Gorilla tracking in Odzala is the result of a structured habituation program initiated in 2011 by the Mbeli Bai Study and WCS research teams, later managed under African Parks in collaboration with the Congo Conservation Company (CCC).
As a result of the work done by gorilla researchers Dr Magda Bermejo and German Illera, two habituated groups can be tracked and observed in the area around Ngaga Camp. In this extended 30 km2 (11.5 square miles) area there are at least seven groups totalling perhaps 105 individual gorillas. Two of these groups are usually accessed by our guests while a third is observed as a control group for research purposes. Other unhabituated groups are also seen on a regular basis.
Three gorilla groups near Ngaga Camp have been habituated for visitor access.
These groups are part of a western lowland gorilla subpopulation that has been continuously observed for over a decade.
Habituation is achieved through daily non-invasive contact and behavioural conditioning over several years. Chest prints, facial features, and locomotor behaviour identify individuals.
Given that Ngaga Camp is situated at an overlap between the home ranges of different gorilla groups,tracking expeditions do not necessarily cover enormous distances and can range in length from 1-8km (0.5-5 miles) over undulating country. The undergrowth can be thick however and, including the time spent with a gorilla group, excursions can last between 2 and 8 hours.
Gorilla viewing protocol is based on the guidelines issued by the IUCN for great ape viewing and is very similar to that of Rwanda/Uganda. Protocols are designed specifically to limit stress and behavioural impact and also potential disease transmission from humans to gorillas. They are critical for gorilla conservation.
• Minimum age for gorilla viewing is 15 years – this is for reasons of safety but also for possible disease transmission, with children under this age more prone to infection.
• Maximum proximity to gorillas is 7 metres (22 feet). It is not permitted to approach more closely and we typically view the animals at 10-15m (32-50 feet).
• Maximum viewing duration of any group is 1 hour per day.
• Maximum number of guests per gorilla tracking excursion is 4, plus a guide and local tracker for a maximum group size of six.
• Guests that display cold, flu or other respiratory tract symptoms will not be allowed to track gorillas.
• No food or drinks can be consumed close to on the gorillas but guides will carry water and snacks for rest breaks. Smoking is not allowed. Hand washing facilities are provided at Ngaga Camp prior to gorilla tracking.
• While gorilla sightings and encounters are very reliable, viewing is dependent on variables such as weather and tracking conditions.
• Every group of guests will have two opportunities to track gorillas; although every effort will be made to successfully track them, gorilla viewing is not guaranteed.
What the Experience Involves
Gorilla tracking begins early in the morning after a safety briefing by guides. Groups depart from Ngaga Camp and enter the secondary forest on foot.
Tracking duration varies with gorilla movement and can range from 1.5 to 4 hours.
Visitors spend a regulated maximum of 1 hour with a habituated group, observing behaviour from a distance of 7 meters or more.
Guides are trained in behavioural interpretation, risk assessment, and low-impact observation protocol.
Sightings may include feeding, play behaviour, grooming, or silverback chest-beating. Vocalisations and infant social learning are also frequently observed during stationary moments.
Logistics and Safety
Each tracking group is limited to four guests, accompanied by a lead tracker, an armed ranger, and a bilingual guide.
Guests must be in moderate physical condition due to uneven terrain and occasional low visibility.
Face masks are mandatory to reduce disease transmission. During the wet season, waterproof boots and gaiters are strongly recommended.
Photography is allowed but without flash. Drones and sound-recording equipment are prohibited.
Permit and Access Control
Gorilla tracking is managed exclusively through Congo Conservation Company (CCC). Independent access is not available.
Permits are embedded into full-board multi-day itineraries that include lodging at Ngaga, Lango, and Mboko Camps.
Permit capacity is capped to prevent disturbance and ecological stress. Bookings are essential, often 6 to 12 months before travel, depending on seasonality.
Pricing structures include conservation levies. As of 2024, total gorilla tracking costs range from USD 450 to USD 600 per day, inclusive of guiding and logistics.