Do Gorillas Greet?

Social Interaction and the Art of Gorilla Greetings

It is uncommon to observe mountain gorillas acknowledge one another, but they have been observed to touch their noses and occasionally embrace one another.

Gorillas employ 22 unique noises to convey a variety of emotions.

Vocalizations are the primary method of communication among gorillas, and the silverback is the individual who frequently produces these vocalizations.

Mountain gorillas that are newborns employ a variety of vocalizations to communicate with their mothers, including whimpering, screaming, and sobbing.

In the same way as humans, gorillas employ all of their senses, including hearing, sensing, and touching.

Silverbacks have the ability to emit a highly specific scent that can be detected by other members of the group from a distance of several meters, thereby warning them of peril without the use of sound.

In order to maintain mutual awareness of their locations, adult gorillas can emit approximately eight vocalizations per hour, particularly during travel.

These vocalizations can be categorized as growls, barks, hoots, and numerous other variations. Additionally, gorillas employ facial expressions and body postures to communicate their emotions.

Trekking gorillas

Gorilla trekking has become one of the most sought-after activities in Africa, with thousands of travelers visiting each year to interact with their relatives.

The mountain gorillas are the most frequently encountered species of gorillas and are located in Virunga National Park in Congo, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is the most popular destination for gorilla trekking in Uganda.

Gorilla trekking necessitates spending several hours journeying through montane rainforests where gorillas reside. Upon locating a gorilla family, visitors are granted an hour to observe and capture photographs.

When preparing for gorilla trekking, it is essential to have the following items: waterproof hiking footwear, garden gloves, a sufficient supply of drinking water, insect repellent, long-sleeved, warm clothing, and, most importantly, physical fitness, as some families relocate to the forests’ higher elevations.

Gorilla Permits

The cost of traversing mountain gorillas will be contingent upon the country from which you obtain your permit. Rwanda charges $1500 for gorilla trekking, while Congo charges $400 during the prime season and $200 during the low season. Uganda charges $800 for gorilla trekking.

Permits must be acquired in advance, preferable 3-6 months in advance, particularly during the peak season.