Gorilla Trekking in Uganda in 2026 With Native Africa Tours
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is often considered one of the most profound wildlife experiences in Africa. For travellers planning a trip in 2026, understanding the costs involved is essential for effective budgeting and securing necessary permits. Uganda stands out as a more affordable destination than Rwanda for viewing endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This article will guide you through the overall costs associated with gorilla trekking in Uganda in 2026, focusing primarily on the fixed permit fees and additional expenses.
The Fixed Cost for Gorilla Trekking Permits
The most significant component of any gorilla trekking budget is the permit itself, which is a non-negotiable expense set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). For 2026, the prices for these permits are expected to remain consistent until June 30th 2026.
A standard gorilla trekking permit allows visitors aged 15 and above to spend one hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. For foreign non-residents, the permit costs $800. Foreign residents pay about $700. Other African citizens or residents pay about $500, while East African Community citizens pay around UGX 300,000.
In addition to the standard permit, a Gorilla Habituation Experience permit is available for those seeking a more in-depth encounter. This unique experience allows visitors to spend up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla group and is primarily offered in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The cost for a Gorilla Habituation Experience permit is set at $1,500 for foreign non-residents and $1,000 for foreign residents, while East African citizens pay UGX 750,000.
Total Estimated Gorilla Trekking Trip Costs
While the permit fee is a fixed cost, the total expenses for a gorilla trekking trip can vary significantly based on individual choices regarding accommodation, transport, meals, and additional activities.
For a complete gorilla trekking experience in Uganda, the total cost typically ranges from about $1,550 per person to $5,000 and above, depending on the level of luxury selected. Budget travellers may find packages starting from around $1,000 to $1,500, which generally include basic accommodations and group treks. Mid-range options often range from $1,550 to $2,500, offering superior lodges, semi-private transport, and meals along with the gorilla permit.
On the higher end, luxury experiences can start from approximately $3,200 and may even exceed $7,000, especially when staying in premium lodges and utilizing private transportation or internal flights.
Components of Additional Costs
Accommodation: This is a significant variable in the total cost. Budget lodging can range from $100 to $150 per night, while mid-range accommodations often start from $150 to $360. Luxury lodges can be priced from $400 to over $4,000 per night, depending on the level of exclusivity and amenities offered.
Transportation: Travelling from Entebbe International Airport to the gorilla trekking areas usually takes about 9–10 hours. Tours often include road transport in their packages. However, alternative options exist. For instance, a light flight to nearby airstrips (like Kisoro or Kihihi) followed by a short road transfer can cost around $850 for a round trip.
Meals and Tips: While some packages feature all meals, budget-conscious travellers may wish to set aside funds for food. It is also customary to tip guides and porters, an expense that should be included in your calculations.
Sample Package Costs for a 3-Day Trek
Many travellers choose organized tour packages, which bundle the permits, accommodation, and transport. For a typical three-day gorilla trekking tour in 2026, budget packages may start from approximately $1,500 per person. Mid-range packages are likely to start from around $2,000, whereas luxury experiences could begin at about $3,590. These package prices generally include the permit fee, which is $800 for the standard trek.
Important Considerations for 2026 Bookings
Since permits are limited (only eight per family per day) and demand is robust, particularly during peak seasons (June through September and December through February), it is advisable to book permits six to twelve months in advance.
Despite increasing permit prices in recent years, Uganda remains relatively affordable for mountain gorilla trekking when compared to Rwanda, which charges $1,500 for a similar experience.
The estimates above do not include costs for international airfare. For travellers from the United States, round-trip flights can range from $900 to $1,600, often prompting longer trips (7-10 days) to maximize the investment in travel.
In summary, while the $800 standard permit is foundational for your gorilla trekking experience, a realistic total budget for a mid-range, 3 days safari in Uganda would likely fall between $1,550 and $2,500 per person, excluding international flights. The captivating opportunity to witness mountain gorillas in their natural habitat makes the investment well worth it. Whether you opt for a budget-friendly adventure or a luxury escape, the experience is sure to leave lasting memories.
