A Guide On How to Secure A Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda

Mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda is more than just a safari; it’s a profound, life-altering experience. The opportunity to stand just meters away from a family of these magnificent, critically endangered primates in their natural habitat is a privilege that few get to witness. Uganda is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, making it the premier destination for this incredible adventure. This intimate encounter takes place within the misty, lush forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

However, this precious opportunity is a strictly controlled one. To protect the gorillas from stress and potential disease, a limited number of permits are issued each day. Securing one of these permits is the most crucial step in planning your Uganda safari adventure. This in-depth article will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding the costs to the step-by-step process of booking your permit.

What is a Gorilla Trekking Permit?

A gorilla trekking permit is a legal document issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), the government body responsible for the conservation of Uganda’s wildlife. This permit grants you permission to enter the national park and spend a limited amount of time (typically one hour) with a habituated gorilla family. The funds generated from these permits are vital, as they directly contribute to gorilla conservation efforts, anti-poaching patrols, and community development projects surrounding the parks.

Understanding the Cost of a Gorilla Permit

The price of a gorilla permit in Uganda is significantly lower than in neighboring Rwanda, making it a more accessible option for many travelers. However, it’s important to be aware of the different rates depending on your residency status.

• Foreign Non-Residents: The cost is $800 USD per person for a standard one-hour trek.
• Foreign Residents (with valid proof of residency): The cost is $700 USD per person.
• East African Citizens: The cost is UGX 300,000 per person.

There is also an option for a Gorilla Habituation Experience (GHEX), which allows you to spend up to four hours with a gorilla family and a team of researchers. This is a more immersive and less-trodden experience. The permit for this costs $1,500 USD per person.

Important Note: The price of the permit includes the park entrance fee for that specific day, as well as the services of an armed UWA ranger and a guide.

How to Book Your Gorilla Trekking Permit

There are two primary ways to book your permit:

1. Booking Through a Reputable Tour Operator

This is the most highly recommended and convenient method, especially for international travelers. A tour operator will handle all the logistics for you, often as part of a larger safari package.

• Contact a Tour Operator: Research and choose a reputable, registered tour company in Uganda.
• Provide Your Details: The tour operator will require your full name, nationality, and passport number to process the booking with UWA.
• Check Availability: The operator will contact the UWA to check for permit availability on your desired trekking dates. Since permits are limited (only 8 per gorilla family per day), it’s crucial to book well in advance—at least 6 to 12 months ahead of your travel dates, particularly during the peak season (June to October).
• Make a Payment: The tour operator will send you an invoice. Once you make the payment, they will purchase the permit on your behalf and send you a scanned copy of the receipt as confirmation. They will hold the physical permit until your arrival in Uganda.

2. Booking Directly with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA)

While it is possible to book a permit directly, this can be a more cumbersome process, especially from overseas.

• Contact the UWA: You will need to contact the UWA’s headquarters in Kampala by phone or email to inquire about permit availability.
• Secure the Permit: If permits are available, you will need to follow their instructions for making a payment. This can involve wire transfers, which may incur additional bank fees.
• Collect the Permit: You will need to physically collect your permit from the UWA office in Kampala. This requires you to be in the capital well before your trek, which may not be practical for all itineraries.

Key Considerations & Tips

• Book Well in Advance: Permits sell out quickly, especially during the dry seasons. Booking far ahead is your best guarantee.
• Check Availability First: Before you book flights or accommodation, confirm that a gorilla permit is available for your preferred dates and location.
• Choose Your Trekking Sector: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is divided into four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Each sector has different gorilla families, accommodation options, and levels of trekking difficulty. Your choice of permit determines which sector you will trek in, and it’s essential to book a permit in the same sector as your chosen accommodation.
• Age and Health: The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years old. You should also be in good health, as the trek can be physically demanding, involving hiking on steep, muddy, and uneven terrain.
• Cancellation Policy: UWA has a strict cancellation policy, so be sure you are committed to your dates before booking. Full refunds are often not possible if you cancel close to your trekking date.

Securing your gorilla trekking permit is the first step toward a life-changing adventure. By understanding the process and booking through a reliable tour operator, you can ensure this crucial part of your trip is handled smoothly, leaving you free to anticipate the magic of meeting the mountain gorillas face-to-face.

Planning a gorilla trekking safari adventure and would love to book a gorilla permit online- simply contact us now by sending an email to info@mumwesafarisuganda.com or calling +256-700135510 to speak with the reservations team.