Gorilla trekking in Africa is one of the most profound wildlife experiences on the planet. It offers a rare opportunity to observe our closest relatives in their natural habitat, deep within the lush forests of Central and East Africa. With four subspecies of gorillas spread across different regions, each trekking destination offers a unique adventure shaped by geography, conservation efforts, and the gorillas themselves.
Gorilla Species and Subspecies in Africa
There are two main species of gorillas:
1. Eastern Gorilla (Gorilla beringei)
– Mountain Gorilla (G. b. beringei)
– Eastern Lowland Gorilla / Grauer’s Gorilla (G. b. graueri)
2. Western Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla)
– Western Lowland Gorilla (G. g. gorilla)
– Cross River Gorilla (G. g. diehli)
Mountain Gorilla Trekking
Where to Trek:
– Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
– Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park
– DR Congo: Virunga National Park
Highlights:
– Uganda offers the largest population of mountain gorillas and is more affordable (permits around $800).
– Rwanda is high-end and well-organized, with permits at $1,500.
– DR Congo provides a raw and adventurous experience, often combined with hiking Nyiragongo Volcano.
Physical Traits:
– Smaller than eastern lowland gorillas
– Thicker, longer fur for cold mountain climates
– Average male weight: ~195 kg
– Dark coat, pronounced jaw and teeth
Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking
Mugaruka, a eastern lowland gorillas that lost his hands in a snare has become a solitary silverback gorilla. This is in Kahuzi Biega National Park
Where to Trek:
– DR Congo: Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Maiko National Park
Highlights:
2024, One of Kwafrika Travel Customer after Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi Biega National Park
– Largest of all gorilla subspecies
– Trekking in Kahuzi-Biega offers intimate encounters with habituated gorillas
– Less visited, making it a hidden gem for gorilla trekking in Africa
Physical Traits:
– Heavier and larger than mountain gorillas (males ~210 kg)
– Shorter, lighter fur
– Smaller nose and teeth
– Found in lowland tropical forests
Western Lowland Gorilla Trekking
Where to Trek:
– Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville): Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Lesio-Louna Reserve, Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park
– Cameroon, Gabon, CAR, Equatorial Guinea
Highlights:
– Most numerous subspecies (estimated 100,000–200,000 individuals)
– Odzala-Kokoua offers exclusive, remote treks
– Lesio-Louna focuses on rehabilitated gorillas
– Nouabalé-Ndoki is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Physical Traits:
– Smaller than eastern gorillas
– Reddish hair on the head
– Slender build, shorter limbs
– Highly social, live in smaller groups
Cross River Gorilla Trekking
Where to Trek:
– Nigeria and Cameroon (border region)
Highlights:
– Rarest gorilla subspecies (fewer than 300 individuals)
– Lives in fragmented habitats, making trekking difficult
– Conservation efforts are ongoing, but tourism is limited
Physical Traits:
– Similar to western lowland gorillas but more reclusive
– Smaller population, highly endangered
Comparing Gorilla Trekking Destinations
| Country | Gorilla Species/Subspecies | Permit Cost (USD) | Trekking Terrain | Best For |
| Uganda | Mountain Gorilla | $800 | Dense rainforest | Budget travelers, biodiversity |
| Rwanda | Mountain Gorilla | $1,500 | Volcanic slopes | Luxury, ease of access |
| DR Congo | Mountain & Eastern Lowland | $400–$500 | Varied terrain | Adventure, diversity |
| Congo-Brazzaville | Western Lowland Gorilla | Included in package | Rainforest, swamps | Remote, exclusive treks |
Latest Gorilla Population Estimates (2025)
– Mountain Gorilla: ~1,063 individuals
– Eastern Lowland Gorilla: ~3,800–8,000 individuals
– Western Lowland Gorilla: ~100,000–200,000 individuals
– Cross River Gorilla: <300 individuals
Conclusion
Gorilla trekking in Africa is more than just a safari, it’s a journey into the heart of the continent’s most pristine ecosystems and a chance to connect with one of our closest relatives. Whether you choose the misty mountains of Uganda, the luxurious trails of Rwanda, the wild frontiers of DR Congo, or the untouched rainforests of Congo-Brazzaville, Kwafrika Travel has got you. Each of those destinations offers a unique window into the lives of these majestic primates.
January 2025 : Kahuzi Biega National Park with a group of American Visitors
Start planning your gorilla trekking in Africa today—and be part of a conservation story that continues to inspire the world.