The best places to see gorillas in Africa include Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Odzala-Kokoua National Park in the Republic of Congo and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

1. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Mountain gorillas in Rwanda can be seen in the iconic Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwestern corner of the country in a small town of Musanze.

Volcanoes National Park is the oldest park in Africa, hosting a big population of mountain gorillas with about 178 individuals and 10 habituated gorilla groups of varying size, ranging from 11 to 33 family members.

For history lovers you can follow in the footsteps of American primatologist and conservationist Dian Fossey, who famously studied the “Gorillas in the mist” – The title of her book and film) here and brought worldwide attention to the importance of their conservation.

The newly established Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, the multi-acre, eco-friendly facility adjacent to the Volcanoes National Park includes three main buildings that is the Sandy and Harold Price Research Center, the Rob and Melani Walton Education Centre, and the Cindy Broder Conservation Gallery, as well as housing for visiting students and researchers. The Ellen Campus now serves as a gateway to conservation for the many stakeholders with whom we work, helping to create the next generation of conservationists.

Volcanoes National Park is easily accessible, just 3-hour drive from Kigali International Airport on well-maintained roads. This convenience, combined with its luxurious hotels and lodges boasting top-notch amenities, makes it a preferred location for gorilla trekking in Africa.

The cost of a gorilla permit in Rwanda is USD 1,500 per person per trek as of 2025.

2. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda

Uganda is renowned as the best gorilla trekking destination in Africa, boasting the world’s largest population of endangered mountain gorillas. With over half of the remaining mountain gorillas residing within its borders, Uganda offers two incredible gorilla trekking destinations that is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers a wider variety of gorilla families with over 19 habituated groups and trekking trails to suit different preferences and fitness levels. 

In addition to gorilla trekking, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers an immersive gorilla habituation experience where you get to spend 4 hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family as they become accustomed to human presence.

A gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs USD $ 800 and gorilla habituation experience costs USD $ 1,500.

3. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the second gorilla trekking destination in Uganda located in Virunga Massif. Mgahinga is the smallest park in Uganda located in Southwestern Uganda encompassing of inactive volcanoes of Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga and Mount Sabinyo.

The park hosts one habituated gorilla family – Nyakagezi, this gorilla family is known for being mobile with tendencies of moving to the forests of Rwanda and Uganda but in the recent years they have settled in Mgahinga.

A gorilla trekking permit in Mgahinga costs USD $ 800 per person.

4. Kahuzi Biega National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo

The Democratic Republic of Congo is a budget friendly destination for intrepid travelers seeking to see gorillas in Africa. Despite the on-going political challenges, the country boasts sufficient tourist infrastructure to support gorilla trekking, making it a unique and rewarding destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

The DR.Congo is the only country in the world where you can encounter all three subspecies of gorillas that is western lowland, eastern lowland and mountain gorillas. This diversity offers a range of gorilla trekking in Africa experience to suit different preferences.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park – home to the eastern lowland gorillas also known as Grauer’s gorillas. These gentle giants inhabit the forests and swamplands southwest of the Virunga Volcanoes National Park.

Virunga National Park – The Park is renowned for its incredible mountain gorilla trekking experiences, located on the DRC side of the Virunga Mountains. Virunga National Park can be accessed from Uganda via Kisoro or by flight through Goma Town.

5. Odzala – Kokoua National Park, The Republic of the Congo (Congo Brazzaville)

The Republic of Congo also known as Congo – Brazzaville is a hidden gem for adventurous travelers seeing a unique gorilla trekking experience in Africa. The country’s vast, unexplored rainforests reserves and a thriving population of over 125,000 western lowland gorillas, this gorilla destination offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the African wilderness.

The 5.  Odzala – Kokoua National Park is the best place for gorilla trekking experience in the Republic of the Congo. Visitors can embark on daily treks with small, intimate groups accompanied by expert trackers and guides.

6. Dzanga – Sangha National Park, Central Africa Republic (CAR)

Dzanga – Sangha National Park located in the heart of the Central African Republic (CAR), offers a truly wild and immersive gorilla trekking experience. This remote rainforest sanctuary is home to two of the only three habituated western lowland gorilla groups, making it a prime destination for tourists seeking an off-the-beaten-path gorilla adventure in Africa.

Dzanga – Sangha National Park boasts one of the highest concentrations of western lowland gorillas and forests elephants in the world. Embark on an unforgettable journey through the dense jungle, where you can track these endangered primates alongside bongos and managey monkeys.

Exploring the untouched wilderness of Central Africa Republic’s southern tip is not without its challenges. However, the rewards are immense.

All the destinations listed above will offer you the best gorilla trekking experience in Africa. Join our journeys to the see gorillas in Africa, check out our packages.

Best Time to see Gorillas in Africa

Gorilla trekking in Africa is a year-round activity, but like any rainforest. It is easier to trek in the dry seasons which are mid-December to early February and June to September. Park rangers track the group’s movements year round. So if you mind muddy boots the opportunities are still there when rains come down, just bring your most waterproof gear (pants, jacket, warm hat, and you will be totally comfortable).

In the wet season, the air is crystal clear, so you will find great views of the Volcanoes and gorillas tend to hang out on the lower slopes of the mountain.