Step-by-Step Guide: How to Book a Gorilla Permit for Uganda (2025-2026)

Introduction

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is one of the most thrilling wildlife encounters in the world. With over half of the world’s mountain gorilla population residing in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, securing a gorilla trekking permit is essential for experiencing this incredible adventure.

This step-by-step guide (how to book a gorilla permit) will take you through the entire process of booking a gorilla permit in Uganda, including costs, availability, the best time to book, and essential tips to ensure a hassle-free experience. Whether you’re planning independently or through a tour operator, this guide will help you secure a gorilla permit efficiently while optimizing your budget and time.

Why Do You Need a Gorilla Permit?

A gorilla trekking permit is a mandatory requirement issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). This permit allows you to enter Bwindi or Mgahinga to spend one hour with a habituated gorilla family. The revenue from these permits supports conservation efforts and local community projects.

Benefits of Booking a Gorilla Permit:

• Guaranteed Entry – Only 8 tourists are allowed per gorilla family per day.
• Supports Conservation – A portion of the permit fee contributes to gorilla protection.
• Provides Local Employment – Tourists help sustain local guides, porters, and communities.

Uganda Gorilla Permit Costs (2025-2026)

As of 2025, the cost of a gorilla permit in Uganda is:

Factors Affecting Permit Prices:

• Nationality: Foreign visitors pay more than East African residents.
• Season: No official discounts, but off-peak seasons have more availability.
• Group Size: Some tour operators offer discounts for group bookings.

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a Gorilla Permit

Step 1: Decide Where to Trek (Bwindi vs. Mgahinga)

Uganda has two national parks where you can track gorillas:

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

• Home to over 20 habituated gorilla families.
• Offers 4 trekking regions: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.
• High chances of gorilla sightings.
• More accommodation options for all budgets.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

• Only one habituated gorilla family (Nyakagezi group).
• Fewer visitors, meaning a more intimate experience.
• Can combine gorilla trekking with golden monkey tracking.

Step 2: Choose a Date and Book Early

Permits are in high demand, so it’s best to book 3-6 months in advance. For peak seasons (June–August & December–February), booking 9-12 months ahead is recommended.

Step 3: Contact Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or a Tour Operator

You can book directly through UWA or via a licensed tour operator.

Option 1: Booking Directly with UWA

• Visit www.ugandawildlife.org or email info@ugandawildlife.org.
• Call UWA headquarters: +256 414 355 000
• Payments via bank transfer or credit card (subject to bank charges).

Option 2: Booking Through a Tour Operator

Using a tour operator is often easier because they:

• Check permit availability and handle bookings.
• Arrange transport, accommodation, and guided safaris.
• Offer discounts on combined safari packages.

Step 4: Make Your Payment

Once your permit is reserved, you’ll need to make full payment to confirm your booking.

• UWA will issue a booking confirmation number.
• Payments can be made via bank transfer, mobile money, or credit card.

Step 5: Receive Your Gorilla Permit

After successful payment, UWA or your tour operator will issue an electronic or physical permit with the following details:

• Your name and passport number.
• Trekking date and gorilla group name.
• National Park and trekking sector.

Best Time to Book a Gorilla Permit

Best Booking Window

• Independent Travelers: 6 months before trekking date.
• Group Travelers: 9-12 months before peak season.

How to Get to the Gorilla Parks

• By Air: Flights from Entebbe to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips (1-hour flight, then a 2-hour drive) by Aerolink Uganda.
• By Road: 8-10 hours from Kampala/Entebbe.
• From Rwanda: 4-hour drive from Kigali to Bwindi.

Gorilla Trekking Rules & Regulations

• Age Limit: 15 years and above.
• Maximum 8 visitors per gorilla family per day.
• No Flash Photography.
• Keep a 10-meter distance from the gorillas.
• No Trekking if You’re Sick (gorillas are susceptible to human illnesses).
• Hire a Porter: Helps carry bags and supports conservation efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Get a Last-Minute Gorilla Permit?

Yes, but availability is rare. Tour operators sometimes have cancellations, so check with them.

2. What Happens if I Miss My Trek?

Permits are non-refundable unless canceled by UWA due to park closures.

3. Can I Reschedule My Gorilla Permit?

Yes, but rescheduling is subject to UWA approval and availability.

4. Do I Need a Visa to Visit Uganda for Gorilla Trekking?

Yes, apply for an East African Tourist Visa ($100) for multiple-entry access to Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya.

5. Are There Discounts for Gorilla Permits?

UWA sometimes offers low-season discounts, so inquire when booking.

Uganda vs. Rwanda Gorilla Permits – Which One Should You Choose?

When planning a gorilla trekking adventure, one of the most important decisions travelers face is where to book their permit—Uganda or Rwanda. While both countries offer incredible gorilla trekking experiences, there are key differences in permit prices, accessibility, and trekking conditions.

1. Gorilla Permit Costs: Uganda vs. Rwanda

The most significant difference is the cost of permits.

✅ Uganda is the best option for budget travelers since its gorilla permits are almost half the price of Rwanda’s.

2. Trekking Locations & Experience

Both Uganda and Rwanda offer gorilla trekking in lush rainforests, but the terrain and conditions differ slightly.

Key Takeaways:

• Uganda offers more trekking sectors (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, Nkuringo) and higher gorilla populations.
• Rwanda offers shorter hikes, making it a better option for travelers with mobility concerns.

3. Accessibility – Getting to the Gorilla Parks

How easy is it to reach the gorilla trekking parks from major international airports?

Rwanda is more accessible since Volcanoes National Park is only a short drive from Kigali. In contrast, Bwindi and Mgahinga require a longer journey from Entebbe or a flight to local airstrips.

4. Gorilla Trekking Permit Availability

Since only a limited number of permits are issued daily in both countries, booking in advance is crucial.

Since Uganda has more gorilla trekking regions, securing a permit is easier than in Rwanda, especially in peak season.

5. Overall Trekking Experience – Which One is Better?

Uganda is best for:

✅ Budget travelers – Cheaper permits & more affordable lodges.
✅ More adventure – Challenging but rewarding treks.
✅ More permit availability – Easier to secure a spot.

Rwanda is best for:

✅ Shorter travel time – Easier access from Kigali.
✅ Less strenuous trekking – Great for older travelers.
✅ Luxury experiences – Rwanda focuses more on high-end tourism.

Final Verdict – Uganda or Rwanda?

• If you want affordability, a longer trek, and more permit availability → Choose Uganda.
• If you prefer easier hikes and faster access from an airport → Choose Rwanda.

Conclusion

Booking a gorilla permit in Uganda is a straightforward process if you follow this step-by-step guide. Whether you’re a solo traveler, in a group, or looking for a budget-friendly option, planning early and choosing the right trekking sector will ensure a memorable and stress-free gorilla trekking experience.

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