A gorilla trekking permit is the single most important item to secure before your trip to Uganda. Without it, you cannot trek. With demand outstripping supply for most of the year, knowing exactly how to get a permit, when to book, and what to expect is essential for anyone planning a gorilla encounter in 2026.
This step-by-step guide covers everything: costs, booking procedures, permit availability, and insider tips for getting the dates and gorilla group you want.
How Much Does a Uganda Gorilla Permit Cost in 2026?
Uganda gorilla trekking permits cost $800 per person for foreign non-residents in 2026. This is significantly less than Rwanda's $1,500 permit fee, making Uganda the more budget-friendly option for gorilla trekking without any compromise on the experience.
Permit pricing by category:
- Foreign non-residents: $800
- Foreign residents (with valid Uganda work permit): $700
- East African citizens: UGX 300,000 (approximately $80)
Each permit allows one hour with a habituated gorilla family, plus the trek to reach them (which can range from one to eight hours depending on the group's location). The permit also covers park entry fees and ranger guide services.
Where to Trek: Bwindi vs Mgahinga
Uganda has two gorilla trekking locations:
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi is home to roughly half of the world's mountain gorilla population, with over 20 habituated gorilla families available for trekking. The park is divided into four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga. Each sector has its own character, trekking difficulty, and gorilla groups.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mgahinga has one habituated gorilla group (the Nyakagezi family), meaning only eight permits are available per day. The trekking terrain is volcanic and different from Bwindi's dense rainforest. Mgahinga permits are harder to secure but offer a unique experience.
Step-by-Step: How to Book Your Permit
Step 1: Decide on Your Dates (12-18 Months Ahead)
Peak season (June to September and December to February) permits sell out fastest. If you have fixed travel dates, start the booking process 12-18 months in advance. For green season travel (March to May, October to November), 6-9 months ahead is usually sufficient.
Step 2: Choose Your Booking Method
There are three ways to book a Uganda gorilla permit:
- Through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) directly: Email [email protected] or visit the UWA office in Kampala. Payment is by bank transfer. This is the cheapest option but requires more coordination.
- Through a licensed tour operator: Most travelers book through a tour operator who handles permits as part of a complete package including accommodation, transport, and guides. This is the most convenient option and costs the same ($800) with the operator adding their fee to the overall package price.
- Through an online booking platform: Platforms like BookAllSafaris offer packages that include permits, making the process straightforward.
Step 3: Submit Your Details
You will need to provide: full passport name, passport number, nationality, preferred trekking date, and preferred sector or gorilla group (if you have a preference). A non-refundable deposit or full payment secures your permit.
Step 4: Receive Confirmation
Once your payment is processed, UWA issues a permit confirmation. The physical permit is collected at the park headquarters on your trekking day. Bring your passport, as it must match the name on the permit.
Tips for Getting the Dates You Want
- Book as early as possible: 12+ months ahead for peak season is not excessive
- Be flexible on sectors: If Buhoma is sold out, Rushaga or Nkuringo may have availability
- Consider weekdays: Weekend permits sell out faster than weekday ones
- Travel in green season: March to May and October to November have better availability and often clearer forest conditions despite occasional rain
- Book consecutive days: If budget allows, booking two permits on consecutive days dramatically increases your chances of an extended, relaxed gorilla encounter
What Happens on Trekking Day
On your trekking morning, report to the park headquarters by 7:30 AM. Rangers brief you on gorilla trekking rules, assign you to a gorilla group based on your fitness level (mention any concerns), and divide trekkers into groups of eight. After the briefing, you drive to the trailhead and begin your trek.
The trek duration varies from 30 minutes to 6+ hours depending on where the gorillas are. Once you find them, you have exactly one hour to observe and photograph them from a minimum distance of seven metres. That hour is, for most people, the highlight of a lifetime of travel.
Permit Cancellation and Refund Policy
Uganda Wildlife Authority's refund policy:
- More than 90 days before trek: Full refund minus a small admin fee
- 30-90 days before trek: 50% refund
- Less than 30 days before trek: No refund, but date change may be possible subject to availability
Consider travel insurance from World Nomads that covers trip cancellation to protect your $800 investment.
For comprehensive gorilla trekking information including what to wear, fitness requirements, and accommodation options, explore our Bwindi Impenetrable Forest guide and gorilla trekking cost breakdown.