Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Gorilla Permits and Visiting the Gorillas in Uganda
To visit mountain gorillas in Uganda, you'll need a gorilla trekking permit, which grants you access to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Here's a step-by-step guide to obtaining the permit and preparing for the visit, including current rates for foreign visitors
Step 1: Choose the Gorilla Trekking Destination
Uganda offers two parks for gorilla trekking:
1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Home to almost half of the world’s mountain gorilla population with multiple trekking sectors (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo).
2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Part of the Virunga Mountains, with one habituated gorilla family.
1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Home to almost half of the world’s mountain gorilla population with multiple trekking sectors (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo).
2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Part of the Virunga Mountains, with one habituated gorilla family.
Step 2: Book the Gorilla Permit
Through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA)
Contact Information:
Phone: +256 414 355000
Email: info@ugandawildlife.org
Website: UWA Official Site
Payment Methods: Bank transfer or UWA’s payment portals.
*Through a Licensed Tour Operator
Since permits are limited, using a tour operator like Natux Tours and Travel can simplify the process. Operators can handle booking, payments, and offer tailored packages including transport, accommodation, and guiding services.
Contact Information:
Phone: +256 414 355000
Email: info@ugandawildlife.org
Website: UWA Official Site
Payment Methods: Bank transfer or UWA’s payment portals.
*Through a Licensed Tour Operator
Since permits are limited, using a tour operator like Natux Tours and Travel can simplify the process. Operators can handle booking, payments, and offer tailored packages including transport, accommodation, and guiding services.
Step 3: Gorilla Permit Rates for Foreigners (2025)
Foreign Non-Residents: USD 800 per person
Foreign Residents: USD 700 per person (proof of residency required)
East African Citizens: UGX 350,000 per person
💡 Tip: Permits are in high demand, especially in peak seasons (June-August, December-February). Book at least 3-6 months in advance.
Foreign Residents: USD 700 per person (proof of residency required)
East African Citizens: UGX 350,000 per person
💡 Tip: Permits are in high demand, especially in peak seasons (June-August, December-February). Book at least 3-6 months in advance.
Step 4: Plan Your Trip Logistics
Transport:
From Kampala: About 8-10 hours by road or a 1-hour domestic flight to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips near Bwindi.
With Natux Tours and Travel: Most packages include transport, which is convenient.
Accommodation:
Mid-range options are available near both Bwindi and Mgahinga. Consider staying in lodges that reduce travel time to the park entrance on trekking day.
From Kampala: About 8-10 hours by road or a 1-hour domestic flight to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips near Bwindi.
With Natux Tours and Travel: Most packages include transport, which is convenient.
Accommodation:
Mid-range options are available near both Bwindi and Mgahinga. Consider staying in lodges that reduce travel time to the park entrance on trekking day.
Step 5: Prepare for Gorilla Trekking
Physical Fitness: Trekking can take 2-8 hours depending on gorilla location.
Packing List:
Sturdy hiking boots:
Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts:
Rain jacket and waterproof backpack:
Gloves and a walking stick (usually provided) Snacks, water, and insect repellent
Packing List:
Sturdy hiking boots:
Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts:
Rain jacket and waterproof backpack:
Gloves and a walking stick (usually provided) Snacks, water, and insect repellent
Step 6: On the Trekking Day
Briefing: Arrive at the park headquarters by 7:00 a.m. for a safety and trekking briefing.
Group Allocation: You'll be assigned to a group of 8 visitors per gorilla family.
Trekking Experience: Hike through the forest with guides and porters (available for hire at around USD 15-20).
Gorilla Encounter: You are allowed 1 hour with the gorillas to observe and take photos (no flash allowed).
Group Allocation: You'll be assigned to a group of 8 visitors per gorilla family.
Trekking Experience: Hike through the forest with guides and porters (available for hire at around USD 15-20).
Gorilla Encounter: You are allowed 1 hour with the gorillas to observe and take photos (no flash allowed).
Step 7: After the Trek
Certificate Awarding: You'll receive a certificate of participation.
Return to Lodge: Relax and share experiences over dinner or a campfire.
Additional Costs to Consider
Porter Services: USD 15-20 per porter (recommended to support the local community).
Pro Tips:
Carry extra cash for tips and local purchases.
Respect gorilla rules (maintain a 7-meter distance, avoid eating near them, and no visits if unwell).
Consider adding cultural experiences with local Batwa communities for a fuller adventure.
Return to Lodge: Relax and share experiences over dinner or a campfire.
Additional Costs to Consider
Porter Services: USD 15-20 per porter (recommended to support the local community).
Pro Tips:
Carry extra cash for tips and local purchases.
Respect gorilla rules (maintain a 7-meter distance, avoid eating near them, and no visits if unwell).
Consider adding cultural experiences with local Batwa communities for a fuller adventure.
ENJOY GORILLA TREKKING IN UGANDA WITH NATUX TOURS AND TRAVEL.
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