Mountain gorillas are one of the few great apes whose population is increasing, partly due to successful conservation. Ecotourism generates revenue for protection but requires careful management to protect gorilla health and minimise behavioural disturbance.
Mountain gorillas that develop respiratory infections from tourist contact experience significant welfare harm. Habituation to humans for ecotourism purposes creates permanent behavioural changes that alter natural ranging and social behaviour. Well-managed habituated gorilla groups show high reproduction rates, suggesting the welfare cost of ecotourism is outweighed by the conservation benefit when strict protocols are followed. Poorly managed ecotourism creates disease risk and behavioural stress without adequate conservation return.