Updated
Ebola is a serious threat to great apes. Outbreaks in Gabon and the Republic of Congo in the 1990s and 2000s killed thousands of western lowland gorillas and chimpanzees, in some areas the majority of the population. Mountain gorillas have never been recorded with Ebola, and protecting them depends on strict health rules for visitors, close monitoring by vets, and rapid response when outbreaks occur in people nearby.
Why Ebola is so dangerous to gorillas
Gorillas are closely related to us and can catch many human diseases. Ebola spreads through contact with bodily fluids, and in gorilla groups, where members groom and touch closely, it can wipe out entire families. Because gorillas reproduce slowly, populations take decades to recover from heavy losses.
How mountain gorillas are protected
Visitors must keep about 7 m away, wear face masks near the gorillas when asked, and are refused if they are sick. Visits are limited to one hour and eight people per family. Vets from organisations such as Gorilla Doctors and Uganda Wildlife Authority monitor the health of habituated families, and trackers report any signs of illness daily. See our guide to Gorilla Doctors.
When Ebola affects Uganda
Uganda has had several human Ebola outbreaks, most recently in 2026, which the World Health Organization declared over on 27 August 2026. During outbreaks, health screening at borders and parks increases, and travel advice may change. Check current government advice before travelling. See our guides to Ebola and travel to Uganda and safety in Uganda.
What visitors can do
Do not trek if you have any symptoms of illness, follow mask and distance rules, wash or sanitise your hands, and do not leave food or rubbish in the forest. The gorilla permit costs US$800, or US$600 in April, May and November. Read about gorilla health and disease.
Frequently asked questions
No cases have been recorded in mountain gorillas.
Yes, thousands of western lowland gorillas died in outbreaks in Gabon and Congo.
Through distance and mask rules, health checks, visit limits and veterinary monitoring.
Follow current government and WHO advice for the affected areas.
