Best Offer for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences in the world. The chance to stand just meters away from a family of endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is truly once-in-a-lifetime. Uganda is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it a top destination for this adventure. But with several tour options, permit prices, and travel packages available, how do you find the best offer for gorilla trekking in Uganda?

This guide breaks down the best-value trekking experiences, updated prices, what’s included in typical tour packages, and how to plan your trip on a budget — without compromising the magic of the experience.

How Much Does a Gorilla Trekking Permit Cost in Uganda?

As of 2025, a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs $800 USD for foreign non-residents. This fee is set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and includes a ranger-led guided trek to see a habituated gorilla family. If you’re a foreign resident living in Uganda or the East African region, the permit is slightly cheaper $700 USD for residents and UGX 300,000 (about $75) for East African citizens.

It’s worth noting that this fee goes directly toward conservation efforts, community development, and the protection of the gorillas themselves.

What Is Included in a Gorilla Trekking Permit?

A permit provides access to either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. It includes:

A professional UWA guide and trackers who lead the trek
An hour-long visit with a habituated gorilla family
Park entrance fees
Briefings and security throughout the trek

The permit does not include transportation, accommodation, or meals — which is why most travelers opt for an all-inclusive tour package.

Where Is the Best Place for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Uganda has two national parks where gorilla trekking is offered:

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

This is the most popular park, with four major sectors for trekking: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Each sector has several habituated gorilla families, and the trekking terrain varies from moderately difficult to challenging.

Bwindi also offers the Gorilla Habituation Experience, where you spend up to four hours with gorillas — though the permit for this experience costs $1,500 USD.

2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga is less crowded and features only one gorilla family, the Nyakagezi group. The setting here is volcanic and incredibly scenic. If you’re looking for a quieter, less commercialized trek, Mgahinga is a great option.

What Are the Best Budget Gorilla Trekking Packages in Uganda?

To make the most of your trip and keep costs low, consider booking a package that includes permits, transport, accommodation, and meals. Here are the best offers:

3-Day Budget Gorilla Trekking Safari

This is the most popular and affordable option. Prices typically start at $1,380 to $1,800 USD per person.

Includes:

1 gorilla permit ($800)
2 nights’ accommodation in a budget lodge
All meals and bottled water
Private transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
English-speaking driver/guide
Park entrance fees

Operators like Realm Africa Safaris and Home to Africa offer great value for this kind of package.

When Is the Best Time to Trek Gorillas in Uganda?

Uganda offers gorilla trekking all year round, but the dry seasons are the best times to go:

June to September
December to February

During these months, the trails are drier, making trekking easier and more enjoyable. The wet seasons (March–May and October–November) are more challenging due to muddy trails, but they do come with perks: fewer tourists, better photography conditions, and sometimes discounted lodging.

Even though the UWA no longer offers permit discounts in the low season, many tour operators and lodges do offer seasonal discounts that can lower your total trip cost.

How Far in Advance Should You Book?

Gorilla trekking permits are limited — only a few are issued per gorilla group each day. If you’re planning to travel during the peak dry seasons, it’s best to book your permit at least 3–6 months in advance.

Last-minute bookings are sometimes possible, but you risk missing out on your preferred sector or dates.

Are There Cheap Gorilla Trekking Alternatives in Uganda?

Yes. If your budget is tight, here are a few ways to reduce costs:

Travel with a group to share transport and accommodation costs.
Trek from the Rushaga or Ruhija sectors of Bwindi, where budget lodges are more abundant.
Book during the shoulder season (May or November) when accommodation prices drop.
Use a Ugandan-based operator for better local rates.

What’s the Gorilla Trekking Experience Like?

On the day of the trek, you’ll start early — usually around 7:00 a.m. After a briefing, you’ll be grouped with a small team (usually 8 people) and assigned a gorilla family based on fitness and preference. The trek can last from 1 to 6 hours depending on where the gorillas are located.

Once found, you’ll spend one magical hour observing the gorillas as they feed, play, groom, and rest. This is one of the most humbling and awe-inspiring wildlife experiences on Earth.

Recommended Operators for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Here are some trusted tour companies with great reviews and competitive offers:

Realm Africa Safaris – Offers great 3-day and 4-day budget packages.
Home to Africa Tours & Travel – Reliable service and affordable mid-range options.
Gorilla Trek Africa – Specializes in cross-border gorilla treks between Rwanda and Uganda.
Engagi Safaris – Great for tailor-made trips and private tours.

Always ensure the operator is licensed by the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) and has clear permit handling policies.

What to Pack for a Gorilla Trek

Proper preparation will make your experience more comfortable. Here’s what to bring:

Sturdy hiking boots
Waterproof jacket
Lightweight gloves (for gripping vegetation)
Long-sleeved shirt and trousers (for insect protection)
Camera (no flash allowed)
Small backpack with snacks and water
Walking stick (provided at park gate)

Why Choose Uganda for Gorilla Trekking?

Uganda provides a unique balance of affordability and authenticity. Compared to Rwanda’s $1,500 permit fee, Uganda’s $800 fee makes it one of the most affordable places in the world to see mountain gorillas. The treks are longer and more adventurous, which adds to the thrill.

Plus, Uganda offers more than just gorillas. You can combine your trek with chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park, or boat trips on the Nile in Murchison Falls.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for the best offer for gorilla trekking in Uganda, the sweet spot lies in a 3 to 4-day all-inclusive tour that bundles your permit with budget or mid-range accommodation, transportation, and guiding services. Booking early, traveling in the low season, and working with a trusted Ugandan operator will ensure a memorable and cost-effective gorilla trekking adventure. Best Offer for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda.

Want help planning your itinerary or comparing tour prices? Let us know I’m here to help you find the best deal.