How Much Is Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences — an adventure that brings you face-to-face with the world’s rarest primates in the misty jungles of southwestern Uganda. Every year, travelers from around the globe venture into Bwindi’s dense rainforest to spend a life-changing hour observing a family of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. But one of the most common questions for anyone planning the trip is: How much does gorilla trekking in Bwindi cost?

In this article, we’ll break down the latest gorilla trekking permit prices for 2025–2026, what’s included, and tips for planning your once-in-a-lifetime encounter in Uganda’s gorilla paradise.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Cost in Bwindi

To trek mountain gorillas in Uganda, visitors must obtain a gorilla trekking permit issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). This permit grants access to one of Bwindi’s habituated gorilla families and includes the services of a trained ranger guide and trackers who lead you safely through the forest.

As of 2025–2026, the official gorilla trekking permit costs are:

• Foreign Non-Residents: USD 800 per person

• Foreign Residents (living in East Africa): USD 700 per person

• East African Citizens: UGX 300,000 per person

This permit allows trekkers to spend one hour with a gorilla family once located. Uganda’s permit prices are among the most reasonable in East Africa — especially compared to Rwanda’s current gorilla permit, which costs USD 1,500 per person. This price difference has made Uganda one of the most popular destinations for affordable gorilla safaris without compromising the quality of the experience.

Gorilla Habituation Experience Cost

For travelers seeking a deeper and longer encounter, Bwindi also offers the exclusive Gorilla Habituation Experience, which allows visitors to spend up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla group still getting used to human presence.

The cost of the habituation experience permit is:

• Foreign Non-Residents: USD 1,500 per person

• Foreign Residents: USD 1,000 per person

• East African Citizens: UGX 750,000 per person

This unique experience is limited to just four participants per day, making it a rare and highly sought-after opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts, conservationists, and photographers.

What’s Included in the Gorilla Trekking Permit

A gorilla trekking permit in Bwindi covers several essential components of your trekking adventure:

• Park entry fees for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

• Guided trek led by an experienced ranger and armed escorts for safety

• Tracking services by local guides who locate gorilla families before visitors arrive

• One hour of observation and photography with a habituated gorilla family

What the permit does not include are additional costs such as transportation to Bwindi, accommodation, meals, porter services, or tips. Most travelers choose to book through reputable tour operators who can handle logistics, transport, and lodging in advance.

Booking Your Gorilla Permit

Because gorilla trekking permits are limited — with only 8 visitors allowed per gorilla group per day — it’s crucial to book early, especially for travel during Uganda’s high seasons (June–September and December–February). Permits can be purchased directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or through registered local safari companies.

Booking several months ahead ensures that you secure your preferred trekking region within Bwindi — whether it’s Buhoma, Rushaga, Nkuringo, or Ruhija. Each region offers a slightly different landscape, altitude, and gorilla family group, but all guarantee an unforgettable encounter.

Other Costs to Consider

Beyond the permit itself, travelers should budget for:

• Transport: Most tours begin in Entebbe or Kampala, with a scenic 8–10-hour drive to Bwindi, or shorter flights to Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrips.

• Accommodation: Lodges range from budget-friendly guesthouses to world-class eco-luxury lodges like Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, and Mahogany Springs.

• Porters: Hiring a porter (about USD 20) is highly recommended, as they help carry bags and assist on steep trails — a direct way to support local communities.

• Meals & Tips: Safari lodges typically include meals, but tipping guides and trackers (USD 10–15) is customary and appreciated.

Why Uganda Is the Best Value for Gorilla Trekking

Uganda offers one of the most accessible, affordable, and authentic gorilla trekking experiences in Africa. With more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas found in Bwindi and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks, visitors are almost guaranteed to see these incredible primates up close. The country’s warm hospitality, well-managed parks, and strong conservation policies ensure that each trek benefits both wildlife protection and local communities.

Whether you choose a standard trek or the extended habituation experience, your time in Bwindi will be a deeply emotional and unforgettable highlight of your African safari.