Page 21 - Rwanda

As you move along, the tracker will examine footprints, scat, and oth-
er clues to get a clearer picture of where the gorilla family has moved.
As gorillas are capable of venturing to areas virtually inaccessible by
humans, the hike can sometimes get quite difficult – moving over
rough ground, dealing with thorny or stinging undergrowth, or climb-
ing up steep hills.

Your guide will move at a moderate pace, as it is his job to get you to
the gorillas with enough time to spend an hour with them and still
make it back to the park gate before dark. While you will occasionally
stop to rest and you’re welcome to pause to take photos, you should
be prepared to move at a good pace throughout the day.

When you draw near to your gorilla family, you’ll likely smell them
long before you hear or see them. Your guide will move ahead mak-
ing soothing sounds to ensure the gorillas that you are friendly, and
will then direct you where best to stand. Following his instructions is
important, as it is his job to ensure the gorillas do not feel threatened
and act accordingly. He will position you so that you can be seen by
the silverback.

While observing the gorillas, it is important to maintain at least 7
metres of separation between you and the gorillas. If you are ap-
proached, it is important not to touch the gorillas. It is also important
not to hold eye contact, use flash photography, or make loud noises.

On occasion, a male gorilla may charge towards the group beating
his chest, hurling vegetation about, and acting aggressive. It is crucial
that if this happens, you do not back away. Instead, remain where you
are, lower your eyes to look at the ground, and adopt a submissive
posture. This behavior is rarely an actual sign of aggression against
humans, and is instead a display of dominance.

Your time with the gorillas is limited to one hour. This
time limit has been carefully chosen to ensure the
gorillas do not get too stressed. As used to visi-
tors as the family groups are becoming, they
often end the visits themselves after an
hour by vacating the area.

If you find yourself unable to
complete the gorilla tracking for
whatever reason, your guide will
advise you as to whether you
should return to camp with your
porter or whether it is better to
remain where you are and await
their return.