that protect gorilla habitats and populations.
• Promote responsible tourism practices by respecting local communities and environments found along the designated trails
• Share your experiences and memories with others to raise awareness about gorilla conservation.
• Use your photos to promote conservation and responsible tourism.
• Share your testimonials with tour operators and conservation organizations, and give reviews to service providers to help improve their services.
• Support local communities by purchasing their products and services, such as traditional crafts.

By following these above gorilla trekking rules, you can help ensure the well-being of the wild gorillas and their natural habitats, as well as support local communities and conservation efforts.

General Health Rules

To protect mountain gorillas from human-transmitted diseases, follow these rules:

• Wash hands and sanitize before and during the visit
• Wear masks and take breaks to breathe fresh air
• Maintain social distancing of 2 meters and limit visitor numbers
• Stay 10 meters away from gorillas to prevent disease transmissions
• Avoid tracking if you’re feeling ill or have a contagious disease
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing near gorillas
• Keep the park clean and hygienic
• Follow proper toilet procedures in the forest
• UWA /RDB/ICCN staff will evacuate and provide first aid if a health issue arises

These guidelines minimize the risk of disease transmissions and stress to the gorillas, ensuring a safe and responsible visit.

Gorilla Trekking in Africa

Gorilla trekking is a guided wildlife adventure that involves hiking through African forests to observe gorillas in their natural habitat and other wildlife by chance.

The only persons who lead tourists through dense forests, mountains, and valleys to find and observe gorilla families, allowing for a safe and educational experience, are experienced park rangers.

This activity supports conservation efforts and responsible tourism practices as it is done following a set of gorilla trekking rules and regulations and is available in Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo.

The experience is often described as breathtaking, humbling, and life-changing, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature and witness the majesty of gorillas up close.

Where Is Gorilla Trekking Done in Africa?

Gorilla trekking in Africa is done at these four national parks located in Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo

1)      Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda: Home to 40% of the world’s mountain gorillas, with 10 habituated groups that can be visited with a $1500 gorilla permit.

2)      Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda: Part of the Virunga Mountains, home to several mountain gorillas with two mountain gorilla groups (Nyakagezi and Hirwa gorilla group) that can be tracked with an $800 gorilla permit.

3)      Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda: Blessed with thick forests with 350+ critically endangered mountain gorillas that can be tracked with $800 gorilla permits.

4)      Virunga National Park, Congo: One of Africa’s oldest parks, with two active volcanoes and diverse habitats, home to critically endangered mountain gorillas that can be visited with $400 gorilla permits.

5)      Kahuzi Biega National Park: A Congolese UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to eastern lowland gorillas, okapi, and diverse wildlife in a tropical rainforest.

These African parks, if explored with the guidance and follow-up of gorilla trekking rules and regulations, offer unforgettable gorilla encounters, and most also offer opportunities to spot other wild animals except mountain gorillas and lowland gorillas, such as golden monkeys, chimpanzees, and various bird life.

The Gorilla Trek Highlights | What to see when Gorilla Trekking in Africa?

These are the highlights of a gorilla trekking tour in Africa that you get to see in the parks listed above:

1)  Incredible Mountain Gorillas

Mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei) are a subspecies of eastern gorillas found in the Virunga Mountains in central Africa.

They are large, powerful primates with thick, dark fur, broad chests, and strong arms.

Adult males (silverbacks) have a distinctive silver saddle-shaped patch on their backs and can grow up to 6 feet tall, weighing 300-400 pounds, while females reach up to 5 feet tall and weigh 200-250 pounds.

These herbivores feed on leaves, shoots, and stems. Mountain gorillas live in groups (troops) led by a dominant silverback male.

Mountain gorillas are found in Parc National des Volcans in Rwanda, Parc Virunga in the DR Congo, Bwindi, and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda.

However, they are critically endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and disease transmission from humans, with an estimated population of around 1,004+ individuals.

Despite this, they are known to be gentle, intelligent, and social animals, making them a beloved and iconic primate species.

Their distinctive appearance and behavior have made them a popular tourist attraction, but conservation efforts are necessary to protect these magnificent creatures.

2)  Beautiful Lowland Gorillas

Eastern lowland gorillas (Gorilla beringei graueri) are a subspecies of eastern gorillas found in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

They are large, powerful primates with thick, dark fur, broad chests, and strong arms.

Adult males have a distinctive silver saddle-shaped patch on their backs and can reach up to 6 feet tall and weigh 300-400 pounds.

Females are smaller, reaching up to 5 feet tall and weighing 200-250 pounds.

They are herbivores, feeding on leaves, shoots, and stems, and live in groups led by a dominant silverback male.

They are found in Virunga, Kahuzi-Biega, and Garamba National Parks.

Unfortunately, they are critically endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and disease transmission, with an estimated population of 3,800+ individuals.

