Is it safe to trek Gorillas in Rwanda?

How Safe is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?

Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda has highly become among the top list of the leading tourist activity which does attract many thousands of tourists/trekkers either on a weekly/ monthly basis. Just as it is in Uganda, Rwanda is safe for Gorilla trekking. Rebel attacks are no longer there, not even heard in Volcanoes National park for many decades now. Rwanda is one of the safest travel area/place that guarantees trekkers safety and their property. The country is home to the highest number of Gentle giants (mountain gorillas) in the Virunga conservation area, a residence for 10 habituated gorilla families for trekking, Rwanda ranks as a luxury gorilla tour place selling the most expensive Gorilla permits at $1500 per person for 1 hr with these mountain gorillas. But most tourists usually have gotten one question “Is gorilla trekking safe in Rwanda? Safety is one paramount factor considered whenever you think of a Gorilla Safari to Rwanda. The exciting experience of primates gives you an animated moment when with these Gentle giants and you may even forget thinking about your safety at any moment.

• Trekkers are advised to obey all rules and regulations as briefed by their guides. And among these Gorilla trekking rules there includes keeping a distance of 7m away from these Gentle giants, keeping a low talk tone, avoid taking flashy photos while with the Gorillas and crouching down submissively just in case the silverback charges.
• Briefing of trekkers/tourists about Gorilla Trekking activity is usually done at the park head offices so as to stream line how best every trekker must behave when with the Mountain Gorillas and how to handle them as well when in their Natural Habitats. Let’s not forget that these Mountain Gorillas are also Wild Animals, humble yes, gentle yes but once annoyed/slightly angered just like any other animal they can charge and turn against you possibly causing you harm. That is why these rules and regulations set, you are recommended to strictly obey and respect them. It is also in order that once in the Wilds, the Guide who goes with you for protection keeps on reminding you/his group of these same rules and regulations. However, with all this done your safety still begins with you implying you should be very observant and careful.
• Avoid eating, smoking, drinking in the presence of the Mountain Gorillas, do not drop rubbish in the park or wastes but can dig a hole and dispose it there
• Direct eye contact to these gentle giants is forbidden since it can trigger   misunderstanding in these animals and can lead them to get angry. Just in case a group of these massive creatures get close to you, you are expected to stand still, avoid touching them and let them go.
• And among these Gorilla trekking rules there includes keeping a distance of 7m away from these Gentle giants, keeping a low talk tone, avoid taking flashy photos while with the Gorillas and crouching down submissively just in case the silverback charges.
•  Keep your voices at low tone when in the presence of the Mountain Gorillas and still when in search for them.   With all the dos and don’ts that you are briefed about and you follow and respect all, your safety with these animals will be ensured.
•  Tourism police introduced by the Government of Rwanda in all National Parks apart from having the National Park Rangers. Their role (Rwanda tourism police) is to watch all through the parks day and night making certain that no existence of rebel groups and other criminals in the hiding in the park. At certain points, the police camp deep in the jungle to ensure travelers are very safe. If you are tracking gorillas and come across army men, do not fear them, they are there to protect you.
•   The way you dress for this activity (Gorilla Trekking) also matters, it should be the recommended format of dressing and avoid wearing bright colors. Usually, trekkers are advised to wear waterproof hiking boots (lightweight), rain jacket, sturdy gardening gloves, first aid kit, insect repellents, long-sleeved shirt/t-shirt, trousers, socks, etc. Gorilla trekking activity is a very safe safari made, done year in, year out. All you need is to strictly obey, respect and observe the set and briefed about rules and regulations and you will incredibly enjoy your Primate adventure or Safari.