A standard gorilla trekking permit for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park costs USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents during high season. In the discounted low-season months of April, May, and November, the same permit drops to USD 600. Foreign residents pay slightly less: USD 700 in high season and USD 500 in low season. The permit covers park entry, a guided trek with an armed UWA ranger, and the one-hour visit with the gorillas -- but not accommodation, meals, or transport.
Quick Facts
- Key fact 1:
- A standard gorilla trekking permit costs USD 800 per person in high season and USD 600 in the low-season months of April, May, and November, for foreign non-residents.
- Key fact 2:
- Foreign residents pay USD 700 in high season and USD 500 in low season.
- Key fact 3:
- About 160 permits are available daily across Bwindi and Mgahinga combined, with roughly 152 of those at Bwindi.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) sets these prices and is the only body authorised to issue gorilla trekking permits in Uganda. Pricing reflects the limited number of permits available: only about 160 permits are issued per day across Bwindi and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park combined, with roughly 152 of those at Bwindi. This scarcity, tied to the number of habituated gorilla families that can safely be visited each day, is the main reason permits are priced as they are and why booking ahead matters.
The low-season discount in April, May, and November exists because these months see fewer visitors due to rainier weather, so UWA lowers the price to encourage bookings during that period.
How to book a permit
As of 2024, foreign non-residents can no longer book gorilla trekking permits directly through UWA's website. Permits must be booked through a licensed Ugandan tour operator. Effective March 2026, permits must be paid in full at the time of booking -- this replaces the previous system that allowed a 7-day hold without full payment. Given that only around 152 permits are available at Bwindi each day, booking well in advance is necessary, especially in high season.
What the permit fee includes
The permit fee covers entry into the national park, a guided trek accompanied by an armed UWA ranger, and the one-hour visit with a gorilla family once they are located. It does not cover accommodation, meals, transportation to or from the park, or tips for guides and porters. Travellers need to budget for these separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated: September 2026