Gorilla Trekking Tours & Uganda Safaris
Uganda truly the land of Mountain Gorilla Trekking. From the world famous Bwindi Forest National park, to the lesser-known but magical Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Gorillas have found a safe haven where they thrive in the thick bamboo trees.
The Ideal Gorilla Trekking Safari Destination
Uganda, famously known as the Pearl of Africa, is a unique destination for unforgettable gorilla expeditions. Home to a significant number of the remaining mountain gorillas, Uganda offers travelers an affordable opportunity to encounter these gentle giants. From the mist-covered trails of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda delivers once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experiences set within a community you will fall in love with.
What makes Uganda a good choice for gorilla tours isn't only its dense gorilla population but also the stunning experiences you can add to your safari as extras. Even with cheap gorilla permits compared to Rwanda, Uganda still provides exceptional value without compromising quality. After gorilla trekking, visitors can experience more on their journey with chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest, game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, or the world's most powerful waterfall in Murchison Falls National Park.
Tailor-Made Gorilla Trekking Tours & Safaris in Uganda
Our mid-range to luxury gorilla trekking packages include permits, comfortable lodges, transportation, and full-board meals—so you can focus entirely on the unforgettable experience of meeting Africa’s wild mountain gorillas.
Important Guide to Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Gorilla Trekking Permit
The primary cost of a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda is the gorilla permit. Currently priced at USD 800 per person, the permit grants access to one hour with a habituated gorilla family in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Compared to Rwanda’s permit fee of USD 1,500, Uganda offers a more affordable way to experience this extraordinary wildlife encounter, making it one of the best-value gorilla safari destinations in Africa.
Additional Safari Expenses
Beyond the permit, travelers should budget for accommodation, meals, and transportation, which vary depending on comfort level and travel style.
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Road Transfers: Hiring a 4x4 safari vehicle with a professional driver-guide and fuel typically costs USD 250–350 per day.
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Domestic Flights: Fly-in safaris to nearby airstrips cost around USD 550 for a round trip, offering time-saving convenience.
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Accommodation Options:
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Budget lodges: approximately USD 100–200 per night
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Mid-range lodges: typically USD 250–500 per night
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Luxury lodges: from USD 500 per night and above, depending on location and amenities.
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Important Notes
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Gorilla permit and safari prices are subject to change.
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The figures above are indicative averages; actual costs may vary based on season, lodge availability, and travel preferences.
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For the latest pricing and tailored safari quotes, contact Nturo Safaris.
Tips for Reducing Gorilla Safari Costs
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Travel during the low or rainy seasons (March–May and November–December) for better lodge rates.
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Choose standard room categories with essential amenities instead of premium suites.
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Join a scheduled departure or small-group gorilla safari to share transport and accommodation costs (contact us for already set group departure dates)
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Pack your own snacks, especially energy snacks for trekking days, to minimize extra expenses.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
While gorilla trekking tours are available all year, dry seasons offer smooth trekking conditions and wildlife viewing opportunities:
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June – September: Pleasant weather, clearer skies, and easier hiking trails. Wildlife sightings are excellent as animals gather near water sources.
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December – February: Another ideal dry season with comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall. This is a popular period, so early booking is recommended.
Off-Peak Season:
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March – May & October – November: Lusher landscapes, fewer crowds, and more affordable safari rates. Gorilla trekking remains possible despite increased rainfall.
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No matter when you travel, our professional guides and tailor-made itineraries ensure a seamless and unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure.
Plan Your Uganda Gorilla Safari with Nturo Safaris
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Explore our custom Uganda gorilla tour packages, designed to match your travel style, budget, and schedule. From permits and lodges to transport and expert guiding, we handle every detail so you can focus on the experience.
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Book your Uganda gorilla trekking safari or contact us for a custom itinerary:
How to Reach Uganda’s Gorilla Trekking Destinations
Uganda’s world-famous gorilla trekking sites in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are accessible via two main international airports: Entebbe International Airport, Uganda’s primary gateway, located about 500 km from the parks, and Kigali International Airport in Rwanda, 175 km away, offering a shorter route with a simple border crossing.
By Road
From Entebbe:
Most gorilla safaris start in Entebbe, where you can spend a night before embarking on a scenic road journey. The drive to Bwindi or Mgahinga covers approximately 550 km (342 miles) through mountainous landscapes, taking 9–10 hours.
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Via Kisoro/Kabale: This route offers stunning views of Uganda’s highlands.
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Lake Mburo Stopover: Break the journey with a night at Lake Mburo National Park (3–4 hours from Entebbe), enjoy a game drive or boat safari, and continue the next morning for 5–6 hours to Bwindi.
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Road Conditions: About 80% of the route is paved, with the final 2 hours on a dirt road.
From Kigali, Rwanda:
Flying into Kigali reduces travel time and offers a smoother road trip. From Kigali, it’s a scenic 3–4 hour drive to Bwindi or Mgahinga. Your driver can assist with the $50 visa process for a seamless border crossing.
By Air
Domestic Flights:
For convenience, Kisoro Airport (south) and Kihihi Airport (north) are 1.5–2 hours from the park entrances. Scheduled or chartered flights from Entebbe take about an hour, providing a fast and comfortable option.
Regional Connections:
Entebbe International Airport connects to other East African destinations, making it easy to combine your gorilla trek with additional safaris or cultural tours.
Seamless Transfers:
Most lodges provide reliable transfers from airports or arrival points directly to your accommodation, ensuring a stress-free start to your gorilla adventure.
Visa Requirements
Traveling to Uganda is simple with a tourist visa:
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Single-entry visa: $50 USD
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East African Tourist Visa (Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya): $100 USD
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Apply online before arrival for a smooth entry.
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Carry a valid passport and a Yellow Fever vaccination card, which are mandatory for entry.