Gorilla Tracking Rules

Gorilla rules are meant to safe guard their health, protection and also deliver a memorable gorilla experience for visitors. Gorillas share 95% of their DNA with humans so are vulnerable to contract human borne diseases.

At the start of the gorilla trek every early morning, guides conduct a briefing which is mandatory for every tourist to attend to. Visitors are told to keep a distance of 8 meters, switching off camera flashlight, no eating or drinking and touching gorillas while those who are sick are advised to stay behind. A group of 8 visitors should stay in tight group until one hour is fully utilized.

Just like any viable human being, one has to take good care of him/herself in order to have a befitting life without any disease as well as life threatening obstacles. So to minimize possible transmission of human diseases, visitors are asked to maintain a distance of 7m (about 22 feet) from the gorillas. If you are sick with a cold, flu or other contagious illness, please do not visit the gorillas.

  • Viewing time is limited to one hour.
  • Maximum 8 visitors per group.
  • Spitting in the park is strictly prohibited.
  • Should you need to cough, cover your mouth and turn away from the gorillas.
  • When with the gorillas, keep your voice low.
  • Try not to make rapid movements that may frighten the gorillas.
  • If a gorilla should charge or vocalize at you, do not be alarmed, stand still, look away from the gorilla and follow your guide’s directions.
  • Do not litter.

What to Bring on a gorilla Trek

  • Flash cameras are not allowed in the gorilla parks.
  • There are various things that anybody going to track gorillas should not do without and the following are the most prominent ones;
  • -Long trousers and pants that will insulate you from stinging nettles and should be strong enough to withstand occasional pulls from thorns
  • -Long sleeved shirts/T-shirts for protection from various body harming tendrils
  • -Gloves
  • -Hiking boots ideal for climbing hills and mountains
  • -Warm cardigans to keep off coldness
  • -Long sleeved rain coat since the weather is un predictable and it can rain any time.
  • -Water proof container for your camera for purposes of insulation
  • -Head gear if you really desire it
  • -Enough films for your camera
  • -Sun glasses which will help you to protect your eyes from the penetrating sun rays and drops of water from the tree leaves
  • Camera and extra lenses
  • Don’t forget to carry a pair of binoculars most especially if you are a birder