Uganda Gorilla Permit Cost 2025/2026: The Price & Booking

A gorilla trekking safari in Uganda represents one of the world’s most profound wildlife encounters. As demand continues to rise for time spent with the majestic mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks, understanding the associated permit costs is the

critical first step in planning your journey.

Crucial Update for 2025/2026: The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has officially revised its conservation tariffs. The price for a Foreign Non-Resident gorilla trekking permit is now $800 USD. This guide provides the complete, current breakdown and essential planning details to secure your spot for an unforgettable experience.

The Official UWA Gorilla Permit Tariffs (2024-2026)

The Uganda gorilla permit is a legal document issued by UWA that allows access to the habituated mountain gorilla families, providing one hour of precious viewing time. The tariff is set to fund the rigorous conservation and protection efforts required for these critically endangered primates.

Standard Gorilla Trekking Permit Costs

Here is the current tariff for a single trekking permit, valid for one hour with the gorillas:

Gorilla Habituation Experience Permit Costs

For those seeking a deeper immersion, the Gorilla Habituation Experience offers a full day in the forest with up to four hours of direct time with the gorillas. This exclusive permit is only available in specific sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

What is Included in Your $800 Uganda Gorilla Permit?

Understanding the value encapsulated within the cost is essential. The permit price covers far more than just entry; it is a direct contribution to conservation and the operational logistics that ensure a safe and successful trek.

• 1 Hour of Direct Gorilla Viewing: The allocated time you spend with the habituated gorilla family once located.

• Park Entry Fees: Includes all necessary fees for access to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

• UWA Ranger & Guide Services: Access to professional, experienced UWA guides and trackers who lead your group and locate the gorilla family.

• Armed Security Escort: The protection provided by armed rangers throughout the trek to ensure safety from wildlife.

• Pre-Trek Briefing: Includes the necessary orientation session held at the park headquarters on the morning of your trek.

• Conservation Levy: A portion of the fee is allocated directly to conservation programs, anti-poaching units, habitat maintenance, and community development projects surrounding the park boundaries.

What the Permit Price Excludes

It is important to note that the permit price does not cover the following key components of your safari experience:

• Accommodation and meals.

• Ground transportation (vehicle hire, fuel, driver/guide wages).

• International flights and Visa fees.

• Porters (recommended, generally $15–$20 USD) and tips for your guide, ranger, and porter.

Essential Booking Policies & Planning FAQs

Planning your gorilla trek involves navigating specific rules and timing requirements set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. These policies are designed to protect the gorillas’ well-being and manage tourist impact.

How Far in Advance Should I Secure My Permit?

Given the limited number of permits (only 8 per gorilla family per day), securing your permit well in advance is non-negotiable, especially if your travel dates are fixed.

• Peak Season Travel (June – September, December – February): We strongly recommend booking permits 6 to 9 months ahead of your desired trekking date.

• Low Season Travel (March, April, May, October, November): Permits are slightly easier to secure, but booking 3 to 5 months in advance is still advised to ensure availability in your preferred trekking sector.

What is the Minimum Age for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

This is a frequently asked and critical policy question. The official minimum age limit set by UWA for all gorilla trekking and habituation activities is 15 years old. This regulation is strictly enforced for safety and to minimize stress on the gorilla families.

Permit Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy

Life happens, and plans change. UWA offers specific policies for cancellations and rescheduling, although terms are strict due to the high demand:

• Cancellations: Full refunds are typically only given if UWA cancels the permit (e.g., due to security or sudden park closure). Traveler-initiated cancellations incur fees:

  • 91 days or more: 75% refund.

  • 46 to 90 days: 50% refund.

  • 0 to 45 days: No refund.

• Rescheduling: UWA allows a permit to be rescheduled once, free of charge, subject to availability. Subsequent changes may incur a surcharge.

Uganda vs. Rwanda: Why Choose the $800 Permit?

For travelers comparing destinations, the decision often comes down to cost versus convenience. Here is a balanced look at why Uganda often emerges as the preferred choice for the ultimate gorilla safari experience.

Choosing Uganda’s $800 permit allows you to allocate the significant savings (the difference between $800 and $1,500) toward enhancing the overall quality of your journey—upgrading accommodation, opting for domestic flights, or adding other incredible activities like Chimpanzee Habituation or a classic wildlife safari.

The Unforgettable Gorilla Trekking Experience

Your journey begins at the park headquarters in the early morning (around 7:00 AM) with a comprehensive briefing. Groups of eight trackers are then assigned to one of the habituated gorilla families, along with a team of UWA guides and trackers.

The trek itself can vary significantly, lasting anywhere from two to eight hours, depending on where

the family nested the previous night, and how far they have traveled to feed. Once the trackers successfully locate the family, you are permitted one incredible hour to observe them. This is a quiet, profound time where you witness the silverbacks, mothers, and young gorillas interacting naturally—a truly unparalleled moment in the wild.

The experience requires moderate fitness, as the terrain can be steep, muddy, and challenging. We always recommend hiring a local porter at the park gate, not only to assist with your daypack but also as a direct and meaningful way to support the local communities surrounding the park.

Booking Your Permit: Next Steps with Confidence

The high competition for permits means the booking process should be managed efficiently and accurately.

1. Select Dates & Destination: Determine your travel window and preference (Bwindi or Mgahinga).

2. Contact a Licensed Operator: Engage with a UWA-licensed company like Whispers Safaris. Provide your desired dates and passport details.

3. Availability Confirmation: We promptly check the UWA booking system for live availability for the $800 permit.

4. Deposit & Purchase: Once confirmed, a deposit is required to hold your slot. Upon receipt, we immediately purchase the permit on your behalf, securing the booking with UWA and sending you the scanned official receipt for confirmation.

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