Affordable gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda 2025
Budget gorilla trekking in Uganda 2025; This thrilling activity draws numerous tourists to Uganda, as it entails trekking on foot through the lush tropical rainforest in pursuit of the majestic mountain gorillas. Once located, visitors have the incredible opportunity to spend an hour in their natural habitat. Gorilla trekking in Uganda takes place in two remarkable national parks: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the largest population of mountain gorillas, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. In addition to Uganda, gorilla trekking can be experienced in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, as well as Virunga National Park and Kahuzi-Biega National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Affordable gorilla trekking journey in Uganda 2025
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park begins at dawn with an exciting briefing at the park headquarters, where adventurers learn about the essential rules and regulations to follow during their trek. Following the briefing, you will be divided into groups of 8, with each group assigned to trek a habituated gorilla family. The trek to see mountain gorillas can last anywhere from 2 to 7 hours, depending on their location, as these magnificent creatures often roam in search of food. While trekking, you will encounter various primates, diverse bird species, and a rich array of plants and trees. Once the gorillas are found, you will have the opportunity to spend an hour with them in their natural habitat, allowing you to observe their daily routines, gain insights into their behaviors and habits, capture stunning photographs, and document unforgettable moments to share with friends and family back home.
Optimal period for affordable gorilla trekking in Uganda 2025
A budget gorilla trekking safari in Uganda can be enjoyed at any time of the year, but the ideal months are during the dry season, often referred to as peak season. This includes June, July, August, September, December, January, and February. During these months, rainfall is minimal in the national parks, ensuring that access roads and gorilla trekking trails remain dry and easily navigable, making the experience more enjoyable.
Gorilla trekking safari in Uganda can also be experienced in the low/rainy season from March to May and October to November. During this period, permits for gorilla trekking are more accessible, the national parks are less crowded, and some lodges provide discounts to entice visitors, making it a great option for budget travelers.
The price of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda for the year 2025
Gorilla trekking permits in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are priced at 800 USD per person for foreign non-residents, 700 USD per person for foreign residents, and 300,000 UGX per person for East African citizens.
How to secure permits for gorilla trekking in Uganda 2025
In 2025, you can secure your permits for gorilla trekking in Uganda through a reliable tour operator. Simply reach out to us with your preferred date, month, year, and the gorilla destination you wish to explore. Once you reach out to us, we will verify the availability of permits from the Uganda Wildlife Authority for your chosen date. If permits are available, we will request a deposit to secure your permit. After the payment is completed, we will take care of acquiring the permits for you and will send you a scanned copy of the receipt as confirmation.
Affordable lodging options in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, there are numerous budget-friendly places to stay during your gorilla trekking adventure. Options include Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Bweza Gorilla Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge, Broadbill Forest Camp, Eco Marvels Gorilla Resort, Gorilla Valley Lodge, Ikoro Hotel, Karungi Camp, Nshongi Camp, Ruhija Community Rest Camp, Gift of Nature Lodge, Chameleon Hill Lodge, Bwindi Jungle View Lodge, Bwindi Guest House, Travellers Rest Hotel, Mucha Hotel, Bwindi View Bandas, Bwindi Backpackers Lodge, Crested Crane Bwindi, CPTH Gorilla Conservation Camp, Ruhija Gorilla Friends Resort, Wagtail Eco Safari Camp, and 3 Way Gorilla Resort, among others.
How to reach the gorilla destinations
Both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are situated in the southwestern region of Uganda. You can reach them by road, embarking on a journey from Kampala through Masaka, Mbarara, and Kabale, ultimately arriving at the park headquarters. This adventure typically takes around 9 to 10 hours in a safari vehicle.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park can be reached from Kigali, Rwanda. Tourists will fly into Kigali International Airport and then journey to either park via the Cyanika border in Kisoro or the Katuna border in Kabale, which takes approximately 4 to 5 hours by car.
