How Much is the Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is one of the world’s most sought-after wildlife experiences, attracting travelers from across the globe who wish to encounter the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The trek takes you deep into Uganda’s rainforests, particularly Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where the mighty mountain gorillas live. However, before embarking on this life-changing experience, visitors are required to secure a gorilla trekking permit, which is an essential part of the process. But how much does this permit cost, and what does the price entail? In this comprehensive guide, we break down the cost of the gorilla trekking permit in Uganda, why it is priced as it is, and how it contributes to the conservation of mountain gorillas.

The Current Price 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 price applies to both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, the two primary locations in Uganda where gorilla trekking occurs. The price has remained relatively stable over recent years and is a reflection of the costs involved in managing the parks and ensuring the protection of the mountain gorillas.

What’s Included in the Price of the Permit?

While the cost of the permit might seem steep to some, it is important to note that the $800 fee covers a wide range of services and activities. The cost goes beyond just the trekking experience itself—it also includes critical elements that make the trek possible and sustainable for both visitors and the gorillas. Here’s a breakdown of what is covered:

1. Park Entry Fees

The permit includes the park entry fees, which are necessary for maintaining the infrastructure and facilities in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The entry fee helps fund the park’s day-to-day operations, including the management of trails, visitor centers, ranger stations, and other important infrastructure. The park entry fee ensures the parks’ sustainability and helps provide a safe and comfortable environment for both visitors and wildlife.

2. Gorilla Tracking and Guide Services

The permit fee also covers the cost of the guides and trackers who lead the gorilla trekking expeditions. Guides are essential for ensuring that trekkers navigate the dense forests safely, and they play a pivotal role in tracking and locating the gorilla families. These professionals are highly knowledgeable about the gorillas’ behavior, the ecosystem, and the flora and fauna of the rainforest. Their expertise enriches the experience, making it more educational and meaningful.

Each trekking group is typically accompanied by one or two experienced guides and trackers. These guides communicate with the park’s rangers and trackers who monitor the gorillas’ movements on a daily basis to ensure that each group of trekkers has an opportunity to see the gorillas up close while minimizing disturbances.

3. Conservation Efforts and Wildlife Protection

A significant portion of the money collected from the sale of the permits goes directly into conservation efforts for the mountain gorillas and their habitat. Mountain gorillas are an endangered species, and it is through initiatives like these that their populations are being protected from poaching, habitat loss, and disease. The funds help with anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration projects, research, and the overall protection of the gorillas and their ecosystem.

The permit fees also contribute to educating local communities about the importance of preserving the gorillas. By directly benefiting from tourism, local communities are more likely to support conservation initiatives and embrace sustainable practices.

4. Infrastructure and Park Maintenance

Maintaining the infrastructure within the parks is a costly endeavor, and the funds generated from the permits play a crucial role in this process. This includes maintaining the trekking routes, building and repairing facilities, supporting park rangers, and providing security to the parks. The goal is to ensure the longevity of the parks so that both wildlife and visitors can continue to benefit from them for years to come.

Why Is the Permit Fee So Expensive?

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda might seem high, especially when compared to other wildlife experiences, but there are several reasons for this price tag. Here are some key factors that influence the cost:

1. Limited Number of Permits Available

Mountain gorillas are an endangered species, with only about 1,000 individuals left in the wild. These gorillas live only in a few regions in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Uganda’s two primary parks, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, are home to the largest population of these primates, but the number of trekkers allowed into these areas each day is limited.

Each trekking group typically consists of only 8 people, and there are several groups of gorillas that are regularly monitored and tracked. By limiting the number of visitors each day, the authorities can protect the gorillas from overexposure and reduce the impact of human activity on their habitat. This exclusive nature of the experience increases the price of the permit.

2. Conservation and Research Costs

The price of the permit reflects the ongoing efforts required to protect the mountain gorillas and their environment. Uganda has invested significantly in the conservation of these primates, which include setting up anti-poaching measures, supporting research programs, and monitoring the gorillas’ health and well-being. This constant vigilance is necessary to prevent illegal activities such as poaching and to ensure the gorillas’ long-term survival.

3. High Operational Costs

The logistics involved in managing a gorilla trekking experience are quite substantial. From ranger salaries, park maintenance, trail creation, and the presence of skilled trackers and guides, the operational costs are high. These services ensure the safety of both the visitors and the gorillas. Additionally, the funds from the permit contribute to the salaries of rangers and support staff, as well as the training of new conservation professionals.

How to Secure a Gorilla Trekking Permit

Booking a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is a straightforward process, though it’s essential to plan in advance. Permits are limited, and demand is high, particularly during the peak tourist seasons. Here’s how you can book your permit:

1. Plan Ahead

It is advisable to book your permit at least 3 to 6 months in advance, especially if you are planning to trek during Uganda’s peak tourist season (June to September and December to February). Securing a permit early ensures that you can choose your preferred trekking dates.

2. Book Through a Licensed Tour Operator

Although you can book your gorilla trekking permit directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), it’s often easier to book via a licensed tour operator like Ovacado Adventures Ltd. Tour operators assist with securing permits, accommodation, transportation, and other aspects of your trip. They can also offer valuable advice on the best time to visit, as well as additional activities in Uganda that complement the gorilla trekking experience.

3. Confirm the Availability

Once your permit is booked, confirm the details with your tour operator or the UWA. You will be assigned a specific gorilla group, and a meeting point will be arranged for the trek. On the day of the trek, you will be provided with a briefing by the guides, who will prepare you for the trek.

Additional Costs to Consider

While the $800 fee for the permit is the primary cost, you may incur additional expenses such as:

• Accommodation: Lodging costs vary depending on your preferences, from budget hostels to luxury lodges located near the parks.
• Transportation: Costs for traveling to and from the trekking locations, either via self-drive, private vehicle, or guided safari.
• Tipping: It’s customary to tip the guides, porters, and trackers who assist with the trek. Tips are not included in the permit price.

Conclusion

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda—$800 USD—may appear high at first glance, but it is a small price to pay for an unforgettable experience and the opportunity to contribute to the conservation of the endangered mountain gorillas. The fee covers everything from park entry to guide services, conservation efforts, and more. Booking your permit in advance through a reputable tour operator like Ovacado Adventures Ltd. ensures a smooth, well-organized experience. While the trekking permit fee plays a significant role in conservation and park management, it also offers trekkers a rare chance to witness one of the most incredible wildlife experiences on Earth.