Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations in Uganda

To ensure a safe and respectful gorilla trekking experience in Uganda, the Uganda Wildlife Authority has established the following guidelines for all visitors. Adhering to these rules protects the endangered mountain gorillas and enhances your safari experience.

Before Your Gorilla Trek

1. Limited Group Size: Only 8 visitors are permitted to track a habituated gorilla group each day to reduce behavioral disturbances and the risk of disease transmission.
2. Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly before heading out to minimize the risk of spreading human-borne illnesses to the gorillas.

On the Way to the Gorillas

1. Keep Noise Low: Maintain a low voice to avoid disturbing wildlife, allowing you to enjoy the forest’s birdlife and other animals.
2. Leave No Trace: Do not leave any rubbish in the park. Carry out everything you bring into the forest.
3. Follow the Trail: Guides will lead you to the gorillas’ last known location from the previous day. Watch for signs like nesting sites as you track their trail.
4. Prepare When Close: Your guide will signal when you’re near the gorillas, so be ready to follow their instructions.

When with the Gorillas

1. Maintain Distance: Stay at least 7 meters (21 feet) from the gorillas to keep them relaxed and reduce disease transmission risks.
2. Stay in a Group: Remain close together in a tight group when near the gorillas.
3. Keep Voices Low: Speak quietly but feel free to ask your guide questions.
4. No Eating, Drinking, or Smoking: Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking near the gorillas to prevent the spread of diseases through food or droplets.
5. Responding to Charges: If a gorilla charges, follow your guide’s lead—crouch down slowly, avoid direct eye contact, and wait for the gorilla to pass. Do not run, as this increases risk.
6. Photography Rules: Flash photography is prohibited. Move slowly and carefully when taking photos.
7. No Touching: Do not touch the gorillas, as they are wild animals.
8. Time Limit: You may spend a maximum of one hour with the gorillas. If they become agitated, the guide may end the visit early.
9. Post-Visit Etiquette: Keep your voice low until you are at least 300 meters away from the gorillas.

General Health Guidelines

Mountain gorillas are highly susceptible to human diseases. Follow these rules to protect them:

1. Respect Visitor Limits: Adhere to the daily visitor cap to minimize stress and disease risks to the gorillas.
2. Stay Home if Sick: If you’re unwell or carrying a contagious disease, opt out of the trek. An alternative visit or refund will be arranged.
3. Cough/Sneeze Precautions: Turn your head away and cover your nose and mouth if you need to cough or sneeze near the gorillas to reduce the spread of bacteria or viruses.
4. Keep Your Distance: Always maintain a 7-meter (21-foot) distance to protect gorillas from human diseases.
5. No Littering: Avoid leaving rubbish like food wrappers, as they can introduce diseases or contaminants.
6. Proper Waste Disposal: If you need to use the toilet in the forest, ask your guide to dig a 30 cm deep hole, and fill it in afterward.

What to Bring on Your Gorilla Trek

To ensure a comfortable and safe experience, pack the following:

1. Appropriate Footwear: Wear sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes suitable for steep, muddy terrain.
2. Ear Plugs: Use ear plugs if jungle sounds make you uncomfortable.
3. Food and Water: Bring a packed lunch and sufficient drinking water.
4. Weather Gear: Carry rain gear, sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent due to unpredictable weather.
5. Photography Equipment: Bring a camera (flash prohibited). Films of 400-800 ASA are recommended.
6. Additional Items: Refer to the gorilla trekking packing list for more details.

Contact Information

For further details on gorilla trekking rules or to make inquiries, please contact the Uganda Wildlife Authority via email or phone.