Gorilla Trekking Permits in Uganda
Gorilla Trekking Permits in Uganda : Gorilla trekking is one of the most exclusive wildlife experiences in the world. Standing face to face with the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is considered a once in a lifetime adventure that attracts tourists from all over the world. Therefore, before planning your Gorilla trekking safari to Uganda, one of the significant things to know is the cost of the gorilla trekking permits.
A gorilla permit is a document you must have issued by the Uganda wildlife authorities (UWA) which allows tourists to enter into the forest and spend a one hour with a gorilla family after trekking into the jungle of Bwindi impenetrable forest national park or Mgahinga gorilla national park. Therefore, without the permit, one cannot participate in a gorilla trekking safari in the rainforests of Bwindi impenetrable national park, Mgahinga gorilla national park in Uganda, volcanoes national park in Rwanda and Virunga national park in DR Congo.
What Is a Gorilla Trekking Permit?
A gorilla trekking permit is a mandatory official document issued by the Uganda wildlife authority (UWA) which allows tourists to have access to hike into the natural habitat of endangered mountain gorillas and spend a strictly regulated amount of time observing them. The permits are inclusive of; park entry fee, ranger guide, Conservation fees and the trekking experience
The money obtained from the gorilla trekking permits has an important role in conservation and community development. The money also supports the anti-poaching programs, protection of the forest, ranger guide’s salaries and About 20% of the park entry fees is given back to the local communities that are close to the gorilla trekking parks. This makes the trekking safari not just an adventure but a direct contribution to the conservation of wildlife while on a gorilla trekking safari.
Cost Of Gorilla Trekking Permits In 2026
Uganda is popularly known as the best and most affordable gorilla trekking safari destinations in East Africa. Gorilla trekking in Uganda takes place in two national parks and these are Bwindi impenetrable national park and Mgahinga gorilla national park. Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda costs; –
USD $800 per person for the foreign non residents
USD $700 per person for foreign residents
 USD $500 per person for Rest of Africans
300,000 Uganda shillings for East African citizens
Besides Uganda, gorilla trekking is carried out in volcanoes national park in Rwanda and gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs
USD 1,500 per person for foreign non residents
USD 500 per person for foreign residents
USD 500 per person for rest of Africa
USD 200 per person for both Rwandan citizens and East African citizens.
Uganda provides an exhilarating value for tourists searching for a genuine Uganda safari because the country blends relatively affordable permits with unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences.
Gorilla Habituation
Besides gorilla trekking, Uganda offers a unique activity in Bwindi impenetrable national park which is ‘Gorilla Habituation’ experience. The habituation of the mountain gorillas is carried out only in the Rushaga sector. This experience allows visitors to spend more hours with these gentle species alongside the researchers, scientists, park trackers, and conservationists. Gorilla habituation experience costs; –
USD 1,500 per person for the foreign non residents
USD 1000 per person for foreign residents
USD 1,000 per person for the rest of Africa
UGX 750,000 per person for East African citizens
The habituation experience is perfect for the wildlife lovers, photographers and tourists searching for a deeper wildlife safari experience.
What is included in the price of the gorilla permit?
A gorilla trekking permit in Bwindi impenetrable national park and Mgahinga gorilla national park includes the park entrance fees, an experienced ranger guide, conservation fees and trekking experience.
How To Book for Gorilla Trekking Permits
Booking gorilla permits in Uganda is easier and safer through the local tour operator or company. Dealing with the tour operator on the ground can save you the stress of involving in the long process and saves time. Contact Bujuku Eco Tours, a local expert, to assist you with not only booking a gorilla permit but also planning your entire gorilla safari. Talk to the expert at info@bujukuecotours.com or WhatsApp/Call: +256785982744 or +256757203420.
After you have contacted us, we will check for the permit availability and if there are any permits available on the date, you will be asked to make a deposit for the permit purchase. Once the payment is made, we will be able to obtain the gorilla trekking permit on your behalf and send you a scanned copy of the receipts as confirmation.
How early should the permit be booked?
Considering the high demand, at Bujuku Eco Tours, we recommend that you secure your permit at least 2-6 months earlier. This should be done before the actual planned date of visiting gorillas in Uganda. Booking the permits early gives you higher chances to secure a gorilla slot, unlike when you do it on the last minute.
What Is the Best Time to Go for A Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda
The best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February. These months offer the most comfortable hiking conditions, with dry, less slippery trails and clearer visibility for tracking and photography.
The best time to visit the gorillas in Uganda is during the dry seasons from June to August, and again from December to February. Gorilla trekking in Uganda can be done in both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi is by far the more popular option.
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The temperatures in Uganda don’t change much year-round, staying between 24°C and 30°C. The most important factor to consider is the rains – there are two distinct rainy seasons from March to May and September to November.
