Uganda remains the premier destination for seeing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. More than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population lives within the rugged borders of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. If you are planning a trip for 2026 or 2027, understanding the current logistics, permit costs, and sector differences is vital for a successful trek.
Quick Log: The 2026 Essentials
Permit Price: $800 USD (Foreign Non-Residents).
Location: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Success Rate: 99% chance of seeing gorillas.
Fitness Level: Moderate to High (Sector dependent).
Minimum Age: 15 Years Old.
The Cost of Gorilla Trekking in 2026
Most websites hide the total price. We believe in total transparency. The permit is just the entry ticket; here is the real breakdown of what you will spend per person.
| Item | Cost (USD) | Notes |
| Gorilla Permit (Non-Resident) | $800 | Fixed price by UWA (2024–2026 Tariff). Includes park entry and rangers. |
| Gorilla Permit (Resident) | $700 | Must show a valid work permit/residency card. |
| EAC Citizen Permit | UGX 300,000 | For citizens of Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan. |
The “Field” Costs (Highly Recommended)
| Item | Cost (USD) | Why you need it |
| Porter | $20 | A porter carries your bag and pulls you up slippery slopes. This supports the local community directly. |
| Ranger Tip | $15 – $20 | Tipping the tracking team is customary after a successful trek. |
| Porter Tip | $5 – $10 | If they helped you navigate the mud, show appreciation. |
Total “Field Cash” Needed: Carry at least $50 in small bills (USD printed after 2015 or Ugandan Shillings) for tips and porters on the day of the trek.
Note on “Cheap” Permits: There are no discounted permits in the rainy season for 2026. The price is fixed at $800 year-round. If an operator offers you a $500 permit, it is a scam or an old listing.
Choosing Your Sector
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is divided into four distinct administrative sectors. You cannot simply show up and choose one on the day of your trek. Your permit is issued for a specific sector, and you must book your accommodation near that sector to avoid a 3:00 AM wake-up call.
1. Buhoma Sector
Buhoma is located in the northern part of the park. It is the lowest in altitude and generally offers the most manageable terrain. While it is still a forest hike, the slopes are less aggressive than the southern regions. Buhoma is the best choice for older travelers or those who want to stay in high-end luxury lodges. Because it was the first sector opened for tourism, the gorilla families here, such as the Rushegura and Habinyanja groups, are very well-habituated.
2. Nkuringo Sector
Nkuringo is located in the southwest. This is the most physically demanding sector in Uganda. The trailhead sits on a high ridge, and the trek usually begins with a steep descent into a valley before climbing back up. The reward for this effort is the view. On a clear day, you can see the entire chain of the Virunga Volcanoes. This sector is perfect for fit hikers who want a challenge and a more rugged, raw experience.
3. Rushaga Sector
Rushaga is in the southern part of the park and currently has the highest number of habituated gorilla families. This makes it the most flexible sector for last-minute permit availability. It is also the only location where you can participate in the Gorilla Habituation Experience, where you spend four hours with a family instead of one. The terrain is moderate to difficult, characterized by dense undergrowth and steep ridges.
4. Ruhija Sector
Ruhija is the eastern sector. It is the highest in elevation and can be quite cold, especially in the mornings. The forest here is more open than in Rushaga, which bird watchers appreciate. The trekking difficulty is moderate, but the high altitude means you might feel short of breath more quickly than in Buhoma.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mgahinga is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area. It only has one habituated group, the Nyakagezi family. Trekking here is different because the forest is more open and consists of bamboo zones. It is an excellent choice if you also want to track golden monkeys or hike volcanoes like Mount Sabinyo.
What to Expect on Your Trek
Gorilla trekking is a physical activity that involves hiking through dense, tropical forests to find a habituated gorilla family. You start your day at 8:00 AM with a briefing at the park headquarters. Rangers divide trekkers into groups of eight. Each group is assigned one gorilla family to track. The hike can last from two to eight hours, depending on where the gorillas spent the previous night. Once you find them, you spend exactly one hour observing them from a distance of seven meters. You will see them feeding, playing, and resting. The rangers stay with you the entire time to ensure safety and provide information about the family’s history
Best Time to Visit
Dry Seasons (June to August & December to February): These are the best times for trekking. The trails are less slippery, and photography is easier. However, permits sell out quickly during these months.
