Gorilla trekking in Loango
Habituated western lowland gorillas are rare anywhere. Loango has one of the few groups that visitors can see.
The habituation project
The Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology began work in Loango in 2005, with the twin aims of studying western gorillas and developing tourism that supports their protection. The project works with Gabon's national parks agency, ANPN.
Habituation is slow. Western lowland gorilla groups can take five to seven years to become comfortable with people. Gorilla tourism at Loango began in 2016.
Visiting the gorillas
Visits are tightly limited and follow international great ape guidelines designed to reduce stress and disease transmission. The best-known group has been led by the silverback Kamaya. Expect to walk through forest behind trackers, with time near the gorillas capped.
Time with the gorillas
Reported as one hour per visit.
Reported prices
A 2022 report gave 300,000 CFA francs for one hour, excluding site access and accommodation. A 2026 tour listed an optional gorilla permit at EUR 550. Confirm the current price with your operator.
Availability
Limited and subject to change. Book as far ahead as you can.
Health
Visitors with an illness may be refused, since gorillas can catch human respiratory diseases.
How this differs from mountain gorilla trekking
Mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda is far more established. In Loango, dense forest and a less cohesive group structure can make viewing harder. In return, you see a different species in a park that receives very few visitors.
Prices and permit rules last checked November 2026. ANPN and local operators can change them at short notice.
Keep planning
Conservation
Who protects the park and how.
Where to stay
Lodges and camps we could confirm.
FAQ
Visas, health and costs.