How Much Does an African Safari in Uganda Cost? (2025 Complete Breakdown)
African Safari Cost Uganda: What You Really Need to Know
If you’ve ever dreamed of watching lions stalk the savannah, trekking to see gorillas in the mist, or gliding past hippos on a boat safari, Uganda is one of the best places to experience it all. But before booking, most travelers ask the same question:
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How much does an African safari in Uganda cost?
The truth is, the price varies depending on the length of your trip, where you stay, and which activities you include. Some visitors spend as little as $1,500 for a week, while others enjoy luxury safaris costing over $8,000.
This guide gives you a complete breakdown of safari costs in Uganda including permits, accommodation, transport, food, guides, and extras — so you can plan with confidence.
Why Choose Uganda for a Safari?
Uganda is often called the “Pearl of Africa” for its beauty and diversity. Unlike some African destinations where safaris focus only on savannah game drives, Uganda offers:
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter.
- Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale – home to Africa’s highest density of chimps.
- Classic game safaris in Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, and Kidepo Valley.
- Scenic wonders like Lake Bunyonyi, the Rwenzori Mountains, and the Nile River.
- Cultural immersion – meet local communities, visit schools, and learn from traditional village life.
Best of all? Uganda safaris are more affordable than Rwanda or Tanzania, while offering just as much wildlife and adventure.
1. Safari Permits and Park Fees
The biggest fixed costs on any Uganda safari are permits and park entry fees. These are set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
Gorilla Trekking Permits
- Foreign Non-Residents: $800 per person
- Foreign Residents: $700 per person
- East African Citizens: UGX 300,000 (~$80)
👉 Rwanda charges $1,500 for gorilla trekking, making Uganda far more budget-friendly.
Gorilla Habituation Experience
- $1,500 per person (spend 4 hours with gorillas instead of 1 hour).
Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest
- Foreign Non-Residents: $250
- Foreign Residents: $200
- East African Citizens: UGX 150,000 (~$40)
National Park Entry Fees
- Major parks (Murchison, Queen Elizabeth, Kidepo): $40 per person, per day
- Smaller parks (Semuliki, Mount Elgon): $35 per person, per day
👉 Permit fees cover more than just access, they fund rangers, conservation, and community projects, ensuring gorillas and wildlife are protected.
For more about the park entry fees, Uganda Wildlife Authority official tariffs
2. Accommodation Costs
Uganda has accommodation for every type of traveler from simple guesthouses to luxury safari lodges.
- Budget: $30–$80 per night (hostels, basic guesthouses, community lodges).
- Mid-range: $100–$250 per night (comfortable lodges with en-suite rooms, meals included).
- Luxury: $300–$800 per night (exclusive safari lodges, eco-retreats, high-end tented camps).
- Ultra-Luxury: $1,000–$2,500 per night (private villas, helicopter access, fine dining).
👉 Lodges inside national parks tend to be pricier than those outside.
At Amatsiko Tours, we often recommend combining Lake Bunyonyi stays (serene, budget-friendly) with Bwindi lodges for gorilla trekking.
3. Transport and Safari Vehicles
Getting around Uganda is part of the safari experience. Most travelers use private 4×4 safari vehicles with driver-guides.
- Safari Vehicle + Driver-Guide: $150–$250 per day
- Fuel Costs: $80–$150 per day (distances between parks are long)
- Domestic Flights: $250–$400 one way (Entebbe to Bwindi, Kidepo, or Murchison)
👉 Road trips take longer but allow you to stop at the Equator, visit villages, and enjoy Uganda’s landscapes.
4. Meals and Daily Expenses
- Local restaurants: $10–$15 per day
- Mid-range lodges: meals included in price
- Luxury lodges: full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks often included)
Travelers usually spend extra on snacks, bottled water, or drinks:
- Soda: ~$1
- Beer: ~$2–$3
- Coffee: ~$2–$4
5. Sample Safari Costs in Uganda
Here’s what different trips look like in 2025:
Budget Safari (7 days)
- Shared safari vehicle, budget lodges, 1 gorilla trek
- $1,500 – $2,000 per person
Mid-range Safari (7–10 days)
- Private safari vehicle, comfortable lodges, gorilla + chimp trek, game drives
- $2,500 – $4,000 per person
Luxury Safari (10–12 days)
- Fly-in gorilla trekking, luxury lodges, private guides
- $5,000 – $8,000+ per person
6. Extra Costs to Keep in Mind
- Visa: $50 per person (single entry)
- Travel Insurance: $50–$150 depending on coverage
- Tips: $10–$20 per day for guides and lodge staff
- Souvenirs: $20–$200 depending on purchases
- Vaccinations/Medication: Yellow fever (required), malaria prevention, optional rabies/typhoid
7. How to Save Money on a Uganda Safari
- Travel in low season (March–May, Sept–Oct): cheaper lodges, less crowded parks.
- Join a group safari: share transport costs.
- Mix lodging styles: combine budget stays with one or two nights of luxury.
- Book early: gorilla permits sell out months in advance.
8. Why Choose Amatsiko Tours?
With Amatsiko Tours, your safari does more than create memories — it creates hope.
- A portion of every safari funds Amatsiko Preparatory School, giving local children access to education.
- Safaris support Buzaniro Dream Village, creating jobs and sustainable projects.
- You travel with guides who are locals, passionate about showing you not just Uganda’s wildlife, but its heart.
👉 See our Gorilla Trekking & Safari Tours here »
FAQs About African Safari Cost Uganda
Q: How much does an African safari in Uganda cost on average?
A: A 7–10 day mid-range safari costs around $2,500–$4,000 per person, excluding flights.
Q: Why are gorilla trekking permits so expensive?
A: The fees fund conservation, ranger salaries, and community programs, ensuring gorillas survive for future generations.
Q: Can I do a Uganda safari on a budget?
A: Yes. Backpackers can join group safaris or stay in budget lodges, with trips under $2,000.
Q: What’s the cheapest time to go on safari in Uganda?
A: April–May and October–November offer lower lodge rates and more availability.
Q: How does Uganda compare to Rwanda for safari costs?
A: Uganda is significantly cheaper. Gorilla permits cost $800 in Uganda versus $1,500 in Rwanda, and accommodation is more affordable.
Final Thoughts
Uganda offers one of the best-value safaris in Africa. From gorillas to savannah safaris, your costs will depend on your style of travel but whether you spend $1,500 or $8,000, Uganda’s wild beauty will be priceless.
And with Amatsiko Tours, every safari is more than a holiday, it’s a chance to bring hope and opportunity to local communities.
👉 Ready to plan your journey? Get in touch with us today.
