How to Book Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: Your Ultimate Guide for 2025

How to Book Gorilla Trekking in Uganda:  Embarking on a gorilla trekking in Uganda adventure is a bucket-list experience that brings you face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Uganda, home to over half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, offers unparalleled opportunities to trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (BINP)and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

As a premier destination for gorilla trekking, Uganda combines affordability, biodiversity, and adventure, making it a top choice compared to Rwanda and Congo.

What is Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking in Uganda involves hiking through dense rainforests to observe habituated mountain gorilla families for one hour, guided by expert rangers and trackers.

Uganda hosts approximately 500 of the world’s 1,063 remaining mountain gorillas, primarily in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

These parks, located in southwestern Uganda, offer a sustainable, conservation-driven experience that supports local communities and gorilla protection.

The gorilla trekking permit, costing $800 USD for foreign non-residents in 2025, is a mandatory pass that regulates access and funds conservation efforts. With only 152–160 permits issued daily in Uganda, booking early is critical to secure your spot.

Why Choose Uganda for Gorilla Trekking?

Uganda stands out as a prime destination for gorilla trekking due to several advantages:

• Affordable Permits: At $800 USD, Uganda’s gorilla trekking permits are significantly cheaper than Rwanda’s $1,500 USD or Congo’s $400 USD, offering better value for an equally remarkable experience.
• Biodiversity: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park hosts over 25 habituated gorilla families, providing more trekking opportunities than Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (one family) or Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park (10 families).
• Conservation Impact: 75% of permit fees fund gorilla conservation, 10% support local communities, and 15% go to the government, ensuring sustainable tourism.
• Additional Attractions: Uganda offers chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 safaris, and cultural experiences in parks like Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park.

Gorilla Trekking Permits: Costs and Details

The gorilla trekking permit is the cornerstone of your gorilla trekking in Uganda experience. Here’s a breakdown of costs and key details for 2025:

Permit Costs: 

• Foreign Non-Residents: $800 USD per person.
• Foreign Residents: $700 USD per person.
• African Nationals: $500 USD per person.
• East African Citizens: 300,000 UGX (approx. $80 USD).
• Gorilla Habituation Experience: $1,500 USD per person (4 hours with gorillas instead of 1 hour, available only in Bwindi’s Rushaga sector).

What’s Included in the Permit?

• One-hour interaction with a gorilla family.
• Park entrance fees.
• Services of rangers, trackers, and armed guides.
• Contribution to conservation and local communities.

Permit Availability

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Over 152 permits daily across 25+ habituated gorilla families in four sectors (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, Nkuringo).
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: 8 permits daily for one habituated gorilla family.
• Only 8 people per gorilla family are allowed daily to minimize environmental impact.

Refund and Rescheduling Policies

• Permits are non-refundable, except in cases of illness (verified by park officials).
• Rescheduling is possible at least two weeks in advance, subject to availability and potential fees. Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended to cover cancellations.

How to Book a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda

Booking a gorilla trekking permit requires careful planning due to high demand, especially during peak seasons (June–September, December–February). Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Decide on Your Trekking Dates

• Peak Seasons (Dry): June–September and December–February offer drier trails and easier hiking. Book 6–12 months in advance.
• Low Seasons (Wet): March–May and October–November are wetter but quieter, with potential accommodation discounts. Permits are still competitive, so book 3–6 months ahead.

2. Choose a Trekking Location

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Preferred for its 25+ gorilla families and diverse sectors. Buhoma is ideal for easier treks, while Nkuringo and Rushaga offer more challenging hikes.
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Smaller, with one gorilla family, suitable for quieter treks but less consistent gorilla sightings.

3. Contact a Reputable Tour Operator

• The easiest and most reliable way to book is through a licensed tour operator like Trade Panel International Limited. Tour operators:
  • Access the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) booking system to check permit availability.
  • Handle permit purchases, often adding a $60–$100 USD service fee if you only need the permit.
  • Arrange transport, accommodation, and additional safari activities for a seamless experience.
• Alternatively, contact UWA directly, but this is less convenient for foreigners due to limited online access and logistical challenges.

4. Confirm Permit Availability

• Provide your preferred dates to the tour operator, who will check the UWA system for availability. You’ll need to specify the park and sector (e.g., Buhoma or Rushaga).
• If permits are available, make a deposit (often 30–50% of the permit cost) to secure your spot.

5. Receive Confirmation

• Upon payment, the tour operator or UWA issues a receipt with a booking ID. A scanned copy is sent to you, and the physical permit is collected one week before trekking.
• Permits are valid only for the booked date and cannot be transferred.

6. Prepare Documentation

• Carry your passport and proof of residence (for discounted rates) to the trekking briefing.
• If traveling from a yellow fever hotspot, provide proof of vaccination. An East African tourist visa ($100 USD) covers Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya.

Choosing the Right Tour Operator

Selecting a reputable tour operator is crucial for a smooth gorilla trekking experience. Here’s why Uganda Wildlife tours is your best choice:

• Permit Booking: We access UWA’s booking system to secure permits, even for last-minute treks, and handle all logistics, including transport and accommodation.
• Ethical Practices: We prioritize sustainable tourism, ensuring your trek supports gorilla conservation and local communities.
• Comprehensive Packages: From budget to luxury, we offer all-inclusive packages covering permits, transport, lodging, and additional safaris.
• Customer Support: Contact us via or WhatsApp for real-time assistance.

Tips for Choosing a Tour Operator

• Check Reviews: Read customer feedback on platforms like SafariBookings.com to verify reliability.
• Compare Packages: Ensure the operator includes permits, transport, and accommodation in their quotes.
• Verify Licensing: Confirm the operator is registered with UWA or the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO).

