Where to see gorillas in Africa is a question that leads you into the heart of the wild. In the misty forests, where sunlight dances through ancient trees, these gentle giants roam free. Their deep, knowing eyes tell a story of survival, of family, of a world untouched by time.

The journey to find mountain gorillas is not for the faint of heart. You will trek through dense jungle forests, your feet sinking into the damp earth, your breath mixing with the morning mist. The calls of the forest will guide you, leading you to a moment that will steal your breath away. Few experiences in the world rival the profound awe and exhilaration of locking eyes with a mountain gorilla in its natural habitat. The mist-covered forests of Africa cradle these gentle giants, offering an unparalleled opportunity to witness their raw power, deep familial bonds, and quiet intelligence. If you dream of embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking expedition, Africa’s diverse landscapes offer breathtaking sanctuaries for these magnificent creatures.

In this guide, GoWild Forever Journeys takes you to the best places where to see gorillas in Africa to witness the magic of gorillas in their natural home.

Top Destinations Where to See Gorillas in Africa

Where to See Gorillas in Uganda – Bwindi Impenetrable & Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks

Imagine standing in the heart of a dense, emerald-green, impenetrable forest, the sounds of nature surrounding you as you lock eyes with magnificent mountain gorillas. Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” is one of the few places on Earth where this breathtaking encounter is possible. With nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas residing here, Uganda offers one of the most intimate and awe-inspiring wildlife experiences on the planet. Unlike other gorilla trekking destinations, Uganda boasts affordability, high conservation standards, and a variety of trekking options, making it accessible to more travelers.

Uganda’s Mountain Gorillas live in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a sanctuary that perfectly embodies the untamed spirit of Africa. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, with over 20 gorilla families habituated and open to visitors in its four famous trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga. The thick forest, an untouched relic of the Ice Age, provides a mystical backdrop for this awe-inspiring experience.

The other destination to see gorillas in Uganda is the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where gold meets silver. Often overshadowed by its more famous counterpart Bwindi, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a hidden treasure offering an equally rewarding but more intimate gorilla trekking experience. Nestled in the Virunga Mountains, Mgahinga provides a breathtaking setting for close encounters with only one gorilla family, namely Nyakagezi gorilla family.

Where to See Gorillas in Rwanda – Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda is one of only three countries in the world that are home to some of the most remarkable and endangered creatures on Earth, the majestic mountain gorillas. If you’ve ever dreamed of an encounter with these awe-inspiring beings, there is no better place than Rwanda, where dense rainforests and misty mountains provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first adventure, the magic of these gentle giants awaits you.

Rwanda’s commitment to wildlife conservation and the protection of mountain gorillas ensures that these incredible creatures are safeguarded for future generations. As you venture into their habitat, you will not only witness one of nature’s most incredible sights, but you’ll also contribute to the preservation of this rare wildlife.

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is a crown jewel of gorilla trekking spots and conservation, drawing adventurers from across the globe. Located in the northwest corner of Rwanda in the Virunga Massif, this park is home to one-third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The experience of trekking through its emerald forests, guided by expert rangers, is both physically challenging and spiritually rewarding.

Where to See Gorillas in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is home to both mountain gorillas and eastern lowland gorillas.

Virunga National Park – Mountain Gorillas

Virunga National Park is an extraordinary choice for true adventurers seeking the road less traveled. Considered Africa’s oldest national park, it hosts a resilient population of mountain gorillas that share their habitat with Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla Park in the Virunga Massif. Virunga also features dramatic landscapes, including lava plains, dense rainforests, and the active Nyiragongo Volcano.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park – Encounter with Eastern Lowland Gorillas

Unlike the mountain gorillas of Rwanda, Uganda, and Virunga, Kahuzi-Biega National Park is home to the majestic eastern lowland gorillas. These larger, more muscular cousins of the mountain gorillas roam the bamboo forests and rolling hills of this lesser-known but equally remarkable park.

Best Time to See Gorillas in Africa

East Africa is blessed with a typically tropical climate, with a mix of long and short rainy seasons and two distinct dry periods each year. These weather patterns shape the unique experience you’ll have when visiting Bwindi. Although Gorilla trekking is possible year-round, the dry months of June to September and December to February are the best when rainfall is lower and trails are less muddy and remain passable, offering a more comfortable yet still exhilarating adventure.

The rainy seasons of March to May and October to November are occupied with high rainfall that keeps the gorilla trekking trails muddy and slippery. This makes gorilla treks tricky and sometimes harder. However, this is also the best time for budget-conscious visitors interested in a gorilla trekking trip as accommodation facilities are more affordable due to the few visitors.

Gorilla Trekking Permits

Gorilla trekking permits are limited and in high demand, so it is crucial to book in advance, and GoWild Forever Journeys is here to assist you in procuring the permit to trek in your preferred location. The price of a permit may seem steep, but it directly supports the conservation efforts and helps protect the gorillas’ habitat. Here are the current permit prices, subject to change.

• Rwanda: $1,500 per permit
• Uganda: $800 per permit
• Democratic Republic of Congo: $400 per permit

You can also opt for a habituation permit of $ 1,500, which allows you to visit a semi-habituated gorilla family with the trackers and researchers and spend up to four hours with the gorillas in the wilderness of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Rushaga Sector. The number of Gorilla Habituation permits is limited to only 4 permits per day. Therefore, you must book your permit as soon as you develop a dream to see the gorillas.

Gorilla trekking requires moderate to high physical fitness, as hikes can last between one to six hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family. Porters are available for hire to help carry bags and help to conquer the steep terrains during the hikes.

A gorilla trekking expedition in Africa is not just a wildlife encounter, it is a soul-stirring journey into one of the planet’s last wild frontiers. The privilege of witnessing these gentle giants in their untouched paradise is an experience that lingers long after the trek ends. Let GoWild Forever Journeys plan your trip today and explore the wonders of Africa’s Wilderness! Get in touch with our safari specialists Team to curate your Gorilla Trekking Adventure Safari tailored to fit all your safari desires. We plan with you and execute with you.