Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations

Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations

Undoubtedly gorilla trekking is one of the most incredible wildlife experiences on earth, however for a more memorable experience, there are several rules and regulations put in place for the protection of the endangered gorillas as well as the visitors.

With only 1,064 mountain gorillas remaining in the wild, these gentle primates are endangered and they need protection from illnesses or anything that may threaten their population.

Throughout this experience, all visitors should follow the lead and instructions of the park rangers. These rules and regulations are designed purposely to protect the gorillas and the trekkers. It is important to note that even though the gorillas are habituated, they are still remain and do not trust humans completely.

Here are the detailed gorilla trekking rules and regulations

1. Only 8 people may visit a gorilla group in a day – The limited number of visitors allowed to visit a gorilla group in a day helps to reduce the possibility of disease transmission and also minimizes disturbances to the behavior of the gorilla group.
2. Only eligible visitors are allowed to take part in a gorilla trek – To enter Uganda, Rwanda or Congo, you will need to have a yellow fever vaccine. Before entering the forest for gorilla trekking, the park authorities will ask for your passport during registration to confirm you identity and ensure you are eligible for gorilla trekking.
3. Ill visitors are not allowed to take part in gorilla trekking – Mountain gorillas can easily contract human illnesses that is why you cannot track the gorillas when infected with transmittable diseases. The rangers have the authority to stop you from going ahead with the group of they feel that the gorillas could be infected. If you feel a little bit sick, volunteer to remain behind or suspect that you have a contagious disease. In case you will be refunded back the money you spent on the permit or be given another opportunity once you are cleared and are in good health. Mountain gorillas easily catch human diseases like flu, diarrhea and cough. Cough particularly affects mountain gorillas badly, if you like sneezing or coughing turn away from the gorillas and cover your nose and mouth. Remember, you may be carrying germs or an infection that you are not aware of. Also ensure you have clean hands as you head out trekking.

   

4. Age limit is 15 years – All trekkers must be 15 years and above to take part in gorilla trekking. The age limit is set at 15 because children usually cannot handle the trek and carry illnesses like flu, cold, chickenpox and mumps that could infect the gorillas.
5. All trekkers should be physically fit – Gorilla trekking involves moving long distances searching for the gorilla families. Often it involves climbing steep terrain and mud-filled trails. You need to be reasonably fit and in a good shape for the best experience. Elderly travelers will be assigned the nearest gorilla families, they can hire the services of a porter to help carry them up to the gorilla family.
6. Littering in the forest is not allowed – Keep the parks clean and free of rubbish that could cause diseases to the gorillas. Tourists are required not to drop handkerchiefs, used tissues or canisters. The primates may also swallow the items which could cause complications. In case you wish to go to the toilet, let the guide know at once. They will dig a hole for you that you should cover after to avoid spreading diseases to the gorillas.
7. Do not clear vegetation – To have a better view of the gorillas, do not clear the vegetation as it could scare the primates. Only let the rangers do any clearing if necessary and possible. Do not eat, drink or smoke in the presence of mountain gorillas. Out of curiosity, the gorillas may approach you and maybe grab a bite.
8. Crouch down slowly in case a gorilla charges – In rare cases were a mountain gorilla charge, crouch down slowly. Do not run but let the gorilla leave on its own. The rangers will be on alert when a silverback starts beating this chest to display dominance. They are trained to calm down tourists in such circumstances and to stop anyone from running. As threatening and scary as charging may be, the best thing to do is stay put. Always stay calm and avoid sudden movements.
9. Don’t Use Flash Photography – During the gorilla trek, rangers will let you know when it is safe to start taking photos. While taking photos of mountain gorillas, keep calm and limit your movements. Turn off your flash to avoid irritating the gorillas which can cause them to charge at you.
10. Do not stare directly at the gorillas and Don’t make unnecessary movements – Gorillas might mistake it for hostility. Your body language counts a lot when with the gorillas, that is why you should avoid making unnecessary movements. Do not lift your arms or hands as they might be taken as signs of aggression. Standing taller than them and then staring may also be mistaken for aggression.
11. Do touch the gorillas – Yes it is tempting, but do not touch mountain gorillas even when they are inspecting you. They could mistake you touching them for aggressiveness.
12. Wear dull colors on a gorilla trek – On a gorilla trek wearing dull colors is recommended. Putting on bright colors might attract the attention of the gorillas, wear green, black and brown. Bright colors like white, yellow and orange are not recommended.
13. Wear sturdy hiking shoes – For comfortable gorilla trek, wear good sturdy hiking shoes. The shoes should be ideal for climbing muddy and steep slopes, try them out before heading to the forest for the trek.
14. Carry a Rain Jacket – Gorilla trekking is done in the rainforests where it can rain at any time of the day, a reason to why you should carry a rain jacket and other gears to be on a safe side.
15. Wear long shirts and trouser – Gorilla tourism occurs in areas with thick forests and Avegetation where sharp grasses and tree branches could bruise your skin. So it is better to put on long pants and shirts.
16. Carry insect repellent, sunscreen and hat – The Tropical Rainforests are full of insects, and the best way to contain them is to acquire a good insect repellent. Also carry a hat and sunscreen to shade for the scotching sun.
17. Camera and a pair of binoculars – To capture the amazing pictures and videos of mountain gorillas, carry a good camera to take photos of these forest creatures and a pair of binoculars to see mountain gorillas from a far.