Planning a trip to see mountain gorillas in Uganda is one of the most exciting decisions you can make — but before you can trek into the misty forests of Bwindi or Mgahinga, you need to secure the most important item on your checklist: a gorilla trekking permit.
In Uganda, gorilla trekking permits are limited, highly sought after, and must be booked well in advance. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about getting your permit for 2025, ensuring you don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime wildlife adventure.
Why You Need a Gorilla Trekking Permit
Mountain gorillas are critically endangered, and their numbers have only stabilized thanks to strict conservation measures. To minimize human impact on the gorillas and their habitat, only a limited number of visitors are allowed to see them each day.
In Uganda, each visitor must hold a valid gorilla trekking permit issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). The permit gives you access to either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and allows you to spend one magical hour observing a habituated gorilla family in the wild.
How Much Does the Permit Cost in 2025?
In 2025, the price for a Uganda gorilla trekking permit remains USD 800 per person per trek.
If you prefer a more immersive experience, you can book the gorilla habituation permit, which allows up to four hours with a semi-habituated group in Bwindi’s Rushaga sector. This costs USD 1,500 per person.
Where to Book Your Gorilla Trekking Permit
There are two reliable ways to book your permit:
1. Book Directly with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA)
The UWA is the government body responsible for issuing permits. You can contact their Kampala office directly by phone or email to check availability and reserve your permit. Payment is usually made via bank transfer, and you will receive a confirmation receipt which you present on the day of your trek.
Keep in mind that dealing directly with UWA can sometimes be slow, especially if you’re booking from overseas, so patience and advance planning are key.
2. Book Through a Licensed Tour Operator
The easiest and most convenient option is to book your gorilla safari package through a licensed Ugandan tour operator. Reputable operators will check permit availability, secure your booking, and include the permit fee in your overall safari cost.
Most operators also handle your accommodation, transport, meals, and all logistics, making your experience seamless. Many travelers choose this route because it saves time and ensures you’re in good hands from start to finish.
How Far in Advance Should You Book?
Because only about 160 permits are available per day across both parks, demand is high, especially during peak seasons (June–September and December–February).
It’s strongly recommended to book your permit at least 3–6 months in advance to guarantee your spot. If you plan to travel during peak months or with a larger group, consider booking even earlier.
What Information Do You Need to Book?
When reserving your permit, you’ll need to provide the following:
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Your full name and passport details
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The date you intend to trek
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The park and sector you prefer (if any)
Your tour operator can help you decide which sector (Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, or Ruhija in Bwindi, or Mgahinga) best fits your itinerary and fitness level.
Why Book Early?
Booking early not only ensures you get a permit but also gives you a wider choice of accommodation near your trekking sector. Some lodges are located right next to the trailheads, making your morning departure much easier.
Securing your gorilla trekking permit is the first and most crucial step in planning your Uganda gorilla safari. With only a limited number issued each day, early planning and working with experienced operators make all the difference.
Whether you book directly with UWA or through a trusted tour operator, the reward is the same — an unforgettable encounter with one of the rarest and most magnificent creatures on Earth.
Start early, get your permit, and look forward to the adventure of a lifetime in Uganda’s misty mountains.
