Comparing Gorilla Permit Prices in Uganda and Rwanda

Comparing Gorilla Permit Prices in Uganda and Rwanda

When comparing the price of gorilla permits between Uganda and Rwanda, it’s clear that Uganda offers a more budget-friendly option. Many travelers wonder why there’s such a significant difference, and the answer largely comes down to how each country positions itself. Rwanda markets itself as a luxury destination, while Uganda focuses on affordability. Despite the price difference, the gorilla trekking experience in both countries is remarkably similar. In fact, some visitors might prefer trekking in Uganda, where they can opt for the Gorilla Habituation Experience for the same price as a standard trek in Rwanda but spend four hours with the gorillas instead of just one.

Gorilla Permit Prices in Uganda

In Uganda, a gorilla trekking permit costs:

• $800 per person for foreign non-residents
• $700 per person for foreign residents
• 300,000 UGX for East African citizens (Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi, and South Sudan)

This allows you to spend one hour with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. For those looking for a more immersive experience, Uganda also offers the unique Gorilla Habituation Experience. At a cost of $1,500 per person, this experience allows you to spend up to four hours with semi-habituated gorillas, accompanied by trackers and researchers.

You can book your gorilla permit directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or through a trusted tour operator like Trek Africa Expeditions, who can help streamline the booking process and organize your entire safari.

Gorilla Permit Prices in Rwanda

In Rwanda, gorilla permits are more expensive:

• $1,500 per person for foreign non-residents
• $500 per person for foreign residents
• $200 per person for East African citizens

These permits allow for a one-hour encounter with mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, home to 12 gorilla families, with 96 permits available daily. Gorilla permits in Rwanda can be booked through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or through reliable tour operators like Trek Africa Expeditions.

Gorilla Trekking: Uganda vs. Rwanda

In terms of the trekking experience itself, both Uganda and Rwanda offer incredible opportunities to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitats. The difference lies more in the terrain than in the experience. In Rwanda, gorillas are found in the bamboo-covered Virunga Mountains, while in Uganda, they inhabit the lush, tropical rainforest of Bwindi. Both environments offer a 98% chance of seeing gorillas.

It’s often said that gorillas in Rwanda are easier to spot due to the open bamboo landscape, but many who trek in Uganda’s Bwindi Forest equally praise its breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity. Rwanda is often viewed as the more “luxurious” option, in part because Volcanoes National Park is just a 2-3 hour drive from Kigali, making it convenient for travelers with limited time.

Uganda: A More Affordable and Accessible Option

While Rwanda’s proximity to Kigali offers convenience, Uganda has its own advantages. Historically, travelers have been deterred by the 9-10 hour drive from Entebbe Airport to Bwindi, but now, many tours are arranged through Kigali. This cuts the travel time to 4-5 hours, making Uganda a more affordable option without sacrificing convenience. Additionally, the East African Tourist Visa allows visitors to explore both Uganda and Rwanda on a single trip, making it easy to fly into Kigali, trek gorillas in Uganda, and enjoy the best of both worlds.

In fact, even some Rwandan tour operators are promoting Uganda as an alternative due to its lower permit prices and the stunning beauty of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Comparing Lodges and Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda

When it comes to accommodation options, both Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda offer a range of lodges from budget-friendly to luxury options. However, Volcanoes National Park stands out for those seeking high-end, luxury lodges that meet international standards. Lodges like Bisate Lodge and Singita Kwitonda Lodge are renowned for their exceptional service and are considered among the best in Africa.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation, Bwindi is the better option. There are plenty of choices, with prices ranging from $30 to $100 per night, making it accessible to more travelers. This flexibility in pricing makes Bwindi an ideal destination for those who want to experience gorilla trekking without breaking the bank.

Gorilla Families and Permit Availability

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers a higher number of gorilla families for trekking compared to Volcanoes National Park. With 16 habituated gorilla families in Bwindi, a total of 128 permits are available daily. In contrast, Volcanoes National Park has 12 gorilla families, offering 96 permits each day.

This difference in permit availability makes it generally easier to secure a gorilla trekking permit in Bwindi, especially during the peak season months. If you’re planning your trek during busy times, Bwindi may provide more flexibility.

Gorilla Trekking Experience: Bwindi vs. Volcanoes National Park

The actual gorilla trekking experience in both Volcanoes National Park and Bwindi is similar, with a 98% chance of seeing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat in either park. While both offer breathtaking experiences, Bwindi provides a unique opportunity through the Gorilla Habituation Experience, where visitors can spend up to four hours with semi-habituated gorillas for $1,500 per person. This extended time with the gorillas is guided by expert trackers and researchers, compared to the standard one-hour trek offered in both parks.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda

Both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Volcanoes National Park are open for gorilla trekking year-round, but certain months offer better conditions. The best time to trek is from June to August and December to February, when there’s less rainfall, and the forests are less slippery.

If you’re traveling during the wetter months of March to May and November, you may encounter more rain, but this is also when some lodges offer discounts on accommodation, making it a good time for budget-conscious travelers.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trek in Uganda or Rwanda with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in crafting tailor-made safaris to ensure you have the best experience possible. Our team of professional tour consultants is always ready to assist, responding to your inquiries within 30 minutes. We handle all the details, from answering your questions to booking your permits and accommodation, so you can focus on enjoying your trip without any hassle.

Whether you choose to trek in Uganda or Rwanda, booking with Trek Africa Expeditions guarantees a seamless and memorable gorilla trekking experience. Feel free to contact us to start planning your adventure today!