Mountain Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a privilege, not a right. Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has established a clear set of rules and regulations that every visitor must follow. These rules exist for two reasons: to protect the mountain gorillas from disease and disturbance, and to keep visitors safe in the presence of wild animals.

Before you enter the forest, your ranger guide will deliver a full briefing at park headquarters. Read these rules in advance so you arrive prepared.

Time Limits

• The actual time spent with a gorilla family is limited to one hour for standard gorilla trekking
• For the Gorilla Habituation Experience, the time limit is four hours

These limits are strictly enforced to minimise stress on the gorillas.

Group Size

• A maximum of eight visitors per gorilla group per day is permitted
• This limit protects the gorillas from excessive human contact and ensures an intimate experience for all visitors

Distance and Behaviour

• Maintain a distance of at least 7 metres (21 feet) between yourself and the gorillas at all times
• If a gorilla approaches you, stand still, look away, and follow your guide's instructions calmly
• Do not surround the gorillas — remain in a tight group at all times
• Do not make loud noises or sudden movements in the presence of gorillas
• Do not point directly at the gorillas

Health Requirements

• You are not permitted to trek if you have a communicable illness such as diarrhoea, flu, a cold, or any respiratory infection. This rule protects the gorillas, who share approximately 98% of human DNA and are highly susceptible to human diseases.
• When sneezing or coughing, turn away from the gorillas and cover your nose and mouth
• No person under 15 years of age is permitted to trek gorillas

Photography

• Flash photography is strictly prohibited — gorillas interpret a flash as an object being thrown at them, which can trigger a defensive response
• Non-flash photography and video are permitted

Food, Drink, and Smoking

• Eating, drinking, and smoking are not permitted within 200 metres of the gorillas
• All litter must be removed from the park — nothing is to be left behind

Sanitation

• If you need to use the toilet in the forest, bury all human waste in a hole at least 30 cm (1 foot) deep and cover it properly afterwards
• Do not spit on vegetation or soil while in the park

General Park Rules

• Do not camp or make campfires except at designated sites
• Do not drive off the tracks
• Do not disturb wildlife by sounding motor horns or making unnecessary noise
• Observe all instructions from your guide at all times

Why These Rules Matter

Mountain gorillas are one of the most endangered great apes on earth, with fewer than 1,100 individuals remaining in the wild. The rules above are not bureaucratic formalities — they are the result of decades of conservation science and hard-won experience protecting these animals.

Following them carefully ensures that gorilla trekking remains a sustainable activity that benefits both wildlife and local communities for generations to come. Your cooperation makes a real difference.

If you have any questions about what to expect on your trek, do not hesitate to contact us before your visit.