Uganda is a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts, housing more than half of the world’s remaining population of mountain gorillas. These “gentle giants” are an endangered species found only in the dense rainforests of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Eco-tourism is currently the only way to protect these primates. Because they are rare, cannot survive in captivity, and exist nowhere else on earth, their protection requires massive investment in monitoring and veterinary care. By purchasing a permit, you are not just buying an experience; you are directly providing a financial incentive for local communities and national parks to safeguard these species.

What is a Gorilla Trekking Permit?

To minimize human impact and stress on these endangered animals, the number of visitors is strictly controlled. The trek itself can last anywhere from 2 to 7 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location on that day. Currently, there are 176 permits available per day in Uganda, split between two locations.

• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: 168 permits (21 habituated families). This is the most visited destination and the only park in the world offering the Habituation Experience.
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: 8 permits (1 habituated family—the Nyakagezi group).

The Gorilla Habituation Experience

For those seeking a deeper connection, Uganda is the only place in the world offering a Habituation Experience.

• Time: You spend four hours with the gorillas instead of one.
• Purpose: You participate in the habituation process, where wild gorillas are gradually trained to become comfortable in the presence of humans.
• Benefit: While more expensive, it offers a fascinating and deep insight into the behaviour of one of the world’s most endangered animals.

Who is Eligible to Buy Gorilla Permits?

Gorilla trekking is the most sought-after wildlife activity in Uganda and a dream for most travellers; however, there are strict age requirements to ensure safety and conservation.

• Age Limit: Only travelers who are 15 years old and above are eligible to buy gorilla trekking permits and participate in the activity in Uganda.
• Regulation: As per the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), the government body that issues these permits, this age restriction is strictly enforced across all destinations, including Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Permit Pricing (Valid until June 30, 2026)

The following rates are set by the UWA and apply year-round. Currently, there are no discounted permits available in Uganda. Note: The permit fee strictly covers park entry, your guide, and the time spent with the gorillas. It excludes accommodation, flights, meals, ground transport, and other activity fees.

Standard Trekking Permit (1 hour)

Visitor Category	Price per permit
Foreign Non-Resident	USD$ 800
Foreign Resident	USD$ 700
East African Citizen	UGX 300,000
Rest of Africa	USD$ 500

Habituation Permit (4 hours)

Visitor Category	Price per permit
Foreign Non-Resident	USD$ 1500
Foreign Resident	USD$ 1000
East African Citizen	UGX 750,000
Rest of Africa	USD$ 1000

Important Booking Logistics

How to Book

The most convenient and reliable way to secure a permit is through a licensed tour operator. Typically, operators secure these as part of an overall Uganda gorilla safari package.

When to Book

Gorilla trekking is a year-round activity. However, because permits for the peak dry seasons (June–September and December–February) sell out very quickly, we recommend booking 3 to 6 months in advance. While permits are easier to find in the low seasons (March–May and November), the limit of 8 visitors per group is always strictly enforced.

Understanding Bwindi Sectors

Bwindi is divided into four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.

• Crucial: You must trek in the specific sector listed on your permit; permits are not transferable between regions.
• Warning: If you book a hotel in Buhoma but your permit is for Nkuringo (a 6-hour drive away), you will not be allowed to trek in Buhoma and will likely miss your trek.

Health, Safety, and “No-Show” Policies

• Sickness: If you are sick on the day of the trek, do not go. Gorillas share 98% of our DNA and have no immunity to human diseases; even a common cold can be fatal to them. To encourage honesty and protect gorilla health, if you report your illness to the warden on-site, you may receive a 50% refund.
• Expiration: Permits are issued for a specific date. If you miss the trek due to unforeseen issues, the permit is considered expired and the fee is forfeited.
• Rescheduling: You (or your operator) can reschedule a permit to a new date up to one week before the tracking date. Rescheduling is not permitted once the date has passed.

Cancellations and Refunds

If you have paid in full and need to cancel, the following UWA penalties apply:

• 91+ days before: 75% refund.
• 46–90 days before: 50% refund.
• 9–45 days before: 25% refund.
• 0–8 days before: No refund.

Success Rate

The chance of finding gorillas in Uganda is approximately 99% because rangers track them daily. In the extremely rare case they aren’t found, you may be authorized for a reschedule or a 50% refund.