What Is the Cheapest Way to See Gorillas?

Gorilla trekking is one of the most extraordinary wildlife adventures in Africa. Standing face to face with a mountain gorilla in the misty highlands is both humbling and thrilling. However, many travelers often wonder if this once-in-a-lifetime experience is only available to luxury tourists. The truth is, it doesn’t have to be. At Ovacado Adventures Ltd, we specialize in making gorilla trekking accessible and affordable for budget-conscious travelers without compromising the quality of the experience.

So, what is the cheapest way to see gorillas? The key lies in choosing the right destination, traveling during off-peak seasons, and opting for smart, budget-friendly travel packages. Of the three countries where you can see gorillas—Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo—Uganda offers the best balance between affordability, safety, and accessibility. In Uganda, a gorilla permit costs $800 for foreign non-residents, significantly lower than Rwanda’s $1,500. This instantly makes Uganda the most budget-friendly destination for gorilla trekking.

When you book with Ovacado Adventures Ltd, we ensure that every component of your safari—transportation, permits, accommodation, and guide services—is designed to offer value for money while providing a seamless, unforgettable gorilla encounter.

Why Uganda Is the Top Choice for Budget Gorilla Trekking

Uganda is not only affordable—it also offers one of the most authentic gorilla trekking experiences in the world. The country is home to two remarkable parks where mountain gorillas thrive: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Of the two, Bwindi stands out for its biodiversity and the large number of habituated gorilla families available for trekking. This increases your chances of encountering these incredible primates in their natural habitat.

Ovacado Adventures Ltd designs customized and group tours to both parks, focusing on routes and accommodations that maximize value without sacrificing comfort. In addition, Uganda offers well-established trekking infrastructure, experienced ranger guides, and stable security, all of which make it the best budget destination for gorilla trekking.

To save even more, travelers can visit during low seasons—typically March to May and October to November. These months see fewer tourists, and accommodations often offer significant discounts. Although there may be occasional rains, the trails remain open and the experience is equally rewarding. We also encourage joining group treks to share transport and guide costs, making it ideal for solo travelers and backpackers.

With careful planning and the right tour operator like Ovacado Adventures Ltd, you’ll enjoy top-tier wildlife experiences without the hefty price tag.

How to Minimize Costs Without Compromising Experience

Besides choosing Uganda and traveling during the off-season, there are other ways to cut down costs while still enjoying a high-quality experience. Transportation is one of the major factors. The gorilla parks are located in southwestern Uganda, about 9–10 hours from Entebbe or Kampala. Booking private transfers can be costly, but Ovacado Adventures Ltd offers shared vehicle options and group packages that reduce transportation expenses substantially.

Accommodation choices also affect your budget. Uganda offers a wide range of options near Bwindi and Mgahinga—from basic campsites and community-run lodges to budget guesthouses with excellent forest views. These accommodations often provide warm hospitality, home-cooked meals, and great proximity to trekking start points—all without inflating your costs.

Another great way to cut expenses is to combine gorilla trekking with other affordable activities in Uganda. Add-ons like a boat trip on Lake Bunyonyi, a nature walk in Queen Elizabeth National Park, or birding tours in Echuya Forest can extend your itinerary without a significant increase in budget. Ovacado Adventures Ltd offers custom safari packages that combine these experiences for added value.

We believe that with the right local guide, smart logistics, and group coordination, even budget travelers can enjoy luxury-level encounters with the wild.

Cultural Add-On: Visit the Batwa Community in Bwindi

While the gorilla trekking itself is awe-inspiring, a visit to the Batwa community adds a powerful cultural dimension to your safari. Known as the “keepers of the forest,” the Batwa are an indigenous group who once lived within Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. After being relocated for conservation purposes, the Batwa have worked to preserve their traditions through community-based tourism.

The Batwa Cultural Experience, offered near Bwindi, allows you to walk alongside Batwa guides as they share their traditional way of life. You’ll learn how they hunted using bows and arrows, made fire from sticks, harvested wild plants for medicine, and lived in harmony with the gorillas. The experience includes dance performances, music, and storytelling—all deeply rooted in Batwa history and spirituality.

At Ovacado Adventures Ltd, we promote this cultural tour not just as an add-on, but as a meaningful interaction that supports local livelihoods and preserves indigenous knowledge. The revenue from these tours goes directly to Batwa families and community development projects.

Including this experience in your gorilla trek itinerary not only adds depth to your journey—it turns your safari into an act of cultural appreciation and sustainable tourism.

Final Thoughts: Gorilla Trekking Can Be Affordable and Life-Changing

So, what is the cheapest way to see gorillas? The answer lies in smart choices: Choose Uganda, travel during low seasons, join group tours, and book with a trusted local operator like Ovacado Adventures Ltd. We are committed to helping all travelers—no matter their budget—experience the magic of encountering mountain gorillas in the wild.

By organizing cost-effective, community-driven safaris, we ensure that your money supports conservation efforts and local communities, all while giving you a deeply personal and authentic adventure. Whether you’re a student, backpacker, solo traveler, or couple seeking a budget safari, we’ll help you create memories that last a lifetime—without breaking the bank.

Let us guide you on this incredible journey. Affordable gorilla trekking is not just possible—it’s extraordinary with Ovacado Adventures Ltd.