Gorilla trekking is Uganda’s signature wildlife experience, and your permit is mandatory to step into the forest and spend that unforgettable hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family.
This guide covers everything: how permits work, costs, the new UWA system, best seasons, tips for first-time trekkers, and how to avoid mistakes that can ruin your plans.
What Is a Gorilla Trekking Permit?
A gorilla trekking permit is an official document issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) that allows you to:
- Trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Spend one hour with a habituated gorilla family
- Be accompanied by trained rangers for your safety and the gorillas’
- Support conservation and local communities through the fees
Each permit is strictly limited, with only eight visitors allowed per gorilla family per day, ensuring intimate encounters and protecting the gorillas.
Permit price: A gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens.
Where to Buy: Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and can be booked through licensed tour operators or directly via UWA offices.
Availability: Gorilla permits often sell out months in advance, especially during peak seasons from June to September and December to February.
New UWA Permit System
UWA recently updated its permit management system to improve efficiency and reduce misuse. Key changes:
- Digital allocation: Most permits are now issued electronically to registered operators only.
- Real-time tracking: UWA can now monitor sector-specific permits to balance visitor distribution.
- Flexible sectors: Some sectors may now allow limited changes depending on availability, but final confirmation is required from UWA.
- Integrated payment system: Payments can be made directly through UWA’s bank accounts or via registered operators; online processing is increasing.
Note: This system is new and still evolving. Operators usually handle all backend communications, making booking through a registered operator the safest option.
Gorilla Permit Costs 2026
| Category | Cost per Permit | Notes |
| Foreign Non-Residents | USD $800 | Standard one-hour trek |
| Foreign Residents | USD $700 | Standard one-hour trek |
| East African Citizens | UGX 300,000 | Standard one-hour trek |
| Gorilla Habituation Permit | USD $1,500 | Limited availability; extended encounter up to 4 hours |
All fees are set by UWA and include conservation contributions and ranger support.
How to Book Your Gorilla Permit
Through a Licensed Tour Operator
This is the recommenday way for international travelers and it ensures
- Permit availability in real-time
- Sector allocation matching your itinerary
- Assistance with transport, lodging, and logistics
- Secure payments and documentation
Steps:
- Contact a registered tour operator with your preferred trekking date, number of permits, park, and sector.
- The operator confirms availability via UWA.
- Pay the operator, who then secures the permit on your behalf.
- Receive a digital copy of your permit before travel.
This method reduces stress and eliminates uncertainty, especially for peak season bookings.
Cancellation & Refunds
- Permits are non-transferable once issued.
- UWA has strict policies; refunds depend on timing and payment method.
- Most operators offer insurance or flexible rescheduling options.
Always verify policies before payment.
Best Time to Book Permits
Gorilla permits sell out months in advance, especially during high seasons:
- High Season: June–September, December–February
- Shoulder/Low Season: March–May, October–November
Pro tips:
- Book 6–12 months in advance for peak months.
- Even in shoulder months, secure permits at least 3–6 months ahead.
- Confirm sector availability before booking accommodation.
Which Sector Should You Choose?
Permits are sector-specific, and each sector offers unique experiences:
- Buhoma: Accessible, ideal for first-time trekkers
- Ruhija: Quiet, elevated, great for birding
- Rushaga: High gorilla density, habituation experience available
- Nkuringo: Remote, dramatic scenery, more physically demanding
Your choice depends on travel style, logistics, and preferred level of solitude.
Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Sectors Explained
Age & Fitness Requirements
- Minimum age: 15 years
- Fitness: Moderate; steep trails and slippery sections possible
- Porter services are available and highly recommended for extra support
Always communicate special needs to your operator or guide in advance.
Gorilla Habituation Experience
- Provides up to 4 hours with a habituated group
- Available mainly in Rushaga sector
- Requires early, advanced booking
- Cost: USD $1,500
This experience is for travelers seeking deeper immersion in gorilla behavior and forest ecology.
Key Tips for a Smooth Permit Process
- Book early — permits sell out fast.
- Coordinate with your itinerary — avoid long drives on trekking day.
- Work with licensed operators — they navigate the new UWA system efficiently.
- Confirm sector and date — essential for smooth trekking.
- Prepare required documents — names, passport numbers, nationality.
Next Steps
After securing your permit:
- Plan your transport to Bwindi or Mgahinga
- Arrange lodging near your sector
- Review trekking gear and safety tips
For a full overview of the experience, read our complete gorilla trekking in Uganda guide.