Discover where to see mountain gorillas in Africa in 2026. Compare Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo for the best gorilla trekking experiences, permits, and expert travel advice.
Mountain gorillas are among the most iconic and endangered animals on the planet. Found only in a small region of Africa, they offer a rare and unforgettable wildlife experience.
If you are planning a trip to Africa in 2026, knowing where to see mountain gorillas in Africa is essential to making your journey both successful and meaningful.
This guide will help you understand the exclusive locations where mountain gorillas live, compare the key destinations of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and provide practical advice on planning your trek.
Whether you want a luxury safari, an adventurous expedition, or something in between, this comprehensive guide will help you find the perfect spot to see mountain gorillas in Africa.
Only Three Countries Where You Can See Mountain Gorillas in Africa
When planning your 2026 safari, it’s important to know that mountain gorillas inhabit only three countries in Africa: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This limited range makes seeing mountain gorillas in Africa an exclusive and highly sought-after experience.
These great apes live in high-altitude forests within a small region of the Albertine Rift. Their habitat includes misty mountains and dense bamboo forests, providing the perfect environment for their survival.
Due to their endangered status and specific habitat requirements, mountain gorillas cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
Each country offers a unique opportunity to see mountain gorillas in Africa. Uganda is home to the largest population of mountain gorillas and offers a variety of trekking experiences in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is famous for luxury gorilla safaris.
The DRC’s Virunga National Park offers an adventurous and raw trekking experience in a less-visited area.
Knowing exactly where to see mountain gorillas in Africa allows you to choose the destination that best fits your travel style, budget, and interests.
Top Destinations Where to See Mountain Gorillas in Africa
Uganda – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest & Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Uganda is home to the largest population of mountain gorillas in Africa, making it a premier destination for those seeking to see mountain gorillas in Africa.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, shelters over half of the world’s mountain gorillas. The dense forest offers an immersive trekking experience through steep, lush terrain.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, though smaller, also provides excellent gorilla trekking opportunities and is located in the southwestern corner of Uganda. Trekking permits in Uganda are generally more affordable compared to neighbouring countries, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
Uganda’s gorilla trekking experiences often include community visits that support local conservation efforts, allowing tourists to engage with and support the communities living alongside gorillas.
Rwanda – Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is renowned for its well-established gorilla trekking infrastructure and luxury safari options. This park, famously associated with Dian Fossey’s ground breaking conservation work, protects several habituated gorilla families that visitors can track.
The trekking experience here tends to be shorter and more accessible than in Uganda, due to the park’s manageable terrain and well-developed trails. Rwanda offers a high-end gorilla safari experience with comfortable lodges and excellent guiding services, appealing to travelers seeking convenience and comfort.
Despite the premium prices for permits and accommodation, Rwanda remains a leading destination for those looking to see mountain gorillas in Africa with ease and style.
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – Virunga National Park
Virunga National Park in the DRC is Africa’s oldest national park and one of the continent’s most adventurous destinations to see mountain gorillas in Africa. The park is home to both mountain gorillas and the rare eastern lowland gorillas.
Trekking in Virunga is often described as a raw and authentic experience, with fewer tourists than Uganda or Rwanda. Visitors can expect challenging hikes through volcanic landscapes and thick forest.
Due to ongoing security concerns, travelers must carefully plan and seek updated advice before visiting Virunga. However, those who do venture here are rewarded with exceptional wildlife encounters and the chance to support critical conservation work in a challenging environment.
Uganda vs Rwanda vs Congo — Which Is Best for Your Gorilla Trekking Safari?
As a trusted safari operator, we help you choose the perfect destination based on your preferences and priorities. When deciding where to see mountain gorillas in Africa, it’s important to understand what each country offers:
Cost
Uganda offers gorilla trekking permits at USD 800 per person (effective July 2024). This makes it an excellent option for travelers seeking an authentic experience with good value.
Rwanda’s permits are higher, around USD 1,500, reflecting its focus on luxury and top-tier services. The Democratic Republic of Congo’s permits are similar to Rwanda’s but may vary depending on logistics and security conditions.
Accessibility
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is the easiest to reach, with direct international flights to Kigali and well-maintained roads. Uganda’s parks — Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park — require longer drives on rougher roads but offer truly immersive trekking in pristine forests.
Congo’s Virunga National Park is the most remote, requiring careful planning and additional security arrangements.
Trekking Experience
Uganda’s trekking routes are often steep and challenging, rewarding adventurous travelers with deep forest immersion. Rwanda’s treks are shorter, more accessible, and suited for all fitness levels, with clear, well-marked trails.
Congo offers the most rugged and adventurous trekking, including volcanic terrain, but it’s recommended only for experienced, prepared travelers.
Safety and Infrastructure
Rwanda has a stable political environment and excellent tourism infrastructure, making it the safest and most convenient option for most visitors. Uganda is generally safe and has a growing safari industry with improving facilities.
Congo offers an extraordinary experience but carries security risks that require up-to-date travel advice and specialized guides.
Best Time to See Mountain Gorillas in Africa
When planning where to see mountain gorillas in Africa, understanding the best time to visit is key to a successful trekking experience. Fortunately, mountain gorilla trekking in Africa is available all year, but the timing affects trail conditions and wildlife activity.
