How Many Gorilla Permits Are Available in Uganda?

How Many Gorilla Permits Are Available in Uganda?

In Uganda, there are 194 gorilla permits available daily, spread across 18 gorilla families in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Each family can be visited by 8 people, ensuring an intimate experience with the gorillas.

The permits are distributed by region:

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

Due to the limited number of permits available, it’s essential to book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot for a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking adventure.

Where Is Gorilla Trekking Done in Africa?

Gorilla trekking is a unique experience offered in Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where you can visit the only remaining mountain gorillas. These incredible creatures are found in the following national parks:

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

To trek in any of these parks, you must secure a gorilla permit. Since permits can sell out quickly, especially in the high season, it’s best to book at least 5 months in advance. You can book your trek directly or through a trusted tour operator like Trek Africa Gorillas.

Cost of Gorilla Permits in Uganda

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) offers different permit costs based on residency:

• Foreign Non-residents: $800 per person for a single trek
• Residents: $700 per person
• East African Citizens (Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi, South Sudan): $80 per person

This allows you to spend 1 hour with the gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

There are 24 habituated gorilla families in Uganda—23 in Bwindi and 1 in Mgahinga—meaning 136 permits are available each day for trekking. For those who want a more immersive experience, Uganda offers the Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi, where you can spend 4 hours with the gorillas. This experience costs $1500 per person and provides a unique opportunity to interact with semi-habituated gorillas under the guidance of researchers.

Permits can be booked directly through Uganda Wildlife Authority or through Trek Africa Gorillas for a seamless experience.

How to Book Gorilla Permits for Trekking in Uganda

Booking a gorilla permit is crucial for securing your spot in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Here’s how to do it:

1. Confirm Your Travel Dates: Once you’ve decided when you want to trek, reach out to us at info@trekafricagorillas.com with your preferred dates.
2. Check Permit Availability: We will check the availability of permits with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). Once confirmed, we’ll send you an invoice for the permit payment.
3. Make the Payment: After payment is received, we’ll immediately purchase your permit and send you a scanned copy for your records.

Important Tip: It’s recommended to book your gorilla permit at least 2-3 months in advance, especially for peak seasons (June to September), as permits are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.

What Is the Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi?

The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years and the maximum age is 85 years, depending on your fitness level.

For elders who may find the trek physically challenging, sedan chair carriers are available. These chairs allow less-mobile individuals to be carried into the forest by porters, ensuring they can still enjoy the experience. The cost for hiring a sedan chair is between $400 and $500 and it can be arranged in advance or on the day of the trek.

Planning your gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda requires thoughtful preparation but with the right information and early bookings, you’ll be set for an unforgettable experience. Contact us today to secure your permit and start planning your trek!

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park can be done year-round. However, the best time for trekking is during the drier months of January, February and from June to early September. These months make it easier to travel to the park and provide clearer views of the gorillas, as the vegetation is less dense during this period.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Preparing for your gorilla trekking adventure requires packing the right gear for comfort and safety. The forest conditions can be muddy, especially during the rainy season and the terrain can be steep and challenging. Here’s what you’ll need for a successful trek:

• Comfortable walking boots or hiking shoes (sturdy and waterproof)
• Insect repellent to ward off bugs
• Torch/flashlight with spare batteries (it can be dark in the forest)
• Wet wipes for quick cleanups
• Water bottle to stay hydrated
• Camera (with extra batteries and memory cards) for unforgettable photos
• Gardening gloves to protect your hands while trekking
• Lightweight long-sleeve shirt and long trousers for protection against thorns, nettles and insects
• Hat and sunscreen for sun protection
• Rain jacket for unpredictable showers
• Sweater or fleece for cooler temperatures in the morning
• Swimwear (if you plan to visit nearby lakes or lodges with swimming pools)
• Binoculars (if you’re interested in bird watching or spotting other wildlife)

How to Get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

• By Road: The southern sector of Bwindi, including Rushaga and Nkuringo, is accessible via an 8-9 hour drive from Entebbe or Kampala. Follow the Kabale-Kisoro road and look for the Uganda Wildlife Authority signpost that will guide you to your lodge.
• By Air: For a quicker option, you can take a flight from Entebbe International Airport or Kampala’s Kajjansi Airfield to Kisoro Airstrip, which is closer to the southern sectors of Bwindi. Domestic airlines like Aero Link and Fly Uganda operate scheduled and chartered flights. From the airstrip, you’ll need a transfer to the park, which your tour operator can arrange.

Why Book Gorilla Permits and Safaris with Trek Africa Gorillas

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we provide personalized services and are dedicated to ensuring the safety and enjoyment of our clients. We prioritize the well-being of our guests and staff, while also making a positive impact on the communities and wildlife areas we visit. Our eco-friendly safaris embody the principle: “Take Nothing but Photographs, Leave Only Footprints.”

Ready for your gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi? Contact us today to learn more about gorilla permits in Uganda and plan your unforgettable safari!