Gorilla trekking safaris

Gorilla trekking safaris and General Health Rules

Remember that mountain gorillas are very susceptible to human diseases. The following rules are ways to minimize the risk your visit might pose to them:

Respect the limits imposed on the daily number of visitors allowed with the mountain gorillas. These limits minimize the risk of disease transmission and stress to the group.

If you are feeling ill, or you are carrying a contagious disease, volunteer to stay behind. An alternate gorilla trekking opportunity will be arranged for you, or you will be refunded the cost of your gorilla permit.

If you feel the urge to cough or sneeze when you are near the gorillas, please turn your head away and cover your nose and mouth in order to minimize the spread of bacteria or viruses.

Always stay 7 meters (21 feet) away from the gorillas. This is to protect them from catching human diseases.

Do not leave any rubbish (such as food wrappers or drink bottles) in the park; foreign items can harbor diseases or other contaminants.

If you need to go to the toilet while in the forest, please ask the ranger guide to dig you a hole. Make sure the hole is 30 cm deep. Please ensure the hole is filled after you are finished.

What to bring on your gorilla trekking safari

Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good traction, suitable for climbing steep muddy slopes.

Carry a packed lunch and plenty of drinking water.

The weather can be unpredictable so carry rain gear, sunscreen lotion and a hat.

Wear or pack insect repellent.

Bring binoculars – or hire a pair from the Uganda Wildlife Authority office in the park.

Bring spare batteries and an extra memory card for your digital camera. Using your camera flashlight is not permitted. If you are photographing using film, we recommend using 400-800 ASA film.