How Much Does a Uganda Gorilla Permit Cost?

One of the first questions travelers ask when planning a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda is, “How much does a Uganda gorilla permit cost?” The price of a gorilla trekking permit is a crucial element in your safari budget, and understanding its cost will help you plan your trip accordingly. Whether you are trekking in the lush forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or the scenic landscapes of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, securing your gorilla trekking permit is an essential step towards experiencing one of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters on the planet.

As a reputable and registered Uganda tour operator, Tubale Safaris Ltd is here to provide you with all the information you need about the cost of a Uganda gorilla trekking permit and how you can make your dream of seeing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat come true.

Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari Packages and Tours

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Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Understanding the Uganda Gorilla Permit

Before delving into the exact cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda, it’s important to understand what the permit covers. A gorilla trekking permit is your access pass to trek into the forests and observe the critically endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), this permit not only allows you to trek and observe the gorillas for up to one hour, but it also supports vital conservation efforts that help protect these majestic animals.

The cost of the permit varies depending on the type of experience you choose. Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and while the cost might seem high, it directly contributes to the protection of the gorillas and their habitat. It is also important to note that the permit is non-refundable and must be booked in advance to secure your spot.

Cost of a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda

Standard Gorilla Trekking Permit

As of 2024, the cost of a standard gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is US$800 per person. This fee grants you the opportunity to track a habituated gorilla family in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The trek typically lasts between 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas on the day of your trek. Once you find a gorilla group, you can spend up to one hour observing and interacting with them under the supervision of trained rangers and guides.

This fee covers several important aspects of your trekking experience, including:

• Guided tours with experienced rangers who ensure your safety and help you locate the gorillas.
• Conservation efforts that help protect the gorillas and their environment.
• Park entrance fees to the national parks.

Booking a gorilla trekking permit is essential for securing your place in the group and ensuring a smooth and memorable experience.

Cost of Gorilla Habituation Experience

For those looking for a more in-depth gorilla experience, Uganda also offers the gorilla habituation experience at a higher cost. The gorilla habituation experience allows you to spend up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family, which gives you a deeper understanding of the gorillas’ behavior and lifestyle. This experience is ideal for those who want to get more involved and learn about the gorillas’ social structure, daily activities, and interactions.

The cost of a gorilla habituation permit in Uganda is US$1,500 per person as of 2024. Although this is significantly more expensive than the regular trekking permit, it provides a more intimate and extended interaction with the gorillas, making it a unique and unforgettable experience.

Where Can You Go for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Uganda is home to two major gorilla trekking destinations:

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:

   • This is the largest and most popular park for gorilla trekking in Uganda. It’s home to over 20 habituated gorilla families and is one of the most biodiverse regions in Africa.
   • With four trekking regions (Ruhija, Buhoma, Nkuringo, and Rushaga), Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers a variety of trekking experiences, each with its own unique terrain and challenges.
   • The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Bwindi is the same as in Mgahinga.

2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park:

   • Located in the southwestern corner of Uganda, Mgahinga is a smaller park compared to Bwindi, but it is equally rich in wildlife.
   • The park is home to only one habituated gorilla family, the Nyakagezi Group, but it offers a more intimate and less crowded experience.
   • The trekking experience in Mgahinga is just as remarkable, and the cost of the gorilla trekking permit is the same as in Bwindi.

Both parks offer an amazing opportunity to observe the mountain gorillas up close, but the trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park tends to be more popular due to its larger number of habituated families.

How to Book Your Gorilla Permit in Uganda

Booking a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is a simple process, but it requires planning ahead, as permits are limited and can sell out, especially during peak trekking seasons (from June to September and December to February). Here are the steps to book your gorilla permit:

1. Choose

   Your Trekking Date and Location:

   • Decide whether you want to trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and choose your preferred trekking date.

2. Contact a Tour Operator:

   • Although you can book your permit directly with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), it’s often easier to go through a registered and reputable Uganda tour operator, such as Tubale Safaris Ltd.
   • Tour operators can help you secure permits even during busy times and assist with your travel arrangements, including accommodation and transportation.

3. Pay for the Permit:

   • Once you’ve chosen your trekking date and location, your tour operator will assist you in making the necessary payments for the gorilla trekking permit.

4. Receive Confirmation:

   • After payment, you will receive confirmation of your gorilla trekking permit and detailed information about your trip, including the meeting point and time for your trek.

Flights to Uganda for Gorilla Trekking

If you are traveling to Uganda for your gorilla trekking experience, Entebbe International Airport (EBB) is the main gateway. Many international flights from cities like New York, London, Dubai, and Amsterdam connect to Uganda.

Popular airlines offering flights to Uganda include:

• Qatar Airways (via Doha).
• Emirates (via Dubai).
• Ethiopian Airlines (via Addis Ababa).
• KLM (via Amsterdam).

Once you arrive in Entebbe, you can catch a domestic flight or take a road transfer to either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Domestic flights are available with airlines like Aerolink Uganda, offering flights to Kihihi (near Bwindi) or Kisoro (near Mgahinga).

Conclusion: How Much Does a Uganda Gorilla Permit Cost?

In conclusion, the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is US$800 for standard trekking, and US$1,500 for the gorilla habituation experience. This fee covers the essential aspects of your trekking experience, including conservation efforts, park entrance fees, and the services of expert guides and rangers. By booking your permit through a reliable tour operator like Tubale Safaris Ltd, you ensure a smooth and memorable adventure. Reach out today to start planning your unforgettable journey to see the incredible mountain gorillas of Uganda!