In order to protect the gorillas and tourists, UWA set up rules and regulation that must be followed while in gorilla national parks. At all times on a Uganda Gorilla Safari, visitors should adhere to these rules and regulations so that the conservation of the mountain gorillas and their habitat be maintained. Below are some of the rules and regulations that must be followed;
Always wash your hands before you head out to the gorillas.
A maximum number of 8 visitors may visit a group of habituated Mountain gorillas in a day. This minimizes behavioral disturbance to the gorillas and the risk of their exposure to human borne diseases.
Keep your voices low at all times though it is okay to ask the guides questions but with a low tone.
You must stay in a tight group when you are near the mountain gorillas.
Keep a minimum of 7 metres (21 feet) from the Mountain Gorillas. This is to protect the Mountain Gorillas from human disease transmission.
Do not eat or drink while you are near the mountain gorillas. Eating or drinking inevitably will increase the risk of food or drink droplets falling which could increase the risk of disease transmission.
Sometimes the Mountain Gorillas charge. Follow the guide’s example crouch down slowly. DO NOT look the Mountain Gorilla in the eye. Wait for the Gorillas to pass and do not attempt to run away as this could increase the risk of attack.
Do not touch the Mountain Gorillas. They are wild animals.
Flash photography is not allowed. When taking pictures, move slowly and carefully.
The maximum time visitors are allowed to spend with the Mountain Gorillas is one hour. This is done to limit their disturbance. If the Mountain Gorillas become agitated or nervous, the guide will end the visit early.
If you are feeling ill or have a contagious disease when you are already at the park, please volunteer to stay behind. An alternative visit will be arranged for you or you will be refunded your money as per gorilla reservation guidelines.
If you feel the urge to cough or sneeze when you are near the Mountain Gorillas, please turn your head away and cover your nose and mouth in order to minimize the spread of viruses or bacteria.
If you need to go to the “toilet” while in the forest, please ask the guide to dig you a hole and ensure you cover it when you have finished.
After the visit, keep your voices low until you are 200 metres away from the Mountain Gorillas.
Do not leave litter in the park. Whatever you bring into the forest should be carried back with you or buried.
