Gorilla Trekking Costs in Uganda

Gorilla Trekking Costs in Uganda

Are you dreaming of a trip to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience? Knowing the costs involved will help you plan better. A 3-day gorilla tour to Bwindi includes transportation, gorilla permits, accommodation, and service fees. The total price will depend on your group size, choice of transportation, and preferences for activities and lodging. At Excursia Adventures, we help you organize your Bwindi gorilla trekking adventure while keeping your budget, interests, and travel preferences in mind.

Why Choose Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking?

Located in southern Uganda, near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a prime destination for gorilla trekking, offering an unmatched opportunity to see these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

Bwindi is divided into four trekking regions:

• Buhoma Sector
• Nkuringo Sector
• Ruhija Sector
• Rushaga Sector

Each region hosts several habituated gorilla families, with every family led by a dominant silverback. A gorilla permit is required for trekking, and only 8 visitors are allowed to track a single gorilla family per day.

Fun Fact: Mountain gorillas share 95% of their DNA with humans, making observing them a truly fascinating experience!

Cost of Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla Permits in Bwindi

A gorilla permit is essential for trekking and contributes to the conservation of these endangered species. The current prices are:

• $800 per person for Non-Residents
• $700 per person for Foreign Residents
• UGX 300,000 for East African Citizens

If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, consider a Gorilla Habituation Experience, where you spend up to four hours with a gorilla family. The habituation permits cost:

• $1,500 per person for Non-Residents
• $1,000 per person for Foreign Residents
• UGX 750,000 for East African Citizens

Permits often sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons (January, February, July, August, September, and December). At Excursia Adventures, we’ll assist you in securing your permits and confirming your trek dates.

What to Expect During Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking in Uganda begins early, with a briefing at 7:00 AM on the dos and don’ts of trekking. Park rangers, guides, and trackers will lead you into the forest to find the gorillas.

Once you locate the gorilla family, you’ll have one magical hour to observe and photograph them. After the trek, you’ll return to the starting point and receive a certificate for completing your gorilla trekking adventure.

Important Notes:

• Only 8 visitors are allowed per gorilla family per day to minimize human impact.
• Trekking is only allowed for individuals aged 15 and above to ensure safety and limit disease transmission.
• Conservation policies are strictly followed to protect the gorillas and their habitat.

Cost Breakdown for a 3-Day Gorilla Trekking Tour

A 5-day gorilla trekking tour to Bwindi typically includes:

1. Transportation
   • By road: A scenic 8–9 hour drive from Kampala/Entebbe or a 4–5 hour drive from Kigali, Rwanda.
   • By air: Domestic flights to Kisoro Airstrip, followed by a 1-hour transfer to Bwindi.
2. Accommodation
   • Options range from budget to luxury lodges, tailored to your preferences.
3. Gorilla Permits
   • Permit costs (as detailed above) are a significant portion of the total safari price.
4. Other Costs
   • Meals, guide fees, and optional activities like cultural tours or nature walks.

At Excursia Adventures, we’ll create a personalized itinerary to suit your budget and ensure you get the best experience possible.

What is the Cost of Transportation for a 3-Day Gorilla Tour to Bwindi National Park?

Transportation costs are a key factor in determining the total price of a 3-day gorilla safari to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. These costs include fuel for the round trip, vehicle hire, and driver-guide fees.

Here’s a breakdown of typical transportation costs:

• Vehicle Hire: Starts from $150 per day for a 4×4 safari vehicle.
• Fuel Costs: Approximately $280 for the round trip.
• Driver-Guide Fees: Around $50 per day, which may vary based on your itinerary and destinations beyond Bwindi.

When traveling as a group of two or more people, the transportation cost per person decreases significantly. At Excursia Adventures, we use 4×4 safari vehicles driven by experienced and professional guides who are knowledgeable about the region’s flora and fauna.

What is the Cost of Accommodation in Bwindi?

During a 3-day gorilla trekking tour, you’ll stay for two nights at a lodge near your trekking sector in Bwindi. Staying close to your trekking region ensures easy access to the park headquarters on the day of your trek.

Accommodation options in Bwindi vary based on budget and preferences. Here are some popular choices by sector:

Rushaga Sector

• Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
• Rushaga Gorilla Camp
• Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Four Gorillas Lodge

Nkuringo Sector

• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
• Gorilla Heights Lodge

Buhoma Sector

• Buhoma Havens
• Buhoma Lodge
• Bwindi Lodge
• Buhoma Community Rest Camp

Ruhija Sector

• Trekkers Tavern Lodge
• Bakiga Lodge
• Ruhija Community Rest Camp

Accommodation Price Range:

• Luxury Lodges: $400–$1,000 per person per night
• Midrange Lodges: $150–$300 per person per night
• Budget Lodges: $70–$100 per person per night

Lodges in Bwindi tend to book out quickly, especially during the high season, so we recommend securing your accommodations in advance.

How to Book a 3-Day Gorilla Tour to Bwindi at a Fair Price

The cost of a gorilla safari to Bwindi can vary depending on the activities and destinations included in your itinerary. A budget-friendly gorilla tour may focus solely on gorilla trekking or include additional activities like cultural experiences.

At Excursia Adventures, we handle all the logistics, from booking your gorilla permits and accommodations to organizing transportation, ensuring your safari is affordable while meeting your expectations. To book your tour, you can:

• Email us for detailed communication and record-keeping.
• WhatsApp us for quick and direct responses.

Why Book Your 3-Day Gorilla Tour with Excursia Adventures?

Excursia Adventures is known for delivering unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Here’s why you should choose us:

• Expertise: We offer well-planned, tailor-made packages, including discounted options for budget travelers.
• Authentic Experiences: Our team combines youthful energy with the expertise of seasoned Ugandan managers passionate about showcasing Uganda’s beauty.
• Highly Rated: We are top-rated on TripAdvisor and SafariBookings, with reviews from travelers who have enjoyed our services.
• Comprehensive Service: From gorilla trekking to cultural experiences, we ensure every detail of your safari is handled seamlessly.

Plan Your 3-Day Gorilla Tour Today

Ready to embark on a gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi? Contact Excursia Adventures today for discounted packages and personalized safari options. Let us create an unforgettable experience for you while keeping costs fair and transparent.

Get in touch with us now to learn more about the Gorilla Trekking Uganda price and start planning your trip!