What to do when a gorilla charges at you. Gorilla trekking is one of the most thrilling and sought-after wildlife experiences in Africa. Among the various primate species, mountain gorillas stand out due to their size, strength, and captivating behavior. Despite their intimidating size, mountain gorillas are generally peaceful creatures. However, they may display signs of aggression if they feel threatened or if their families are in danger. Understanding how to respond when a gorilla charges at you is essential for ensuring your safety and enhancing your trekking experience.

Where to See Mountain Gorillas

Mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei) can only be found in a few protected national parks in East and Central Africa. These include:

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda

• Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda

• Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

Each of these parks offers regulated gorilla trekking experiences where visitors are guided into the dense forests in search of gorilla families.

The Gorilla Trekking Experience

Gorilla trekking involves hiking through lush, often rugged terrain while tracking signs such as gorilla nests, droppings, and broken vegetation. Trekkers are organized in small groups—usually no more than eight people—and are led by experienced park rangers or guides. Once a gorilla family is located, visitors are allowed to spend up to one hour with them to minimize stress on the animals.

Typically, a silverback, the dominant male, leads a gorilla group, which may include multiple females, juveniles, and babies. The silverback is responsible for protecting the group, choosing their feeding spots, and responding to any potential threats.

Why Do Gorillas Charge?

Though gorillas are gentle by nature, they may charge or act aggressively under certain circumstances. Reasons for this include:

• Loud noises made by trekkers

• Sudden movements that appear threatening

• Invasion of personal space

• Territorial disputes, especially between males

• Protecting family members from perceived threats

When gorillas feel endangered, particularly the silverback, they may respond by grunting, hooting, beating their chest, and standing upright. These displays are usually warnings rather than immediate attacks.

How to Respond If a Gorilla Charges

Knowing how to behave during a gorilla charge can make the difference between a memorable encounter and a dangerous situation. Here are the most important tips:

1. Stay Calm and Crouch Down

If a gorilla charges at you, your first reaction should be to remain calm. Do not run or make any sudden movements. Instead, crouch down to make yourself appear smaller and non-threatening. This behavior signals to the silverback that you are not a rival or a danger to the group.

2. Back Away Slowly

While staying low, gently and slowly move away from the charging gorilla. Avoid turning your back or making fast movements, as this could provoke an actual attack. In some cases, pretending to be uninterested—such as by looking away or inspecting leaves—can help de-escalate the situation.

3. Follow Your Guide’s Instructions

Park rangers are trained professionals who understand the behaviors and temperaments of individual gorilla families. Before your trek begins, you will receive a briefing on how to behave around gorillas. During an encounter, always follow your guide’s instructions, especially if a gorilla starts showing signs of aggression.

4. Avoid Eye Contact

Staring directly into a gorilla’s eyes is seen as a challenge or act of aggression. If a gorilla is charging or acting aggressively, avert your gaze and look down or to the side. This shows submission and helps prevent escalation.

5. Imitate Gorilla Behavior (As a Last Resort)

In very rare cases, if a gorilla gets extremely close and all other techniques fail, you may be advised to imitate gorilla behavior. This includes:

• Showing your teeth and roaring back to mimic a gorilla’s warning behavior

• Thumping your chest lightly to show dominance or familiarity

• Pretending to eat vegetation or lie down to appear as a non-threat

These actions should only be done under the guidance of a trained ranger or if you’re in immediate danger.

6. Maintain a Safe Distance

Always keep a 7-meter distance from the gorillas during the trek. Do not attempt to touch them—even if they come close to you. Respecting their space reduces the likelihood of aggressive behavior.

Gorilla Trekking Permits and Costs

To participate in gorilla trekking, you must purchase a gorilla permit, which allows entry and access to the gorilla families. Prices vary by country:

• Uganda: USD 600–800 per person

• Rwanda: USD 1,500 per person

• Democratic Republic of the Congo: USD 400 per person

These fees contribute to conservation efforts, ranger salaries, and community development around the national parks.

Safety First, Always

Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering close encounters with one of the world’s most majestic and endangered species. However, it’s important to remember that gorillas are still wild animals, and their behavior can be unpredictable—especially when they feel threatened.

By following the rules and guidelines provided by park authorities and your guides, and by understanding how to respond if a gorilla charges, you’ll not only protect yourself but also contribute to the welfare and conservation of these gentle giants.

Whether you’re trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, or the Congo, your adventure with the mountain gorillas will be both safe and unforgettable—as long as you show them the respect they deserve.