Where to See Gorillas in Africa

Gorilla trekking in Africa is up there as one of our top bucket list experiences. Gorillas exhibit human-like emotions, including laughter and sadness, and are skilled at crafting tools to navigate their forest homes. With a genetic similarity of 98.3%, they are our closest relatives after chimpanzees and bonobos!

We will guide you through the best places to see gorillas in Africa, specifically Rwanda, Uganda and the Republic of the Congo. If you're already ready to book your vacation. or if you'd like to chat to an expert who has experienced this odyssey first-hand, get in touch, and we'll pair you with a dedicated guide.

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda

A true rainforest adventure. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda is teeming with captivating wildlife and rare flora. In fact, the rich biodiversity found in this lush jungle is regarded as one of the best in Africa.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to roughly half of the world's mountain gorilla population, providing an incredible opportunity for encounters with these gentle giants. The dense tropical rainforest and mist-shrouded mountains create a mystical atmosphere during your gorilla trek.

Find out where to stay in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

2. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Located in the Virunga Mountains, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is a prime destination for gorilla trekking. The trek through the lush forest is an awe-inspiring experience.

What makes Volcanoes National Park even more special is its historical connection to pioneering primatologist Dian Fossey, renowned for her groundbreaking work with gorillas. This park served as her base and was the very setting for her famous book, Gorillas in the Mist. Here, you also have the opportunity to pay your respects at Fossey's grave.

"In the heart of Central Africa, so high up that you shiver more than you sweat, are great, old volcanoes towering up almost 15,000 feet, and nearly covered with rich, green rainforest—the Virungas." - Dian Fossey

Find out where to stay in Volcanoes National Park.

3. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in the Virunga Mountains and is contiguous with the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga offers a chance to see the mountain gorillas as well as the captivating golden monkeys.

Find out where to stay in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda, Uganda or the Republic of Congo all offer the amazing opportunity to see gorillas in the wild, while contributing to the conservation of their natural habitat. To learn more about gorilla trekking, check out our guide on all you need to know about gorilla trekking.

Ready to book your gorilla safari? Mahlatini's travel experts will create a custom itinerary for you to ensure your gorilla trekking vacation is luxurious, safe, and comfortable.