Uganda Gorilla Permit 2026: Everything You Need to Know
The Uganda gorilla permit 2026 price is $800 per person for foreign non-residents. Uganda Wildlife Authority issues all permits for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Demand exceeds supply during peak season, so early booking is critical.
Permit Pricing by Category
Foreign Non-Resident Rate
Foreign non-residents pay $800 per gorilla permit in 2026. This rate applies to visitors from outside East Africa. The permit grants one hour with a habituated gorilla family in Bwindi or Mgahinga. No discount applies for solo travelers, families or groups.
East African Resident and Citizen Rates
East African residents pay $700 per permit. Ugandan citizens pay the lowest rate, currently set by UWA annually. Valid proof of residency or citizenship is required at the park gate. African Wild Trekkers confirms current rates and documentation requirements on request.
How to Book Your Gorilla Permit
Booking Through an Accredited Operator
African Wild Trekkers submits your gorilla permit application directly to UWA on your behalf. We confirm availability for your preferred sector and date before you make any payment commitment. Your permit is secured by bank transfer or card payment and issued in your name.
Booking Directly With UWA
You can book permits directly through the UWA online portal at ugandawildlife.org. Direct booking requires full payment upfront in USD by card. African Wild Trekkers recommends booking through us as we monitor availability, handle rebooking if necessary and integrate your permit into your full itinerary.
When to Book Your Gorilla Permit
Peak Season Booking Lead Times
June, July, August and December permits sell out three to six months in advance. Book by February for a June or July trek. Late booking in peak season risks losing your preferred dates entirely. Early booking also locks in current permit prices.
Low Season Availability
March, April and November have better permit availability. Last-minute bookings of two to four weeks are sometimes possible in these months. Wet season treks offer smaller groups and more intimate encounters with gorilla families.
Practical Tips From Experience
Choosing Your Gorilla Sector
Bwindi has four trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga. Buhoma is the most established and accessible. Rushaga has the most habituated families with up to nine groups. Ruhija sits at higher elevation with cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
What the Permit Includes
Your $800 permit covers park entry, ranger guide fees and your one-hour gorilla encounter. Porter hire at $15 to $20 per day is separate and optional but strongly recommended. Bring your permit confirmation on the day — UWA rangers check documents at the trailhead briefing.
Plan Your Gorilla Safari
Securing Your Gorilla Permit
How Far in Advance to Book
Gorilla permits for June to September sell out three to six months ahead. Contact African Wild Trekkers with your preferred dates as early as possible. We check permit availability immediately and secure your spot with your deposit payment.
Official Permit Cost and Process
Uganda Wildlife Authority charges $800 per person per gorilla trekking permit. We submit permit applications on your behalf directly through UWA. Your permit is confirmed in writing before any itinerary finalisation.
What Your Safari Package Covers
Accommodation and Full-Board Meals
All lodge accommodation is confirmed at your chosen budget tier before you depart. Full-board meals are included at every lodge in your itinerary. Entebbe overnight accommodation on arrival and departure nights is included.
Private Vehicle and All Park Fees
A private 4×4 safari vehicle with experienced driver-guide covers your complete itinerary. All park entry fees, ranger guide fees and activity permits are included. Porter hire at the Bwindi trailhead is arranged on your behalf at $15 to $20 per trek day.
Why Book With African Wild Trekkers
Uganda-Based Local Specialists
Our team lives and works in Uganda. We trek these forests ourselves, maintain direct relationships with every gorilla ranger team and know exactly which family positions deliver the best encounter experiences. No desk-based operator offers this level of on-the-ground knowledge.
Request Your Custom Quote
Visit africanwildtrekkers.com/contact with your travel dates and group size. We respond within 24 hours and deliver a fully itemised itinerary within three working days.
