Where to See Gorillas in East Africa

Few wildlife experiences compare to the heart-stirring moment when you lock eyes with a mountain gorilla in its natural habitat. These gentle giants, sharing about 98% of our DNA, are among the rarest primates on earth—found only in a few select regions of East and Central Africa.
If gorilla trekking is on your travel bucket list, East Africa offers two of the best destinations on the planet: Uganda and Rwanda.

At Jango Gates Adventures, we take you deep into the lush rainforests and misty mountains where these magnificent creatures thrive. Here’s your complete guide on where to see gorillas in East Africa and what makes each destination unique.

1. Uganda – The Pearl of Africa

Uganda is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it the ultimate destination for gorilla trekking in East Africa. The country’s gorillas live in two key protected areas—Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park—both offering an unforgettable wilderness experience.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bwindi is one of the most biodiverse forests in Africa. The park shelters more than 20 habituated gorilla families that travelers can trek. The experience involves hiking through thick vegetation, crossing streams, and climbing forested hills—but when you finally meet a gorilla family, every step feels worth it.

Each trek allows a precious one hour of observation time, during which you can watch gorillas feed, groom, and interact in their natural surroundings. The sound of their deep grunts and the sight of a silverback watching over his family is a memory that lasts a lifetime.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Located in the Virunga Mountains, Mgahinga offers a more exclusive experience. The park is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family, known for its playful and relaxed nature. Trekking here is complemented by stunning scenery—the backdrop of volcanic peaks makes for some of the most breathtaking photos in East Africa.

Beyond gorillas, visitors can enjoy golden monkey tracking, hiking Mount Sabyinyo, or cultural visits with the Batwa pygmies, an indigenous community that once lived in the forest.

At Jango Gates Adventures, our Uganda gorilla safaris combine wildlife encounters with rich cultural and scenic experiences, ensuring every moment of your journey feels meaningful.

Best time to visit Uganda: June–September and December–February (dry seasons with clearer trails).

2. Rwanda – The Land of a Thousand Hills

If you’re looking for a more accessible and luxury-oriented gorilla trekking experience, Rwanda is the ideal choice. The country’s Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwest near the town of Musanze, is home to about a dozen habituated gorilla families.

Rwanda’s gorilla trekking is well-known for being organized, safe, and eco-conscious. The park’s bamboo forests are easier to navigate than the dense jungles of Bwindi, making it a great option for travelers who prefer a shorter hike.

The park is also rich in history—it’s where the famous primatologist Dian Fossey conducted her groundbreaking research on gorillas. Trekking through these misty slopes feels like stepping into her legacy, with incredible views of the Virunga volcanoes all around.

Rwanda’s commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism is remarkable. A portion of every gorilla trekking permit supports local communities and ensures gorilla protection for generations to come.

Jango Gates Adventures offers both standard and luxury gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda, featuring comfortable lodges, professional guides, and the opportunity to explore nearby attractions such as Lake Kivu and Nyungwe Forest National Park for chimpanzee tracking.

Best time to visit Rwanda: June–September and December–February (ideal trekking conditions).

3. The Virunga Region – A Shared Gorilla Habitat

While Uganda and Rwanda are the most popular gorilla trekking destinations in East Africa, the broader Virunga Conservation Area extends into the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

In Virunga National Park, you can also track mountain gorillas in their pristine rainforest habitat. The park is less visited, making it perfect for adventurous travelers seeking solitude and raw wilderness. Although it’s technically part of Central Africa, its proximity to Uganda and Rwanda makes it accessible for cross-border tours.

At Jango Gates Adventures, we occasionally organize guided trips into Virunga for experienced travelers—always ensuring safety and collaboration with local conservation teams.

What Makes Gorilla Trekking in East Africa Special?

1. High Conservation Standards:
   Both Uganda and Rwanda have strict rules limiting the number of visitors per gorilla group, ensuring minimal disturbance and sustainable encounters.
2. Breathtaking Landscapes:
   From Rwanda’s rolling volcanic hills to Uganda’s misty forests, gorilla trekking combines wildlife with spectacular scenery.
3. Cultural Connections:
   Meeting local communities such as the Batwa in Uganda or the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village in Rwanda adds a human dimension to your adventure.
4. Ease of Access:
   Kigali and Entebbe airports serve as convenient gateways, and Jango Gates Adventures can arrange seamless transfers and cross-border itineraries.

Essential Tips for Gorilla Trekking in East Africa

• Secure your permit early:
  Permits are limited—only eight visitors are allowed per gorilla group each day.
• Pack for the jungle:
  Bring waterproof boots, long-sleeved shirts, gloves, and a rain jacket.
• Stay fit:
  Trekking can take 2–6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location.
• Respect the gorillas:
  Keep a 7-meter distance, avoid flash photography, and remain quiet.
• Travel responsibly:
  Choose eco-friendly operators like Jango Gates Adventures that support conservation and community development.

Book Your Gorilla Safari with Jango Gates Adventures

At Jango Gates Adventures, we design tailor-made gorilla trekking safaris that immerse you in the wild beauty of East Africa. Whether you want to explore the misty mountains of Rwanda, the lush jungles of Uganda, or both, we ensure every part of your journey is seamless—from permits to professional guides and comfortable lodges.

Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience tracking gorillas in their natural home. Feel the magic of the forest, connect with nature, and witness one of the world’s most powerful wildlife encounters.