If a chimpanzee comes your way, try to keep calm. Don’t make any sudden moves.
Grab anything you can to put between yourself and the chimp—just don’t use your bare hands. That barrier might be your backpack, a stick, or even a jacket. If you show your teeth a little, it can signal submission, but don’t open your mouth wide. That could actually make the chimp think you’re challenging it, which you really don’t want.
Chimps are way stronger than people and, honestly, you never really know what they’ll do next. Try to stay on your feet and move slowly.
Don’t stare them in the eyes. If you can, start putting some space between you and the chimp—just back away slowly or look for a spot you can duck into for safety.
It helps to know a bit about how chimps act. For example, they’re not good swimmers at all.
If you’re desperate, jumping into water might actually save you. Try to keep your head clear and stay as calm as you can.
Want more info? Here’s a detailed guide on surviving a chimpanzee attack.
Immediate Actions When a Chimp Approaches
When a chimp moves toward you, your main job is to keep things calm and safe. Pay attention to your body language and how you move.
Your first moves can make a big difference. You don’t want to make the chimp curious in the wrong way, or worse, feel threatened.
Stay Calm and Avoid Sudden Movements
Try to stay calm if a chimp gets close. Don’t suddenly step back, wave your arms, or jerk around.
Chimps are fast and super strong. Quick moves can set them off.
Take some deep breaths. Move slowly and with purpose.
If the chimp picks up on your fear or panic, that could make things worse. Staying calm helps you think and shows the chimp you’re not a threat.
Maintain a Safe Distance Without Making Eye Contact
Keep some space between you and the chimp if you can. They can run and jump fast, so don’t count on distance alone.
Don’t look them in the eyes. Chimps see direct eye contact as a challenge.
Glance down or off to the side, but don’t turn your head away completely. That way, you don’t look aggressive.
Keep your hands relaxed at your sides or gently in front of you. If you need to, show your palms to prove you’re not hiding food or anything dangerous.
Back Away Slowly and Do Not Turn Your Back
If the chimp comes in too close, start backing away—just do it slowly. Never turn your back.
If you turn away, you might trigger the chimp’s chase instinct. That’s the last thing you want.
Keep your body facing the chimp. Don’t stare, but don’t bolt either.
Slow steps show you’re not running, and that can help keep things from escalating.
Avoid Loud Noises and Quick Gestures
Try not to shout or make loud noises. Yelling can scare or rile up a wild chimpanzee.
They might react by getting defensive or even charging. Not great.
Don’t wave your hands around or make quick gestures. Even pointing or clapping can freak them out.
Just be as quiet and still as you can. Usually, a calm and silent presence works best with primates.
Preventing Risky Encounters During Chimpanzee Trekking
If you’re out chimp trekking, you really need to look out for both your safety and the chimps’. Take steps to follow the rules, respect their space, and think about health risks.
These things help you enjoy the trek without causing any problems for you or the animals.
Follow Ranger or Guide Instructions
Let your guide take the lead. They know how to keep people and chimps safe.
Always listen and do what they say. They’ve spent a lot of time around chimps and can spot trouble before you even notice.
If a chimpanzee heads your way, your guide will tell you what to do. Don’t try to handle it yourself or get closer.
Stay calm, move slowly, and wait for instructions. Guides are a big deal in places like Kibale National Park or the Republic of Congo—they really help keep everyone safe.
Observe Minimum Distance Rules
Keep your distance—at least seven meters, or about 23 feet, from chimps. That space lets both you and the chimps relax.
If a chimp gets closer, back away slowly. Don’t turn your back or make sudden moves.
Never try to touch or feed them. That can make chimps stressed or aggressive, and you don’t want that.
Distance also keeps you safer from any diseases chimps might carry. People forget this, but respecting their space helps everyone, including the wildlife.
Health Precautions to Protect Chimps and Humans
Chimps can catch diseases from people, and people can catch diseases from chimps too. If you feel sick or notice symptoms like a cough or fever, it’s best to skip chimp trekking.
When you’re near chimps, especially in places like the Republic of Congo or Kibale National Park, wear a face mask. Researchers in these areas work hard to stop the spread of illness, so the mask actually makes a difference.
Wash your hands before and after the trek. If you can, use hand sanitizer too.
Try not to touch your face or eat during the trip. It’s a simple way to lower your risk.
Honestly, these steps aren’t hard, and they really do help protect both you and the chimps.
