Essential Gorilla Trekking Rules for Virunga National Park

Essential Gorilla Trekking Rules for Virunga National Park

If you’re planning to embark on an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure in Virunga National Park, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations designed to protect these incredible mountain gorillas. These guidelines have been established to safeguard the health and safety of both the gorillas and visitors. Since gorillas are highly vulnerable to human diseases, it’s crucial to respect their space and allow them to live naturally. Here’s what you need to know before you go:

Rule 1: Stay Healthy

If you’re feeling unwell, park staff have the authority to deny your visit to the gorillas.
This is to protect the gorillas from potential illnesses.

Rule 2: Limited Visits

You’re allowed only one visit per day, with a maximum of eight tourists per group.
This helps minimize stress and reduce the risk of infection among the gorillas.

Rule 3: Age Restrictions

Visitors must be at least 15 years old.
This rule is in place to limit exposure to childhood diseases such as mumps and chickenpox, as well as colds or flu.

Rule 4: Time Limit

Your interaction time with the gorillas is capped at one hour.
This is to ensure minimal disturbance to their natural behaviors and routines.

Rule 5: Photography Rules

Flash photography is not allowed.
Flashes can scare the gorillas and provoke aggressive behavior.

Rule 6: Maintain Distance

Always keep a minimum distance of seven meters from the gorillas.
If they approach closer, calmly retreat to maintain the safe distance. Follow your guide’s instructions at all times, and secure your belongings to prevent curious gorillas from investigating.

Rule 7: Stay Together

Remain in a tight-knit group without spreading out.
This allows the gorillas to feel safe and gives them space to move freely without feeling threatened.

Rule 8: Your Position Matters

When watching the gorillas, sit or crouch if possible.
Standing tall can intimidate them, as it mimics aggressive postures among great apes.

Rule 9: Mind Your Body Language

Avoid raising your hands, pointing, or staring directly at the gorillas.
These actions can be interpreted as threats and may provoke a defensive reaction.

Rule 10: Respect Their Space

Do not clear vegetation to get a better view of the gorillas.
Disturbing their environment can frighten them. Your guides will help with visibility if needed.

Rule 11: Remain Calm

If a silverback gorilla charges or displays aggressive behavior, do not run.
Stay still and quiet, as movement can escalate the situation.

Rule 12: No Eating or Smoking

Consuming food, drinks, or smoking is prohibited near the gorillas or within 200 meters of them.
These activities can distract the gorillas and attract them out of curiosity, which may lead to health risks.

Rule 13: Keep Noise to a Minimum

Be as quiet as possible and speak in whispers.
Loud noises can scare away newly habituated gorillas and disturb their natural behavior.

Rule 14: Cover Coughs and Sneezes

If you need to cough or sneeze, turn away from the gorillas and cover your mouth.
This helps prevent the spread of airborne germs.

Rule 15: Proper Waste Disposal

All fecal matter must be buried.
You can borrow a machete from your guide to dig a hole and cover it afterward. This is crucial, as waste can be infectious to gorillas.

Rule 16: Leave No Trace

Please remove all trash from the park.
Be particularly mindful of small items like film canisters and tissues. Litter can harm wildlife and lead to health issues.

About Virunga National Park, DR Congo

Virunga National Park is a breathtaking destination renowned for its stunning biodiversity and rich history. As one of the oldest national parks in Africa, it’s especially famous for mountain gorilla trekking. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking Nyiragongo Volcano, bird watching, nature walks, and chimpanzee tracking and habituation.

It’s worth noting that the world’s mountain gorillas inhabit just three countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In Uganda, you can find them in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. In Rwanda, they reside in Volcanoes National Park, while in the DRC, they thrive in Virunga National Park. These parks are situated close to each other, forming what is known as the Virunga Massif.

Best Time to Visit Virunga National Park for Gorilla Trekking

Virunga National Park enjoys a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination for gorilla trekking. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which spans December, January, February, June, July, August, and September. During these months, the trails are drier, making it easier to navigate the park. Additionally, the vegetation is less dense, allowing for better visibility of the gorillas.

Accommodation Options in Virunga National Park

Virunga National Park offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets:

• Budget Options: Camps like Bukima Tented Camp and Kibumba Tented Camp offer affordable stays, with prices ranging from $90 to $100 per night per person.
• Mid-Range Options: For a more comfortable experience, consider Tchegera Island Camp or Lulimbi Tented Camp, where prices range from $100 to $200 per night per person.
• Luxury Options: For those seeking a premium experience, Mikeno Lodge offers exquisite accommodations, with prices ranging from $200 to $400 per night per person.

Let us know your preferences, and we’ll help you find the perfect accommodation and check availability for your stay.

How to Access Virunga National Park for Gorilla Trekking

Getting to Virunga National Park is relatively straightforward. Start by flying into Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. From there, make your way to Gisenyi. After crossing the Rwanda-Congo border into Goma, it’s about a 2-hour drive to the park headquarters, where your gorilla trekking adventure will begin.

Plan Your Trip with Trek Africa Expeditions

Ready to experience the wonders of Virunga National Park? Book your trip with us at Trek Africa Expeditions for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in the heart of the DRC. We’re here to assist you every step of the way!