What species of gorillas can be seen in Africa?

Overview: The Two Species of Gorillas in Africa

Africa hosts two distinct gorilla species:

• Eastern Gorilla (Gorilla beringei)
• Western Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla)

Each species contains subspecies with distinct ranges, conservation statuses, and trekking experiences. For detailed trek packages, visit Monumental Expeditions and Safaris.

1. Eastern Gorillas (Gorilla beringei)

Eastern gorillas are generally larger and inhabit the highland and montane forests of East and Central Africa. They include two well-known subspecies:

1.1 Mountain Gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei)

The Mountain Gorilla is the world’s most famous gorilla subspecies. With thick fur and a calm demeanor, mountain gorillas live in high-altitude forests located in:

• Uganda — Bwindi Impenetrable National Park & Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
• Rwanda — Volcanoes National Park
• DR Congo — Virunga National Park

Mountain gorillas live at elevations of 2,200–4,300 meters and are listed as critically endangered. Conservation organizations such as the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund play a key role in their protection. To plan a mountain gorilla trek, see our guide: Monumental Expeditions and Safaris

1.2 Eastern Lowland Gorillas (Grauer’s) (Gorilla beringei graueri)

Also called Grauer’s Gorillas, eastern lowland gorillas are the largest gorilla subspecies and live only in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, including Kahuzi-Biega National Park and the Itombwe Massif. Known for their size and strength, they prefer lowland tropical forests and face acute threats from habitat loss and conflict.

2. Western Gorillas (Gorilla gorilla)

Western gorillas inhabit the lowland rainforests of West and Central Africa and include:

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

2.1 Western Lowland Gorillas (G. g. gorilla)

The Western Lowland Gorilla is the most numerous of all gorilla subspecies but still faces threats from poaching and disease. They are found in countries such as the Republic of Congo (Odzala-Kokoua), Gabon (Loango), the Central African Republic (Dzanga-Sangha), Cameroon, and Equatorial Guinea. For more background on conservation status, visit the WWF gorilla page.

2.2 Cross River Gorillas (G. g. diehli)

The Cross River Gorilla is the rarest gorilla subspecies, living along the Nigeria–Cameroon border. With fewer than 300 individuals estimated, they are critically endangered, and tourism is highly restricted to minimize disturbance.

How to Choose Which Gorilla Species to See

Your choice depends on the experience you want:

• Classic bucket-list encounter: Mountain Gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda — best infrastructure and photographic opportunities. See our mountain gorilla options at Monumental Expeditions and Safaris
• Remote, adventurous trek: Eastern Lowland Gorillas in DRC.
• Rainforest exploration: Western Lowland Gorillas in Congo-Brazzaville or Gabon.

Why Gorilla Trekking Is a Must-Do African Adventure

Visiting gorillas in the wild is often described as a life-changing and emotionally powerful experience. Responsible gorilla tourism supports local communities and funds conservation programs. For the species’ current threat assessments, consult the IUCN Red List.