How Much Does Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Cost? 2026 Price Guide
Gorilla trekking is the most sought-after wildlife experience in Uganda. Unlike a traditional savannah safari, the cost is heavily anchored by the price of the mandatory trekking permit.
On average, a 3-day gorilla trekking tour in Uganda costs:
Budget: $1,100 – $1,300 per person.
Mid-Range: $1,500 – $2,000 per person.
Luxury: $3,000 – $5,000+ per person.
(Note: These totals include the $800 permit fee, transport, and accommodation.)
1. The Mandatory Gorilla Permit Fee
The gorilla permit is a legal requirement issued by &the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). It allows you one hour with a habituated gorilla family.
| Category | Cost (2024-2026) |
|---|---|
| Foreign Non-Residents | $800 |
| Foreign Residents (with Work Permit) | $700 |
| East African Citizens (EAC) | UGX 300,000 |
Tip: Uganda's permit is significantly cheaper than Rwanda's ($1,500), making it the preferred choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking the same high-quality experience.
2. Cost Breakdown by Safari Tier
The final price of your trek depends on your choice of lodging and how you get to the parks (Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park).
A. Budget Trekking ($)
This typically involves staying in community-owned campsites or basic bandas outside the park gates and traveling via a shared safari vehicle from Entebbe or Kampala.
Lodging: $50 – $100 per night.
Transport: Long road transfers (8–10 hours).
B. Mid-Range Safaris ($$)
The most popular option, offering comfortable forest lodges with en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, and full-board meals.
Lodging: $150 – $300 per night.
Transport: Private 4x4 safari land cruiser with a professional driver-guide.
C. Luxury Fly-In Safaris ($$$)
For those with limited time or a preference for high-end comfort, luxury lodges offer gourmet dining and "butler" service.
Lodging: $600 – $1,500+ per night.
Transport: Regional flights (Aerolink) from Entebbe to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips, saving 9 hours of driving.
3. Hidden and Additional Costs
When calculating your total budget, don't forget these essential extras:
Porters ($20 + Tip): Hiring a local porter to carry your bag and help you navigate steep, muddy terrain is highly recommended. It also directly supports the local community.
Tipping ($10 – $20): It is customary to tip your trekking rangers and lodge staff.
Visas: A standard Uganda tourist visa costs $50. Alternatively, the East Africa Tourist Visa ($100) covers Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda.
Gear: You may need to invest in waterproof hiking boots, gaiters, and a quality rain jacket.
4. How to Save Money on Your Trek
Travel in the Low Season: While the "rainy seasons" (March–May and October–November) make trekking more challenging, some lodges offer significant discounts on room rates.
Trek in Uganda, stay in Rwanda: If you are already in Rwanda, you can cross the border to trek in Uganda (Mgahinga) to take advantage of the lower permit price.
Group Tours: Joining a scheduled group departure can reduce the cost of transport and fuel significantly compared to a solo private tour.
5. Summary: Is it Worth the Price?
While $800 for a single hour might seem steep, the funds are directly funneled into the conservation of the endangered mountain gorilla and the protection of their habitat. With only around 1,000 mountain gorillas left in the wild, this "cost" ensures their survival for future generations.