Why Are Gorilla Treks Expensive?

First, it helps to understand why gorilla trekking costs what it does. The bulk of the cost goes into: Cheapest Way to See Gorillas

• Gorilla conservation
• Community development
• Park protection and ranger salaries
  Because mountain gorillas are critically endangered, permits are limited daily, and trekking is tightly regulated for their safety and survival.

What’s the Cheapest Way?

1. Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda, Not Rwanda

Uganda is the most budget-friendly destination for gorilla trekking. Here’s how the costs compare (as of 2025–2026):

Uganda offers the same gorilla experience for nearly half the price of Rwanda. Choosing Uganda is the single most important way to save money on a gorilla trek.

2. Book a Budget Tour Package

Many local tour operators in Uganda offer budget gorilla tours that include:

• 3 days/2 nights
• Gorilla permit
• Accommodation in budget lodges or camps
• Meals
• Transport from Kampala or Kigali (sometimes with shared group options)

Prices for these packages usually range from $1200 to $1500 per person, including the $800 permit. Group tours are even cheaper, and joining others can significantly reduce your costs.

3. Start the Trek from Kigali, Rwanda

Even though Uganda is cheaper for trekking, starting your trip from Kigali can actually reduce transport and travel time especially to southern Bwindi (Rushaga or Nkuringo sectors), which is just a 4–5 hour drive from Kigali, compared to a 9–10 hour drive from Entebbe or Kampala. Cheapest Way to See Gorillas

By flying into Rwanda and crossing the border into Uganda, you:

• Save on internal Ugandan flights
• Spend fewer days on the road
• Reduce overall fuel and transport costs

Look for “gorilla trekking in Uganda from Kigali” tours—they offer the best value in terms of logistics.

4. Travel During the Low Season

Low seasons are generally:

• March to May
• October to November

During this time:

• Lodges offer discounts
• Tour companies often run promotional deals
• You may get more availability on last-minute treks

The trails may be muddier due to rains, but gorillas are still there and sightings remain excellent.

5. Use Budget Accommodation

Lodges near Bwindi or Mgahinga range from:

• $30–$60/night for budget guesthouses or camps
• $80–$150/night for midrange hotels
• $300+ for luxury lodges

Staying in community-owned guesthouses, local hostels, or budget safari tents near the park gates will greatly reduce your total trip cost.

Look for stays in:

• Rushaga
• Buhoma
• Nkuringo
• Kisoro town (good for Mgahinga Gorilla Park)

6. Go Overland (Avoid Flying)

If you’re really on a budget:

• Travel by bus or shared minivan from Kampala or Kigali
• Use local public transport to reach towns near the parks
• Hire a motorcycle or local taxi (boda-boda) for short park transfers

It’s less convenient and more time-consuming, but it cuts costs dramatically.

7. Bring Your Own Gear and Supplies

Avoid spending on rentals by bringing:

• Sturdy hiking boots
• A rain jacket
• Gloves
• Lightweight backpack
• Reusable water bottle and snacks

While porters are optional, they’re affordable and worth hiring to support local communities (typically around $15–$20 per trek).

8. Consider Habituation Experience (If Traveling in Low Season)

Uganda offers a unique Gorilla Habituation Experience (spending up to 4 hours with gorillas instead of just 1), but it costs $1500. However, in low season, some companies run offers that make it nearly the same price as a standard trek. Cheapest Way to See Gorillas

It’s worth checking promotions with local operators.

Tips for the Cheapest Gorilla Trekking Experience

Final Thoughts

The cheapest way to see gorillas is to trek in Uganda, stay in budget accommodation, and travel overland preferably from Kigali. With smart planning, you can have an unforgettable gorilla experience without spending a fortune. Cheapest Way to See Gorillas

Need help building a custom low-budget gorilla itinerary from Nairobi, Kampala, or Kigali?  We can assist with route options, cost estimates, and affordable tour providers for 2025 or 2026. Just ask.