How Close Can You Get to the Gorillas? Gorilla trekking is one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences. It takes you deep into dense tropical forests in Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of Congo, where you come face to face with one of the world’s most remarkable animals — the mountain gorilla. If you are planning your first gorilla trek, one question almost every visitor asks is: how close can I actually get to the gorillas?
The answer is straightforward. You must maintain a minimum distance of seven metres — approximately 21 feet — from the gorillas at all times. However, since gorillas move freely through the forest, they may occasionally come closer to you on their own. When this happens, stay calm, avoid direct eye contact, and never attempt to touch them.
What to Expect When You Meet the Gorillas
After trekking through the forest, your ranger guide will lead you to the gorilla family. The guide will brief you on how to approach safely and remind you of the distance rule. Although the gorillas are habituated to human presence, they remain wild animals and can behave unpredictably. The dominant silverback watches every move visitors make, so it is essential to act with care and respect.
If a gorilla charges or reacts aggressively, do not run. Instead, stay still, crouch down slightly, and act submissively. Charges are usually a display of dominance rather than a genuine attack. Your guide will instruct you on exactly what to do, so always follow their lead. Eating or drinking in front of the gorillas is strictly prohibited, as food can attract unwanted attention and disrupt natural behaviour.
Gorilla Trekking Rules You Must Follow
The Uganda Wildlife Authority and the Rwanda Development Board set clear guidelines for gorilla trekking. These rules protect the gorillas, their habitat, and the visitors. Your ranger guide explains all the rules during a pre-trek briefing. Below are the key guidelines every trekker must follow.
Always maintain a seven-metre distance from the gorillas. This protects both you and the animals, as gorillas are highly susceptible to human illnesses. Gorillas share approximately 98% of their DNA with humans, which means even a common cold can be dangerous to them.
Stay with your group throughout the entire trek. Groups are limited to eight people per gorilla family. Wandering away from your group puts both you and the gorillas at unnecessary risk. Listen carefully to your ranger guide at all times — they are trained to handle any situation that arises in the forest.
Turn off your camera flash before you begin. Flash photography disturbs the gorillas and is not permitted under any circumstances. You are welcome to take as many photos as you like, provided the flash is off. Keep your voice low and avoid sudden movements, as loud noise can stress the animals.
Do not touch the gorillas, even if one approaches you closely. Their reactions are unpredictable, and the silverback may interpret physical contact as a threat. Do not eat or drink while near the gorilla family. Consume your snacks before or after the encounter. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, and sturdy hiking boots. Avoid animal-print clothing, as it can unsettle the gorillas. Finally, if you feel unwell on the day of your trek — particularly if you have a contagious illness — do not participate. This rule is strictly enforced to protect these critically endangered animals.
How Far Do You Actually Walk?
There is no fixed trekking distance. The duration and distance of your trek depend entirely on where your assigned gorilla family is located and how far they have moved since the previous day. Some treks take as little as one hour, while others can last up to eight hours. Regardless of how long it takes, reaching the gorillas is always worth every step.
When Is the Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking?
Both Uganda and Rwanda experience two dry seasons — from June to September and from December to February. These months offer the most comfortable trekking conditions, with drier trails and clearer skies. The rainy season, which runs from March to May and October to November, brings muddy and slippery trails. However, it is a great option for budget-conscious travellers, as permit availability is generally higher and accommodation prices are lower.
How Much Does a Gorilla Permit Cost?
In Uganda, a gorilla trekking permit costs USD 800 per person. In Rwanda, the permit costs USD 1,500 per person, reflecting the premium nature of the experience. Rwanda’s higher price also contributes directly to conservation and community development projects. Uganda offers a wilder, more rugged experience with a broader range of safari activities, while Rwanda provides easier access from Kigali and a concentration of high-end lodges. Both destinations deliver an unforgettable gorilla encounter.
How to Book Your Gorilla Permit with Anthill Safaris
The most reliable way to secure a gorilla permit is through a licensed local tour operator. At Anthill Safaris, we work directly with the Uganda Wildlife Authority and the Rwanda Development Board to book permits on your behalf. Once you contact us, we immediately check availability on your preferred dates. After confirming availability, we collect your details — name, nationality, age, and passport copy — process your payment, and send you scanned copies of your permits. We can also handle your accommodation, transport, and driver-guide arrangements, taking care of your entire safari from start to finish.
What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking
Pack sturdy waterproof hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, a lightweight rain jacket, a hat, gloves, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Bring a daypack, a reusable water bottle, energy snacks, a camera without a flash, binoculars, a portable charger, personal medications, and a basic first aid kit.
Contact Anthill Safaris today to book your gorilla trekking permit and let us plan every detail of your Uganda or Rwanda safari.
