ZAR
USD
EUR
GBP
CAD
AUD
CHF
ZAR
USD
EUR
GBP
CAD
AUD
CHF

What are you looking for?

Hello traveller!

It's in Cape Town now.

We're sorry. Our safari planners aren't available now. Our office hours are 08:00 - 19:00 (GMT+2).

Call us to speak to an experienced safari planner.


Alternatively, we recommend...

travel-form-icon

Complete our travel enquiry form to connect with a safari planner

ENQUIRE TODAY
Email us
(optional)

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
Uganda Or Rwanda – Which Is Best For Seeing Gorillas In Africa?

Gorilla trekking is an amazing experience for many reasons, it’s...

Learn More
Can these images convince you to go on a gorilla trekking safari?

Whether you're going to Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, or the...

Learn More
Seven Travel Tips for your Gorilla Trekking Safari

Many will remember the popular 1988 film ‘Gorillas in the...

Learn More

What Our Guests Have to Say?

Read recent reviews from travellers who have planned and booked their trips with us
Informative website, Megan was friendly and very helpful, great deal

Highlights of Kenya & Tanzania Safari Review

Raymond Esparza, United States
10 Aug 2023
Susan read our minds and gave us the best trip!!

8 Day Victoria Falls Holiday Review

Kelsey, United States
19 Jul 2023
Our tour operator Susan was extremely prompt efficient with our travel plans.

13 Day South Africa, Uganda and Kenya Safari Review

Kathy Menary, New Zealand
13 Jul 2023
Superb trip, well arranged!

Kenya and Tanzania Safari Review

David Policansky , United States
13 Nov 2022
Megan Warrington was as personable as she was helpful and efficient.

Cape to Kruger to Botswana Review

David Mather, United States
18 Aug 2022
Breathtaking, exclusive, unforgettable!

Big Five Safari Review

Sheila, United States
19 Jun 2015