Gorilla Visitation Guidelines

Gorillas are endangered – please help us keep them healthy!

Wash your hands before setting out on your trek to protect the health of the gorillas.
Wear clean trekking clothes for each gorilla visit and clean your shoes carefully before and after the trek.
If you show any signs of illness, notify park headquarters and do not join the trek.
Guests with chronic illnesses (e.g., heart disease, emphysema, asthma) should reconsider trekking – medical services are limited near the park.
Please use the bathroom before your trek; there are no facilities in the forest.

Leave no trace – pack out everything you bring in.
If you must relieve yourself, bury solid waste and toilet tissue at least 30 cm (1 ft) deep; your guide will carry a small shovel.
No smoking or spitting is allowed inside the forest.

Maintain a minimum distance of 7 m (23 ft) from the gorillas.
Do not eat, drink, or feed the gorillas during the visit.
Disable flash when taking photographs.
Speak only in a soft voice and avoid sudden gestures. Do not point at the gorillas.
If a gorilla charges, remain still and avoid eye contact – do not turn away.
Always follow your guide's instructions.

Note: Those who do not respect these guidelines may be asked to leave the gorillas and the park. Refunds will not be issued and penalties may apply.