Best Places to See Gorillas in Africa – Kilimanjaro Trekking

If your planning to see gorillas in Africa then select gorilla trekking adventures that will avail you with the unique experience of gorilla watching and climb to Mount Kilimanjaro with the right reliable tour operator that offers gorilla safaris in Africa and mountaineering adventures.

Gorillas, the largest of the great apes, are a captivating and majestic species that draw wildlife enthusiasts from around the globe. These gentle giants are known for their striking resemblance to humans, exhibiting a range of emotions and social behaviours that are both intriguing and endearing. Africa is home to two species of gorillas: the eastern gorilla and the western gorilla, each with distinct subspecies. These magnificent creatures inhabit the dense forests, rugged mountains, and lush lowlands of the continent. Observing gorillas in the wild not only offers an unparalleled adventure but also supports conservation initiatives that are crucial for their survival.

For those looking to embark on a gorilla trekking adventure, Africa presents a variety of incredible destinations. Each offers a chance to get up close and personal with these extraordinary primates while contributing to their protection and the preservation of their habitats. Here are nine exceptional places in Africa where you can witness gorillas in their natural surroundings.

PLACES WHERE TO SEE GORILLAS IN AFRICA

1. BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its biodiversity, dense forests, and most notably, its population of mountain gorillas. Covering an area of 331 square kilometres, the park is one of Africa’s oldest and most biologically diverse rainforests, dating back over 25,000 years.

Type of Gorilla: Bwindi is home to the endangered mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei). These majestic primates are a significant draw for tourists, conservationists, and researchers alike. The park hosts nearly half of the world’s mountain gorilla population.

Cost for the Permit: Gorilla trekking & Habituation permits in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. It is essential to book permits well in advance due to high demand and limited availability. Priced as follows (as of 2024):

• Foreign non-residents: $800 per person while Habituation permit is $1500
• Foreign residents: $700 per person while Habituation permit is $1000
• Rest of Africa: $500 per person while Habituation permit is $1000
• East African community citizens: UGX 350,000 per person while Habituation permit is UGX 750,000

Sectors: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is divided into four main sectors for gorilla trekking:

• Buhoma: The northern sector, popular for its accessibility and variety of lodges.
• Ruhija: The eastern sector, known for its challenging terrain and rewarding experiences.
• Nkuringo: The southern sector, offers steep but exciting treks.
• Rushaga: Also in the south, it has the highest number of habituated gorilla families.

Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are during the dry seasons. These periods offer more manageable trekking conditions, although gorilla trekking is possible year-round.

• June to August
• December to February

How to Get to the Park

By Road:

• From Kampala: Bwindi is approximately an 8–10-hour drive from Kampala, the capital city of Uganda.
• From Queen Elizabeth National Park: The park is about a 2–3-hour drive.

By Air:

• Charter flights are available from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips, which are the closest to Bwindi.

Where to Stay: Accommodation options in Bwindi cater to a range of budgets and preferences, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites.  Visitors can choose accommodations based on their trekking sector to minimize travel time to the starting points. Some notable options include:

• Luxury Lodges: Gorilla Forest Camp, Buhoma Lodge, Mahogany Springs Lodge.
• Mid-Range Lodges: Silverback Lodge, Haven Lodge, Engagi Lodge.
• Budget Accommodation: Buhoma Community Rest Camp, and other local guesthouses.

2. MGAHINGA GORILLA NATIONAL PARK

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in the southwestern corner of Uganda, is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area that spans Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Covering 33.7 square kilometers, it is Uganda’s smallest national park. Despite its size, Mgahinga is rich in biodiversity and home to the endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. The park is dominated by three volcanic mountains: Mount Muhavura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabinyo.

Type of Gorilla: Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei). The park’s habituated gorilla group, known as the Nyakagezi group, is known for its unique cross-border habits, sometimes moving between Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Sectors: Unlike Bwindi, Mgahinga does not have multiple sectors. The park is compact and primarily known for the Nyakagezi gorilla group, which visitors track from the park’s main entrance.

Cost for the Permit: Gorilla trekking permits in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are priced as follows (as of 2024):

• Foreign non-residents: $800 per person
• Foreign residents: $700 per person
• Rest of Africa: $500 per person
• East African Community citizens: UGX 350,000 per person

Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are during the dry seasons:

• June to August
• December to February

How to Get to the Park

By Road:

• From Kampala: The park is approximately a 10-hour drive from Kampala.
• From Kabale: Mgahinga is about a 2-hour drive from Kabale, a major town in southwestern Uganda.

