How Close Can I Get to the Gorillas?

Gorilla trekking is one of the most thrilling wildlife adventures in Africa. It allows travelers to step into the heart of tropical jungles and witness the extraordinary lives of mountain gorillas up close. While the experience is magical, strict rules govern how close visitors can get to these endangered primates.

The Standard Viewing Distance

During your trek, you must observe the gorillas from a minimum distance of seven meters (about 21 feet). This guideline is in place for two main reasons: to protect you from potential danger and to prevent the transmission of diseases from humans to gorillas. Although gorillas are habituated to human presence, they are still wild animals, and their behavior can sometimes be unpredictable.

However, since gorillas roam freely, they may occasionally approach you. When this happens, remain calm, avoid sudden movements, and never attempt to touch them. If you respect these boundaries, your experience will be both safe and memorable.

Your Encounter with Gorillas

After hiking through dense forest, you will finally come face-to-face with a gorilla family. At this moment, your ranger guide will explain how to approach them respectfully. Although you are expected to keep the seven-meter distance, the gorillas themselves may move closer out of curiosity. If this happens, remain submissive, avoid direct eye contact, and follow the guide’s instructions carefully.

If a gorilla charges or shows signs of aggression, stay calm and avoid reacting. These behaviors are usually meant to display dominance rather than to cause harm. Eating or drinking near gorillas is strictly prohibited, as it can attract their attention and disrupt their natural behavior.

Other Essential Gorilla Trekking Rules

The wildlife authorities in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo have established clear regulations to protect both the gorillas and visitors. These rules apply across all trekking destinations:

• Follow your ranger guide’s instructions. Guides are highly trained to handle different situations and will ensure your safety.
• Stay with your group. Visitors trek in groups of eight, each assigned to a gorilla family. Wandering off is dangerous and strictly discouraged.
• Avoid flash photography. Flashes disturb gorillas. Always disable your camera’s flash before taking photos.
• Keep noise levels low. Speak softly and avoid sudden movements to prevent startling the gorillas.
• Do not touch the gorillas. Even if they come close, resist the urge to reach out. Touching them can be misinterpreted by the dominant silverback as a threat.
• Wear suitable clothing. Long trousers, long-sleeved shirts, and sturdy hiking boots protect you from thorns, nettles, and insects. Avoid bright colors or animal print designs.
• Stay healthy before trekking. If you feel sick, do not join the trek. Gorillas share nearly 98% of human DNA, making them vulnerable to our diseases.
• Respect the environment. Do not litter or damage vegetation. Preserving the gorillas’ fragile habitat is vital for their survival.

How Far Do You Walk to See the Gorillas?

The distance you walk depends on where the gorilla family is located on the day of your trek. Sometimes the gorillas are close to the starting point, and the hike takes only a few hours. Other times, they may be deeper in the forest, requiring a longer and more strenuous trek. Their constant movement also affects the duration. Whether short or long, the reward of finding them in their natural habitat makes every step worthwhile.

Booking a Gorilla Permit

To trek gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda, or the DRC, you need a valid gorilla permit. These permits are managed by the wildlife authorities of each country and are issued only through registered operators. The process involves checking availability, submitting your personal details such as name, nationality, age, and passport copy, then completing payment. Once confirmed, you will receive a scanned copy of your permit, which guarantees your place on the trek.

Final Thoughts

So, how close can you get to gorillas? The rule is seven meters, though the gorillas themselves may sometimes come nearer. By respecting this guideline and following the instructions of your ranger guide, you will enjoy a safe and unforgettable encounter with these gentle giants. More importantly, your respect for the rules contributes to their conservation, ensuring that future generations can also witness the magic of gorilla trekking.