Gorilla Permit Costs and How to Secure Them in Uganda
Gorilla trekking is one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences, and in Uganda, it’s also one of the most accessible and affordable ways to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. But before you lace up your hiking boots and hit the trail, there’s one thing you absolutely must have: a gorilla trekking permit.
In this guide, we break down the gorilla permit costs in Uganda, how to book them, when to plan your trip, and everything else you need to know for a seamless experience.
1. What Is a Gorilla Trekking Permit?
A gorilla trekking permit is an official document issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) that allows you to participate in a guided trek to see a habituated group of mountain gorillas in either:
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Each permit allows for one hour of observation with a gorilla family, under the guidance of professional UWA rangers and trackers.
2. Gorilla Permit Costs in Uganda (2025)
| Category | Cost Per Person (USD) |
|---|---|
| Foreign Non-Residents | $700 |
| Foreign Residents | $600 |
| East African Citizens | UGX 250,000 |
| Gorilla Habituation Experience (FNRs) | $1,500 |
What’s Included?
- One gorilla tracking session
- Park entrance fee
- Ranger guides and security
- Briefing and orientation
What’s Not Included:
- Transport to the park
- Porter fees
- Accommodation
- Meals and tips
3. What Is the Gorilla Habituation Experience?
If one hour doesn’t sound like enough, Uganda offers a Gorilla Habituation Experience—a unique opportunity to spend up to 4 hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi.
- Permit cost: $1,500 per person
- Limited permits per day (4 per group)
- Ideal for photographers and researchers
The easiest and most reliable way to secure your permit is through us. We manage the entire process and include it in your itinerary.
- We ensure your preferred date and region are available
- We advise on accommodation near your trekking start point
- We handle payment, confirmation, and documentation
Option 2: Book Directly Through Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA)
- Contact UWA by email or phone (limited availability and response time)
- Payment must be made in USD via bank transfer
- No refund if you miss your trek due to logistics, illness, or delays
Note: UWA doesn’t provide transportation, guiding, or follow-up, it’s a DIY option best suited for very experienced travelers.
5. When Should You Book Your Gorilla Permit?
Permits are limited to only 8 trekkers per gorilla group per day, making them highly competitive—especially in high season.
Best Booking Timeline
- High Season (June–Sept, Dec–Feb): Book 6 to 12 months in advance
- Low Season (Mar–May, Oct–Nov): Book 2 to 4 months in advance
Mandari Travel can often secure last-minute permits, contact us directly to check availability.
6. Choosing a Gorilla Sector in Bwindi
Bwindi has four main trekking sectors, each with its own gorilla families and lodges.
| Sector | Features |
|---|---|
| Buhoma | Oldest sector, accessible, great lodges |
| Rushaga | Home of the Habituation Experience |
| Nkuringo | Scenic, remote, more strenuous hikes |
| Ruhija | Central location, birding hotspot |
We help you choose the sector based on your fitness level, lodge preference, and permit availability.
7. Can Gorilla Permits Be Refunded or Transferred?
- Refunds: Available in special cases (e.g., medical emergencies) with UWA approval
- Transfer: Permits are non-transferable to other travelers
- Postponement: Possible with enough notice, subject to availability
We help manage any changes if you’re traveling with Mandari Travel.
8. Tips for Gorilla Permit Succes
- Book early, especially for high season
- Travel with a trusted tour operator like Mandari Travel
- Choose a sector that suits your travel style
- Stay at least two nights near the trek starting point
- Bring your passport and permit confirmation to the park office
9. Book With Confidence – Choose Mandari Travel
We’ve helped hundreds of travelers secure gorilla permits and experience unforgettable safaris across Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania. Here’s why clients trust us:
- Fast, guaranteed permit reservation
- Expert destination advice
- Custom itineraries that match your budget and timeline
- 24/7 local support on the ground
Email: info@mandaritravel.com
Call/WhatsApp: +255 750 900 8119.
Let us take the stress out of planning. Fill out this short form and we’ll respond with your personalized quote, including permits, accommodation, transfers, and guides