Rainy Seasons (March to May & October to November): While the trails are muddy, these months offer benefits. Some lodges offer lower rates, and the forest is lush and green. Gorillas often stay at lower altitudes to find food, which can make the treks shorter.
Where to Stay: Lodges by Sector
Buhoma Sector
Luxury: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Buhoma Lodge, or Mahogany Springs.
Mid-Range: Engagi Lodge or Silverback Lodge.
Budget: Buhoma Community Rest Camp or Bwindi View Bandas.
Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Rushaga Sector
Luxury: Four Gorillas Lodge or Gorilla Heights Lodge.
Mid-Range: Rushaga Gorilla Camp or Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge.
Budget: Rushaga Gorilla Haven or Nshongi Camp.
Nkuringo Sector
Luxury: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge or Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge.
Budget: Bwindi Backpackers Lodge.
Mgahinga
Luxury: Mount Gahinga Lodge.
Mid-Range: Travelers’ Rest Hotel or Mucha Hotel.
Budget: Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp.
Essential Rules for Trekkers
To protect the gorillas, who share 98% of human DNA, the UWA enforces strict rules:
You must be 15 years or older to trek.
Do not trek if you have a cold, flu, or other contagious illness.
Maintain a 7-meter (21-foot) distance from the gorillas at all times.
Flash photography is strictly prohibited as it scares the animals.
Keep your voice low while in the forest.
Do not eat or drink while near the gorillas.
Packing Checklist
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good grip.
Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers to protect against nettles and insects.
A lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho.
Garden gloves to help you grab onto branches during the climb.
A reusable water bottle and a packed lunch (usually provided by your lodge).
Uganda vs Rwanda
Many people ask which country is better. In 2026, the main difference is price and time. Rwanda is very close to the airport. You can land in Kigali and be at the park in three hours. However, the permit is $1,500. The lodges in Rwanda are also much more expensive. Uganda is further away. The drive from the airport in Entebbe to Bwindi takes about nine hours. You can fly there in one hour, but it adds to the cost. However, the $800 permit saves you $700 per person. This saving covers your lodging and transport for the whole trip. Uganda also feels more wild. There are fewer people and more forest to explore.
Beyond the Gorillas
Chimpanzee Trekking: You can visit Kibale Forest to see chimpanzees.
Golden Monkey Tracking: This is only available in Mgahinga. The monkeys are very fast and fun to watch.
Tree-Climbing Lions: On your way to Bwindi, you can stop in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park to see lions in the trees.
Community Walks: You can visit local villages to learn about the Batwa people. They lived in the forest for thousands of years
FAQ
Q: Can I trek if I am 14 years old?
No. The Uganda Wildlife Authority is strict. You must be 15 years or older. There are no exceptions. This is for the safety of the child and the health of the gorillas.
Q: What happens if I don’t see the gorillas?
It is very rare. Rangers track the gorillas from the night before. If you trek all day and do not see them (which happens 1% of the time), UWA typically offers a 50% refund or a free trek the next day.
Q: Do I need to be an athlete?
No, but you need functional fitness. If you can walk up a steep hill for 30 minutes without collapsing, you can do the Buhoma sector. If you are unfit, hire a sedan chair (porters carry you) for $300-$500.
Q: Can I take photos?
Yes, but no flash. Flash scares the animals and can cause a charge. Turn off your automatic flash before you get close.
Q: How far in advance should I book?
For June, July, August, and December 2026, book at least 5-6 months in advance. Permits are limited to 8 people per family per day. They sell out fast.
Q: Can I touch the gorillas?
Never. We share 98% of our DNA with them. A simple case of the flu can kill a gorilla. You must stay 7 meters away and wear a mask during the encounter.
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