While both are subspecies of the Eastern Gorilla, they inhabit different regions and have distinct characteristics. Mountain Gorillas (Gorilla beringei) are found only in the high-altitude forests of the Virunga Mountains and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. They have thicker fur to protect against the cold.

The Eastern Lowland Gorilla (Gorilla beringei) lives in the lowland forests of the Democratic Republic of Congo and is the largest of all gorilla subspecies. Unfortunately, they are critically endangered due to habitat loss and poaching.

All gorilla trekking in Uganda is with the Mountain Gorilla subspecies, which has seen a remarkable population increase thanks to conservation efforts funded by tourism.