GORILLA TREKKING GUIDE WITH GORILLA HOUR UGANDA
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Preparing for gorilla trekking is part of the adventure—and we’re here to make it effortless. From expert packing guidance to ensuring every detail is perfectly arranged, Gorilla Hour Uganda takes care of everything so you can focus on the experience ahead.
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12 Days Uganda Grand Gorilla Circuit.
9 Days Know Uganda Gorilla Safari
Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations:
As you plan for your Gorilla trekking safari one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences in Africa. Coming face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is emotional, powerful, and unforgettable. However, these primates are highly vulnerable to human diseases and environmental disturbance, strict gorilla trekking rules and regulations are in place to protect both visitors and gorillas. Whether you’re trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, following these guidelines is mandatory.
Here is a simple and clear break down of the key rules that visitors must adhere to;
Minimum Age Requirement
Only visitors aged 15 years and above are allowed to participate in gorilla trekking as children may struggle with long hikes, they are more likely to carry contagious illnesses and their emotional reactions can be unpredictable around wild animals.
Do Not Trek If You Are Sick
Mountain gorillas share about 98% of human DNA. This makes them extremely vulnerable to human diseases such as flu, colds, or COVID-like symptoms. If you have any of these illnesses: Fever, Cough, Flu symptoms, Diarrhea, You will not be allowed to trek. It’s not punishment but protection to the rare mountain gorillas.
Maintain a 7-Meter Distance
You will be required to keep at least 7 meters (about 23 feet) away from the gorillas at all times. There are times when a gorilla approaches you, touches, or brushes on you, you should stay calm and avoid sudden movements, and touch back, your touch may be misinterpreted.
No Eye Contact During Gorilla Trekking
One of the most important gorilla trekking rules is avoiding direct eye contact with mountain gorillas. It may feel natural to look into their eyes especially during such an emotional encounter but in gorilla behavior, direct eye contact can be interpreted as a threat or challenge.
One Hour Viewing Limit
Once you find the gorilla family, you are allowed only one hour with them. One of the most important gorilla trekking regulations is the one-hour limit with the Gorillas and is strictly enforced no matter how magical the moment feels, visitors are allowed only 60 minutes with the gorillas. This rule applies in both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Make the most of your time to enjoy the magical moment of being face to face with the mountain gorillas by observing all the rules
No Flash Photography
Photography is allowed but flash is strictly prohibited.
Flash can: frighten gorillas, triggers defensive behavior and disrupt their activities
Tip: Always check your camera settings before entering the forest. Use a camera with good low-light performance, which most modern cameras and smart phones have and can produce excellent results without flash.
Maximum of 8 Visitors Per Gorilla Group
Only 8 trekker are allowed per habituated gorilla family per day. This small group size: minimizes environmental impact, ensures a quiet experience, above all protects gorilla well-being. Fewer people means fewer health risks less Disruption of their feeding routines, less Interrupt social interactions, less anxiety within the group, a small group ensures a calm and controlled environment.
Keep Voices Low
Silence and calm behavior is mandatory. Loud talking or shouting may alarm the gorillas.Avoid unnecessary noises such as sneezes, coughing, loud laugh follow ranger instructions carefully. Gorilla trekking is a privilege, by observing the no raised voices rule, you help protect these endangered primates and ensure a calm, unforgettable experience for everyone in your group.
Stay in Your Assigned Group
You will be assigned in a specific gorilla family during the morning briefing. You must trek with your designated group and ranger, Switching groups is not allowed.
Gorilla trekking is not a free-roaming trek but a carefully managed conservation activity. By staying in your assigned group, you help protect endangered mountain gorillas and ensure a safe, organized, and unforgettable experience.
Do Not Litter
Everything you carry into the forest must come back out, ensure you leave no plastic waste, no food scraps, no tissues left behind, trek the gorillas responsibly
No Eating or Drinking Near Gorillas
If you need to eat or drink move away from the gorilla group. Gorilla trekking is an unpredictable exercise when it comes to time, you may not be certain when the exercise will end, so its advisable to carry a snack and a drink. Your ranger will advise you when and where to eat from, you can not eat or drink at the watch of the gorillas.
Dig a Hole to Ease Yourself
In the remote rainforest of Bwindi or Mgahinga, there are no toilets deep inside the forest. If you need to relieve yourself during the trek, strict sanitation guidelines must be followed. Inform your ranger or porter immediately, he will help you to dig a small hole (about 6–8 inches deep), after use, the hole must be properly covered with soil.
If a Gorilla Charges, Stay Calm
Occasionally, a gorilla may perform a mock charge. This is usually a display of dominance.
If it happens: Do not run as running can trigger a chase instinct. You avoid eye contact, slowly squat down and follow ranger instructions, you will be good.
What to Carry for a Gorilla Trekking Safari
Essential Clothing Tips
Mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, but the rainforest environment can be challenging. Choosing the right clothing ensures you stay comfortable, safe, and protected while trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Here’s a complete guide on what to wear for your gorilla trekking safari
Long-Sleeved Shirts; These are to protect you against scratches from vegetation and insect bites. These should be Lightweight, breathable fabrics, Neutral colors like green, brown, or khaki (avoid bright colors)
Long Trousers; These should be durable trekking pantspreferably quick-dry material to protect your legs from thorns, nettles, and insects.
