Is gorilla trekking dangerous?
Is gorilla trekking dangerous? No, gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda is safe and secure not only for tourists but also the mountain gorillas themselves. Simply observe the stipulated rules and regulations for gorilla trekking and you will be guaranteed of an unforgettable encounter with the massive mountain gorillas in the wild.
Mountain gorillas are peaceful and only become violent when disturbed. Like humans, gorillas react to different situations and they can easily be threatened by humans. We share a lot in common with these endangered species, about 98% DNA which makes them our closest relatives in animal kingdom. When they become aggressive, simply avoid direct eye contact or lower down your eyes to show respect/submissiveness.
silverback gorilla
A massive silverback weighs over 400 pounds and reaches 6 feet when standing. It is however, okay to feel vulnerable viewing these apes in their natural habitat. The fact though is that they are charismatic apes/primates in the animal kingdom, a few most peaceful, gentle species that we can enjoy a face to face encounter while in the wild rather than in a 4X4 Land Cruiser or any rental vehicle.
Park guides and trackers
Safety is guaranteed to both tourists and mountain gorillas. On actual gorilla trek in Uganda, Rwanda or Congo, all visitors are accompanied by an armed park guide and trackers. The park guides ensure that you and gorillas remain safe during a face to face interaction as you get in-depth learning about these large apes in their groups.
Visitor safety in the wild with mountain gorillas is guaranteed provided everyone observes the strict rules and regulations. One of the important standard measures for gorilla trekking include issuing of gorilla permits to persons above 15 and 8 tourists are allocated to a single gorilla family each day. This is intended to reduce any likelihood of disruption in gorilla family groups.
How to behave around mountain gorillas
While trekkers are accompanied by park guide, it is vital to have at your fingertips measures on how you should behave in the jungles when interacting with gorillas. Firstly, always avoid direct eye contact with gorillas. Lower down your eyes to show respect or you are submissive to gorillas.
2 Days Gorilla Trek Uganda
Maintain a safe distance of 8-10 meters away from gorillas at all times. This tip plays an important role in preventing any spread of human infectious diseases to gorillas. Where gorillas get close to you, stand calmly while observing some distance to allow them pass by.
For cases where gorillas approach you and sits down, ensure that you move away slowly 8-10m. In case of visitors who are uncertain of what to do, ensure that you observe the park guide instructions or guidelines.
Cover your mouth in case you want to cough and nose when sneezing. However, due to covid-19, you will be required to wear a face mask and it should cover the nose and mouth.
Anyone feeling ill or sick won’t be allowed to go and visit a family of mountain gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda or Congo.
How to prepare for your gorilla trek
Adequately practice
Gorilla trekking generally requires some level of physical fitness. It is unpredictable wildlife experience often takes trekkers up to 2-6 hours but inclusive of one hour for face to face encounter. Mountain gorillas live in higher altitudinal range of about 1500-3000m in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga, Volcanoes National Park & Virunga NP.
Pack well
The list of items to carry for gorilla trekking are many but you only need essentials such as sweater, valid gorilla permit, waterproof hiking boots, trousers, long sleeved shirt, daypack, camera free from flashlight. Others include high energy giving snacks, bottled water, first aid kit, long pants, gardening gloves, bottled water, sunscreen, sunglasses and more.
