Gorilla Species and Subspecies: Mountain, Eastern Lowland, Western Lowland and Cross River
Two species, four subspecies, all in Africa; mountain gorillas live in Uganda, Rwanda and the DR Congo.
There are two gorilla species: the Eastern gorilla (Gorilla beringei) and the Western gorilla (Gorilla gorilla). Each has two subspecies, giving four types in total. Gorillas live only in equatorial Africa, not in South Africa outside zoos.
Mountain gorillas, the ones you can trek in Uganda, are one of the Eastern gorilla subspecies. See silverback size and Eastern lowland gorilla.
This guide is part of our animals of Uganda and East Africa guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Uganda safaris and tours.
At a glance
- Eastern gorilla: Mountain and Grauer's
- Western gorilla: Western lowland and Cross River
- In Uganda: Mountain gorilla
- Habitat: Central and East Africa
The Four Subspecies
| Subspecies | Scientific name | Where it lives |
|---|---|---|
| Mountain gorilla | Gorilla beringei beringei | Uganda, Rwanda, DR Congo |
| Eastern lowland (Grauer's) | Gorilla beringei graueri | Eastern DR Congo |
| Western lowland | Gorilla gorilla gorilla | Central and West Africa |
| Cross River | Gorilla gorilla diehli | Nigeria and Cameroon border |
Where to See Them
Mountain gorillas are protected in Bwindi, Mgahinga and across the border in Rwanda and the DR Congo.
Want to see them in the wild? Send us your dates and we will arrange permits and a guide.
Related Tours, Guides and Resources
- Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
- Uganda safari packages
- Uganda travel guide
- How to book a Uganda safari
- Plan your safari with our team
Itineraries That Include This Experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Uganda Safari Pages
- Eastern Lowland Gorilla (Grauer's Gorilla): The Largest Gorilla and Where It Lives
- Are Gorillas Endangered? Population, Poaching and Conservation in Uganda
- Dian Fossey and the Mountain Gorillas: The Woman Who Studied Gorillas
- Animals of Uganda and East Africa: Gorilla, Chimpanzee, Big Five and Bird Fact Guides
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