Cost of Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Cost of Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

If you’re planning to track mountain gorillas in Uganda, understanding the costs involved is essential. Gorilla trekking takes place in two main locations: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These parks are conveniently close to one another, making it easy to trek in both. The cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda can vary significantly based on several factors, including the price of gorilla permits and the package offered by your tour operator. At Trek Africa Expeditions, we provide a range of options, from budget to luxury, so the total cost of your safari will depend on your specific choices at the time of booking.

Popular Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari Tours

Here are some of our most popular gorilla trekking safari tours in Uganda:

• 3 Days Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Tour
• 3 Day Bwindi Gorilla Habituation Experience Tour
• 4 Day Bwindi Double Gorilla Trekking Tour
• 5 Day Gorilla Trekking and Game Safari
• 5 Day Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking Tour

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Cost?

The cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda varies depending on your travel style—luxury, mid-range, or budget—as well as your chosen itinerary and the number of days you’ll be traveling. The biggest expense on a gorilla trekking safari is the gorilla tracking permit, which costs:

• USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents
• USD 700 for East African residents
• USD 75 for East African citizens

In addition to the permit, you’ll need to consider accommodation costs, which typically range from:

• Budget: USD 100
• Mid-range: USD 200
• Luxury: USD 300 – USD 700

Transport and other services will also contribute to your total cost.

How Much Does a Gorilla Safari Cost?

For instance, a 3-Day Gorilla Tracking Budget Safari costs approximately:

• USD 1,700 for a solo traveler
• USD 1,290 per person for two people sharing
• USD 1,270 per person for three people sharing
• USD 1,250 per person for four people sharing

These prices are all-inclusive, covering your gorilla tracking permit, budget accommodation, transport in a 4×4 safari van, an English-speaking driver guide, and drinking water. Please note that tips, Uganda visas, flights, and alcoholic drinks are not included.

If you’re interested in shorter options, a 1-Day Gorilla Tour in Uganda will typically cost around USD 1,100, while a 2-Day Gorilla Tour starting from Kigali usually begins at USD 1,300, all-inclusive.

For assistance in booking your gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi, feel free to contact us.

How to Book Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Once you have confirmed your travel dates, please share them with us via email, and we’ll check the availability of gorilla tracking permits through the Uganda Wildlife Authority. After confirming availability, we’ll guide you through the booking process, including purchasing your permits. Gorilla permits can only be purchased directly from the headquarters of the Uganda Wildlife Authority, and it’s crucial to book in advance since they sell out quickly on a first-come, first-served basis. Ideally, aim to secure your permits 2-3 months in advance of your trip. However, if permits are available, it’s also possible to book last-minute.

Why Is Gorilla Trekking More Expensive Than Other Safari Activities?

Gorilla trekking is typically more expensive than other safari activities for several reasons. According to a 2019 census, only 1,063 mountain gorillas remain in the wild, primarily residing in Virunga National Park, Volcanoes National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These gorillas cannot survive in captivity and are our closest relatives, sharing over 97% of their DNA with humans. The high demand for gorilla trekking permits contributes to the cost, as a percentage of the fees helps fund conservation efforts for these endangered species. This has significantly contributed to the recovery of their population, improving their status on the IUCN Red List from critically endangered to endangered.

What Is the Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking in Uganda can be enjoyed throughout the year, thanks to the well-organized nature of the activity in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. The ideal times for gorilla trekking are during the drier months of January, February, and June to early September. During these months, the trails are easier to navigate, and the lower vegetation allows for better visibility of the gorillas. However, the rainy season can also offer unique advantages, as an abundance of food leads gorillas to travel shorter distances, making them easier to spot.

Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

When planning your gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, choosing the right accommodation is essential for a comfortable experience. Gorilla tracking takes place in two key areas: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Each region offers a variety of lodges and camps to suit different budgets and preferences.

Accommodation Options in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Southern Bwindi (Rushaga and Nkuringo Sectors)

In Rushaga, you can find several excellent lodging options, including:

• Rushaga Gorilla Camp
• Four Gorillas Lodge
• Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
• Nsongyi Camp
• Icumbi Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Gorilla Valley Lodge
• Karungi Camp

For those visiting Nkuringo, consider staying at:

• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
• Lake Mutanda Resort

All these accommodations are conveniently located near the starting point for gorilla habituation experiences.

Northern Bwindi (Buhoma and Ruhija Sectors)

If you’re trekking in the northern part, the Buhoma sector offers lodges such as:

• Buhoma Lodge
• Bwindi Lodge
• Buhoma Community Rest Camp
• Ride 4 a Woman

In Ruhija, you can choose from:

• Trekkers Tavern Cottages
• Agandi Eco Lodge
• Gift of Nature Lodge
• Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Broadbill Tented Camp

Accommodation Near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

For those trekking in Mgahinga, consider these nearby lodges:

• Lake Chahafi Resort
• Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge
• Gahinga Lodge
• Kisoro Travelers Inn

Getting to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks

Reaching the parks for gorilla trekking is straightforward. You can fly into Entebbe International Airport and begin your journey towards southwestern Uganda, passing through major towns like Masaka, Mbarara, and Kabale.

• By Road: The drive takes approximately 9-10 hours.
• By Air: You can also fly to Kisoro Airstrip for the southern part of Bwindi and Mgahinga or Kihihi Airstrip for the northern part.

Alternatively, you can fly into Kigali International Airport in Rwanda and cross the border at Cyanika or Katuna, which takes about 4-5 hours, including immigration clearance.

For ease of travel across the region, consider obtaining an East African Visa, which allows multiple entries into Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda for USD 100. This option is more cost-effective than purchasing individual visas. Alternatively, single-entry visas are available, costing USD 50 for Uganda and USD 30 for Rwanda.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure with Trek Africa Expeditions

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in creating personalized gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda. Our team is dedicated to ensuring you have a memorable safari. We handle everything from booking gorilla trekking permits to organizing your travel itinerary, making your journey as seamless as possible.

Check out our TripAdvisor reviews to see what our satisfied clients have to say about their experiences with us. With a commitment to excellent service and customer satisfaction, our knowledgeable tour consultants are ready to answer any questions you may have. Let us help you create an unforgettable safari adventure in Uganda!