Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before you book your gorilla trek in Uganda.
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Gorilla Permit Costs
How much does a gorilla trekking permit cost in Uganda?
A Uganda gorilla trekking permit costs $800 USD per person for foreign non-residents. This is set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and is non-negotiable regardless of which operator you book through. The permit covers one hour with a habituated gorilla family in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
What does the permit fee include?
The UWA permit covers park entry, ranger-guided trekking, and your one-hour gorilla encounter. It does not include accommodation, transfers, porter fees, or tips. Your full package price from us will cover all of those separately.
How far in advance should I book my permit?
We recommend booking at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for peak season (June–September and December–January). Permits are limited to 8 people per gorilla family per day — they sell out fast and cannot always be sourced at the last minute.
Can I get a last-minute gorilla permit?
Occasionally yes — cancellations do happen. We monitor permit availability closely and can sometimes source last-minute permits with less than 2 weeks’ notice. Contact us and we’ll check what’s currently available.
Is Uganda cheaper than Rwanda for gorilla trekking?
Yes. Uganda’s permit is $800 USD compared to Rwanda’s $1,500 USD — a significant difference, especially for groups. Uganda also tends to offer more budget-friendly accommodation options around Bwindi. Many travellers combine both countries in one trip.
The Trek Itself
How difficult is gorilla trekking in Bwindi?
Bwindi is a genuine rainforest with steep, muddy, and sometimes dense terrain. Treks can range from 1–8 hours depending on where the gorilla family is that day. You do not need to be an athlete, but a reasonable level of fitness is important. If you have mobility concerns, let us know — we can assign a porter and choose trailheads with more manageable terrain.
How long do you spend with the gorillas?
Exactly one hour. This is a strict UWA rule to minimise stress on the animals. Your guide will let you know when the hour begins and ends.
How close do you get to the gorillas?
UWA regulations require a minimum distance of 7 metres. In practice, gorillas sometimes approach closer on their own — and when that happens, you stand still and let them pass. It’s one of the most extraordinary moments you’ll experience.
Is gorilla trekking guaranteed?
No operator can guarantee a sighting — these are wild animals. However, the success rate for habituated gorilla families in Bwindi and Mgahinga is consistently above 95%. Rangers track the families daily and will radio your guide with their location before the trek begins.
What's the difference between gorilla trekking and gorilla habituation?
Standard trekking gives you one hour with a fully habituated family. Gorilla habituation is a longer, more immersive experience (up to 4 hours) where you join researchers in the field with a family still being acclimatised to human presence. The habituation permit costs $1,500 USD and is only available in Bwindi’s Rushaga sector. See our 3-day habituation trip here.
Practical Preparation
What should I wear for gorilla trekking?
Long-sleeved shirt and long trousers (dark, neutral colours — avoid blue). Sturdy waterproof hiking boots with ankle support. Gardening gloves for gripping vegetation. A rain poncho. Gaiters are useful in the wet season. Do not wear anything that smells strongly — no heavy perfume or cologne.
Do I need to be vaccinated to visit Uganda?
Yellow fever vaccination is required by law to enter Uganda. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended. We advise consulting your doctor or a travel clinic at least 6 weeks before departure. Check current entry requirements with your country’s foreign affairs website before you travel.
What is the best time to visit Uganda for gorilla trekking?
Gorilla trekking runs year-round. The dry seasons — June to September and December to February — have drier trails and are easier underfoot. The wet seasons (March–May and October–November) offer lower lodge prices and fewer crowds, and the forest is extraordinarily green. We’re happy to advise based on your travel dates.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes — travel insurance with emergency medical evacuation cover is compulsory for all GHU trips. Bwindi is remote, and evacuation in a medical emergency is expensive without it. We can recommend reputable travel insurance providers if needed.
Booking & Cancellation
How do I book a gorilla trek with Gorilla Hike Uganda?
Contact us with your travel dates, group size, and where you’re flying from. We’ll confirm permit availability, send you a full cost breakdown, and walk you through the itinerary. A deposit is required to secure your permits — we’ll explain all of that once we’re in touch.
Can I customise my itinerary?
Absolutely. All our packages can be adjusted — different accommodation levels, extra nights, add-on activities like chimp trekking in Kibale or a game drive in Queen Elizabeth. Just tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll build around it.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellation terms vary depending on how far in advance you cancel and whether your UWA permits have already been purchased. UWA permits are generally non-refundable once issued, which is why we strongly recommend travel insurance. We’ll provide full written terms at the time of booking.
Can I book as a solo traveller?
Yes. We work with solo travellers regularly and can either build a private itinerary or, in some cases, match you with a small group departure. Solo travel in Uganda is very safe and our guides are experienced working with independent travellers.
On the Trip FAQs
Is Uganda safe for tourists?
Yes. Uganda is one of East Africa’s most politically stable and tourist-friendly countries. Bwindi and the surrounding areas are safe and well-managed by UWA rangers. We provide full pre-departure briefings and are contactable throughout your trip.
What currency does Uganda use?
The Ugandan Shilling (UGX). USD is widely accepted and preferred for large transactions. We recommend bringing a mix of cash and a travel card. ATMs are available in Kampala and larger towns but not reliable in remote areas near Bwindi.
Will I have mobile coverage and internet near Bwindi?
Coverage is limited in the forest but most lodges in Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga have WiFi, though it can be slow. Airtel and MTN Uganda have the best coverage in the region. Consider it a good excuse to disconnect.
Ready to Trek with Mountain Gorillas?
Permits are limited and sell out months ahead. Get in touch today and we’ll check availability for your travel dates, walk you through the costs, and build your itinerary around you.
Talk To an Expert
Allan
Uganda Gorilla Trekking Specialist
Half the world’s mountain gorillas live in Uganda. Let me help you meet them.
