Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations | Guidelines for Gorilla Safaris
Gorilla trekking is one of an exciting adventure and main tourist activity that entices a number of travelers to come to Africa since it is a home for the remaining world’s mountain gorillas. This is a remarkable experience and it can be carried out in Uganda, democratic republic of Congo and Rwanda as well
In Uganda, it is done in Bwindi impenetrable national park located in north western part and Mgahinga national park located in the south western part.in Rwanda it is done in volcanoes national park located in the north western while in democratic republic of Congo; it is done in Virunga national park.
Gorilla trekking is an exciting though challenging at times and before one thinks of going for this activity, we recommend that visitors/trekkers needs prior preparations and to take note to the rules and regulations given by the park guides.
- A maximum number of 8 people are allowed to visit the habituated gorilla families because this helps in reducing the behavioral disturbance caused by humans and transferring of human diseases. And also in line with these rules, they help to protect ecotourism.
- It is wise to keep your voices calm or low while trekking the mountain gorillas. This helps not to scare the gorillas and being frightened.
- .maintain a 21feet (7meter) away from the gorilla because this makes them relaxed and not interrupted. But if tourists get close to them, they usually feel insecure.
- Ensure that your hands are washed and clean to avoid spreading germs while heading to trek.
- You’re requested to follow your guide through the trekking because this helps to stick to your group and also your safety within the park.
- Tourists are not allowed to litter in the park for the safety of the gorillas and other animals. Therefore just like any other national park, tourists are advised to keep their garbage and rubbish in their backpacks or they can keep them till their designated point of briefing.
- Smoking, drinking and eating in the presence of the gorillas is not allowed in order to reduce the risk of spreading human diseases to gorillas.
- You must be 15 years and above to get a gorilla permit because any one below that age will not be allowed to participate in the activity.
- Tourists need to have a yellow fever vaccine card in order to be allowed in the country. They should also be having a visa if there are foreign residents in order to be granted access to the borders of other countries.
- While taking photos, don’t use flash lights because it irritates the gorillas and also don’t make unnecessary movements.
- Bright clothes are not allowed while in the park because they may attract the gorilla’s attention and they may come to you, which is risky to the tourist.
- Looking in the gorillas directly even when you’re wearing sunglasses is not allowed because the reflection may distract them and the gorillas might come to you.
- Maximum time spend with the gorilla family is 1hr and under the supervision of the rangers or expert guides.
- Ill tourists are requested to stay back to avoid spreading air borne diseases such as flu, cough and other sensitive diseases. Because gorillas are related to humans, they tend to get attract so quickly.
- Watch your body movement or language because some body languages like pointing to the animals can be aggressive and uncomfortable to them.
- Carry a packed lunch and a bottle of drinking water since you will be moving long journeys and hiking.
- Tourists are advised to wear comfortable hiking shoes because the forest may be steep and slippery.
In conclusion, gorilla trekking guidelines and rules are there to protect you and the mountain gorillas. Therefore we are eagerly waiting to serve you as you enjoy your Uganda or Rwanda gorilla safari.
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