Things you need to know about gorilla and chimp trekking

There is a lot to consider before you embark on your trekking experience. Although at times all the planning may seem overwhelming, the right preparation will not only keep you and the animals you’re traveling to see safe, it will also allow you to have a truly unforgettable adventure.

Here are some essential things to keep in mind on your gorilla or chimp trek.

Stay with your ranger
All gorilla and chimp treks are overseen by a national park ranger who is highly trained and experienced.

Although gorilla & chimp trekking is safe, it’s important to remember that when you go on the trek, you’re interacting with wild gorillas/chimps that can be unpredictable, especially when they feel afraid or threatened. Your rangers are skilled in understanding gorilla/chimp behaviour. They will also talk to the gorillas/chimps and give you clear instruuctions during your trek. All you have to do is follow their instructions. 

You rangers also have extensive knowledge about gorillas and chimps, conservation, local flora and fauna and about local culture. During your gorilla or chimp trek, the rangers will share fun facts and are a lot of fun to talk to.

 
Remain quiet
You have walked into the territory and homes of wild animals, so it’s important to respect the environment you are visiting. Do not make loud noises around the primates; remain quiet and allow them to be as undisturbed as possible.
 
Proper food storage
When you’re close to the animals, make sure your food and drink is correctly stored away. Having snacks in your pocket can be an invitation to the animals that you are willing to share. All food should be left in your bag, which you will leave with your porter approximately 50 - 100m from where you will find the gorillas or chimps. Intentionally or unintentionally feeding gorillas or chimps can be harmful to the animals you’re visiting and potentially unsafe for you and others on your tour.
 
Keep valuables safe
Young primates have been known to steal valuables and personal belongings, including water bottles. Make sure your items are correctly stored away and in a safe and secure location. Valuables like cash, cards, cameras and passports should be on your person in a secure pocket. Do not leave them unattended in your bags.  
 

Be respectful of cultural differences
Make sure you are educated about the local cultures you will encounter on your trek to ensure you remain respectful for the entirety of your stay and experience. Cover up for cultural purposes, as well as to protect yourself against the sun and insects. Don’t take photos without permission, respect the needs and guidelines of the locals to ensure both parties are satisfied with your stay. Your ranger will be able to provide more information about cultural nuances and sensitivities.
 
Use your eyes
Finally, use your eyes! It’s understandable you’ll want to capture every moment for the memory bank, but don’t forget to look up from your lens and take in the sights you’d worked hard to attain. A good rule of thumb is to take photos for the first 10 - 15 minutes, then enjoy the experience for the next 50 minutes, only taking the best photos when something different or interesting happens!

Tipping

This is not a don’t do, but rather a must do! Tipping is customary across East Africa and it is a nice way to say thank you for the great job your gorilla or chimp rangers, trackers, drivers and hotel staff have done. Figuring how much to tip, particularly if you are from Australia, can be hard. Follow this guide:

The best way to give tips is to individually present a tip to each ranger/tracker. Giving the total to the head ranger, often results in him/her taking most and giving very little to everyone else. For more information about tipping in East Africa, see our Ultimate Guide to Tipping in East Africa.

Other gorilla and chimp trekking etiquettes

Here are a few more etiquette tips to remember when you’re out in the wild on your gorilla or chimp trek:

• Minimum age for trekking is 15 years - find more information on this in our blog ‘A guide to gorilla and chimp trekking with kids’ 
• If you are unwell, you will not be allowed to participate into the trek, as gorillas and chimps are highly susceptible to communicable human diseases
• Follow the rules set by your ranger at your trek orientation and during your trek
• No smoking
• No flash photography
• Gorilla & chimp trekking is only permitted with a ranger
• Stay with your group and avoid making loud noises
• Avoid eating and drinking in front of the gorillas and chimps
• Pick up your rubbish and take it with you

Upcoming gorilla and chimp itinerary ideas