Booking a Gorilla Permit in Uganda. Gorilla trekking is one of the most thrilling wildlife encounters in the world, offering travelers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to come face-to-face with the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Uganda, known as the “Pearl of Africa,” is one of only three countries in the world where these majestic creatures can be seen safely and ethically. If you are planning to trek gorillas in Uganda, the first and most important step is securing a gorilla trekking permit. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about booking a gorilla permit in Uganda — from costs and procedures to tips for a smooth experience.

Understanding Gorilla Trekking Permits in Uganda

A gorilla trekking permit is an official document issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) that allows you to visit a habituated gorilla family in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Each permit allows you to spend one hour in the presence of the gorillas once you find them, under the guidance of experienced rangers and trackers.

The permit not only regulates the number of tourists visiting each gorilla family but also contributes significantly to gorilla conservation, community development, and park management. Without these controlled permits, gorilla tourism would put too much pressure on the fragile ecosystem and threaten the gorillas’ well-being.

Where to Trek Gorillas in Uganda

Uganda has two main destinations for gorilla trekking:

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The park has four trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Each sector offers a unique experience, with different gorilla families, terrain, and accommodation options.

2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Located in the Virunga Mountains, Mgahinga is smaller and less visited, offering a more intimate trekking experience. It is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family, known for its stability and accessibility.

Cost of a Gorilla Permit in Uganda

As of 2025, the official cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is:

• USD 800 for foreign non-residents

• USD 700 for foreign residents

• UGX 300,000 for East African citizens (Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, and South Sudan)

If you wish to experience a longer and more immersive encounter, you can book a Gorilla Habituation Experience, which allows you to spend up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family. The cost for this special experience is:

• USD 1,500 for foreign non-residents

• USD 1,000 for foreign residents

• UGX 750,000 for East African citizens

It’s important to note that the permit fee includes the park entrance, ranger guides, and security during the trek. However, it does not include accommodation, transport, or porter services.

How to Book a Gorilla Permit in Uganda

There are two main ways to book a gorilla permit in Uganda — directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or via a licensed tour operator.

1. Booking Directly through UWA

You can contact UWA’s reservations office in Kampala via phone or email to check for permit availability. Once confirmed, you’ll be required to make a payment to UWA’s bank account. After payment, UWA issues a receipt or confirmation which you can present upon arrival for your trek.

While this method is straightforward, it may not always be the most convenient, especially for travelers outside Uganda. The process may require follow-up communication and coordination for specific trekking sectors and dates.

And lastly, UWA does not give a many chances to individuals to purchase these permits themselves. 

2. Booking through a Licensed Tour Operator

The easiest and most reliable option is to book your gorilla permit through a registered Ugandan tour operator like Kenlink Tours. Licensed operators have direct access to UWA’s permit system and can quickly secure permits on your behalf, even when demand is high.

By booking through a tour operator, you save time, avoid the stress of back-and-forth communication, and ensure that your entire safari — accommodation, transport, meals, and trekking — is organized seamlessly.

When to Book Your Gorilla Permit

Uganda’s gorilla trekking permits are in high demand year-round, especially during the peak seasons of June to September and December to February. To secure your preferred trekking date and sector, it’s advisable to book your permit at least 3 to 6 months in advance.

During peak season, permits often sell out quickly, particularly in Bwindi’s popular sectors like Buhoma and Rushaga. However, if you’re traveling during the low season (March–May or October–November), you might find more availability and even discounted packages from tour operators.

Information Required for Booking

When booking your permit, you will need to provide:

• Your full name as it appears on your passport

• Nationality and passport number

• Preferred trekking date and sector (if known)

• Proof of payment after confirmation

The tour operator or UWA will then issue you a permit confirmation, which you should keep for reference.

Age and Fitness Requirements

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is open to travelers aged 15 years and above. The trek involves walking through dense forests, steep hills, and uneven terrain, so a moderate level of fitness is required.

Treks can last anywhere between 2 to 8 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family you are visiting. Rangers always ensure that the pace is comfortable for all participants, and porters are available for hire to assist with carrying your bag or offering support during steep climbs.

What Happens on the Trekking Day

On the morning of your trek, you’ll report to the park headquarters for a briefing at around 7:00 AM. Rangers will assign you to a specific gorilla family and provide instructions on how to behave during the trek.

You’ll then head into the forest in small groups of eight, accompanied by experienced guides and trackers. Once the gorillas are located, you’ll be allowed one hour in their presence — enough time to observe their interactions, take photos, and appreciate their incredible behavior.

After the trek, you’ll receive a gorilla trekking certificate, a wonderful souvenir of your adventure.

Rules and Guidelines During Gorilla Trekking

To protect the gorillas and ensure a safe experience for visitors, UWA has established several important rules:

• Keep a distance of at least 7 meters from the gorillas.

• Do not touch or attempt to feed the gorillas.

• Do not trek if you are sick or showing signs of flu, as gorillas are highly susceptible to human diseases.

• Speak in low voices and avoid sudden movements.

• Flash photography is not allowed.

• Follow your guide’s instructions at all times.

These guidelines help ensure the safety of both the visitors and the gorillas, as well as the sustainability of gorilla tourism in Uganda.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Uganda is a year-round destination, but the best time for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons — June to September and December to February. During these months, the trails are drier and less slippery, making the trek more manageable.

The wet seasons (March to May and October to November) bring heavier rains, which can make trekking more challenging. However, the parks are lush and green, and there are fewer crowds — a great option for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Why Book Your Gorilla Permit with Kenlink Tours

Booking your gorilla permit through Kenlink Tours ensures a stress-free, organized, and memorable experience from start to finish. As a fully licensed Ugandan tour company, Kenlink Tours works directly with the Uganda Wildlife Authority to secure your permits quickly and reliably, even during the busy seasons.

Our team offers personalized safari packages that combine gorilla trekking with other incredible experiences — such as chimpanzee tracking, cultural tours, game drives, and community visits. We handle all logistics, including accommodation, transport, and permit coordination, so you can focus entirely on enjoying your adventure.

With our experienced guides, professional service, and strong conservation ethics, you can be confident that your gorilla trekking experience will be authentic, responsible, and unforgettable.

📧 Email: info@kenlinktours.com
📞 Telephone / WhatsApp: +256 789 210 067