The Ultimate Guide to Seeing Gorillas in Africa

Are there gorillas in africa?

Yes, gorillas can be found in Africa in five countries; Rwanda, Uganda, Central African Republic, the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo. They can be found in rainforests, grasslands, montane and bamboo forests, savannas, and swamps.

Gorillas live in family groups as large as 120 individuals but, more commonly, about 9 to 10. These groups are led by a silverback male who aggressively defends his troop from external threats. African gorillas are vital for their immense ecological value, providing seed dispersal, nutrient recycling and vegetation management.

They are incredibly important for biodiversity, with their large range and ability to inhabit a variety of ecosystems. Tourists visiting Africa should ensure they do so responsibly and adhere to local regulations as gorillas are endangered and facing the threat of extinction.

Best places to see Gorillas in Africa

If you’re a nature lover, exploring African countries to catch a glimpse of gorillas can be the experience of a lifetime. From the enchanting Virunga Mountains spanning the borders of Uganda, DRC, and Rwanda to the wild and thrilling Central African Republic, there are numerous places to experience these majestic creatures. Read on to learn more about the best destinations and experiences for spotting gorillas on the African continent.

Rwanda: Home of the Land of a Thousand Hills

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is home to more than 600 mountain gorillas. It offers ten tracking groups, including the Susa group which resides high up on Mount Karisimbi, making it a prime destination for adventurous mountain gorilla safaris. Despite its high cost of US$1500 per permit, the park offers super-luxury accommodations which attract thousands of visitors to Musanze, the main town for gorilla safaris in Volcanoes National Park, each year.

Uganda: Home of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda is home to 13 groups of gorilla and boasts about 400 gorillas. Unlike neighboring Rwanda, Uganda’s permits are much cheaper: US$600. What’s more, the park offers a Gorilla Habituation Experience, where visitors can get an intimate glimpse into the intriguing process and spend up to four hours with the semi-habituated group.

Democratic Republic of Congo: Home of Both Mountain and Lowland Gorillas

The Democratic Republic of Congo, or DRC, houses both mountain and lowland gorillas, making it a great destination for intrepid travelers. Virunga National Park is home to four groups of mountain gorillas and five thousand Grauer’s gorillas, the biggest of the species, which can be found in Kahuzi-Biega National Park. DRC offers gorilla permits at a low cost of US$400.

Congo Brazzaville: Home to Western Lowland Gorillas

Congo Brazzaville, or Republic of Congo, is a peaceful country which makes for a great destination for experiencing western lowland gorillas. Odzala-Kokoua National Park offers one of the most exclusive experiences with just four people allowed to track the habituated group. The park is also home to Neptune, a charismatic silverback gorilla.

Central African Republic: Home of the Dzanga-Sangha Special Reserve

One of the wildest and most thrilling destinations for seeing gorillas is the Central African Republic. Dzanga-Sangha Special Reserve, which lies within the Sangha Trinational Reserve, boasts the highest concentration of western lowlanders and forest elephants. This destination is suited to more experienced travelers who don’t mind facing a few hardships in order to spot these majestic creatures.

What part of Africa has the most gorillas?

The Congo Basin of Central Africa is home to the majority of the world's gorilla population, with eastern lowland gorillas in particular making up the majority of the gorilla population in this region.

Destinations in Africa Without Gorillas

There are no gorillas in the following countires: Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe. Most African safari companies combine wildlife safaris with gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda.

Masai Mara & Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park.
Serengeti Tanzania Safari & Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda.
Botswana Safari & Gorilla Tours in Rwanda
Tanzania Safari & Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda & Bwindi

Conclusion

Africa is the ultimate destination for gorilla lovers, as it houses a wide variety of species and prime habitats. From the majestic mountain gorillas of the Virunga Mountains to the thrills of the raw and wild Central African Republic, there is a gorilla safari for every traveler’s budget, sense of adventure, and desired experience. Plan a thrilling Safari and embark on the opportunity of a lifetime to catch a glimpse into the wild and wondrous world of these magnificent creatures.