Popular Gorilla Havens on an African Safari

For wildlife enthusiasts, visiting Africa’s gorilla habitats offers an unforgettable experience. Trekking through lush forests to observe these gentle giants in their natural environment provides both thrilling adventure and emotional connection. Here are the most popular gorilla destinations across Africa:

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park is Africa’s most famous gorilla trekking destination, largely due to its association with Dian Fossey, the renowned primatologist of Gorillas in the Mist fame. The park protects Rwanda’s portion of the Virunga Mountains, a chain of stunning volcanoes covered in bamboo forests and dense greenery.

Visitors can track 12 different gorilla families, with the most well-known being the Susa group on Mount Karisimbi, studied extensively by Fossey. While gorillas are wild and constantly on the move, some groups are easier to follow as they roam lower slopes.

The main drawback of Rwanda is the high cost of gorilla permits, which are priced at $1,500 for international tourists. Residents of Rwanda and other East African countries pay $200, while other African passport holders pay $500. Despite the cost, luxury lodges near the park offer world-class experiences, making Rwanda a prime destination for high-end safaris.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is Uganda’s premier gorilla destination, home to roughly 460 habituated gorillas across more than 25 family groups. The park’s organized trekking system ensures top-notch guides and trackers while supporting local communities.

Some gorilla families are easier to access than others, but hiking through Bwindi can be challenging, which is why it is aptly named “Impenetrable.” Gorilla permits here are significantly more affordable than in Rwanda, costing $800 for non-resident foreigners, $700 for foreign residents, $500 for other African passport holders, and $80 for East African citizens.

Uganda also offers a wider range of budget-friendly accommodations and additional attractions, making it an ideal choice for visitors planning longer stays.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda

Located along Uganda’s borders with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Mgahinga Gorilla National Park shares the breathtaking Virunga Mountains landscape. The park is home to a single habituated gorilla group, which makes permits highly sought-after.

Hiking conditions are relatively easier compared to Bwindi or Volcanoes, and trekkers can witness a remarkable coalition of three dominant silverbacks. Mgahinga also offers guided bird-watching trails, golden monkey trekking, and challenging day hikes to volcanic peaks.

Permits here are the same price as Bwindi, but the park is quieter and less crowded, providing a more intimate trekking experience.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo

The DRC is unique in hosting both mountain and eastern lowland gorillas. Security concerns forced the closure of Virunga National Park, but Kahuzi-Biega National Park remains open; it shelters around 250 eastern lowland gorillas—the only place in the world to see this species.

Trekking in Kahuzi-Biega allows visitors to observe gorillas in dense, untouched rainforest. The experience is adventurous and rare, appealing to serious wildlife enthusiasts willing to navigate the DRC’s challenging conditions.

Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Republic of Congo

For those seeking western lowland gorillas, Odzala-Kokoua National Park in the Republic of Congo (Congo Brazzaville) is the best destination. This park offers remote, pristine rainforest habitats with habituated gorillas accessible for trekking.

While the region’s isolation makes it a more expensive safari option, visitors benefit from small-group treks and rustic luxury accommodations, providing a unique and intimate wildlife encounter.

Africa’s gorilla destinations vary in accessibility, cost, and trekking difficulty, but all offer the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see these gentle giants in the wild. Choosing the right park depends on your budget, adventure level, and preferred safari experience.