Are Gorillas in Congo Safe? Congo Safaris Tours
Are Gorillas in Congo Safe: This is a frequently asked question by first-time tourists who want to know if gorilla trekking in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is actually safe for both the gorillas and the visitor? Yes, it is correct! Gorillas in Congo’s Virunga and Kahuzi Biega national park. Furthermore, if certain measures are followed, gorilla trekking safaris in Congo are safe for everyone who likes to visit these loving gorillas, who are the most majestic species of ape.
Gorilla trekking in Congo is really secure, and you will always feel at peace when taking part in this amazing activity, as you will be able to see the adult male gorilla “silverback,” with its gigantic body size weighing up to 400 pounds and reaching over 6feet while standing.
It’s an exhilarating sensation to feel vulnerable when viewing these magnificent creatures in their natural environments. The facts about these species are that they are peaceful and intelligent apes with a friendly temperament that allows humans to see them in their natural environment up close. It is critical to remember that gorillas are wild creatures who seek their own freedom.
However, since gorillas are on the verge of extinction, their behaviors, such as agriculture and extensive poaching, are harming them, resulting in a shrinking population. There are now 1064 mountain gorillas remaining in the wild, and it is estimated that there are less than 4000 eastern lowland gorillas; however, there is some optimism that their numbers may increase. Because of specific groups that have stepped forward with donations to protect the existing national parks, Gorilla Treks remain safe.
Sustainable tourism might be a feasible approach for correcting this downward trend. Meeting these adorable monkeys in their natural habitat is not only a great pleasure, but it also helps to safeguard them.
Trackers and guides; the safety of guests planning to undertake mountain gorilla trekking is totally in the hands of experienced trackers and guides. Regardless of how dangerous the situation for mountain gorilla trekking may be, it is a legal requirement to be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide when out on a trip. Throughout the journey, park rangers ensure the safety of both guests and gorillas, and their insider knowledge of the group enhances the experience.
People who visit these critically endangered mountain gorillas are subject to strict procedures because gorilla trekking in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is safe and secure. Gorilla treks are conducted in groups of eight persons to avoid disturbing gorillas, with eight permits granted per group per day. Visitors spend only one hour with the gorillas to obtain an understanding of their lives.
Rules and Regulations to follow when doing Gorilla Trekking in Congo.
Because you will be accompanied by a guide who will always be on hand to provide help and support when in the presence of the gorillas, it is beneficial to have a briefing about gorilla trekking rules and regulations to follow prior to your gorilla trekking experience in Kahuzi Biega or Virunga national parks.
If you are among gorillas in Congo’s Virunga National Park, look into their eyes for a few moments, then take a little pause to savour the motion before pulling your gaze away from the gorilla’s eyes and glancing down. This shows the gorilla that you are not a threat and that you are having a good time gorilla trekking.
Visitors should keep a safe distance of six or seven meters (approximately 23 feet) from gorillas at all times. Because gorillas and humans share 98 percent of their DNA, they might easily transmit human diseases like covid19, cough, and other airborne infections. Furthermore, by keeping a safe distance from the mountain gorillas, we will avoid the spread of any human diseases that may afflict these remarkable species.
If a gorilla approaches you, keep your cool and let it go. And if you happen to be standing right next to a gorilla, just give him some space and let him do his thing. If the gorilla approaches you and sits, simply step away softly to restart the measuring distance you were given. But don’t worry if you’re not sure what to do; you’ll be supervised by the guide, who will continually watch you and teach you on the best approach to progress.
If you start coughing while hiking, avoid coughing into your arm. This prevents the gorillas from being infected with any illnesses you may be carrying. If you are unable to trek mountain gorillas due to illness, you may postpone your trip till you are healthy; otherwise, your money will be refunded.
If you come upon the gorilla family you were assigned to, try to remain quiet and go slowly by following your guide’s instructions. Gorillas are intelligent and gentle giants, yet they may be surprised and even angered if you approach them too closely or too rapidly.
During the trek, you’ll be shocked to hear your guide make a belching noise as they approach the gorillas—this isn’t a sign of low character; habituated gorillas comprehend language to indicate that they’re not a threat.
Overall, gorilla trekking in Congo is absolutely secure when you are accompanied by a trained guide with the proper attitude, and your experience with the mountain gorillas is really safe as you enjoy the journey and magnificent sights of them. Respect for the animals and the environment is the best way to enjoy the activity, and you will be rewarded with an extraordinary experience with one of the world’s rarest apes.
