How Much is the Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences in the world, offering an unparalleled opportunity to observe the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. With its dense forests, rugged terrain, and the famous Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda is a top destination for gorilla trekking enthusiasts. However, to embark on this adventure, trekkers are required to obtain a gorilla trekking permit, a key component that makes the trek possible. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda, factors that influence the price, and why it is an essential aspect of the experience.

The Cost of a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda

As of 2025, the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is $800 USD per person. This fee applies to visitors who wish to trek in both Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, the two primary locations for gorilla trekking in Uganda.

It’s important to note that this price covers a variety of services, including:

• Entry into the park where the trek takes place.
• A guide who will lead the trek and ensure that trekkers have a safe and educational experience.
• Tracking the gorillas—a significant portion of the permit fee goes toward ensuring that trekkers can access and track the gorilla families.
• Conservation efforts—the fee plays a vital role in supporting the conservation of mountain gorillas and the protection of their habitat. A significant portion of the funds collected from permits goes toward maintaining the parks, providing salaries for rangers, supporting research, and funding anti-poaching initiatives.

What’s Included in the Permit Fee?

The $800 permit cost covers several essential aspects of the trekking experience, ensuring that your adventure is not only memorable but also beneficial for the local community and wildlife conservation efforts. Here’s what the permit covers:

 Park Entry Fees

The trekking permit includes the park entry fees, which grant access to the gorilla habitats within Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These fees are essential for the maintenance of the parks, including the infrastructure such as trails, ranger stations, and visitor facilities.

 Gorilla Tracking Services

The cost of the permit also covers the services of professional guides and trackers. These experts are highly trained in gorilla behavior and the ecosystems of Uganda’s rainforests. They are essential in leading trekkers to the gorillas and ensuring the trek is safe, educational, and respectful to the gorillas’ habitat.

 Gorilla Viewing Permits

A significant portion of the permit fee is directed toward the actual tracking and viewing of the gorillas. The number of permits is limited to control the number of people visiting the gorillas at any given time. This ensures minimal disturbance to the gorillas while maintaining a sustainable trekking experience.

 Conservation Efforts

The funds raised from the sale of trekking permits play a crucial role in conservation efforts. They contribute to maintaining the parks, supporting anti-poaching patrols, funding research programs on gorilla behavior, and helping local communities living around the parks. Conservation initiatives are essential for the continued protection of mountain gorillas, who remain an endangered species.

Why is Gorilla Trekking So Expensive?

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit may seem high, especially when compared to other wildlife experiences around the world. However, several factors justify the price of the permit:

Limited Numbers of Gorillas

There are only approximately 1,000 mountain gorillas remaining in the wild, and they are found only in three countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In Uganda, the mountain gorilla population is concentrated in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. As a result, the number of permits available is limited, and the government has set a price that reflects the rarity and importance of this experience.

 Sustainable Tourism and Conservation

The high price of the permit is essential for funding the conservation of gorillas and their habitat. The Ugandan government and conservation organizations heavily invest in programs to ensure the protection of the species and the forest they inhabit. By limiting the number of trekkers, Uganda ensures that the mountain gorillas can be viewed without the risk of overexploitation or habitat destruction. The funds from permits go towards anti-poaching efforts, monitoring gorilla families, and engaging with local communities to ensure they benefit from tourism.

The Cost of Managing the Trekking Experience

Managing a gorilla trekking experience involves substantial logistical operations. From park management and maintaining the trails to ensuring the safety and comfort of trekkers, these services require significant financial investments. Additionally, the presence of rangers, trackers, and guides, as well as ensuring that the experience is environmentally responsible, adds to the overall cost.

How to Book Your Gorilla Trekking Permit

Obtaining a gorilla trekking permit for Uganda is a straightforward process, though it is highly recommended that you book well in advance due to the limited availability. Here are the steps to secure your permit:

 Plan Your Trek Dates

Gorilla trekking permits are available throughout the year, but the demand for permits can be high, especially during peak tourist seasons (June to September and December to February). Therefore, it’s a good idea to plan your trip and secure your permit several months in advance, particularly if you are traveling during the busy periods.

Book Through a Licensed Tour Operator

While you can book a gorilla trekking permit directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), it is often easier to arrange your permit through a licensed tour operator such as Wild Village Safaris. Tour operators not only assist with securing permits but also help with organizing other aspects of your trip, including accommodation, transportation, and other activities. Operators can provide valuable insights and ensure a seamless experience.

 Pay the Permit Fee

Once your permit is reserved, you will need to pay the permit fee to confirm your booking. Payment is typically done through the tour operator or directly through UWA. Payment can be made via bank transfer, credit card, or in some cases, through cash.

 Confirm Your Tracking Group

After booking your permit, you will be assigned to a specific gorilla family group based on availability. Each trekking group typically consists of 8 individuals, and groups are rotated to minimize the impact on the gorillas. The UWA or your tour operator will provide the details of your tracking group before the trek.

Additional Costs to Consider

While the permit fee covers the essentials, there may be additional costs associated with your gorilla trekking experience. These may include:

• Accommodation: Lodging near the trekking parks varies in price depending on your preferences, from budget lodges to luxury resorts.
• Transport: Costs for transportation to and from the trekking parks, which may include flights, car rentals, or shuttle services.
• Tipping: While tipping is not mandatory, it is customary to tip your guides, porters, and trackers for their services.

Conclusion

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is an extraordinary experience, and the $800 permit fee is an investment in both your adventure and the future of mountain gorillas. The fee plays a vital role in ensuring sustainable tourism, supporting conservation efforts, and preserving the gorillas’ natural habitat. While the cost may seem steep, it is a small price to pay for the rare opportunity to see these incredible creatures up close in their natural environment. By booking your permit through a reputable tour operator like Wild Village Safaris, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trekking experience, helping you create memories that will last a lifetime.