What are you looking for?

Gorillas

Populations of Gorillas

Gorillas are majestic apes known for their social behavior and remarkable presence. They predominantly inhabit the Virunga volcanic mountains, nestled at the crossroads of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. These creatures can also be found in Uganda’s Bwindi impenetrable forest.

Living at altitudes of 2,500-4,000 meters, the Mountain Gorilla, a subspecies of the Eastern Gorilla, was identified in 1902 due to its remote and inaccessible habitat. However, by the early 20th century, these gorillas were already facing the threat of extinction due to habitat destruction, hunting, and the illegal wildlife trade.

 

Status

Critically Endangered

Population

5,000

Scientific name

Gorilla beringei

Height

1.7 m

Weight

140–205.5 kg

Habitats

Lowland tropical rainforests

Status

Critically Endangered

Population

100,000

Scientific name

Gorilla gorilla gorilla

Height

1.4 - 1.8 meters

Weight

90 - 180 kg

Habitats

Tropical Forests

Gorillas are divided into 4 types:

Western Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla):

  • Western Lowland Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla)
  • Cross River Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla diehli)

 

Eastern Gorilla (Gorilla beringei):

  • Mountain Gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei)
  • Eastern Lowland Gorilla (Gorilla beringei graueri)

Gorillas has resident populations in three countries:

  • Uganda
  • Rwanda
  • Democratic Republic of Congo

Conservation efforts to protect gorillas have included the establishment of research centers, anti-poaching measures, and habitat preservation. Dian Fossey’s work, particularly the founding of the Karisoke Research Center in Rwanda in 1967, played a pivotal role in gorilla conservation. Additionally, collaborative initiatives involving governments, NGOs, and local communities have contributed to the recovery of gorilla populations.

“The more you know about the dignity of the gorilla, the more you want to avoid people.” – Dian Fossey

Facts about Gorillas

Gorillas typically live in social groups called troops or bands. These groups can vary in size, but they often consist of around 10 to 30 individuals, although larger groups can exist. The size of a gorilla troop depends on various factors, including the availability of food and the group's social dynamics.

Gorillas communicate with each other through a combination of vocalizations, body language, and gestures. They have a complex system of vocalizations that includes grunts, hoots, roars, and other sounds to convey information about their emotions, intentions, and warnings to other group members. Additionally, body postures, facial expressions, and physical touch play significant roles in their communication.

Gorillas share numerous similarities with humans, including a high degree of genetic similarity (about 98% shared DNA). These similarities extend to their social behaviors, emotional expressions, and even some cognitive abilities. They form close-knit family groups, show affection and care for their offspring, and exhibit a wide range of emotions such as joy, sadness, and curiosity. Gorillas' hands are highly dexterous, allowing them to manipulate objects much like human hands.

To see gorillas during a safari tour, you'll typically need to visit specific regions in central and east Africa where gorillas are protected in national parks and reserves. Two popular destinations for gorilla trekking are Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda. You'll need to obtain permits, hire guides, and embark on guided treks to locate and observe gorilla groups in their natural habitats. It's essential to follow strict guidelines to minimize disturbance to the gorillas and ensure their protection.

Gorillas play a crucial role in their ecosystems as keystone species. They are herbivores that help maintain the balance of vegetation by dispersing seeds through their consumption of fruits and plants. This aids in the regeneration of forests and ensures biodiversity. Additionally, gorilla conservation efforts often involve protecting their habitats, which benefits numerous other species that share these ecosystems. By safeguarding gorilla populations, we contribute to preserving the overall health and diversity of their habitats and, in turn, support the broader ecosystem.

Latest News

Find out all the latest news on Gorillas including sightings and conservation efforts to protect the species

Rwanda vs. Uganda Gorilla Trekking: Which Should You Choose?

Deciding on Rwanda vs Uganda gorilla trekking is a choice...

Learn More

What Our Guests Have to Say?

Read recent reviews from travellers who have planned and booked their trips with us

star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon
Safari Bookings review

"We spoke to Chrizaan who arranged everything for us according to our budget and wills. Everything was so good we just had to worry about having a good time in our honeymoon safari. Thank you Chrizaan and thanks to the whole team."

Marisel, Panama•15 Oct 2026•

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon
Safari Bookings review

"A Truly Seamless African Adventure Adelle from Discover Africa was exceptional from beginning to end. She was knowledgeable, responsive and always prompt. She created an excellent itinerary with a perfect schedule, wonderful lodges and seamlessly coordin..."

Angela Kenedy, United States•15 Sep 2026•

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon
Trustpilot review

"Absolutely fantastic trip. Excellent accommodation. The Discover Africa team did a great job. Follow up and support while we were on safari. Vehicles was good. Drivers Excellent. Trip of a lifetime."

Anerie Du Toit, Portugal•14 Sep 2026•

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon
Safari Bookings review

"An outstanding safari through Discover Africa- from the organisation and attentiveness, Thanks Vihann, to the sublime wildlife viewing and stunning sunsets this was Africa as you imagine it. Okavango is stunning and pristine form the air and the camps fabul..."

Paul, United Kingdom•22 Jul 2026•

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon
Google review

"Amazing and truly unique experience! Susan was absolutely wonderful from start to finish. She was incredibly friendly, professional, and always available to help with every detail. Her knowledge, organization, and passion made the entire safari unforgett..."

Chloé, United States•12 Jun 2026•

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon

"We had an amazing experience at Walkers Plains Camp. The wildlife viewing was superb from start to finish. Our guide Millie and tracker were super friendly, extremely knowledgeable and made the game drives an absolute pleasure. The camp was very luxuriou..."

Sue Panayiotes, United Kingdom•28 Dec 2025•

Read More
View All Testimonials

Our safari traveller reviews are independently verified and sourced from trusted third-party review platforms.