How many mountain gorillas are left?

Approximately 1,063 mountain gorillas remain in the wild, split between Uganda's Bwindi Forest and the Virunga Mountains shared by Rwanda, Uganda, and DRC.

How much does a gorilla trekking permit cost?

Rwanda: $1,500 per person. Uganda: $700 per person. Both include a one-hour visit with a gorilla family. Permits sell out months in advance.

Is gorilla trekking safe?

Yes, gorilla trekking is very safe. Gorillas are habituated to human presence and guides maintain a 7-meter distance. Groups are limited to 8 visitors per family per day.

What is the best time for gorilla trekking?

June–September and December–February are the dry seasons, offering easier trekking conditions. However, gorilla trekking is available year-round.

Rwanda or Uganda for gorilla trekking?

Rwanda offers easier access, luxury lodges, and shorter treks. Uganda is more affordable ($700 vs $1,500 permits) with longer, more adventurous treks through dense forest.

🦍Endangered

Mountain Gorilla

Gorilla beringei beringei

One of humanity's closest relatives — sharing 98% of our DNA

Lifespan

35–40 years in the wild

Population

~1,063 in the wild

Size

1.2–1.8 m when standing upright

Top Speed

Up to 40 km/h in short bursts

Diet

Herbivore — bamboo shoots, leaves, stems, fruit, bark

Social

Family groups of 5–30 led by a dominant silverback

Population trend: increasing|IUCN: EN|Weight: Males (silverbacks): 140–205 kg | Females: 70–115 kg

About This Species

Meet the The Gentle Giant of the Mist

Mountain gorillas are one of Africa's most extraordinary conservation success stories. From fewer than 300 individuals in the 1990s, their population has grown to over 1,000 thanks to intensive protection. They share 98% of our DNA and display remarkably human-like behaviors — grieving, laughing, and forming deep family bonds.