By Air:

• Charter flights are available from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to Kisoro Airstrip, which is the closest airstrip to Mgahinga.

Where to Stay: Accommodation options near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park range from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites. These accommodations provide convenient access to the park and offer various amenities to suit different preferences and budgets.

• Luxury Lodges: Mount Gahinga Lodge.
• Mid-Range Lodges: Lake Chahafi Resort, Kisoro Tourist Hotel.
• Budget Accommodation: Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp, Kisoro Travelers Rest Hotel.

3. VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK

Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwestern part of Rwanda, is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area that also includes parks in Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Covering 160 square kilometres, it is known for its dramatic landscape of volcanic mountains and dense rainforest. The park is famously associated with Dian Fossey, whose work with mountain gorillas brought global attention to their conservation.

Type of Gorilla: Volcanoes National Park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei). The park’s habituated gorilla families offer visitors an extraordinary opportunity for close encounters with these primates.

Sectors: The park is divided into several sectors, each associated with different habituated gorilla families available for trekking. Key gorilla families and sectors include:

• Susa Group (Susa A): Known for being the largest group and the one Dian Fossey studied.
• Karisoke Group: Includes the gorilla groups near the Karisoke Research Center.
• Sabyinyo Group: A relatively accessible group, good for less strenuous treks.
• Amahoro Group: Known for its peaceful nature, the name means “peace” in Kinyarwanda.
• Kwitonda Group: Named after a dominant silverback, known for migrating from DRC.
• Hirwa Group: Famous for its twins.
• Agashya Group: Also known as Group 13, easy to reach and good for shorter treks.
• Bwenge Group: Featured in the movie “Gorillas in the Mist”.
• Ugenda Group: Known for its mobility and large territory.

Cost for the Permit: Gorilla trekking permits in Volcanoes National Park are priced as follows (as of 2024):

• Foreign non-residents: $1,500 USD per person

Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Volcanoes National Park are during the dry seasons:

• June to September
• December to February

These periods offer more comfortable trekking conditions, although gorilla trekking is available year-round.

How to Get to the Park

By Road:

• From Kigali: The park is approximately a 2–3-hour drive from Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda. The route is scenic, passing through beautiful Rwandan countryside.

By Air:

• The nearest international airport is Kigali International Airport. From there, visitors typically take a road transfer to the park.

Where to Stay: Accommodation options near Volcanoes National Park range from luxury lodges to mid-range and budget-friendly options:

• Luxury Lodges: Bisate Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One & Only Gorilla’s Nest and Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
• Mid-Range Lodges: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge and Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
• Budget Accommodation: Kinigi Guest House, Garden Place Hotel and Amahoro Guest House

These lodges and guesthouses provide a range of amenities and services to suit different preferences and budgets, ensuring a comfortable stay close to the park.

4. VIRUNGA NATIONAL PARK

Virunga National Park, located in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is Africa’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Established in 1925, the park spans 7,800 square kilometres and is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, ranging from savannas, swamps, and lava plains to the glaciated peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains. It is part of the Virunga Conservation Area, which also includes parks in Uganda and Rwanda.

Type of Gorilla: Virunga National Park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei). The park also hosts the eastern lowland gorillas (Gorilla beringei graueri), making it unique in having two subspecies of gorillas within its boundaries.

Sectors: The park is divided into several sectors, each offering distinct wildlife experiences:

• Gorilla Sectors:
  • Bukima: Known for mountain gorilla trekking. The main base for gorilla trekking activities.
  • Mikeno: Near the park headquarters at Rumangabo, also a base for gorilla treks.
• Volcano and Rwenzori Sectors:
  • Nyiragongo Volcano: Famous for its active lava lake and challenging hikes.
  • Rwenzori Mountains: Known for its alpine vegetation and diverse landscapes.
• Lowland Gorilla Sectors:
  • Tshiaberimu: Habitat for eastern lowland gorillas.

Cost for the Permit: Gorilla trekking permits in Virunga National Park are priced as follows (as of 2024):

• Mountain gorilla trekking: $400 USD per person

Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Virunga National Park are during the dry seasons:

• June to September
• December to February

These periods offer more comfortable trekking conditions. However, the park can be visited year-round, and each season offers unique experiences.

