How Much Is a Gorilla Permit in Uganda? A 2025 Price Guide
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is one of Africa’s most thrilling wildlife experiences. Imagine hiking through the ancient rainforest of Bwindi, mist rising from the trees, until suddenly there they are. A family of wild mountain gorillas, going about their day as you quietly watch from just a few meters away.
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But before you can set off on this extraordinary journey, one important question arises: how much is a gorilla permit in Uganda?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 2025 pricing, how to book, what’s included, and why the permit is worth every dollar—not just for you, but for conservation and community impact too.
What Is a Gorilla Permit?
A gorilla permit is an official document issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) that grants you permission to visit a specific gorilla family in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Only 8 tourists are allowed per gorilla group per day, to minimize disturbance and ensure sustainability.
The permit includes your entrance fee to the national park, ranger guide services, and one unforgettable hour spent in the presence of a wild gorilla family.
How Much Is a Gorilla Permit in Uganda?
As of July 2025, these are the official gorilla permit prices for 2025:
| Visitor Category | Permit Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Foreign Non-Resident (FNR) | $800 |
| Foreign Resident (FR) | $700 |
| East African Citizen (EAC) | UGX 300,000 |
For those looking for a more immersive experience, the Gorilla Habituation Experience allows up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family. It costs $1,500 and is available only in the Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors of Bwindi.
What’s Included in the Gorilla Permit?
Your gorilla permit covers:
- National park entrance fees
- A pre-trek briefing and debrief
- Trained UWA ranger guides and trackers
- One hour of close-up gorilla viewing in the wild
Please note: Transportation, lodging, porter fees, meals, and tips are not included but these can all be arranged with your tour operator.
Why Gorilla Permits Are Worth the Price
The cost might seem high at first glance, but it’s important to understand where the money goes:
- Conservation: Permits fund anti-poaching efforts, ranger salaries, and veterinary care for the gorillas.
- Community Support: A portion of each permit is shared with surrounding communities to build schools, roads, and health clinics.
- Research and Protection: Gorilla trekking is tightly regulated to ensure the survival of this critically endangered species.
When you book with Amatsiko Tours, your visit also helps fund Amatsiko Preparatory School and local development projects in the Buzaniro Dream Village.
How to Book a Gorilla Permit in Uganda
If you’re an international traveler, UWA requires that you book through a licensed Ugandan tour operator. Here’s how we handle it at Amatsiko Tours:
- We check real-time availability with UWA for your preferred date and sector (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, Nkuringo, or Mgahinga)
- We reserve and pay for your permit directly with UWA
- We arrange accommodations, transportation, and any extras like Lake Bunyonyi stays or Queen Elizabeth safaris
Booking at least 6 months in advance is recommended—especially if you’re traveling in high season (June to September or December to February).
Compare Uganda’s experience with Rwanda’s in our post on the Cost of Gorilla Permits in Rwanda.
To learn more about gorilla conservation and permit policies, visit the official Uganda Wildlife Authority website
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much is a gorilla permit in Uganda?
A: $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens.
Q: What’s the age limit for gorilla trekking?
A: You must be at least 15 years old. This helps ensure both safety and respect for gorilla behavior.
Q: Are permits refundable?
A: Partial refunds are possible in specific cases like illness or failure to see gorillas, per UWA policy. Reschedules are also allowed under certain conditions.
Q: When is the best time to go gorilla trekking?
A: June–September and December–February are the driest (and most popular) months, but treks are available year-round.
Final Thoughts
So, how much is a gorilla permit in Uganda? It’s more than just a number. It’s your ticket to one of the most meaningful wildlife encounters on Earth and a direct way to support conservation and community development in southwestern Uganda.
Ready to plan your trek? Contact us and let’s help you experience something unforgettable.
