Gorilla trekking is widely considered one of the most profound and humbling wildlife experiences in Africa, offering a rare opportunity to observe endangered gorillas in their natural rainforest habitats. Mountain gorillas are found in only three countries, all within the Virunga Massif volcanic range and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Here are the best destinations for mountain gorilla trekking in Africa:

Mountain Gorilla Trekking Destinations

1. Uganda: The “Pearl of Africa”

   Uganda is often lauded as the top destination for mountain gorilla trekking, boasting over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. It offers two distinct trekking locations. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a dense, ancient rainforest known for its incredible biodiversity and hosts the largest number of habituated gorilla families across its four main sectors. Treks here can be quite challenging due to the thick undergrowth and hilly terrain. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, part of the Virunga Massif, offers a more intimate trekking experience, often with less strenuous hikes. Mgahinga is also unique as the only place in Uganda where you can additionally track the endangered golden monkeys.

   • The permit cost in Uganda (as of June 2025) is USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents, generally making it a more affordable option than Rwanda.

2. Rwanda: The “Land of a Thousand Hills”

   Rwanda offers a more luxury and convenient gorilla trekking experience, easily accessible from Kigali International Airport. Volcanoes National Park, nestled among the mist-shrouded Virunga Volcanoes, is famous as the setting for Dian Fossey’s pioneering research. It provides a more structured trekking experience, with generally shorter and less arduous hikes compared to Bwindi, appealing to those with limited time or fitness concerns. The stunning volcanic scenery adds to its dramatic appeal.

   • The permit cost in Rwanda (as of June 2025) is USD 1,500 per person for foreign non-residents. This higher price point contributes significantly to gorilla conservation and community development initiatives.

3. Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): The Adventurous Frontier

   While politically less stable and generally more challenging to access, the DRC offers the most budget-friendly mountain gorilla permits and a truly raw, adventurous experience. Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to a significant mountain gorilla population. Treks here offer incredible encounters amidst stunning volcanic landscapes. However, due to ongoing security concerns in certain regions, it’s crucial to check the latest travel advisories and park security updates before planning a visit. The park also features the active Nyiragongo volcano, offering a unique multi-day adventure combined with gorilla trekking.

   • The permit cost is historically around USD 400 per person, making it the most affordable for mountain gorillas.

Choosing Your Gorilla Trekking Destination

When deciding where to trek, consider these factors:

• Cost: Uganda offers the most affordable mountain gorilla permits, followed by the DRC. Rwanda is the most expensive.
• Convenience: Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is the most easily accessible, with a short drive from Kigali.
• Physicality: Trekking in Bwindi, Uganda, can be the most physically demanding, while Rwanda and Mgahinga might offer easier treks.
• Overall Experience: Rwanda provides a more luxurious and polished experience. Uganda offers a more rustic and diverse safari package. The DRC is for the truly adventurous seeking a raw, off-the-beaten-path experience.

Regardless of your chosen destination, gorilla trekking is an emotionally powerful and unforgettable journey, providing a direct link to the wild and critically contributing to the conservation of these magnificent primates.