How to Get to the Park

By Road:

• From Goma: Virunga National Park is accessible from Goma, which borders Rwanda. Goma is approximately a 3-hour drive from Kigali, Rwanda. From Goma, it’s a short drive to the park’s main entrances.

By Air:

• The nearest international airport is Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. From Kigali, visitors can drive to Goma and then proceed to the park.
• Domestic flights are available to Goma from Kinshasa, the capital of DRC.

Where to Stay: Accommodation options in and around Virunga National Park range from luxury lodges to mid-range and budget-friendly options:

• Luxury Lodges:
  • Mikeno Lodge: Located at the park headquarters in Rumangabo, offers luxurious cottages.
  • Bukima Tented Camp: Close to the starting point for gorilla treks, provides a comfortable and immersive experience.
• Mid-Range Lodges:
  • Kibumba Tented Camp: Located near the Nyiragongo Volcano, offers comfortable accommodations for trekkers.
  • Lulimbi Tented Camp: Situated in the savannah plains of the park, great for wildlife viewing.
• Budget Accommodation:
  • Nyiragongo Volcano Summit Shelters: Basic shelters for those trekking to the volcano’s summit.
  • Various guesthouses in Goma: Options like Ihusi Hotel and Lac Kivu Lodge provide comfortable stays in Goma before heading to the park.

These accommodations provide a range of amenities and services to suit different preferences and budgets, ensuring a comfortable stay close to the park.

5. KAHUZI-BIEGA NATIONAL PARK

Kahuzi-Biega National Park is located in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), near the western bank of Lake Kivu and the Rwandan border. Established in 1970, the park covers approximately 6,000 square kilometers and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is named after two extinct volcanoes, Mount Kahuzi and Mount Biega, and is known for its rich biodiversity, including one of the last remaining populations of eastern lowland gorillas (Gorilla beringei graueri).

Type of Gorilla: Kahuzi-Biega National Park is home to the endangered eastern lowland gorillas (Gorilla beringei graueri), also known as Grauer’s gorillas. These gorillas are larger than their mountain gorilla relatives and are distinguished by their unique habitat preferences in the lowland rainforests and mid-altitude forests.

Sectors: Kahuzi-Biega National Park is divided into two main sectors:

• Lowland Sector: The larger part of the park, covering extensive lowland rainforests and providing habitat for the eastern lowland gorillas.
• Highland Sector: Located around Mount Kahuzi and Mount Biega, this area is known for its montane forests and diverse flora and fauna.

Cost for the Permit: Gorilla trekking permits in Kahuzi-Biega National Park are priced as follows (as of 2024):

• Eastern lowland gorilla trekking: $400 USD per person

Permits should be booked in advance due to the limited availability and high demand.

Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Kahuzi-Biega National Park are during the dry seasons:

• June to September
• December to February

These periods offer more favourable trekking conditions. However, gorilla trekking is possible year-round, with each season offering its own unique experiences.

How to Get to the Park

By Road:

• From Bukavu: Kahuzi-Biega National Park is approximately a 1-2 hour drive from Bukavu, a city on the southern shore of Lake Kivu.

By Air:

• The nearest international airport is Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. From Kigali, visitors can travel to Bukavu via road and boat. There are domestic flights from Kinshasa to Kavumu Airport, which is near Bukavu.
• From Kigali, travel by road to Cyangugu (the Rwandan town bordering Bukavu) and then cross into DRC via the Rusizi Border Post.

Where to Stay: Accommodation options in and around Kahuzi-Biega National Park range from luxury lodges to mid-range and budget-friendly options:

• Luxury Lodges:
  • L’Orchidée de Plateau: A comfortable hotel in Bukavu offering modern amenities.
  • Coco Lodge: Another high-end accommodation option in Bukavu with scenic views of Lake Kivu.
• Mid-Range Lodges:
  • Hotel Begonias: Located in Bukavu, this hotel offers good facilities and easy access to the park.
  • Panorama Hotel: Provides comfortable accommodations with great views of Lake Kivu.
• Budget Accommodation:
  • Exodus Hotel: A budget-friendly option in Bukavu, providing basic amenities for travellers.
  • Various guesthouses in Bukavu: There are several local guesthouses that offer affordable stays for budget-conscious travellers.

