Booking Gorilla Permits Directly Through the Uganda Wildlife Authority

Booking Gorilla Permits Directly Through the Uganda Wildlife Authority

If you’re planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, securing a gorilla permit is your first step. A gorilla permit is an official document with a unique booking identification number issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). It grants you access to Uganda’s gorilla trekking parks, including Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

In Uganda, there are 144 gorilla permits available daily, divided across 23 habituated gorilla families in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. These families are distributed by region as follows:

• Buhoma: 4 gorilla families
• Ruhija: 4 gorilla families
• Rushaga: 8 gorilla families (the most in any region)
• Nkuringo: 3 gorilla families

How to Book Gorilla Permits Through the Uganda Wildlife Authority

To book your gorilla trekking permit, follow these steps:

1. Plan Your Dates: Confirm your travel dates.
2. Check Availability: Contact us at info@trekafricagorillas.com to check permit availability with the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
3. Make Payment: Once availability is confirmed, we’ll send you an invoice for payment.
4. Secure Your Permit: After payment, we’ll purchase your permit and email you a scanned copy as confirmation.

Pro Tip: Gorilla permits are limited and sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons (June–September). Book your permit 2–3 months in advance to secure your spot.

Where Can You Go Gorilla Trekking in Africa? Parks and Permit Info

Gorilla trekking is available in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC):

• Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
• Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park
• Congo: Virunga National Park (mountain gorillas) and Kahuzi-Biega National Park (lowland gorillas)

To trek in any of these parks, a gorilla permit is required. Whether you’re visiting during the peak season or planning ahead, we recommend booking at least 5 months in advance to secure your trip.

Cost of Gorilla Permits in Uganda: What You Need to Know

The cost of a gorilla permit in Uganda depends on your residency:

• Foreign Non-Residents: $800 per person
• Residents: $700 per person
• East African Citizens: $80 per person

This permit grants you one hour with a habituated gorilla family in Bwindi or Mgahinga. For a more immersive experience, you can opt for the Gorilla Habituation Experience, available only in Bwindi. This unique activity allows you to spend 4 hours with semi-habituated gorillas alongside trackers and researchers. The habituation experience costs $1,500 per person.

Minimum Age and Accessibility Options for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years, while the maximum age depends on individual fitness levels. For older or less mobile travelers, sedan chairs are available in Bwindi. These chairs, carried by porters, allow participants to fully enjoy the trek without physical strain. Prices for sedan chair services range from $400–$500 and can be arranged in advance or on the day of your trek.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is available year-round but the best time to visit is during the drier months of January, February, June, July, August and early September. During these months, the trails are easier to navigate and the vegetation is less dense, offering clearer views of the gorillas. However, since gorillas can be tracked in any season, the experience is rewarding no matter when you visit.

What to Pack for a Successful Gorilla Trekking Experience in Bwindi

Packing the right gear is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable gorilla trekking experience. Here’s a recommended packing list:

• Insect Repellent
• Torch/Flashlight (plus spare batteries)
• Wet Wipes
• Water Bottle
• Camera and Lenses
• Comfortable Walking/Hiking Boots and Socks
• Gardening Gloves (for extra protection while trekking)
• Sandals or Walking Shoes (for relaxing after the trek)
• Hat and Sunscreen
• Rain Jacket
• Sweater or Fleece (for chilly mornings and evenings)
• Swimwear (some lodges have pools or hot tubs)
• Binoculars (for birdwatching and spotting wildlife)

Wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers to protect yourself from stinging plants and biting insects and be prepared for muddy and steep trails, especially during rainy months.

How to Get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Travel Options

By Road:
Bwindi can be accessed via Uganda’s main safari circuit, which involves an 8–9-hour drive from Entebbe or Kampala. To reach the southern sectors of Rushaga or Nkuringo, turn off the Kabale-Kisoro road at Muko and follow the Uganda Wildlife Authority signposts to your lodge.

By Air:
You can fly to Bwindi from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kisoro Airstrip, which serves the southern sectors of Rushaga and Nkuringo. Domestic flights are operated by Aerolink and Fly Uganda. From the airstrip, you’ll need a transfer to your lodge or the park, which can be arranged by your tour operator.

Why Book Bwindi Gorilla Permits and Safaris with Trek Africa Gorillas?

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we prioritize your safety, comfort and overall experience. Here’s why you should book with us:

• Personalized Service: We tailor each safari to meet your needs and preferences.
• Eco-Friendly Practices: We follow sustainable tourism principles, ensuring that our tours leave a positive impact on local communities and the environment.
• Community Support: We are dedicated to uplifting the communities around Bwindi through tourism.

Ready to start planning your gorilla trekking adventure? Contact us today to book your gorilla permits directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority and secure an unforgettable experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.