Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla Holidays: Trekking with the mountain gorillas of Africa

Gorilla holidays offer one of the most thrilling wildlife experiences on Earth. Numbering just over 1,000, the endangered mountain gorillas of Africa represent the ultimate game-viewing encounter. Found only in a few locations — Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo — gorilla trekking allows travellers to journey deep through mist-covered forests and volcanic landscapes to meet these extraordinary creatures in their natural habitat.

Each gorilla trek follows narrow trails through dense forest, guided by expert rangers who use their knowledge of the gorillas’ movements to locate the family groups. To stand a few metres away from a silverback and his family, watching the young ones play, is to witness one of the most intimate and awe-inspiring encounters in the natural world.

Gorilla trekking in Africa

Gorilla trekking in Africa is both an adventure and a privilege. Visitors are allowed up to one hour to observe a gorilla family, a time strictly limited to reduce human impact. The gorillas are wild yet accustomed to human presence after years of gentle habituation, meaning you can quietly observe their natural behaviour — playful juveniles tumbling through vines, mothers cradling infants, and a dominant silverback calmly watching from nearby.

The trek itself can be challenging, depending on terrain and the gorillas’ movements, but the reward is beyond measure. Gorilla travel appeals to nature lovers, photographers, and conservation-minded explorers alike. Every trek directly contributes to protecting these great apes and supporting local communities through carefully managed permit systems.

Permits, conservation, and responsible travel

Permits are required for all gorilla trekking tours, with limited daily numbers in each country to protect the gorillas’ habitat. Revenue from permit fees supports conservation programmes, anti-poaching patrols, and habitat restoration efforts. This sustainable model ensures that gorilla safaris in Africa help secure the future of this critically endangered species.

Travellers can choose from treks in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, or Virunga National Park in the Congo — each offering unique landscapes and distinct gorilla families

Authentic accommodation for gorilla trekking adventures

Whether your gorilla holiday takes you to the dense jungles of Uganda or the volcano slopes of Rwanda, Africa Travel sources exceptional accommodation tailored to your needs.

In Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, lodges like Bwindi Lodge offer comfort and eco-conscious luxury surrounded by rainforest. In Rwanda, the iconic Bisate Lodge blends sustainability with elegance near Volcanoes National Park, placing you close to the starting points of your gorilla trek Africa adventure.

Each property has been selected by Africa Travel’s experts for authenticity, location, and commitment to conservation, ensuring your stay directly supports local communities and preserves these fragile ecosystems.

Why book a gorilla trekking tour with Africa Travel?

When it comes to gorilla trekking holidays, Africa Travel stands as one of the most experienced specialists in the field. With over 30 years of travel expertise and offices in both the UK and South Africa, we provide first-hand knowledge of every detail — from the best trekking locations to accommodation, logistics, and permits.

Our specialists handle everything: flights, transfers, guided tours, and entry permissions, ensuring your gorilla travel experience is seamless from start to finish. Whether you’re dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime mountain gorilla trek, or want to combine a gorilla safari with Kenya or Tanzania’s great plains, we’ll help create a journey designed around your interests.

For more information, why not speak to one of our experts on +44 (0) 20 7843 3500 or email 

info@africatravel.co.uk