Standing mere feet from wild mountain gorillas in Uganda’s misty forests is a privilege few experiences can match. However, this incredible opportunity comes with important responsibilities. Understanding Gorilla Trekking Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts ensures your encounter remains safe, ethical, and unforgettable for all the right reasons.

In this essential guide, we’ll explore the crucial Gorilla Trekking Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts that every visitor should know before their trek. From maintaining proper distance to photography guidelines and health precautions, these protocols protect both you and Uganda’s endangered gorilla populations while maximizing your wilderness experience.

Why Gorilla Trekking Etiquette Matters

Before diving into specific Gorilla Trekking Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts, it’s important to understand why these rules exist:

 Protects gorillas from human diseases
Minimizes stress on wildlife
Ensures safety for visitors and guides
Preserves the experience for future generations

With only about 1,000 mountain gorillas remaining worldwide, proper etiquette during your Uganda trek makes a real conservation difference.

The Essential Do’s of Gorilla Trekking

1. DO Maintain the 7-Meter Rule

Always stay at least 7 meters (23 feet) from gorillas. This:

• Reduces disease transmission risk

• Prevents stressing the animals

• Allows natural gorilla behavior

Pro Tip: Guides will position your group at ideal viewing spots, follow their lead.

2. DO Keep Your Voice Down

• Speak in whispers when near gorillas

• Avoid sudden noises or loud laughter

• Silence phone notifications

3. DO Follow Your Guide’s Instructions

Rangers know each gorilla family intimately. When they say:
➔ “Stop” – Freeze immediately
➔ “Move back” – Retreat slowly
➔ “Crouch down” – Make yourself smaller

4. DO Cover Your Mouth When Sneezing/Coughing

Human illnesses can devastate gorilla families. Always:

• Turn away from gorillas

• Use your elbow or a mask

• Inform guides if you’re feeling ill

5. DO Pack Out All Trash

Leave no trace of your visit:

• Take all wrappers/food waste with you

• Use reusable water bottles (no plastic)

• Avoid dropping even biodegradable items

Critical Don’ts of Gorilla Trekking

1. DON’T Attempt to Touch the Gorillas

Even if juveniles approach you:
✗ Never reach out to touch
✗ Slowly retreat if they come close
✗ Avoid direct eye contact (seen as aggressive)

2. DON’T Use Flash Photography

• Set camera to silent mode

• Disable flash before the trek

• No selfies with gorillas

Photography Tip: Practice shooting in low light before your trek.

3. DON’T Eat or Smoke Near Gorillas

Food smells can:

• Trigger aggressive behavior

• Encourage dependency on humans

• Attract other wildlife

4. DON’T Wear Perfumes or Strong Scents

• Use unscented deodorant

• Avoid perfumed sunscreens

• Skip insect repellent on trek day (apply at lodge)

5. DON’T Visit If You’re Ill

Even minor colds can kill gorillas. Reschedule if you have:

• Fever

• Diarrhea

• Respiratory symptoms

Special Situations: Extra Etiquette Tips

When Gorillas Approach You

If a gorilla moves toward your group:

1. Stay completely still

2. Crouch down to appear smaller

3. Let the guide intervene

During Silverback Displays

Dominant males may beat their chests to assert authority:

• Remain calm and quiet

• Avoid sudden movements

• Never run away

For Menstruating Women

While myths abound, scientific consensus says:
✓ No increased risk to gorillas
✓ Use normal hygiene products
✓ Inform guide if uncomfortable

Cultural Etiquette: Respecting Local Communities

Your Gorilla Trekking Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts extends beyond the forest:

DO:

• Tip guides and porters appropriately ($10-$20/day)

• Ask permission before photographing locals

• Support community-run businesses

DON’T:

• Haggle aggressively over souvenirs

• Disrespect cultural sites

• Wear revealing clothing in villages

How Guides Enforce Etiquette

Rangers are authorized to:
⚠ End treks immediately for rule violations
⚠ Confiscate cameras if flash is used
⚠ Ban visitors who endanger gorillas

Real Example: In 2022, a French tourist was fined $500 for attempting to touch a gorilla.

Teaching Kids Gorilla Trekking Etiquette

For families trekking with children:
Practice whispering beforehand
Explain why rules matter
Choose shorter treks for young kids
Pack quiet activities for downtimes

Minimum age: 15 years in Uganda (12 in Rwanda)

Etiquette Differences: Uganda vs Rwanda vs DRC

Pre-Trek Briefing: Your Etiquette Refresher

All visitors receive a mandatory 30-minute briefing covering:

1. Current gorilla family behaviors

2. Specific rules for that day

3. Emergency procedures

4. Recent terrain conditions

Pay close attention, each trek has unique considerations.

The Consequences of Poor Etiquette

Rule-breaking can:

• Stress gorillas, affecting feeding/mating

• Spread deadly human diseases

• Result in fines up to $5,000

• Get entire groups expelled

How to Practice Good Etiquette Before You Go

1. Watch documentary footage to observe proper behavior

2. Take malaria prophylaxis to avoid getting sick

3. Break in hiking boots to prevent loud stumbling

4. Pack properly to avoid rustling bags during the trek

Your Gorilla Etiquette Checklist

Print this quick-reference guide:

DO:
Stay 7m back
Whisper near gorillas
Follow guide instructions
Cover coughs/sneezes
Pack out all trash

DON’T:
☒ Touch gorillas
☒ Use flash photography
☒ Eat/smoke near them
☒ Wear strong scents
☒ Trek if ill

Final Thoughts: Etiquette Enhances Your Experience

Mastering these Gorilla Trekking Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts does more than protect wildlife, it transforms your encounter from a simple observation into a meaningful connection with nature. By respecting these guidelines, you become part of Uganda’s successful conservation story while enjoying richer, more authentic moments with our closest primate relatives.

Ready to put these etiquette tips into practice? Book your responsible gorilla trek today and join the ranks of mindful travelers making a difference.