Mountain gorillas are endangered primates and given their close relation to humans (sharing 98.2% DNA), they are susceptible to a lot of human diseases. There are a number of rules provided to visitors during briefing and therefore, the following are the rules to be followed before and during gorilla trekking as well as when with these Giant Apes.

Rules to follow before gorilla trekking;

Only persons above the age of 15 years will be allowed to trek the endangered mountain gorillas, although there is no maximum age limit for this adventure hence even an 80-year old can trek the gorillas (with the provision of sedan chairs).

The maximum number of visitors to trek a particular habituated gorilla group is 8 and this is done to minimize behavioral changes as well as exposure to communicable diseases such as flue, cough and even measles.

Visitors are advised to thoroughly wash hand with clean water and soap to avoid spreading germs.

Rules to be followed while trekking mountain gorillas

Participants should always keep in their group and follow the lead of the expert Ranger guides to ensure safety and avoid getting lost in the jungles. With the help of radio calls and constant contact with trackers, these guides create trails through the forest to search for the mountain gorillas and once their nests (for the previous day) are found, it means the gorillas are not far.

Avoid dumping rubbish inside the forest hence practice the principle of “pack it in, pack it out to prevent littering of the Park. Rubbish such as water bottles and food wraps as well as food particles act as breeding places for disease causing germs.

Make sure that your voices are kept low when walking through the forest to avoid scaring mountain gorillas.

Important rules to follow when in the presence of gorillas

A maximum of one hour should be spent in the presence of the mountain gorillas for observing and photographing the Giant Apes. Much as the recommended time to be in the presence of these creatures is one hour (for standard gorilla treks), the Ranger guide might advise to leave earlier than expected especially when the gorillas get irritated hence important to avoid provoking them.

Maintain a distance of 7 meters (or 21 feet) from the mountain gorillas when observing and photographing to avoid stressing them as well as reducing any chances of spreading diseases. Even when they come closer, slowly move backwards to avoid scaring them.

Always keep in the company of your group members and you are free to stand, sit or crouch when viewing and photographing.

Avoid smoking, eating or drinking near the gorillas, because this can contribute to the spread of human diseases.

Always lower your voices when in the presence of the mountain gorillas although it is not bad to ask gorilla-related questions.

Flash photography is not allowed because it startles the gorillas.

When the gorillas become aggressive (chest beating or feet stomping), it is advisable to crouch down and avoid staring directly into the eyes of gorillas. Running away after gorillas charging can bring about attacks because you will be perceived as a threat.

Crucial health rules for gorilla trekking

If you get the urge to cough or sneeze while in the presence of the mountain gorillas, you are advised to turn away from these Giant Apes and cover your mouth to avoid any possible spread of viruses or bacteria.

Visitors should always follow the limit number of 8 persons imposed by Authorities each day to avoid stressing the Great Apes and eliminating any possible spread of diseases.

There are no toilets in the Park and therefore if the need to answer calls of nature arises, just talk to a Ranger guide who will offer advice according to your situation.