Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations

Guidelines for Gorilla Trekking: Mountain Gorillas: There are only 450 of these endangered primates left in the world, and they may be found in three countries: Rwanda, Congo, and Uganda. The remaining gorillas are lowland primates that are mostly kept in zoos.

According to the 2006 census, there are only 450 mountain gorillas remaining in the wild, therefore your visit shouldn’t result in a decline in the population.
Here are the Gorilla Trekking Rules & Regulations to help you if you want to plan to hike the habituated mountain gorillas:

A maximum of eight individuals are permitted to see each gorilla family at the mountain gorillas following the briefing at headquarters. The eight individuals are gathered to reduce noise, limit behavioral disturbances to the mountain gorillas, and prevent the spread of infectious diseases to humans.

Before you go gorilla trekking, wash your hands.
Keep your voice down. This will allow you to listen for various mammals in the forest. Keep in mind that the forest is home to many birds and mammals, so by lowering your voice, you will have an opportunity to view more of the forest’s residents.

Avoid leaving any trash behind during your hike because it could be eaten by the animals and cause their deaths. Instead, keep all of the trash in bags and return with them.
When you approach the mountain gorillas, the rangers and guides will advise you to always stand seven meters away from the animals. The further you distance yourself, the more at ease they are to carry on with their daily activities. Pay close attention to them as they feed, play, groom, and show off their nests—it’s a lovely sight.

Keep your voice down at all times, but feel free to ask questions if you need additional information.
Avoid moving about since the gorillas might take over, and stick to close-knit groups of eight.
Avoid staring them in the eyes and avoid fleeing since this could make the situation more dangerous.
Since gorillas are “wild animals,” it is advised that you refrain from touching them.

Avoid eating, smoking, and drinking as these activities may cause the gorillas to consume the droppings, which could spread infections.
During the walk, flash cameras with lights are prohibited.
An hour is the most you can spend with the mountain gorillas. Following so much time spent with the mountain gorillas, they move 200 meters away and begin to speak, albeit softly.

Rules and Regulations for General Health Gorilla Trekking

Dig a hole around 30 meters deep and fill it in or cover it after using it if you need to use a restroom.
By keeping 7 meters away, you can reduce your chance of contracting illnesses.
However, trekking with gorillas is prohibited for those who have the flu or a cough. To avoid spreading the sickness, you should cover yourself when coughing, sneezing, and turning your head around if you have any illnesses, such as airborne ones.
You will receive a refund if you are recommended to stay behind because you are sick or have a contagious disease.
Avoid leaving trash behind as gorillas may eat it and become infected or even die.

Things to pack.

Bring a film camera instead of a flash camera.
Bring a hat, insect repellant, sunscreen, lotion, and rain gear.
Keep adequate bottled water and a packed lunch with you.
Earplugs are recommended for anyone who are uncomfortable with the sound of the jungle.
Because the forest is steep and slippery, wear comfortable hiking shoes.