Gorilla and Chimpanzee tracking rules: Both gorilla and chimpanzee tracking can be enjoyable but yet also turn out to be a disaster if you dont respect and adhere to the set Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking rules we are about to list below.
All these Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking rules are built around providing the guest a safe experience whilst also ensuring the animals are visited with respect and their day to day activity left untampared with.
- Always follow your guide’s instructions and guidelines.
- Both Gorillas and chimpanzees are very susceptible to human diseases. Never visit if you are ill and turn away if you need to cough.
- If you need to go to the toilet, speak to your guide who will then help you dig a hole in the ground. Its your responsiblity to ensure you properly cover it up after use. If left poorly covered or completely left uncovered, gorillas & chimps could get diseases from your feces.
- Always keep the recommended distance (at least 7 meters / 30 feet) between you and the primates. Always listen to your guides instruction in regards to how to behave when the animals approach so close. For example, if a gorilla charges at you, your guide might instruct you to stay still or slowly bend down. Always remember not to look the gorillas and chimpanzee directly in the eyes, and alway give them way to pass first.
- Don’t use a flash when photographing. Flash photography often does stress the animals and also could cause blindness to nocturnal species.
- Don’t talk or laugh too loud. Just like you would not want a guest coming into your home and making noise for you, the gorillas and chimpanzee too would appreciate some quite.
- Stay close to your guide and group. The guide is more experienced and familiar with the animals behaviour and is able to interpret animal behaviour and also advise you on what to do.
- Never block the path of chimps or gorillas when they are walking. Who visits your home and stands in your door way unless they are challenging your authority.
- Never take food or drink close to chimps or gorillas. Often your guide will advise you on when to leave your daypack behind with the trackers as you approach the animals.
- Watch where you put your feet while walking in the forest. Tracking both gorillas and chimpanzees is on uneven grounds, which do get slippery in the rainny season so ensure watch your steps while you walk.
- In the forest, cover your arms and legs to avoid nettles and use insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes. The repellent should contain at least 30% DEET (more DEET is even better).
- Wear a hat, use sunscreen, and drink plenty of water.
- Bring good waterproof clothing and a waterproof bag for your camera and other belongings.
The list of gorilla and chimpanzee traking rules mentioned here should be treated as a guide to adquately preparing and packing the right stuff for your adventure. Being under prepared could ruin your experience.
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