Best Places Where to See Gorillas in Africa. They include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Kahuzi Biega National Park and Virunga National Park. These are the most incredible destinations where to see gorillas in Africa.
Africa's mountain gorillas are perhaps the most majestic creatures you'll ever encounter in the wild! Imagine standing just a few meters away from these magnificent primates, watching them interact, play, and live in their natural habitat. Every year, thousands of wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to where to see gorillas in Africa, creating memories that will last forever. Did you know that mountain gorillas are critically endangered, with only around 1,063 individuals left in the wild? This makes your potential gorilla trekking experience not just a vacation, but a critical contribution to conservation efforts.
Our Popular Packages
3 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda
3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking Safari in Nyungwe Forest, Rwanda
4 Days Nyungwe Forest National Park and Lake Kivu Safari
4 Days Golden monkeys And Gorilla Trekking Safari
5 Days Amboseli and Tsavo West Wildlife Safari
6 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Route
8 Day Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Zanzibar
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
Uganda Gorilla Trekking Permits cost $800 per person, $700, UGX 300,000 for Foreign Non-residents, Foreign residents and East African Citizens respectively
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is arguably the most famous destination for gorilla trekking in Africa. Located in southwestern Uganda, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to nearly half of the world's remaining mountain gorillas. Where to see gorillas in Africa becomes crystal clear when you explore Bwindi's lush, dense forests. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park covers approximately 321 square kilometers of incredibly biodiverse terrain, offering visitors an immersive experience in one of the most remarkable ecosystems on the planet.
The best time to visit Bwindi is during the dry seasons from June to August and December to February. Trekking is approximately 3-4 hours from Entebbe International Airport, with a scenic drive that takes you through stunning Ugandan landscapes. Visitors should wear sturdy hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts and pants, and bring waterproof jackets. Accommodation options range from luxury lodges like Bwindi Lodge to more budget-friendly options in nearby towns like Bwindi and Rushaga.
Beyond mountain gorilla trekking, visitors can explore local Batwa communities, enjoy bird watching with over 350 bird species, and take nature walks that reveal the park's incredible biodiversity. Where to see gorillas in Africa isn't just about the gorillas it's about experiencing an entire ecosystem teeming with life and wonder.
Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permits cost $1,500 per person, $500 and $200 for Foreign Non-residents, Foreign residents and East African Citizens respectively
Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park offers another extraordinary destination for where to see gorillas in Africa. Located in the northwest of Rwanda in Musanze, this park is part of the larger Virunga Mountains range that spans Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Where to see gorillas in Africa becomes an incredible adventure in this park, which is home to 12 habituated mountain gorilla groups.
The optimal trekking period is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February. Volcanoes National Park is conveniently located just a 2-hour drive from Kigali International Airport. Trekkers should prepare with similar clothing to Bwindi – sturdy hiking boots, long pants, and layers for changing mountain temperatures. Luxury accommodations like Bisate Lodge provide exceptional experiences, while more affordable options exist in nearby villages.
Additional activities include golden monkey tracking, hiking to Dian Fossey's grave, and visiting local communities like the Ibyiwacu Cultural Village. The park's commitment to conservation and community development makes where to see gorillas in Africa not just a wildlife experience, but a holistic cultural journey.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda
Uganda Gorilla Trekking Permits cost $800 per person, $700, UGX 300,000 for Foreign Non-residents, Foreign residents and East African Citizens respectively
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers a unique and intimate where to see gorillas in Africa experience. Located in southwestern Uganda, this smaller park is part of the Virunga Mountains and provides a more exclusive gorilla tracking opportunity. Where to see gorillas in Africa can often feel crowded, but Mgahinga offers a more serene alternative with fewer visitors.
Best visited during dry seasons from June to August and December to February, the park is approximately 4 hours from Entebbe International Airport. Trekkers should dress similarly to other mountain gorilla destinations – sturdy hiking gear, layers, and waterproof clothing. Accommodation options include lodges in nearby towns and more rustic options for adventurous travelers.
Beyond gorilla trekking, visitors can enjoy golden monkey tracking, volcano hiking, and cultural experiences with the local Batwa community. Where to see gorillas in Africa isn't just about the animals, but the entire ecological and cultural landscape.
Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo
Virunga Gorilla Trekking Permits cost from $400-$500 per person
Due to ongoing political instability and security concerns, gorilla trekking is currently not advised in Virunga National Park. Local authorities anticipate potential reopening in late 2025 or early 2026, depending on the resolution of current political challenges. Travelers interested in where to see gorillas in Africa should currently focus on Ugandan and Rwandan parks for safe and reliable experiences.
Note: Currently Not Recommended for Gorilla Trekking
Kahuzi Biega National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo
Kahuzi Biega Gorilla Trekking Permits cost $400-$500 per person.
Kahuzi Biega National Park offers a unique where to see gorillas in Africa experience, focusing on eastern lowland gorillas rather than mountain gorillas. Located in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, this park provides a different perspective on gorilla conservation and wildlife viewing. Where to see gorillas in Africa can mean exploring diverse gorilla subspecies, and Kahuzi Biega is perfect for those seeking a less conventional experience.
Currently, due to regional instability, careful research and guided tours are recommended. The best times to visit are during dry seasons, typically from June to September. Accommodation and access require careful planning and professional tour operator assistance.
Visiting the Best Places Where to See Gorillas with Dav Safaris
Choosing the right safari operator can transform your gorilla trekking experience from good to extraordinary. Dav Safaris specializes in creating personalized, responsible wildlife experiences across Uganda and Rwanda. Our expert guides, commitment to conservation, and deep local knowledge ensure that your journey to where to see gorillas in Africa becomes a meaningful, unforgettable adventure.
When planning your gorilla trekking expedition, remember that these experiences are more than just a vacation they're a critical contribution to wildlife conservation. By choosing responsible tourism, you support local communities and help protect these incredible primates for future generations.
Contact Our Team of travel experts to start planning your gorilla trekking experience today.