Uganda Gorilla Tour Price

Uganda Gorilla Tour Price: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re planning a gorilla trekking tour in Uganda, visiting Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, securing your gorilla trekking permit is the first and most important step. Many travelers have questions about the cost, booking process and availability of these permits. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan your Uganda gorilla trekking experience.

Where Can You Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is done in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, both home to the rare mountain gorillas. Beyond Uganda, gorilla trekking is also available in Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park) and Congo (Virunga National Park). In Congo, you can also see lowland gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park.

If you plan to trek in Uganda, it’s advisable to start planning your trip at least 5 months in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons. Gorilla trekking permits can be booked directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or through a trusted tour operator like Trek Africa Gorillas.

Cost of Gorilla Trekking Permits in Uganda

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda varies depending on your residency status:

• $800 for foreign non-residents
• $700 for foreign residents
• $80 for East African citizens

Each permit grants you a one-hour encounter with a gorilla family in Bwindi or Mgahinga. For a more immersive experience, Uganda also offers the Gorilla Habituation Experience, exclusively in Bwindi. This experience costs $1,500 per person and allows you to spend up to four hours with semi-habituated gorillas, guided by researchers and trackers.

How to Book Gorilla Trekking Permits in Uganda

To confirm your spot for a gorilla trekking experience, you need to secure your permit in advance. The process is simple:

1. Plan Your Travel Dates: Once you have your travel dates finalized, send us an email to check permit availability with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
2. Payment Process: If permits are available, we will send you an invoice for payment. Upon receiving your payment, we will immediately purchase your permits and send you a scanned copy for confirmation.
3. Book Early: We strongly recommend booking your permits at least 2-3 months in advance. Gorilla permits are limited and sell out quickly, especially during the peak seasons (June to September).

Gorilla Permit Cancellation Policies

Gorilla permits are non-refundable if canceled within 0-8 days of your trek. For more details on cancellations or rescheduling, feel free to contact us.

What is the Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years, while the maximum age depends on your physical fitness. For older travelers or those with mobility issues, sedan chairs are available in Bwindi. These chairs, carried by porters, ensure that everyone can enjoy the experience regardless of their fitness level. Hiring a sedan chair costs approximately $400-$500 and can be arranged in advance or on the day of your trek.

What is the Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is available year-round but the best time to go is during the dry months of January, February, June, July, August and early September. These months are ideal because the trails are less muddy, making it easier to navigate the forest. Additionally, the vegetation is less dense during the dry season, which enhances visibility for spotting gorillas.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Preparing for a gorilla trekking adventure requires the right gear to ensure comfort and safety in the forest. Here’s a list of essential items to pack:

• Insect Repellent – To protect against bites.
• Torch/Flashlight – Plus spare batteries for overnight stays.
• Wet Wipes – Useful for freshening up during or after the trek.
• Water Bottle – Staying hydrated is crucial.
• Camera and Lenses – For capturing unforgettable moments.
• Comfortable Hiking Boots – Muddy trails and steep inclines demand durable footwear.
• Gardening Gloves – To protect your hands from thorny plants.
• Lightweight Long-Sleeve Shirt and Trousers – To shield against stinging nettles and insects.
• Rain Jacket – Essential for unexpected rainfall in the forest.
• Sweater or Fleece – For chilly mornings or evenings.
• Hat and Sunscreen – To protect against the sun.
• Sandals or Comfortable Shoes – For relaxing after the trek.
• Binoculars – Great for birdwatching and spotting other wildlife.
• Swimwear – If your lodge has a pool or for refreshing dips.

Packing the right gear ensures you’ll have a comfortable and enjoyable experience in the forest.

How to Get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is accessible by both road and air, depending on your preference and budget.

By Road

From Entebbe or Kampala, it’s about an 8-9 hour drive to the southern sector of Bwindi. Follow the main safari route, turning off at Muko along the Kabale-Kisoro road. Look for the Uganda Wildlife Authority signposts, which will guide you to your accommodation in the Rushaga or Nkuringo sectors.

By Air

You can also take a domestic flight from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kisoro Airstrip, which serves the southern sectors of Bwindi, including Rushaga and Nkuringo. Scheduled and chartered flights are operated by domestic airlines such as Aerolink and Fly Uganda. Your tour operator can arrange transfers from the airstrip to your lodge.

Why Book Gorilla Permits with Trek Africa Gorillas?

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we pride ourselves on providing personalized service with a strong focus on your safety, comfort and enjoyment. Here’s why travelers trust us for their gorilla trekking experiences:

1. Commitment to Eco-Friendly Tourism: We embrace sustainable practices, adhering to the principle, “Take Nothing but Photographs, Leave Only Footprints.”
2. Community Impact: Our operations support local communities and contribute to conservation efforts.
3. Expertise in Gorilla Permits: We’ll handle all the logistics of securing your permits, ensuring a stress-free experience.

Let us help you plan an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure. Contact us for assistance with Uganda gorilla tour prices, permit bookings and travel arrangements.