Gorilla trekking in Africa
Meet the mountain gorillas
Trekking through the jungle-clad mountains for a face-to-face encounter with a troop of gorillas is one of the most incredible wildlife experiences on earth. Spending an hour with these magnificent animals – so like ourselves – as they play and feed is as humbling as it is and unforgettable.
I've been lucky enough to see gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC, all incredible experiences that are some of my favourite moments in Africa.
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our gorilla-focused example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our gorilla-focused example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
Where to see gorillas in Africa
There are four national parks in central Africa where the world's 1000 or so mountain gorillas call home - Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The protection of gorilla populations is one of tourism's great conservation success stories. In the 1980s, it was estimated that there were only 250 mountain gorillas left globally, but thanks to investment in rangers and park patrols, the population has been steadily rising ever since. The income from strictly limited permits makes this investment possible, so gorilla trekking is a direct way to invest in much-needed conservation efforts and community development around the parks.
Our Travel Researchers will always match a gorilla experience to your exact requirements, considering fitness, priorities, budget, and what else you would like to do on your trip. From the big cats of Akagera National Park in Rwanda, hiking in Uganda's remote Rwenzori Mountains National Park, or combining it with a safari in the Serengeti, East Africa has much more to explore while you are there.
Gorilla trekking lodges
Where to stay
Find out more about some of our favourite luxury lodges.
A charming luxury base for gorilla trekking and Rwanda’s first ever community-owned lodge. The views are special too.
Where to see gorillas in the wild
Where do you want to explore?
We currently specialise in Rwanda and Uganda. If you'd like to explore the DRC or Republic of the Congo, please get in touch.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
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