Want to learn more about gorilla tracking in Bwindi Forest National Park? This is the right page for you. Uganda is a country that sums up the beauty of Africa, from the pristine mountain gorillas of Bwindi forest to the highest peak of Rwenzori mountains – Margherita peak. Then to the amazing experience of indigenous people and their vast cultures. This will take your breath away.
Uganda has some of the continent’s most impressive primates including the chimpanzees of Kibale Forest National Park for adventure lovers. And to top it all, it’s one of Africa’s most stable nations, making its many treasures all the more accessible.
An adult female gorilla holding its baby gorilla in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
What you need to know about gorilla tracking in Bwindi as you plan for your next adventure.
- A 7-meter (21 feet) distance from the gorillas should be observed at all times. The further back you are, the more relaxed the group will be.
- You must stay in a tight group when you are near the gorillas.
- Keep your voice down at all times but feel free to ask your ranger guide questions.
- Do not smoke, drink or eat when you are near the gorillas. Eating or drinking will inevitably increase the risk of morsels of food or droplets of drink being left behind. Even the tiniest leftovers could increase the risk of transmission of disease to the gorillas.
- Move slowly and carefully. Do not point or wave your arms.
- Do not touch the gorillas. They are wild animals.
- Occasionally the gorillas charge, but you’re advised not to panic. Follow your ranger guide’s example: crouch down slowly, do not look the gorillas directly in the eyes; wait for the animals to pass. Do not attempt to run away.
- Your subjects are black animals in dim light so use the right camera settings. Flash photography is not permitted under any circumstances.
- The maximum time you can spend with these wonderful animals is one hour. However, if the gorillas become agitated or nervous, the guide may decide to finish the visit early. This is for your safety and for the safety of the gorillas.
- After the visit, you are bound to be excited! But please keep your voices down until you are 200 meters away from the gorillas.