Prices for Uganda Gorilla Trekking | Bwindi & Mgahinga 2026/2027

Prices for Uganda Gorilla Trekking in 2026/2027 are shaped by several factors, including permit fees, accommodation, transport, porter services, and overall safari length. Uganda offers gorilla trekking in two spectacular locations: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, both found in the lush southwest of the country. Trekking into these tropical jungles is one of Africa’s most rewarding adventures, giving visitors a rare chance to spend an hour with habituated mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Permit Prices for Uganda Gorilla Trekking 2026/2027

Gorilla trekking permits are the biggest factor in determining the cost of your safari. As of July 2024, new rates apply and will continue into 2026/2027:

Foreign non-residents: USD 800 per person
Foreign residents: USD 700 per person
African citizens: USD 500 per person
East African citizens: UGX 300,000 per person

For those interested in spending more time with the gorillas, the gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi is available at:

USD 1,500 per person for foreign non-residents
USD 1,000 per person for foreign residents and African citizens
UGX 750,000 per person for East African citizens

Because permits are limited and in very high demand during peak seasons (June–September and December–February), booking at least six months in advance is strongly recommended.

What’s Included in the Prices for Uganda Gorilla Trekking

The prices for Uganda gorilla trekking go beyond permits. Your total budget will also cover accommodation, transport, and other safari expenses.

Accommodation costs: Budget lodges start from USD 100–150 per night, mid-range options range between USD 150–300, while luxury lodges cost from USD 300 upwards.

Transport costs: Traveling from Kampala or Entebbe to Bwindi or Mgahinga takes about 9–10 hours by road. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Kigali, Rwanda, and drive across the border in 4–5 hours. Transport costs include vehicle hire, driver/guide fees, and fuel.

Other expenses: Hiring a porter costs about USD 15–20 per trek, and tips for guides, rangers, and lodge staff should also be factored into your budget.

The Gorilla Trekking Experience in Uganda

On the day of your trek, the adventure begins with a morning briefing at the park headquarters. Visitors are then divided into groups of eight, each led by experienced rangers who guide you through the forest to track a habituated gorilla family. Depending on the gorillas’ movements, treks may last between two and seven hours. Once located, you’ll have one precious hour to observe the gorillas feeding, playing, grooming, and caring for their young.

While gorillas are the main highlight, trekkers often encounter other primates such as red-tailed monkeys and colobus monkeys, along with a variety of bird species and forest flora. This makes the experience rich, diverse, and unforgettable.

Planning for Gorilla Trekking Safaris

When planning your safari, the prices for Uganda gorilla trekking also depend on how many days you dedicate to the trip. A short safari may be as little as two or three days, but many travelers combine gorilla trekking with longer itineraries that include chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, wildlife safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park, or cultural experiences with local communities.

Booking through a reputable tour operator ensures your permits, accommodation, and transport are secured, saving you from last-minute stress.

Are you ready to take part in this once-in-a-lifetime adventure? Explore our carefully designed Uganda gorilla trekking packages that include permits, transport, and luxury or mid-range accommodation.

Prices for Uganda Gorilla Trekking 2026/2027