Costs of Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Beyond the $800 USD permit, additional costs impact your gorilla trekking budget:

1. Flights: International flights to Entebbe International Airport (EBB) or Kigali International Airport (KGL) cost $600–$2,500 USD. Domestic chartered flights to Bwindi cost around $600 USD.
2. Transport: Hiring a 4×4 vehicle costs $70–$150 USD per day (excluding fuel and driver). Driving from Kampala to Bwindi takes 8–10 hours.
3. Accommodation:

• • Budget Lodges: $100+ USD per night (e.g., Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge).
  • Mid-Range Lodges: $150–$400 USD per night (e.g., Mahogany Springs Lodge).
  • Luxury Lodges: $300–$5,500 USD per night (e.g., Bwindi Lodge).

1. Food and Drinks: Approximately $40 USD per day if not included in your package.
2. Porters: Hiring a porter costs $10–$20 USD, supporting local communities and easing your trek.
3. Tipping: Tip guides, rangers, and trackers $5–$20 USD per person per trek, depending on service quality.
4. Visa: An East African tourist visa costs $100 USD.
5. Total Cost: A 3-day gorilla trekking tour, including permit, transport, and mid-range lodging, ranges from $1,500–$5,000 USD per person, depending on group size and luxury level.

Table: Estimated Gorilla Trekking Costs in Uganda (2025)

Expense Category	Cost (USD)	Notes
Gorilla Trekking Permit	$800 (Foreign Non-Residents)	Mandatory, includes park fees and 1-hour gorilla interaction.
International Flights	$600–$2,500	To Entebbe or Kigali, varies by origin and airline.
Domestic Transport	$70–$150/day (vehicle hire)	4×4 recommended for Bwindi’s rough roads.
Accommodation	$100–$5,500/night	Budget to luxury options; book near trekking sector.
Food and Drinks	$40/day	Included in most tour packages.
Porter Hire	$10–$20	Supports local communities; recommended for heavy loads.
Tipping	$5–$20/person	For guides, rangers, and trackers; discretionary.
East African Visa	$100	Covers Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a year-round activity, but seasons affect conditions and costs:

Dry Seasons (June–September, December–February):

• • Pros: Drier trails, easier hiking, clearer views. Ideal for photography.
  • Cons: High demand for permits, higher accommodation rates. Book 6–12 months in advance.

Wet Seasons (March–May, October–November):

• • Pros: Quieter trails, potential lodging discounts. Lush greenery enhances scenery.
  • Cons: Muddy, slippery paths; rain gear essential. Permits still require 3–6 months’ advance booking.

Note: Low-season permit discounts (previously $450 USD in April, May, and November) were discontinued, so plan budgets accordingly.

Preparing for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Physical Fitness

• Treks last 2–6 hours, involving steep, muddy terrain at high altitudes (2,000–3,000 meters). Moderate fitness is required.
• Practice hiking and consult a doctor if you have health concerns. A $300 USD rescue fee applies if assistance is needed in Bwindi.

Packing Essentials

• Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, trousers, waterproof hiking boots, rain jacket, hat, gaiters.
• Gear: Daypack, insect repellent, sunscreen, camera (no flash), binoculars, water bottle, energy snacks, walking stick (available at park).
• Documents: Passport, visa, yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Health and Safety

• Vaccinations: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory; malaria prophylaxis is recommended.
• Safety: Gorillas are gentle, and armed guides ensure safety. Follow ranger instructions to maintain a 7-meter distance to avoid disease transmission.

Hiring a Porter

• Porters carry your bag, assist with navigation, and provide local insights. At $10–$20 USD, they’re a valuable investment and support community livelihoods.

What to Expect on Trekking Day

1. Briefing (7:00 AM): Attend a ranger-led briefing at the park headquarters (Buhoma, Rushaga, Nkuringo, or Ruhija). Learn about gorilla behavior, safety rules, and group assignments (max 8 people per gorilla family).
2. Trek (2–6 Hours): Hike through dense forests with guides and trackers who locate gorillas using radio communication. Terrain varies from moderate to strenuous.
3. Gorilla Encounter (1 Hour): Observe the gorilla family at a safe distance, capturing photos (no flash) and learning from guides.
4. Return: Hike back to the trailhead, receiving a certificate for completing the trek.

Additional Tips for a Successful Trek

• Book Early: Secure permits 6–12 months in advance for peak seasons to avoid sell-outs.
• Choose the Right Sector: Match your fitness level to the trekking sector. Buhoma is easier; Nkuringo is more challenging.
• Stay Near the Trailhead: Book accommodations close to your assigned sector to avoid long drives on trekking day.
• Avoid Last-Minute Booking: DIY treks risk higher costs and logistical errors. Use a tour operator to streamline planning.
• Combine Activities: Pair gorilla trekking with chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park or safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park for a fuller experience.

Why Book Gorilla Trekking with us today:

• Seamless Permit Booking: We access UWA’s system to secure permits, even for last-minute treks, and handle all payments and documentation.
• Tailored Packages: From budget to luxury, our all-inclusive tours cover permits, transport, lodging, and additional safaris, starting at $1,500 USD for a 3-day trip.
• Local Expertise: Our teams in Kampala, Nairobi, and Kigali ensure smooth logistics and insider knowledge of Uganda’s parks.
• Conservation Commitment: We support ethical tourism, ensuring your trek contributes to gorilla conservation and local communities.
• Global Reach: We arrange secure transport and accommodations for clients worldwide, with insured delivery of permits and travel support.

Act Now!
Don’t miss the chance to experience gorilla trekking in Uganda in 2025. Contact Uganda Wildlife Tours or via email to book your adventure. Secure your permit today and immerse yourself in the magic of Uganda’s mountain gorillas!