Dry Seasons — The Best Time to See Mountain Gorillas in Africa
The dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, are widely considered the ideal times for mountain gorilla trekking in Africa.
During these months, trails are less slippery and easier to navigate, making your trek safer and more comfortable. If you want to optimize your chances of a close encounter while enjoying better hiking conditions, this is when you should plan your trip to see mountain gorillas in Africa.
Wet Seasons — A Different Way to See Mountain Gorillas in Africa
The wet or rainy seasons, from March to May and October to November, offer a quieter time to see mountain gorillas in Africa. While trails can be muddy and trekking more challenging, the forests are lush and vibrant, creating a beautiful backdrop for your gorilla experience.
Fewer tourists mean a more intimate connection with the gorillas, which some travelers prefer.
Planning Your 2026 Trip for the Best Gorilla Viewing
If you are serious about where to see mountain gorillas in Africa in 2026, booking your trek during the dry season is advisable for ease and comfort. However, the wet season offers a rewarding alternative with fewer crowds and spectacular scenery for those willing to brave the elements.
Gorilla Trekking Permits — What to Know in 2026
If you’re serious about where to see mountain gorillas in Africa in 2026, securing your gorilla trekking permits early is essential. Permits regulate the number of visitors to protect these endangered animals and their habitat, making them limited and in high demand.
Permit Prices by Country
- Uganda: As of July 2024, permits cost USD 800 per person. Uganda offers the largest gorilla population and excellent trekking opportunities in Bwindi and Mgahinga.
- Rwanda: Gorilla permits are priced at USD 1,500 each. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is known for luxury safaris and well-managed trekking experiences.
- Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): Permit prices generally align with Rwanda’s, but availability and prices can vary due to logistical challenges and security conditions.
Booking Tips for 2026
Because permits are strictly limited, we recommend booking at least 6 to 12 months in advance. Early booking ensures your preferred dates and trekking groups, especially during peak travel seasons.
Why Permits Matter
Permits are more than just tickets — they fund conservation efforts, anti-poaching patrols, and community programs that protect mountain gorillas and their forests. By purchasing your permit, you contribute directly to preserving these incredible animals for future generations.
What to Pack for a Mountain Gorilla Trek
Preparing properly is essential when planning where to see mountain gorillas in Africa. The right gear and mindset will help you enjoy the trek comfortably and safely.
Essential Gear for Gorilla Trekking
- Sturdy hiking boots: Trails can be steep and muddy, so reliable, waterproof boots are a must.
- Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing: To protect against insects and thorny vegetation.
- Rain jacket and waterproof pants: Weather can be unpredictable, especially in forested mountain areas.
- Gloves: Useful for gripping branches and protecting hands during the trek.
- Binoculars and camera: For wildlife viewing and capturing unforgettable moments.
Physical Preparation
Trekking to see mountain gorillas in Africa can be physically demanding. It’s advisable to build your stamina with regular walking or hiking prior to your trip. Most treks last between 2 and 8 hours, depending on the location and gorilla group.
What to Expect
Expect humid conditions, muddy paths, and occasional steep climbs. The reward is an intimate, one-hour encounter with a mountain gorilla family. Guides ensure your safety and a respectful distance from the gorillas, making the experience safe and unforgettable.
Gorilla Conservation & Responsible Tourism
When considering where to see mountain gorillas in Africa, it’s crucial to understand the role of conservation and responsible tourism. Gorilla trekking is not only a remarkable wildlife experience but also a vital tool for protecting these endangered animals.
Supporting Conservation Efforts
The fees from gorilla trekking permits directly fund park management, anti-poaching patrols, veterinary care, and habitat preservation. This financial support is essential to maintaining stable mountain gorilla populations in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Empowering Local Communities
Responsible gorilla tourism also benefits the communities living near the gorillas’ habitats. Income from tourism helps build schools, improve healthcare, and provide alternative livelihoods, reducing human-wildlife conflict and encouraging conservation-friendly practices.
Responsible Visitor Practices
To protect mountain gorillas, visitors must follow strict guidelines: maintain a safe distance, avoid close contact, refrain from eating or smoking near gorillas, and always follow the guide’s instructions. Respecting these rules ensures the safety of both gorillas and tourists and supports sustainable tourism.
By choosing to travel responsibly, you play an active part in the ongoing effort to safeguard mountain gorillas and their environment for future generations.
Final Thoughts: Where Will You See Mountain Gorillas in Africa in 2026?
Planning your journey to where to see mountain gorillas in Africa is the first step toward an extraordinary wildlife adventure.
Whether you choose Uganda’s vast Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Rwanda’s well-managed Volcanoes National Park, or Congo’s wild Virunga National Park, each destination offers a unique and unforgettable encounter with these magnificent creatures.
Securing your permits early, preparing physically, and traveling responsibly will ensure your 2026 gorilla trekking experience is safe, rewarding, and impactful.
As a trusted tour operator, we are here to help you navigate every detail — from permits and logistics to accommodation and guides — to create a seamless and memorable safari.
Start planning today to discover exactly where to see mountain gorillas in Africa and make your dream gorilla trek a reality.