Despite their gentle, intelligent, and social nature, they face significant threats, making conservation efforts necessary to protect them.

How To Book A Gorilla Trekking Safari in Africa? -Regulations Gorilla Trekking Rules

To book a gorilla trekking safari in Africa, you can start by researching tour operators that offer gorilla trekking packages.

These operators will help you plan and organize your gorilla trip, including obtaining the necessary gorilla trekking permits and arranging transportation and accommodations.

These are some of the steps to follow:

• Choose a gorilla trekking destination from either Rwanda, Uganda, or Congo. Please note that each country has its own unique experience and cost.
• Select reputable tour operators experienced in gorilla trekking and have good reviews.
• Plan your itinerary, i.e., decide how many days you want your gorilla safari to be and what activities you want to include.
• Obtain a gorilla trekking permit from the respective boards or through your tour operator, which is required for gorilla trekking.
• Prepare for your gorilla trip and make sure you have the necessary vaccinations, clothing, and gear for your safari.

Cost Of Gorilla Trekking in Africa

The cost of gorilla trekking in Africa varies based on the country and type of experience as listed below.

In Uganda, a gorilla trekking permit costs $800 per person and at least 8 gorilla permits are issued per day per habituated gorilla family, and on average a gorilla safari can go for around $1,100 to $1,450.

Rwanda gorilla permits cost $1,500 per person and the RDB issues a maximum of 80 gorilla permits per day, with each permit allowing visitors to trek one of the 10 habituated gorilla family groups, and on average a gorilla trekking safari can go for between $1,500 and $15,000 when staying in luxury lodges.

In the Congo, the cheapest gorilla permits are $400 per person.

Additional costs for gorilla trekking in Africa include food and drinks ($50/day), transport costs ($500-$2,400 for air tickets, $600 for chartered flights, and $80/day for car hire), visa and border crossing fees ($100), and porter fees ($20/day or $500 for a Sedan chair)

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Africa

The best time to go gorilla trekking in Africa depends on the country and region you plan to visit. Generally, the dry seasons are considered the best times for gorilla trekking safaris.

• In Rwanda, the months of June to September and December to February are the most favorable
• In Uganda, the months of June to August and December to February are more favorable
• In Congo, months running from June to September and December to March are the best.

During these periods, the dry weather makes it easier to spot lowland and mountain gorillas. Still, it’s also the peak tourist season, so booking your tour well in advance is crucial to avoid the crowds and ensure availability.

Therefore, when planning your gorilla adventure, consider the weather, gorilla behavior, tourist season, and your personal preferences, as rainy seasons can make trails slippery, dry seasons make gorillas easier to spot, peak seasons attract crowds and higher prices, and shoulder seasons offer milder weather and smaller crowds.

What To Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Africa?

When gorilla trekking in Africa, it’s essential to wear comfortable and practical clothing to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. These include:

To ensure safe and enjoyable gorilla trekking experiences in Africa, wear neutral colors, comfortable shoes, layers for changing weather, and protective gear, and avoid bright colors, open-toed shoes, and loose jewelry that may attract gorillas’ attention.

What To Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Africa?

The packing list for gorilla trekking in Africa includes some of these personal essentials:

To ensure a successful and enjoyable gorilla trekking experience in Africa, remember to check with your tour operator for specific packing requirements, pack layers, bring a waterproof backpack and essentials, and respect local regulations and gorilla habitats.

Regulations Gorilla Trekking Rules in Africa FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What Are the Rules for Gorilla Tracking?

The gorilla track rules are guidelines designed to ensure the safety and well-being of both humans and lowland or mountain gorillas.

Some of the key rules include:

• Maintaining safe distances from the gorillas (at least 7 meters/23 feet)
• Not touching or feeding the gorillas
• Not using flash photography when taking pictures
• No making loud noise or sudden movements
• Staying in a group and following the guide’s instructions
• Not littering or damaging the environment

2. How Far Do You Have to Be from Gorillas Trekking? -h3

You should maintain a safe distance of at least 7 meters (23 feet) from the gorillas at all times. This is to prevent disturbing them and to reduce the risk of disease transmissions.

3. How Much Do You Tip a Gorilla Trek Guide?

Tipping your gorilla trek guide is not mandatory, but it’s a great way to show appreciation for their expertise and service. The standard tip is around $10-20 per person per day, but you can adjust the amount based on your satisfaction with the guide’s services.

4. Can You Wear Black Gorilla Trekking?

It’s best to avoid wearing black clothing for gorilla trekking as it can absorb heat and make you feel hotter in the tropical sun.

Additionally, black clothing can be more visible to the gorillas, which may make them feel uncomfortable. Instead, opt for light-colored, neutral clothing that will help you blend in with the natural surroundings.

Follow the set gorilla trekking rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both humans and gorillas. Book your Africa gorilla safari now with us.