Gorilla Trekking Rules, Regulations & Requirements; Updated 2024

Gorilla Trekking Rules, regulations and Requirements are established by wildlife authorities in the countries that host this adventurous activity, namely Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo, to ensure the safety of visitors and the well-being of the endangered mountain gorillas.

In Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo, Rules, Regulations and Requirements for Gorilla Trekking are set by wildlife authorities to ensure the safety of visitors and the well-being of the endangered mountain gorillas.

The rules and regulations for gorilla trekking may vary slightly depending on the specific national park in different countries, but there are general guidelines followed in all of the gorilla trekking destinations .

Uganda Gorilla destinations namely Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are managed by the  Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

Democratic Republic of Congo gorilla trekking destination that’s Virunga National Park is governed by the Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature (ICCN).

Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Destination that’s Volcanoes National Park is managed by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB)

Below are the rules, regulations, and requirements that our visitors should consider before embarking on a gorilla trekking adventure to any of the mentioned gorilla destinations in Africa.

Gorilla Trekking Rules, Regulations & Requirements; Updated 2024

Top General Gorilla Trekking Rules and  Regulations in Africa 2024

Gorilla trekking Permits; Trekkers need permits to access gorilla habitats. These permits are issued by wildlife authorities in different countries and can be obtained from their offices or through licensed tour operators.

Since the number of gorilla permits is limited, it’s advisable for trekkers to book them well in advance of their travel dates. Permit prices vary by country, typically ranging from USD 400 to USD 1,500.

It’s important to note that permits are usually non-refundable and non-transferable, so it’s essential to exercise caution before booking.

Group Size and Trek Duration; The maximum group size of trekkers is 8 individuals, and they are assigned to one gorilla family per day.

The standard time spent with gorillas is limited to 1 hour of observation, for health reasons and to minimize disturbance of gorillas and their natural habitats.

Top General Gorilla Trekking Rules and  Regulations in Africa 2024

Health and Safety Regulations for gorilla Trekking; Trekkers visiting gorilla habitats must ensure that they are free from communicable diseases such as flu, cough, chicken pox, and tuberculosis, as gorillas are vulnerable to human diseases. Any trekker showing signs and symptoms of illness from a communicable disease may be barred from participating in the trek.

Trekkers must maintain a minimal distance of 7 to 10 meters (21 to 30 feet) from the gorillas to minimize interference with their behaviors and reduce the spread of diseases from humans.

Visitors to gorilla habitats must avoid sudden movements and keep their voices low to minimize interference with the gorillas. If a gorilla approaches, a visitor should stand still, is  not allowed to touch it, avoid eye contact, and listen to and follow the guide’s instructions.

Trekkers should also avoid standing taller than the gorillas and surrounding them, as this may expose them to harm from these giant primate species.

Trekkers should refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking around gorillas. It is important not to litter in the park as it may harm these endangered animals.

For instance, discarded tissues may transmit human diseases to the gorillas and they might accidentally ingest plastic items left in the park, leading to serious consequences. Waste should be disposed of in designated areas or carried out of the park.

Trekkers should avoid wearing very bright colors such as light green and light pink, among others. This is because such colors might attract the attention of gorillas, causing them to approach out of curiosity, which is not safe.

It is recommended that trekkers wear neutral-colored clothes, as they can help blend in with the gorilla habitats and cause less interference with the gorillas’ natural behavior.

Juveniles are often very curious and may come close to inspect your trekking gear or other items. Try not to do anything that might attract their attention, as this can spread human diseases to them and provoke the mother if she sees your actions as aggressive. Mothers are very protective of their offspring.

On rare occasions, such as when a silverback mountain gorilla charges and beats its chest to show dominance, it might appear as though it wants to attack. In these situations, your body language is crucial.

Do not attempt to run or make any scared movements, as the gorilla may interpret this as aggression and it may lead to an attack.

General Gorilla Trekking Rules and  Regulations in Africa

 

Rangers are trained to handle these types of situations, so trekkers should always follow their advice and act accordingly for their safety and for the well-being of these endangered primate species.

Flash photography is prohibited in gorilla habitats to avoid startling them. Photographers are advised to take caution during gorilla photo shoots. For example, they should limit their movements and avoid taking pictures at a very close range to avoid being harmed by the gorillas.

It is prohibited to stray from designated trails. This might expose you to danger for example when encounter with a dangerous wild animal like a leopard. Trekkers should follow their guides to minimize danger and environmental impact.

The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years old. A trekker must be at least 15 years old in order to obtain a gorilla trekking permit. This age requirement is in place due to various factors, including the fact that individuals below 15 years old are considered to be children who are more likely to carry and transmit communicable diseases.

Gorilla trekking is a physically demanding adventurous activity involving navigating through different terrains, featuring steep slopes, muddy and slippery trails, and dense forests. Therefore, a reasonable level of fitness is required for the best experience.

Be careful not to have direct contact with gorillas, especially if they come close to you. Be mindful of your body language, as gorillas use it for communication and may interpret it as aggressive, putting you in danger.

All Trekkers are led by experienced, trained and knowledgeable  guides and accompanied by trained and armed rangers to ensure their safety and the well being of gorillas in their habitats.

For a comfortable and safe gorilla trekking adventure, it’s recommended to wear appropriate clothing. Light, long-sleeved shirts and long pants are recommended for trekkers in gorilla habitats.

These help regulate body temperature and protect  against insect bites such as tsetse flies, mosquitoes, bees, wasps, hornets, ants, and termites and skin damages from thorn and tall grasses.

Trekkers should also carry rain gear, such as a light rain jacket, waterproof bags and shoes, as the weather in the rainforest can be unpredictable.

Comfortable footwear is recommended for trekkers in gorilla habitats. It is advised to choose sturdy hiking boots that cover the ankles, as the terrains in these areas are very challenging.

Trails can be muddy, slippery, and feature steep slopes, so a good-quality light hiking boot is essential for the best experience.