These accommodations provide a range of amenities and services to suit different preferences and budgets, ensuring a comfortable stay close to the park.

6. MAIKO NATIONAL PARK

Maiko National Park, located in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is one of the most remote and least accessible national parks in the country. Covering approximately 10,885 square kilometers, it was established in 1970 to protect its rich biodiversity. The park is characterized by dense tropical rainforest and is known for its unique wildlife, including several endangered species.

Type of Gorilla: Maiko National Park is home to the eastern lowland gorillas (Gorilla beringei graueri), also known as Grauer’s gorillas. These gorillas are larger than their mountain gorilla relatives and inhabit the lowland and mid-altitude forests of the park.

Sectors: Maiko National Park is divided into three main sectors:

• Southern Sector: Known for its dense rainforest and diverse wildlife.
• Central Sector: The heart of the park, with challenging terrain and rich biodiversity.
• Northern Sector: Characterized by its remote and pristine forest areas.

Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Maiko National Park are during the dry seasons:

• June to September
• December to February

These periods offer more favourable conditions for trekking and wildlife viewing. However, due to the park’s remote nature and security concerns, it is crucial to plan visits carefully and stay updated on the current situation.

How to Get to the Park

By Road:

• Access to Maiko National Park is extremely challenging due to poor infrastructure and security concerns. Travel by road is difficult and often requires off-road vehicles and guides familiar with the terrain.

By Air:

• The nearest major town is Kisangani, which has an airport with connections to Kinshasa and other cities in the DRC. From Kisangani, reaching the park involves a combination of road and river travel, often requiring several days.

Note: Due to the remote location and security issues, it is highly recommended to coordinate with local tour operators and the ICCN for safe travel arrangements.

Where to Stay: Accommodation options in and around Maiko National Park are extremely limited due to its remote and undeveloped nature. Visitors typically need to camp or stay in very basic accommodations. Here are a few options:

• Camping: Given the lack of established lodges or hotels within the park, visitors often camp. It’s essential to bring all necessary camping equipment and supplies.
• Local Villages: Some travelers may find basic lodging or homestays in nearby villages. However, these are very rudimentary and lack modern amenities.
• Kisangani: For those traveling through Kisangani, there are a few hotels and guesthouses, such as the Hotel Kisangani and Palm Beach Hotel, which offer basic accommodations before or after the journey to Maiko.

7. ODZALA-KOKOUA NATIONAL PARK

Odzala-Kokoua National Park is located in the Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) in Central Africa. Covering an area of over 13,000 square kilometers, the park is known for its diverse ecosystems, including tropical rainforests, rivers, savannas, and marshes. It is part of the Congo Basin, one of the world’s largest tropical rainforests and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Type of Gorilla: Odzala-Kokoua National Park is home to the western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla). These gorillas are a distinct subspecies from the eastern lowland gorillas found in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Sectors: The park is divided into several sectors or zones, each offering unique wildlife experiences and habitats:

• Lango Bai Zone: Known for its open swampy clearings (bais) where wildlife gathers, including forest elephants, gorillas, and various bird species.
• Mboko Zone: Features riverine forests and savannas, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and activities like boat safaris.
• Ngaga Zone: Known for its dense rainforests and research camps focusing on gorilla conservation.

Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Odzala-Kokoua National Park are during the dry seasons:

• June to September: This period offers drier conditions, making it easier to navigate through the forest and observe wildlife.
• December to February: Another dry season, ideal for exploring the park and its diverse ecosystems.

How to Get to the Park

By Air:

• The primary gateway to Odzala-Kokoua National Park is through Maya-Maya Airport in Brazzaville, the capital of Congo-Brazzaville.
• From Brazzaville, visitors typically take a domestic flight to Ouesso, the nearest town to the park. From Ouesso, transfers are arranged to the park by road or sometimes by boat.

Where to Stay: Accommodation in Odzala-Kokoua National Park is primarily offered by eco-lodges and camps operated by conservation organizations and tour operators:

• Ngaga Camp: Located in the Ngaga Zone, offers comfortable accommodations and guided tours focusing on gorilla conservation.
• Mboko Camp: Situated in the Mboko Zone, provides river views and opportunities for boat safaris and wildlife viewing.
• Lango Camp: Located near the Lango Bai Zone, offers accommodations and guided activities focusing on wildlife observation, including gorilla tracking.

