Uganda is one of the few places in the world where travelers can witness the incredible mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. For many visitors, seeing gorillas is not just a safari highlight, but a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines wildlife, conservation, and cultural immersion. This blog explores whether there are gorillas in Uganda, where to find them, and how much a gorilla trekking tour costs.
Mountain Gorillas in Uganda
Uganda is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it a premier destination for gorilla trekking. Unlike lowland gorillas found in some other African countries, Uganda’s gorillas are mountain gorillas, living at high altitudes in dense rainforests.
There are two main gorilla habitats in Uganda:
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its thick forests, rugged terrain, and high concentration of gorilla families.
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Part of the Virunga Conservation Area, this smaller park is equally rewarding and offers a more intimate trekking experience.
Together, these parks host over 20 habituated gorilla families that tourists can visit. Each trek allows a group of visitors to spend one unforgettable hour in the company of a gorilla family.
What to Expect on a Gorilla Trek
A gorilla trek in Uganda begins with a morning briefing by park rangers. Trekkers are divided into groups and assigned to specific gorilla families. The journey through the rainforest can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas.
The hike itself is an adventure — climbing hills, navigating muddy paths, and listening to the sounds of the forest. When the moment arrives, and you finally encounter the gorillas, it feels magical. Watching them feed, groom each other, or play among the trees is a deeply moving experience.
Rangers ensure strict rules are followed, such as keeping a safe distance (usually 7 meters), avoiding flash photography, and limiting the visit to one hour. These measures are essential for the safety of both the gorillas and visitors.
Cost of a Gorilla Trekking Permit
To see gorillas in Uganda, you must purchase a gorilla trekking permit, which grants you access to one gorilla family for a one-hour visit. As of 2025, the prices are:
- Foreign Non-Residents: $800 per permit
- Foreign Residents: $700 per permit
- East African Citizens (Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan): UGX 300,000
Permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and must be booked in advance since they sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons (June–September and December–February).
Gorilla Habituation Experience
Besides the standard one-hour trek, Uganda offers a unique Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This experience allows visitors to spend up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family, accompanied by researchers and trackers.
The cost for this special activity is:
- Foreign Non-Residents: $1,500 per permit
- Foreign Residents: $1,000 per permit
- East African Citizens: UGX 750,000
This option is perfect for travelers who want a deeper, more immersive understanding of gorilla behavior and conservation.
Cost of a Gorilla Tour Package
While the permit is the main expense, travelers also need to budget for transport, accommodation, meals, and other activities. On average, a gorilla safari tour in Uganda can cost anywhere between $1,200 and $5,000 per person, depending on the type of package chosen.
1. Budget Gorilla Tours ($1,200 – $1,800 per person)
- Accommodation in budget lodges or camps
- Shared transportation
- Basic meals and services
- Ideal for backpackers or travelers on a tight budget
2. Mid-Range Gorilla Tours ($2,000 – $3,000 per person)
- Comfortable lodges with better amenities
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle with driver/guide
- More personalized service
- A balance between cost and comfort
3. Luxury Gorilla Tours ($3,500 – $5,000+ per person)
- High-end lodges and luxury camps
- Fly-in safaris to Bwindi or Mgahinga (saving long road trips)
- Exclusive services, private guides, and top-notch dining
- Tailored experiences, including cultural visits and other safaris
Best Time to See Gorillas in Uganda
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is possible all year round. However, the dry seasons are generally considered the best time:
- June to September
- December to February
During these months, the forest trails are less muddy, and the trek is slightly easier. The rainy seasons (March–May and October–November) make trekking more challenging due to slippery terrain, but they also bring fewer tourists, lush scenery, and better photography opportunities.
Other Activities Alongside Gorilla Trekking
Most travelers combine gorilla trekking with other safari activities in Uganda. Some popular additions include:
- Chimpanzee Tracking – Kibale Forest National Park is famous for its large population of chimpanzees.
- Game Drives – Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park offer excellent wildlife safaris, including lions, elephants, hippos, and buffalo.
- Cultural Experiences – Visiting the Batwa pygmies near Bwindi or the Bakiga communities provides cultural depth to your safari.
- Nature and Adventure – Hiking in Rwenzori Mountains, boat cruises on the Nile, or exploring Lake Bunyonyi.
Why Choose a Ugandan Safari with Afrigaze Uganda Safaris?
At Afrigaze Uganda Safaris, we turn your travel dreams into unforgettable African adventures. Based in the Pearl of Africa, we specialize in tailor-made safaris that showcase Uganda’s stunning wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. From the magical gorilla trekking in Bwindi, thrilling game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, to tranquil boat cruises on the Nile, our experienced guides ensure every moment is memorable. With a focus on personalized service, comfort, and authentic experiences, Afrigaze Uganda Safaris guarantees safaris that go beyond sightseeing — offering journeys that inspire, connect, and create lifelong memories.
