The Best Gorilla Watching Holidays
Few wildlife encounters on Earth can rival the moment you lock eyes with a wild gorilla. Their sheer power, intelligence, and tender family bonds leave visitors awestruck, making gorilla trekking one of Africa’s most sought-after and emotional safari experiences. In 2025, gorilla watching holidays are more popular than ever, as travelers look for deeper, more meaningful ways to connect with nature and support conservation.
Africa is home to two gorilla species: the mountain gorilla and the lowland (western) gorilla, each found in specific regions of the continent. Here’s where to go in 2025 for the best gorilla trekking experiences — and why each destination offers something unforgettable.
Uganda: Home to Over Half of the World’s Mountain Gorillas
Uganda remains one of the most rewarding destinations for gorilla trekking in Africa, thanks to its high concentration of mountain gorillas and the variety of trekking experiences it offers. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the crown jewel of Uganda’s gorilla tourism, hosting over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. This UNESCO World Heritage Site enchants visitors with its dense rainforest, misty valleys, and a choice of trekking sectors that accommodate different fitness levels and preferences.
For those who prefer a quieter experience, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, tucked into the Virunga Mountains, offers a more intimate setting with spectacular volcanic scenery. Uganda also offers the unique Gorilla Habituation Experience, allowing travelers to spend up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family — a perfect option for those who want more than the standard one-hour visit.
With permits priced at USD 800 per person in 2025, Uganda remains a relatively affordable choice, balancing conservation priorities with accessibility.
Rwanda: Luxury and Accessibility in the Land of a Thousand Hills
Rwanda has become synonymous with luxury gorilla trekking, offering a seamless and upscale experience in the heart of Volcanoes National Park. Just a two-hour drive from Kigali, this park is ideal for travelers with limited time who still want to witness mountain gorillas in their dramatic natural environment. The park’s bamboo forests and stunning volcanoes provide the perfect backdrop for photography and an unforgettable day on the trails.
Permits in Rwanda remain at USD 1,500 per person in 2025, reflecting the country’s strategy of high-value, low-impact tourism. While more expensive than Uganda, Rwanda appeals to visitors who value comfort, exclusivity, and top-tier lodges paired with world-class service.
Democratic Republic of Congo: Africa’s Wild Frontier
For travelers seeking adventure off the beaten path, the Democratic Republic of Congo offers the chance to see both mountain gorillas and lowland gorillas in some of Africa’s most remote and untouched landscapes. Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park, is home to mountain gorillas, with treks that feel truly wild and uncommercialized.
Congo’s Kahuzi-Biega National Park, on the other hand, is the only place where you can trek to see eastern lowland gorillas in their natural habitat. These gorillas are larger and even more rare than their mountain cousins, making this experience a favorite among serious wildlife enthusiasts.
Permits in Congo are more affordable than in neighboring countries, typically around USD 400–500 per person, but visiting here requires a spirit of adventure and careful planning due to its remote location and political situation.
Choosing the Best Gorilla Watching Holiday for You
Each destination offers its own flavor of gorilla trekking, from Uganda’s balance of accessibility and diversity to Rwanda’s luxury and Congo’s untamed wilderness. Whichever you choose, you’ll be supporting critical conservation efforts that have brought these magnificent creatures back from the brink of extinction.
When planning your gorilla watching holiday in 2025, be sure to book your permits and accommodations well in advance, as spaces are limited and demand remains high. Prepare for an unforgettable encounter that will leave you with a profound respect for these gentle giants and the forests they call home.