These camps typically provide full-board packages including meals, guided activities, and transfers within the park. They are designed to minimize environmental impact while offering guests a comfortable and immersive experience in the heart of the Congo Basin rainforest.

8. DZANGA SANGHA NATIONAL PARK

Dzanga Sangha National Park is located in the southwestern corner of the Central African Republic, adjacent to the Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) and Cameroon. This remote and pristine national park is part of the Sangha Tri-National Protected Area Complex, which also includes parks in Congo-Brazzaville and Cameroon. Dzanga Sangha National Park is known for its diverse ecosystems, including tropical rainforests, rivers, and bais (forest clearings).

Type of Gorilla: Dzanga Sangha National Park is home to the western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla). These gorillas are a distinct subspecies from the eastern lowland gorillas found in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Sectors: The park does not have distinct sectors like some other parks but offers various areas for wildlife viewing and research, including:

• Dzanga Bai: A large clearing where forest elephants, gorillas, and other wildlife gather to drink and feed.
• Dzanga-Ndoki: The larger ecosystem that includes the park, known for its diverse flora and fauna.

Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Dzanga Sangha National Park are during the dry season:

• December to February: This is the driest period, making it easier to navigate through the rainforest and observe wildlife.
• July to September: Another dry season when wildlife viewing, including gorilla trekking, is ideal.

How to Get to the Park

By Air:

• The primary gateway to Dzanga Sangha National Park is through Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic. From Bangui, travellers typically take a domestic flight to Bayanga, the nearest town to the park.
• From Bayanga, transfers are arranged to the park by road or sometimes by boat, depending on the season and accessibility.

Where to Stay: Accommodations in Dzanga Sangha National Park are typically provided by eco-lodges and camps operated by conservation organizations and tour operators:

• Sangha Lodge: Located near the park, offers comfortable accommodations and guided tours focusing on gorilla trekking, bird watching, and other wildlife activities.
• Doli Lodge: Another option for accommodations near Dzanga-Ndoki National Park, providing a base for exploring the area’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife.

These lodges and camps are designed to provide a blend of comfort and immersion in the rainforest environment, offering guided activities and full-board packages including meals, transfers, and wildlife experiences.

9. LOANGO NATIONAL PARK

Loango National Park is located on the Atlantic coast of Gabon, in Central Africa. Covering an area of approximately 1,550 square kilometers, it is known for its diverse landscapes, including pristine beaches, mangroves, savannas, and rainforests. The park is renowned for its unique combination of terrestrial and marine habitats, offering opportunities to observe wildlife in both settings.

Type of Gorilla: Loango National Park is not known for gorilla trekking. Instead, it is famous for its populations of forest elephants, hippos, and diverse bird species. The park’s conservation efforts primarily focus on protecting these and other wildlife species within its boundaries.

Sectors: The park is not formally divided into sectors like some other national parks. Instead, it offers various habitats and ecosystems that visitors can explore, including:

• Lagoon and Estuary: Known for its picturesque landscapes and diverse marine life.
• Rainforest: Home to a variety of wildlife, including primates, forest elephants, and birds.
• Savannas: Offering opportunities for wildlife viewing, including antelopes, buffalo, and birds.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Loango National Park is during the dry season:

• June to September: This period offers drier weather and more favourable conditions for wildlife viewing and exploring the park’s diverse landscapes.

How to Get to the Park

By Air:

• The primary gateway to Loango National Park is through Libreville, the capital of Gabon. Libreville International Airport serves as the main entry point for international flights.
• From Libreville, visitors can take a domestic flight to Port-Gentil, the second-largest city in Gabon and a hub for accessing the park.
• From Port-Gentil, transfers to Loango National Park are typically arranged by road or boat, depending on the route and accessibility.

Where to Stay: Accommodations in Loango National Park are provided by lodges and eco-camps that offer a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets:

• Loango Lodge: Located within the park, offers comfortable accommodations and guided tours focusing on wildlife viewing, boat safaris, and cultural experiences.
• Sette Cama Camp: Situated near the park, provides rustic accommodations and access to guided activities such as hiking, bird watching, and river excursions.

These lodges and camps aim to provide guests with a unique experience of Gabon’s natural beauty and wildlife, combining comfortable stays with opportunities to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems and engage in conservation efforts.