Standing close to a gorilla is honestly awe-inspiring. Still, one wrong move can turn a peaceful moment into something a lot more tense. Don’t stare, run, imitate, or make sudden moves—these actions could provoke a gorilla and put everyone at risk.
Stick to your guide’s instructions. Keep your voice down, and if a gorilla seems agitated, make yourself look small and non-threatening.
You’ll want to know which behaviors to avoid and a few safety steps that’ll help you enjoy the encounter without trouble.
Key Behaviors to Avoid in Front of Gorillas
Gorillas pick up on signals right away. Stay calm, keep back, and listen to your guide—they’re there to protect both you and the gorilla family.
Avoid Direct Eye Contact
Don’t stare at a gorilla’s face. Direct eye contact can look like a challenge, especially to a silverback.
Look down or off to the side and keep your head a bit bowed. If a gorilla glances at you, blink slowly and look away.
That tells them you’re not looking for trouble. Never use a camera flash pointed at their eyes.
Sudden bright lights can startle or irritate them. Ask your guide if photos are allowed and what distance is safe.
Do Not Make Sudden Movements
Move slowly and with intention if you need to shift or adjust your gear. Quick motions might make a gorilla think you’re about to attack or steal food.
If a young gorilla comes near, just stay still and let it pass. Don’t reach out—juveniles are curious and sometimes approach on their own.
If you need to back away, take slow steps and keep your posture relaxed. Quietly signal your guide if you’re feeling unsafe so they can help.
Never Approach or Touch a Gorilla
Keep the recommended distance—don’t try to close the gap for a better look. Approaching a mother with an infant? That’s asking for trouble; she’ll defend her baby.
Don’t try to touch a gorilla, even if it seems calm or friendly. Human scent and germs can harm them, and touching can set off aggression.
If a gorilla moves toward you, slowly back off or freeze, depending on your guide’s advice. Always let the animal decide how close is too close.
Stay Silent and Do Not Shout
Keep your voice down, ideally to a whisper. Loud talking, laughter, or shouting will stress the group and upset the silverback.
Skip high-pitched noises and sudden bursts of laughter—those can come across as threats. If you need to communicate, use hand signals or speak quietly.
Watch your ranger for cues during tense moments. They know the group’s mood and will let you know if sound might set off chest-beating, hooting, or other warnings.
Important Safety Guidelines for Gorilla Encounters
These rules protect both you and the gorillas. Stay calm, move slowly, and follow some clear steps to avoid causing stress or triggering a defensive reaction.
Keep a Safe Distance at All Times
Stand at least 7 meters (about 23 feet) from mountain gorillas unless your guide tells you otherwise. This distance really helps prevent disease transfer and keeps you out of reach if a silverback suddenly moves.
If a gorilla comes closer, freeze and avoid sudden moves—never step toward it. Use your camera’s zoom for close-up photos.
Keep your voice low and don’t wave your arms or reach out. If the group shifts or a gorilla charges, listen to your guide—they’ll tell you if you need to back away slowly or crouch down.
Even calm gorillas can react if you cough or sneeze nearby. Wear a mask if park rules say so and make sure you’re healthy before the trek.
Listen to Your Guide’s Instructions
Your guide knows the group’s mood and picks up on the silverback’s signals first. Follow every direction, whether it’s a hand signal or a quick word.
If they tell you to crouch, sit, or move, just do it—no arguments. Guides set the viewing time, usually about an hour with a gorilla family on trekking tours.
They’ll let you know when to stop taking photos, when to back away, and how to react if a gorilla charges. Trust them; they’ve trained for this and know how to keep things safe.
If you’re unsure, ask quick, direct questions during the briefing. During the encounter, don’t talk unless your guide tells you to move or stay silent.
Do Not Eat or Bring Food Near Gorillas
Don’t bring food where mountain gorillas live. The smell draws them in and messes with how they act.
If a gorilla notices food on you or nearby, it might rush over or even get aggressive to protect its space.
Skip the snacks, gum, or fruit in viewing areas. Keep any food tucked away in your backpack before the trek and make sure your bag stays closed.
If your guide wants to check your stuff, just go with it.
Never feed or offer anything to gorillas. Giving them food throws off their natural habits and might even make them sick.
Stick to park rules about food, and pay attention during the permit briefing for details on what you can’t bring into the forest.
