How much does it cost to trek with gorillas in Uganda?

The total cost to trek with mountain gorillas in Uganda typically ranges from $1,200 to $5,000+ USD per person. The exact price depends significantly on your residency status, the time of year you travel, and the level of accommodation you choose.

The expenses break down into the following key categories:

1. The Gorilla Permit (Mandatory)

The permit is a fixed, non-negotiable fee regulated by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). It includes park entry, armed rangers, and one hour of direct contact with a habituated gorilla family.

Foreign Non-Residents: $800 USD
Low-Season Discount: $600 USD (Applies exclusively to foreign non-residents trekking during the wet months of April, May, and November).
Foreign Residents (with work permits/visas): $700 USD
Rest of Africa Residents: $500 USD
East African Citizens: UGX 300,000 (~$80 USD)

Note: If you want to spend more time with the animals, Uganda offers a Gorilla Habituation Experience (4 hours with a semi-habituated family) for $1,500 USD.

2. Accommodation & Lodging (Per Night)

Trekking takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Lodging options vary by budget:

Budget: $50 – $100 USD per night (Basic bands or community campsites).
Mid-Range: $100 – $500 USD per night (Comfortable safari lodges with hot water and meals).
Luxury: $600 – $1,500+ USD per night (All-inclusive, high-end eco-lodges).

3. Transport and Logistics

The parks are a 9- 10-hour drive from the main airport in Entebbe.

By Road: Renting a 4×4 with a driver costs roughly $80- $150 USD per day, plus fuel.
By Air: A domestic return flight from Entebbe to the Kisoro or Kihihi airstrips costs $500 – $600 USD.

4. Incidental Expenses

Porters: $15 – $20 USD per day. Hiring a local porter to carry your pack and help you navigate muddy slopes is highly recommended.
Tips: $20 – $30 USD per day for your lead guide and ranger team.
Uganda Tourist Visa: $50 USD (must be applied for online).

Total Estimated Tour Packages

Most travellers book an all-inclusive 3-day safari package through an authorised tour operator. Expected totals per person (including the $800 permit) include:

3-Day Budget Safari: $1,200 – $1,500 USD
3-Day Mid-Range Safari: $1,600 – $2,200 USD
3-Day Luxury Safari: $3,000 – $5,000+ USD