Reasons For Spending One Hour With The Mountain Gorillas

However, one strict rule often catches visitors by surprise—each person is allowed only one hour with the gorillas.

At first, this time limit may seem too short, especially given the high cost of a gorilla permit. Yet, when you consider the reasons behind the restriction, it becomes clear that it serves a greater purpose.

In this article, we explain why that single hour is not only necessary but also incredibly valuable—for the well-being of the gorillas, the experience of the trekkers, and the success of long-term conservation efforts.

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Uganda
• Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Uganda
• Virunga National Park – Democratic Republic of Congo

These areas are located in the Virunga Massif and Bwindi Forest, which together support the entire global population of mountain gorillas—now over 1,050 individuals.

Why Only One Hour with Gorillas?

To Minimise Stress on the Gorillas

Mountain gorillas are wild and endangered. Despite being habituated to human presence, they remain sensitive animals. Prolonged exposure to humans can:

• Cause stress in gorilla groups, especially mothers and infants.
• Disrupt natural behaviours, such as feeding, grooming, or bonding.
• Lead to aggression or avoidance behaviours if boundaries are crossed.

By limiting contact to just one hour, conservation teams reduce the chance of human interference with the gorillas’ routine.

To Prevent Disease Transmission

One of the greatest threats to mountain gorillas is disease. They share 98% of their DNA with humans, making them highly vulnerable to common illnesses like flu, colds, and COVID-19.

Even if visitors feel healthy, they could still carry viruses. Limiting the interaction time to one hour helps reduce this health risk. Additionally, all guests must:

• Keep a 7–10 metre distance from the gorillas.
• Wear face masks (a rule strictly enforced during the COVID-19 pandemic).
• Avoid trekking if they show symptoms of illness.

What Happens During the One Hour?

Structured Observation for Maximum Impact

Although one hour sounds short, it’s well-organised and surprisingly fulfilling. Visitors get the opportunity to:

• Observe gorilla families in their natural habitat.
• Watch young gorillas play, while adults groom or feed.
• Take photos and record videos.
• Learn from experienced guides about gorilla behaviour and conservation.

This one hour is also long enough to create a lasting emotional connection with the gorillas—many visitors call it a life-changing experience.

Gorilla Permit Costs and Value

High Cost Justifies the Short Time

Gorilla trekking is not cheap. Permit prices vary by country:

• Rwanda: $1,500 per person
• Uganda: $800 per person
• Congo: $400 per person

Some tourists feel that one hour is too brief for such an expensive activity. However, the reality is that most of this cost supports:

• Ranger salaries
• Anti-poaching patrols
• Veterinary care for gorillas
• Local community development

So, while you get only one hour with the gorillas, your contribution has a long-term impact on conservation and community support.

Conservation and Protection Efforts

To Promote Responsible Tourism

The one-hour rule is part of a sustainable tourism model. Governments and wildlife authorities in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo have carefully crafted this rule to:

• Limit human impact on gorillas
• Ensure safe and ethical wildlife viewing
• Encourage respect for gorilla habitats

By following the one-hour guideline, travellers become active participants in responsible eco-tourism.

To Preserve Natural Behaviour

Longer contact could influence the gorillas’ actions and dependence on humans. Restricting interaction helps:

• Maintain their wild instincts
• Avoid making them too familiar with people
• Protect the integrity of gorilla social structures

Gorillas need to remain wild to thrive. The one-hour limit ensures minimal interference with their way of life.

Factors Influencing the Trek Duration

Varying Hike Times Already Add to the Day

While the actual gorilla viewing lasts just one hour, the full trekking experience often takes much longer. Depending on:

• The location of the gorilla group
• Weather conditions
• Your physical fitness

The hike can last anywhere between 30 minutes and 6 hours. This means you may spend most of the day trekking through dense forest, climbing hills, and navigating muddy terrain—a thrilling adventure on its own.

So, even though the gorilla viewing is timed, the entire experience is immersive and memorable.

Group Management and Fairness

To Ensure Equal Access for All

Authorities issue a limited number of permits per day. Typically, only 8 visitors are allowed per gorilla family. This strict scheduling allows multiple groups to visit different families without overcrowding or stress.

Limiting the time each group spends ensures that more travellers get the chance to enjoy the experience without overexposing the animals.

Community and Visitor Benefits

To Support Local Communities

Tourism from gorilla trekking supports surrounding communities. A portion of each permit fee goes to:

• Building schools and clinics
• Developing clean water systems
• Promoting conservation education
• Creating employment for guides and porters

The one-hour rule ensures a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, keeping the system fair and beneficial for both wildlife and people.

Conclusion: One Hour is Just Right

Although it may sound short, one hour with mountain gorillas is a carefully calculated and necessary limit. It balances:

• The well-being of the gorillas
• The safety and satisfaction of visitors
• The long-term goals of conservation and sustainability

Each minute spent with these majestic creatures is unforgettable. And by accepting the one-hour rule, you become part of a greater mission—to protect one of the world’s rarest animals for generations to come.

Planning Your Gorilla Trek?

Whether you’re heading to Rwanda, Uganda, or Congo, remember to:

• Book permits early (especially during peak seasons)
• Prepare physically for the trek
• Follow all health and safety guidelines
• Respect the one-hour rule—it exists for good reason

For more details on booking gorilla safaris, permit costs, and the best time to visit, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help you plan a truly life-changing adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is gorilla viewing time limited to just one hour?

The one-hour rule minimises stress on the gorillas, prevents disease transmission, and preserves their natural behaviour. It’s also part of ethical wildlife tourism practices.

2. Can I spend more than one hour with the gorillas?

Standard trekking permits allow only one hour. However, in Rwanda and Uganda, a few permits are available for gorilla habituation experiences, where visitors spend up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla group.

3. How close can I get to the gorillas during the trek?

You must maintain a minimum distance of 7 metres (21 feet). However, gorillas may sometimes move closer out of curiosity. In such cases, remain calm and follow your guide’s instructions.

4. Is one hour enough to enjoy the gorilla experience?

Yes. Most travellers find the hour deeply emotional and memorable. It allows ample time for observation, photography, and appreciating the gorillas’ behaviour.

5. What happens if it rains during my gorilla trek?

Trekking continues in all weather conditions unless it’s unsafe. Rain can make trails slippery, so pack waterproof gear and wear sturdy hiking boots.

6. How physically demanding is gorilla trekking?

Trekking can range from easy to strenuous depending on gorilla location, terrain, and weather. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.

7. Do gorillas ever attack tourists?

Mountain gorillas are generally gentle and shy. Aggression is extremely rare, especially when visitors follow rules and keep their distance.

8. What should I bring for the trek?

Essentials include:

• Hiking boots
• Rain jacket
• Long trousers and sleeves
• Garden gloves
• Reusable water bottle
• Camera (without flash)

9. How do I get a gorilla trekking permit?

Permits must be booked in advance through a registered tour operator or directly via the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), Rwanda Development Board (RDB), or Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature (ICCN).

10. Is gorilla trekking safe?

Yes. Experienced park rangers and guides ensure both your safety and that of the gorillas. The trek is well-organised and follows strict conservation guidelines.