Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari Rules for Travellers.
Uganda Gorilla Trekking Rules for Visitors: Gorilla trekking in Uganda takes place in the Gift of Nature or Mountainous Forest Region, in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and around 459 mountain gorillas live in it, so it is one of the most populated areas in the world. Mgahinga, part of the Virunga Conservation Area, also has a small gorilla population. Gorilla trekking on a Uganda safari involves walking through thick tropical rainforests, and on occasion, you have to climb steep slopes or cross rugged terrain before you can visit habituated gorilla groups that are used to human visitors.
Below are a set of rules that have to be followed while on a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda.
Permits and Registration
Visitors are required to buy a gorilla trekking permit before undertaking the trek. The permit is not transferable, and only those whose names appear on the permit are allowed to trek. Upon arrival at the park headquarters, visitors are required to register and participate in a briefing session organised by the Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. After the briefing, visitors are grouped in a group of 8 individuals and set off to the forest with a ranger.
Duration and Group Size Trekking Time
The trek usually takes between two and eight hours, depending on the distance of the gorilla family from your location and the fitness of your group. The UWA advises an early morning start. Every gorilla family is visited by 8 people per day in order to minimise disturbance and also ensure their safety. The overall group size for the trek is also restricted to keep the environment clean.
Health and Medical Requirements
You are not allowed to engage in gorilla trekking activities if you have any contagious or communicable diseases that you are currently suffering from.
Visitors are supposed to be in good health and not suffering from any diseases like diarrhoea, flu, cough, cold, or any other form of contagious disease. This is very important in order to avoid spreading diseases to the gorilla populations, which are very susceptible to human diseases. If you are not feeling well or have symptoms of contagious diseases, it is important to postpone your trekking adventure and consult a medical professional before engaging in the activity.
Age Requirements
Only people above the age of 15 years are eligible to take part in gorilla trekking adventures.
This is done to ensure that children are not exposed to the physical strain of the trekking adventure and to avoid any health-related risks associated with the transmission of diseases. It also ensures that people are mature enough to follow all the necessary health and safety guidelines.
Proper Group Formation
When viewing the gorillas, make sure that you do not form a circle around them.
Instead, form a loose and organised group with the rest of the tourists. This will help ensure that you do not stress out the animals and that they are able to continue with their natural behaviours. Guides will help you maintain the proper formation when trekking.
Minimum Distance
You should always keep at least 7 metres (23 feet) away from the gorillas. This is mandated by wildlife rules and regulations in Uganda to prevent transmission of diseases, especially respiratory diseases, to the gorillas, which can be fatal to them. Also, when you come into contact with the gorillas, observe them, but do not look straight into their eyes.
Flash photography is strictly forbidden
Flash photography is not allowed during gorilla encounters. The gorillas can be frightened and stressed by the flashing lights, which can cause them to become aggressive or run away. You should use natural light settings on your camera or mobile phone and ensure that noise levels are kept low.
No Eating or Smoking in the Presence of Gorillas
Eating or smoking near gorillas (within 200 metres of a gorilla group) is not permitted. This is for the purpose of preventing the area from being used as an animal home, making it dirty, and keeping them clean and tidy. Eating or smoking can also interrupt the tranquil atmosphere of the wild and present health risks.
Respiratory and Cough Etiquette
If you feel the need to cough or sneeze, do so with your back turned away from the gorillas, and use a tissue or your elbow to cover your nose and mouth.
This helps to greatly reduce the chances of the transmission of airborne diseases to the gorillas, who are highly vulnerable to human respiratory diseases.
Waste Disposal
All human waste, such as faeces, must be buried in a pit at least 30 centimetres (12 inches) deep and then covered.
This will contribute to the prevention of environmental pollution and epidemic dissemination. Visitors are asked to be responsible for cleaning up after themselves and disposing of waste in an environmentally friendly way.
When in the park, do not spit on plants or the soil.
Spitting on plants, soil, or any surface in the park is prohibited. This will contribute to keeping the habitat clean and free from disease. Visitors must always carry tissues or handkerchiefs for cleanliness.
All litter must be removed from the park for disposal.
Visitors must not leave any trash in the park environment. This will help retain the natural beauty of the habitat.
Avoid noise, sudden movements and disturbances while in the presence of the gorillas.
Gorillas are extremely noise sensitive, and they can become stressed or aggressive due to sudden moves. Keep calm, talk quietly and listen to the guide’s instructions so that you will not encounter any problems.
Follow the instructions of your guides and rangers.
Listen to your park ranger or guide at all times. They are highly experienced professionals who have a personal stake in the welfare of the gorillas, the security procedures, and conservation. Following their instructions is the secret to a safe, respectful trail experience.
Limit Trekking Duration
It is only allowed one hour of watching the gorillas. In order not to interfere with the rest of the tourists and keep the gorilla at peace, the number of gorilla tourists should not be too large.
Respected Local Community and Environment
Protection: Support local communities and their traditions. Do not cause any harm to vegetation, disturb local people, or get involved in anything that might affect the local environment. Eco-friendly tourism promotes the conservation and sustainable development of the environment.
More Tips for Tourists Who Are Interested in Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Traveller Health notices:
Be sure you’re vaccinated for yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, and any other illnesses that may be common in Uganda. Bring all necessary medications, such as anti-malarials if required, and see your doctor well in advance of travelling.
Appropriate Clothing and Equipment:
Long-sleeved shirt, long pants, hiking boots (waterproof), and dress for the weather. And don’t forget the sunblock, insect repellent, hat and a small pack with a few necessities (water, fruit, camera, no flash).
Physical Fitness:
You need to be in good physical condition to hike, as you will be going up steep slopes and over rough ground. Begin doing light workouts prior to the trip to build up your stamina.
Environmental Stewardship:
You need to stay on trails, don’t pick plants, don’t disturb the wildlife, pack out all your trash, among others. Leave the environment as you found it.
Cultural Sensitivity:
Treat residents with respect and adhere to their traditions. Engaging in local initiatives and purchasing handmade crafts supports sustainable tourism.
