My Gorilla is a resource where you can learn all the information you need to know about gorillas in Africa. This resource focuses on bringing you information, facts, inspirational photography, tips, latest news & more on Africa’s gorillas.
On this resource, find all the information you need to know about gorillas by just a click of mouse! We are a Non Profit Organisation dedicated to the protection and preservation of gorillas, native animals to Africa. We provide gorilla information and education to the community globally!
Mission
Our mission is to preserve gorillas and their habitat through conservation, education, and research for the benefit of the earth and all its inhabitants.
We believe in the power of the citizen activist. We believe in the wisdom of the citizen scientist. We believe that knowledge and understanding build compassion. We believe concerned people working together can make a difference.
About Gorillas
Gorillas live in the forests of Africa. Their diets consist of both plants and insects. Gorilla are considered primates and are split into two species. Their life span is from 30 to 50 years. Funny enough, gorilla came from a Greek word Gorillai, which translated to a “tribe of hairy women”.
All of the gorilla population walks on its knuckles. Males are generally 5ft 7in and 390lb with the females 4ft 7in and 220lb. Gorillas weight can fluctuate just as humans. Some captive zoo gorillas have weighed as much as 600lb. A mature females stay pregnant for about 8.5 months and wait around 3 years between offspring, which is how long their baby’s need moms assistance.
Gorillas comprise the eponymous genus Gorilla, the largest extant genus of primates. They are ground-dwelling, predominantly herbivorous apes that inhabit the forests of central Africa. The genus is divided into two species and either four or five subspecies. The DNA of gorillas is highly similar to that of a human, from 95–99% depending on what is counted, and they are the next closest living relatives to humans after the bonobo and common chimpanzee.
Gorillas’ natural habitats cover tropical or subtropical forests in Africa. Although their range covers a small percentage of Africa, gorillas cover a wide range of elevations. The mountain gorilla inhabits the Albertine Rift montane cloud forests of the Virunga Volcanoes, ranging in altitude from 2,200–4,300 metres (7,200–14,100 ft). Lowland gorillas live in dense forests and lowland swamps and marshes as low as sea level, with western lowland gorillas living in Central West African countries and eastern lowland gorillas living in the Democratic Republic of the Congo near its border with Rwanda.
Where to Go
A picture speaks a thousand words but will never come close to the sheer exhilaration of seeing a gorilla in the wild. Imagine trekking through lush-green forest, serenaded by nature’s orchestra of scintillating bird calls, monkey hoots and the occasional elephant trumpet. Your tracker beats a path through the dense foliage and silver mist swirl, when suddenly there they are…Gorillas! It’s a moment you’ll never forget.
Choosing the Perfect National Park for Gorilla Tracking in 2026
Selecting the right national park for gorilla trekking in 2026 ultimately depends on your priorities, preferences, and budget. Each destination offers unique strengths, so factors such as accessibility, permit costs, accommodation options, and the overall trekking experience should be considered.
Uganda
Uganda protects almost half of the world’s remaining population of the mountain gorillas. In Uganda, two national parks; Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga National Park, that are managed by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), protect the endangered mountain gorillas.
Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest provides unparalleled opportunities to engage with various gorilla families across its four regions. The world known UNESCO heritage site protects nearly half of the mountains remaining population of mountain gorillas. For those seeking a mix of affordability and biodiversity, Bwindi Impenetrable offers a comprehensive and rewarding experience.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park also in Uganda, appeals to those looking for a quieter, less crowded option, with the bonus of golden monkey tracking and hiking adventures.</
Rwanda
The land of a thousand hills is the most popular destination for gorilla tourism. Hosting nearly a third of the mountain gorilla population, Rwanda is the famous destination where Dian Fossey, a popular American primatologist lived and increased the plight of saving the mountain gorillas from extinction.
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park stands out for its convenience, luxury accommodations, and well-structured treks. It is ideal for those seeking a high-end experience and efficient travel logistics.
Both Uganda and Rwanda are the most popular destinations for gorilla trekking in the world.
DR Congo
The UNESCO Heritage Site of Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo offers a raw, adventurous experience for budget-conscious trekkers but requires careful planning and attention to safety guidelines.
Find the ideal African safari package right here at My Gorilla. Also check out the African Safari Planner page to plan for a better gorilla safari in various countries. And if you intend to get a pair of binoculars or camping tent you must read the binoculars and tent reviews right here before you buy.
Gorilla Conservation starts with People
Conservation is our driving goal. All of our programs are directed towards conservation. Research and education are means to that end.
Want to know more about us? Get detailed information here. Learn more about the state of conservation that we dream of. We’re looking forward to serving you!
Every Human Helps
Even short little films take a lot of work. But luckily there are a lot of talented people who want to protect gorillas and worked on this as a labour of love.
Gorillas need all the friends they can get
In the wild, gorillas live mostly peaceful lives in their forests and mountains. Or at least, they used to. Every species of this incredible primate is under constant threat from hunting, poaching, war, logging, oil drilling and even Ebola.
Luckily there are lots of dedicated people working to protect gorillas – but it takes more than just dedication to make a difference. With The Gorilla Organization it’s easy to help out by adopting a gorilla or even just giving a one-off donation with your mobile. Find out more about gorillas and how you can be part of protecting them too.
Gorilla Conservation
By the end of the 1980’s the world population of mountain gorillas was on the verge of extinction. In 2004 a census report (the first since 1989) revealed that in the Virunga mountain region the gorilla population had increased by 17%. This has to count as one of the great conservation success stories.
However this does not mean that the survival of gorillas is yet assured. The mountain gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei) is perhaps the best known sub-species of gorilla due to Dian Fossey’s tremendous efforts to save them. However there’re several other sub-species of gorilla…and-in-fact, currently the most endangered gorilla is the sub-species Gorilla gorilla diehli found in Cross River State, on the Nigeria–Cameroon border. It is estimated that there’re perhaps less than 250 Cross River Gorillas remaining in the world. To read more about gorilla conservation efforts and to see how you can help click on any Gorilla Conservation link.
Gorillas in Zoos – Nearly all the gorillas in captivity are western gorillas–mountain gorillas for some reason don’t survive in captivity. Although some people view zoos as another form of cruelty to animals…nothing could be further from the truth. Not only do zoos play a significant role in educating the public about animals, they’re also a means by which endangered species can be preserved. What is more, for the most part the majority of zoo animals are very well treated. Testament to this, is the well-known fact that animals in zoos tend to outlive their wilder counterparts.