Bwindi Gorilla Permits and Safaris

Bwindi Gorilla Permits and Safaris: Your Complete Guide

If you’re planning an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, securing a gorilla permit is the first step. A gorilla permit is an official document issued by authorized bodies that grants you access to gorilla trekking in national parks. In Uganda, permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), in Rwanda by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and in DR Congo by Virunga National Park authorities.

With limited permits available each day, booking early is essential. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about Bwindi gorilla permits, how to book them and how to prepare for your ultimate gorilla trekking safari.

How Many Gorilla Permits Are Available in Bwindi?

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest has 20 habituated gorilla families spread across four trekking sectors:

• Buhoma Sector (4 families)
• Ruhija Sector (4 families)
• Rushaga Sector (8 families – the largest number of groups)
• Nkuringo Sector (3 families)

Each gorilla family can be visited by 8 people per day, meaning there are 160 gorilla permits available daily in Bwindi. These permits sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons, so it’s best to secure yours at least 2-3 months in advance.

Where Can You Go Gorilla Trekking?

Gorilla trekking is only possible in three countries:

1. Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
2. Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park
3. DR Congo: Virunga National Park (Mountain gorillas) and Kahuzi-Biega National Park (Lowland gorillas)

To trek in any of these parks, you need a valid gorilla permit. If you’re traveling during peak months, book your permit at least 3-5 months in advance to avoid disappointment.

How to Book Bwindi Gorilla Permits: Step-by-Step

Booking your gorilla permits is easy with Trek Africa Gorillas. Here’s the step-by-step process:

1. Choose Your Trekking Dates: Once you confirm your travel dates, reach out to us via email at info@trekafricagorillas.com.
2. Check Availability: We will check real-time availability of permits with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
3. Confirm and Pay: If permits are available, we will send you an invoice. Upon payment, we will purchase your permit.
4. Receive Your Permit: We will send you a scanned copy of your permit for confirmation.

Booking early is highly recommended, especially for peak seasons (June–September and December–February), as permits operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cost of Gorilla Permits in Uganda

As of 2025, the cost of a gorilla permit in Uganda is:

• $800 per person for foreign non-residents
• $700 per person for foreign residents
• UGX 300,000 (approx. $80) for East African citizens (Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan)

Gorilla Habituation Experience: Spend More Time with the Gorillas

If you want to spend more time with the gorillas, Bwindi also offers the Gorilla Habituation Experience, available only in Rushaga. This unique experience allows you 4 hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family, alongside researchers and trackers. The cost is $1,500 per person.

Age Limits and Accessibility for Gorilla Trekking

The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years. There is no strict maximum age but fitness is an important consideration. For elderly travelers or those with mobility issues, sedan chairs are available. These chairs, carried by porters, ensure everyone can participate in this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Hiring a sedan chair costs approximately $400–500, depending on the trek’s difficulty.

Best Time to Visit Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is available year-round but the best time to visit Bwindi is during the dry seasons:

• January to February
• June to September

During these months, the trails are less muddy and visibility in the forest is better. However, Bwindi’s weather is unpredictable, so be prepared for occasional rain even during dry seasons.

Essential Packing List for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

• Hiking boots (comfortable and waterproof)
• Long-sleeved shirts and lightweight trousers (for protection from nettles and insects)
• Rain jacket (essential for Bwindi’s unpredictable weather)
• Gardening gloves (for grip when holding onto branches)
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen and hat
• Binoculars (great for birdwatching)
• Camera (no flash allowed)
• Reusable water bottle
• Walking stick (can be rented at the park)

How to Get to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

By Road

Bwindi can be reached by road from Entebbe or Kampala, with an approximate drive time of 8-9 hours. If you’re traveling to the southern sectors (Rushaga or Nkuringo), you will follow the Kabale-Kisoro road, turning off at Muko.

By Air

For a quicker journey, you can fly from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kisoro Airstrip. Domestic airlines such as Aerolink Uganda and Fly Uganda offer scheduled and chartered flights. From Kisoro, your tour operator can arrange a short transfer to Bwindi.

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

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we organize personalized gorilla trekking experiences with a focus on safety, comfort and sustainability. Here’s why you should book with us:

• Personalized Service: We tailor your safari to your needs and preferences.
• Reliable Expertise: Our team handles permit bookings, transportation and accommodation seamlessly.
• Eco-Friendly Tourism: We follow the principle of “Take Nothing but Photographs, Leave Only Footprints.”
• Post-COVID Safety: We prioritize your health and safety, ensuring all service providers adhere to current SOPs.

Ready to Book Your Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Safari?

Ready to experience the magic of Bwindi’s mountain gorillas? Contact us today to book your gorilla trekking permits and safari!