Waterproof Jacket or Poncho
The rainforest is humid and rain is frequent even in dry months, rain can fall anytime, so a lightweight, breathable raincoat or poncho is a must have, to keep you dry during your trek and in case it rains whilst in the forest.
Hiking Boots
Trekking trail in the forest can be steep and uneven, proper and comfortable footwear is non-negotiable. These should at-least be sturdy, waterproof with ankle support and have a good tread for muddy and slippery trails.
Gloves
These are optional but recommended, they give your hands protection while holding vegetation or helping balance on steep slopes. Lightweight gardening or trekking gloves work well
Headgear; A cap or wide-brimmed hat is a good idea to protect you from sun, rain, and insects, it’s a must pack.
Socks; It’s a good idea to carry moisture-wicking hiking socks. Avoid cotton, which retains moisture
Layering for Comfort
Early mornings can be cool (10–15°C / 50–59°F) layering allows you to adjust to changing temperatures
Extra Essentials
Small waterproof backpack
Reusable water bottle
Insect repellent on exposed skin
Lightweight scarf or buff (optional)
Insect repellent
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Camera (no flash allowed)
Extra batteries or power bank
Energy snacks/ Most lodges provid lunch boxes for trekkers
Documents to Carry
Visa – is obtained before arrival, please follow the link to secure a visa Welcome to Uganda Electronic Visa/Permit Application System
Passport
Gorilla trekking permit (handled by Gorilla Hour)
Travel insurance details
Exchanging Money & Tipping
Proper financial preparation is essential when planning a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda. Understanding how to handle money ensures a smooth trip while avoiding unnecessary stress in remote areas like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Currency in Uganda
The official currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX).
US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted, especially for gorilla permits, lodge payments, and tips.
Other currencies are rarely accepted outside major cities.
Tip: Bring clean, undamaged USD bills. Torn or heavily marked bills may be rejected.
Where to Exchange Money
Banks and Forex Bureaus
Found in Kampala, Entebbe, Kabale and generally larger towns near the national parks
Airports; Entebbe International Airport has exchange points at arrivals.
Lodges; most lodges accept USD for payments but may have limited ability to give change, so carry small denominations as well.
Using ATMs and Cards
ATMs are available in major towns, when you use ATMs you will receive your money in shillings and equivalent.
Visa and Mastercard are accepted in lodges and larger establishments
Always carry cash for tips, and small purchases.
Tip: Bring enough cash for your entire trekking stay
Tips for Handling Money During Your Safari
Carry small denominations: $1, $5, $10 bills for tips
Keep money in a waterproof pouch or money belt
Avoid exchanging money with street vendors, use official counters
Plan ahead; remote lodges may not provide change for large bills
Tipping Guidelines
Porters: $5–$10 per day
Ranger/ Guides: $10–$15 per person per day
Lodge staff: $2–$5 per staff member for housekeeping or dining
Tipping supports local communities and is highly appreciated, it’s an expression of gratitude, you may tips as feel appropriate.
Understand the Weather
Uganda’s rainforest climate is unpredictable. Even in dry seasons, rain showers are common. Always pack waterproof gear regardless of the time of year.Temperatures range between 10°C (50°F) in the morning and 25°C (77°F) during the day.
Insurance and Medication Tips
Proper insurance and medication are crucial when planning a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda. The trek can be physically demanding, the rainforest environment unpredictable, and medical facilities limited in remote areas. Being prepared ensures a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience. Here is a guide for you
Travel Insurance – A Must-Have
Before embarking on your trek, it is essential to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers; Medical emergencies hospitalization, doctor visits, and evacuation if necessary
Tip: Check that your policy explicitly covers gorilla trekking and adventure travel, as not all standard travel insurance policies automatically include this.
Essential Medications
Carrying the right medications ensures comfort and safety in the rainforest:
Personal Medications
Bring enough prescription medications for the entire trip and Keep them in their original labeled packaging
Common Travel Medications
Painkillers (paracetamol or ibuprofen)
Anti-inflammatory medication
Anti-diarrheal medication
Antihistamines (for allergies or insect bites)
Motion sickness pills (if traveling on rough roads)
Malaria & Preventive Medication
Uganda is a malaria-endemic country
Take prophylactic malaria medication as prescribed by a doctor
Use insect repellent and wear long clothing to reduce bites
First Aid Kit
A small personal first aid kit is highly recommended
Band-aids and antiseptic wipes
Blister pads for hiking boots
Insect bite cream
Antiseptic ointment for minor cuts
Thermometer
Vaccinations
Before traveling to Uganda, ensure you are up to date on, such include
Yellow fever (required)
Tetanus
Hepatitis A & B
Typhoid
Routine vaccinations (measles, polio, influenza)
Consult a travel clinic at least 6–8 weeks before departure.
Tips for a Safe Trek
Carry medications in a waterproof pouch
Inform your safari guide of any medical conditions
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
Rest if you feel unwell; don’t push your limits on the trek
Gorilla trekking is exhilarating, but preparation is key. Proper insurance, medications, and preventive care protect both you and the gorillas by keeping you healthy and safe during this life-changing adventure.
Every unforgettable encounter starts with the right preparation. Connect with our gorilla trekking team today to receive your personalized trekking essentials guide and begin planning a journey that brings you face-to-face with Uganda’s most extraordinary wildlife.
Your unforgettable gorilla encounter starts here.
