If your dream is mountain gorilla trekking, then Uganda is the place to go. This country can be visited at any time. Gorilla trekking is on most tourists’ itineraries and permits are available throughout the year. Gorilla trekking is offered in two places in Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These parks both offer a similar experience where you can spend one hour with a gorilla troop after you have reached their location, but how much does it cost to come face to face with these majestic primates?
If you are planning to trek gorillas, it is very crucial to understand the expenses involved from permit fees to accommodation, transportation and extra costs, so that you can budget accordingly.
The cost of a Ugandan Gorilla Safari depends on how many days you set aside for the activity. The price for a Uganda gorilla permit is USD800 per person peak season and $600 per person for the Foreign Non-Residents. The Foreign Residents pay USD700 per person, and the East African Community will pay UGX300,000 for a gorilla permit per person. Although the permit might seem expensive, it is a bargain compared to the US$1500 permit in Rwanda, which currently the only other country where these gentle giants can be trekked.
A 3 Day Uganda gorilla safari will cost approximately $1,550 – $1750 per person if travelling with someone on budget. Luxury gorilla trekking tours can cost between USD2500 to USD 5,000 depending on the lodge you choose. These prices don’t include the air ticket, luxury drinks and any expenses that appear personal in nature.
But there is another option for Uganda’s exclusive Gorilla Habituation Experience, which allows up to four hours with the gorillas, the permit costs US$1,800 per person.
On a 5-day gorilla tour in Uganda, on average you should budget between US$ 2,000 – $2400 midrange and high end per person. This includes a permit, comfortable accommodation, meals, transportation and other essential expenses.
Note: Remember, the permit is just the starting point. Your overall gorilla trekking cost can vary widely based on your travel preferences and style.
