With only about 1063 mountain gorillas present in the world; efforts have been put in place to ensure that not only the present generation reunites with their relatives; to which science suggests was its evolution, but also the next generations. The current numbers should have increased, and necessitated more people, for more days. In all the gorilla trekking destinations, the Gorilla Trekking Rules & Regulations are the same, though the fine for those who violate may differ, and also how it is practically applied. Nevertheless, the purpose of setting the rules is not to limit the visitor’s fun, and adventure, but to protect the gorilla habitats, visitors, and the gorillas.
Only in Africa do we find two rare gorilla species in the entire world; the rare Mountain Gorillas and the eastern low land Mountain gorillas. These are found in the Giant Virunga chain of Mountains, which sprawls through the Republic of Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo , and the Republic of Rwanda.
The Eastern lowland mountain gorillas have bigger bodies and thick hair as compared to the mountain gorillas. They reside in Kahuzi-Biega national park in D.R. Congo, whereas the rare mountain gorillas are in Bwindi impenetrable national park and Mgahinga national park in Uganda, Volcanoes national park in Rwanda, and Virunga national park in Congo.
The issue is this; Gorillas are similar to humans and act like us. They are so shy and have the same social settings. Human illnesses such as cough, flu, and cold can be easily transferred to them thus the reason as to why they need to be protected; one infection can distort the entire family, if not even claiming their lives.
Gorillas are generally friendly, and shy, but once they feel attacked, they retaliate in self-defense. This is done by mainly the gentle giant silverback whose role is to offer security and leadership to the entire family. But how does a Gorilla react to an attack?; Making any of its twenty-five sounds, beating the chest as a sign of greatness, running with two legs around its territory, tearing the leaves, somersaulting, and many more expressions to confirm they are in charge.
Rarely do they attack the trackers, unless you try to shout at them, run, look suspicious, or look deep into their eyes. To avoid a negative experience with Gorillas, the following are the rules got to guide during the trekking period. In addition to just writing them on the signposts, the park rangers explain to the Trekkers before every trekking starts at the park headquarters. These Gorilla Trekking Rules & Regulations are there to protect both the gorillas and the tourists on their gorilla treks.
What to Know Before?
The very first rule for all Gorilla trekkers is that Gorilla trekking is for healthy persons aged 15 years plus, with a valid trekking permit which is valid for only the day of Trekking. Rwanda gorilla trekking Permit goes for 1500Usd for foreign Non-resident, Uganda’s goes for 700Usd for foreign Non-residents, and for Congo is at 400Usd. The good news is that in response to Covid19 Pandemic, Uganda’s gorilla trekking permit has been discounted.
You must arrive at the Park headquarters early for the pre trekking briefing, because failure to keep time, you will miss the adventure yet the Gorilla trekking permit is never renewed neither the money refunded.
A maximum of 8 persons are permitted to track a gorilla family per day, in all the different destinations.
Washing hands before entering the jungle is a must.
Rules during the Trekking.
No taking photos while the flashlights are on because it affects the eyes of the gorillas.
No making Noise because it angers the apes.
Don’t touch the gorillas though they have come to you; they are wild animals.
No creating paths while tracking because that interferes with the natural setting of the jungle. In case of a short or long call, ask the Guide on what to do.
No smoking.
Stand at least 7-8 meters away from the Gorillas to avoid affecting them with human illness, as well as giving them their space.
Don’t look straight to the eyes of the Apes because it is a sign of attack to them.
Always follow the instruction given by the park ranger and your safari guide.
Don’t Make Noise or litter the park.
Don’t feed the Apes with anything. They are go-getters and will always survive by what they get in the Jungle.
After Tracking.
Don’t exceed the extra hour given for watching and taking photos.
Exit the Jungle, keep your voice low, and appreciate your Guides.
Booking your gorilla safari a few months in advance is another hidden rule, because the trekking permits are limited yet their demand is high. Gorilla trekking is a lifetime experience and a prime safari offer in Africa.
