Is gorilla trekking safe?

Is gorilla trekking safe? : Gorilla trekking is a once in a life time experience you shouldn’t miss. It entails trekking through the impenetrable forests to get a chance at catching a glimpse of the endangered mountain gorillas. In Uganda, gorilla trekking is done in Bwindi impenetrable national park and Mgahinga national park. We are addressing the big question; is gorilla trekking safe?

Uganda gorilla trekking is one of the popular safari activity. Gorilla permits have to be booked in order for you to get a chance to trek the gorillas. This Uganda gorilla safari sees you trekking and have an hour watching and observing the gentle giants. The beautiful sounds of the forests and birds is just an added bonus on this safari.

Rules and regulations

The Uganda wildlife authority has made it possible for you to enjoy these amazing wildlife safely. However, it’s rather intimidating. Uganda gorilla trekking safaris allow you a few meters away from the primates. A set of rules and regulations have been put in place to ensure a safe trek. You are briefed on these rules and regulations at the park headquarters before you head out. As you trek, the guides and rangers will always remind you of these rules and regulations. They help protect you and the gorillas.

You are expected to keep a distance of 7 meters between you and the gorilla families. Eating and smoking is prohibited while viewing the gorillas. Avoid eye contact with the gorillas as it can easily be interpreted into a sign of hostility. If a gorilla comes into close proximity with you, stay still and resist touching them. You are required to keep your voices low during the trek. Switch off the flash on your cameras while taking pictures and videos of the primates. Now that we have gone through the basic rules and regulations, let’s look at other measures that have been taken to ensure that gorilla trekking is safe.

Habituation

Only gorilla families that have been habituated are visited on any of the gorilla safaris. These primates are wild animals and behave so, if they feel threatened, they will attack. For over 2 years, rangers from the Uganda wildlife authority regularly visit the gorilla families, keeping at a safe distance. By doing this, the gorillas will get used to humans and not perceive them as threats. On your Uganda gorilla safari, you will get to view them and they won’t fell threatened because they are used to seeing humans.

Park rangers

The Uganda wildlife authority doesn’t allow anyone in the forest without rangers and guides. These are armed and know the forest very well. These rangers are there for your protection. This precaution has made Bwindi impenetrable forest a safe destination for gorilla trekking.

Dress code;

During gorilla trekking, you are advised to out on dull colored clothes. Like most humans, bright colors attract the attention of wildlife and these interactions may not end very well for both the wildlife and the guests. You are advised to carry a waterproof boots, insect repellent, long sleeved shirts and trousers. These will ensure you have an enjoyable Uganda gorilla trekking experience.

I hope we have been able to offer satisfactory answers to the question “gorilla trekking safe”.