Page 16 - Rwanda

Rules & Codes of Conduct

As gorillas are wild animals and an endangered
species, there are a number of rules that must be fol-
lowed when tracking them and observing them.

At all times, you must obey all instructions given by
your guide. Your guide knows the gorillas very well,
and will direct you as to where it is safe to stand.
Keep a minimum distance of 7 metres between you
and the gorillas at all times.
If the dominant male gorilla (silverback) approach-
es you or charges aggressively, it is very important
that you not back away. Remain where you are, low
downward, and adopt a submissive, crouched pos-
ture.

Never make any sudden moves or loud noises.
If approached by a young gorilla, never touch it! Your
touching a young gorilla might create a confrontation
between your group and the dominant male.
If a gorilla stares at you, do not hold eye contact.
Look away and down.

Never use a flash when photographing gorillas. Try
to limit the number of photos you take.
You must be in good health when tracking gorillas.
Gorillas are susceptible to human borne respiratory
infections and you put them at risk if you visit them
while ill.

Each gorilla family can be visited just once per day
by groups of no more than eight people. Your time
with the gorilla family is limited to a single hour.
Smoking, drinking, or eating are not permitted with-
in 200 metres of a gorilla family.
Littering is strictly prohibited.

Children under the age of fifteen are not able to join
a gorilla trekking safari.

While gorillas are not aggressive in the way that
predators are, they are still wild animals capable of
hurting people if they feel threatened. It is impera-
tive that you follow all instructions your guide gives
you.

As these are wild animals, we cannot guarantee that
you will see them. While most groups do encounter
a family group, we cannot give refunds if you do not
spot the animals. The fee charged goes to the park
for the ongoing conservation efforts.