The mountain gorilla is one of the rarest and most awe-inspiring primates on Earth. Living only in the misty, forested mountains of East Africa, these great apes are known for their striking intelligence, deep familial bonds, and majestic presence. Unlike their lowland cousins, mountain gorillas live at higher altitudes and have thicker fur to withstand cool mountain climates.
Scientific name: Gorilla beringei beringei
Habitat: Montane rainforests and bamboo zones at elevations of 2,200 to 4,000 meters
Weight: Males: 160–220 kg; Females: 70–110 kg
Lifespan: 35–40 years in the wild
IUCN status: Endangered – population slowly increasing thanks to intensive conservation efforts
Today, fewer than 1,100 mountain gorillas remain in the wild, found only in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Trekking to see them is one of Africa’s most profound wildlife experiences.
Quick Facts About the Mountain Gorilla
Size & Strength
Male mountain gorillas, known as silverbacks, can stand up to 1.7 meters tall when upright and are immensely powerful—capable of lifting over 800 kg.
Family Structure
Gorillas live in tight-knit family groups of 5 to 30 individuals, led by a dominant silverback. These groups show deep emotional bonds, often grooming, playing, and mourning together.
Diet
They are herbivores, feeding mainly on leaves, stems, shoots, fruit, and bamboo. Despite their size, they rarely need to drink, as their food provides sufficient moisture.
Communication
Gorillas use a mix of vocalizations, body language, chest-beating, and facial expressions to communicate. Each has a unique nose print, like a fingerprint.
Reproduction
Females typically give birth once every 4–5 years after a gestation of around 8.5 months. Infants cling to their mothers for several years and are fiercely protected by the group.
Predators
Mountain gorillas have no natural predators, though infants may be vulnerable. Their main threat has always been humans—through poaching, disease, and habitat encroachment.
Section 3: Where to See Mountain Gorillas
Mountain gorillas inhabit a small, mountainous region in East-Central Africa, where the dense forests of extinct volcanoes provide their last stronghold. The three main gorilla trekking destinations are:
Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Home to half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, Bwindi offers multiple trekking sectors—Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. The forest is dense and diverse, giving trekkers a truly wild experience.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Located in Uganda’s southwest corner, Mgahinga is part of the Virunga Massif. It hosts one habituated group and offers the unique opportunity to trek in the shadows of the Virunga volcanoes.
Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park
Renowned for its scenic beauty and relatively shorter treks, Volcanoes NP offers well-established gorilla trekking operations. It was here that Dian Fossey conducted her pioneering gorilla research.
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
Virunga National Park
Although currently unstable, Virunga is the oldest national park in Africa and home to several habituated gorilla groups. The experience here is remote and deeply immersive for those able to go.
Top Tips for Viewing Mountain Gorillas
- Book in Advance
Gorilla trekking permits are strictly limited to protect the gorillas. Book 3–6 months ahead, especially for peak seasons (June–September, December–February).
- Prepare Physically
Treks can range from 1 to 6 hours, often through steep, muddy, or dense terrain. A moderate fitness level is recommended, and porters are available to assist.
- Respect the Rules
You’ll get 1 hour with the gorillas—stay at least 7 meters away, don’t use flash photography, and avoid trekking if you’re unwell (to prevent disease transmission).
- Dress for the Forest
Wear long sleeves, gaiters or high socks (for safari ants), waterproof hiking boots, gloves, and bring a light rain jacket—even in dry season.
- Go Beyond the Trek
Enhance your experience by visiting local communities, conservation projects, or participating in a habituation experience (where available) to spend up to 4 hours with a gorilla group in the process of getting used to humans.
Safari Holiday Ideas to See Mountain Gorillas
Gorilla trekking is a bucket-list journey for wildlife lovers. Wild Compass Africa offers tailor-made trips that blend primate tracking, culture, and scenic discovery across Uganda, Rwanda, and beyond.
Suggested Gorilla Safari Routes
Uganda Gorilla Experience
4 to 6-day itineraries including Bwindi or Mgahinga, with options to add Lake Bunyonyi relaxation, Batwa cultural visits, or Queen Elizabeth NP for classic game drives.
Rwanda Primate & Culture Tour
Trek in Volcanoes NP, then visit Kigali Genocide Memorial and add chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forestor relax on Lake Kivu.
Uganda & Rwanda Twin Trek
Combine Bwindi and Volcanoes for a cross-border adventure, with options for golden monkey tracking, volcano hikes, and luxury eco-lodges.
Primates & Big Game Combo
Add gorilla trekking to a longer safari featuring chimpanzees, lions, elephants, giraffes, and more in Uganda, Tanzania, or Kenya.
Wild Compass Africa specializes in ethical gorilla trekking holidays led by experienced local guides. Whether you're seeking luxury, adventure, or meaningful encounters with conservation, we help you witness mountain gorillas most respectfully and unforgettably.
