How much does a Uganda Safari Cost. Planning a safari to Uganda is an exciting adventure filled with the promise of unforgettable wildlife experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultural encounters. One of the most common questions travelers ask when considering a trip to the Pearl of Africa is: “How much does a Uganda safari cost?” The answer varies depending on several factors, including the type of safari, level of accommodation, number of days, number of travelers, and specific activities you wish to include.

Uganda offers a wide range of safari options, from budget-friendly group tours to luxurious private safaris. Costs can vary significantly depending on whether you choose gorilla trekking, game drives, boat safaris, birdwatching, cultural visits, or a combination of these. Gorilla permits, for example, are a major cost factor and currently stand at $800 per person for foreign non-residents.

Accommodation also plays a big role in determining the overall safari cost. Uganda has everything from high-end lodges with premium amenities to mid-range and budget options that still offer comfort and proximity to key attractions. Additionally, transportation — whether by road or domestic flights — and the services of a professional guide will influence the total expenditure.

The beauty of a Uganda safari is its flexibility — it can be customized to suit every traveler’s budget and preferences. Whether you’re seeking a short 3-day wildlife tour or an extended multi-destination expedition, understanding the components that affect pricing helps you plan smart and get the best value from your experience.

How much does a safari cost in Uganda?

The cost of a safari in Uganda varies depending on several factors, including the number of days, type of accommodation, activities involved, group size, transportation, and the season of travel. On average, a standard Uganda safari can cost anywhere between $1,000 to $4,000 per person for a 3 to 7-day tour. Luxury safaris, however, can go beyond $6,000 per person, especially if you choose high-end lodges, private transportation, and exclusive experiences.

One of the most significant cost components is gorilla trekking, with a permit costing $800 per person for foreign non-residents. Chimpanzee tracking permits range from $100 to $250, while park entry fees are generally around $40 per day. Transportation, whether by private vehicle, domestic flights, or 4×4 safari trucks, also adds to the overall cost.

Accommodation options range from budget (around $50 per night), mid-range ($100–$200), to luxury lodges ($300 and above per night). Meals, guide services, and cultural experiences are usually included in organized tour packages.

Traveling in a group can significantly reduce costs through shared expenses, while solo or private safaris tend to be pricier. Visiting during the low season (March–May, October–November) may offer discounts on accommodation and tours.

Booking through a reputable tour operator like Kenlink Tours ensures that your safari is well-planned, cost-effective, and tailored to your interests. Contact us today for personalized quotes and smooth safari planning!
📧 Email: info@kenlinktours.com | 📞 Call/WhatsApp: +256 789 210 067

How much does a gorilla trekking Safari cost in Uganda?

A gorilla trekking safari in Uganda typically costs between $1,200 and $3,500 per person, depending on several factors such as the length of the safari, accommodation type, and level of comfort. The most significant cost component is the gorilla trekking permit, which costs $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens.

A typical 3-day gorilla safari includes transportation (usually in a 4×4 vehicle), accommodation, meals, an English-speaking guide, park entry fees, and the gorilla permit. Budget packages may start from around $1,200, while mid-range tours range from $1,500–$2,200, and luxury experiences can exceed $3,000 per person.

The cost may also depend on the gorilla trekking sector (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, or Nkuringo) and travel season. Booking through a registered tour operator ensures seamless planning, reliable logistics, and a safe experience.

Where can i go for gorilla trekking in Uganda?

In Uganda, gorilla trekking takes place in the famous Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in the southwestern part of the country. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it one of the best places on Earth for this unique wildlife experience. The park is divided into four main trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo—each offering different gorilla families and scenic trekking routes through dense rainforest.

Another location for gorilla trekking in Uganda is Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which borders Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Although it has only one habituated gorilla family, Mgahinga provides a more exclusive and less crowded experience. It is also ideal for combining gorilla trekking with hiking the Virunga volcanoes.

Both parks offer unforgettable encounters with the gentle giants, guided by experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. Trekking permits must be booked in advance due to limited availability.

Where to go for game viewing in Uganda

Uganda is a top safari destination in East Africa, offering remarkable game viewing experiences across its ten national parks and various wildlife reserves. The most popular parks for game viewing include Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, and Lake Mburo National Park.

Murchison Falls National Park, the largest in Uganda, is well known for its diverse wildlife including elephants, giraffes, lions, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, and many antelope species. Game drives here, especially in the northern sector, are highly rewarding. A boat safari to the base of the majestic Murchison Falls adds an unforgettable twist to the adventure.

Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in western Uganda, offers rich wildlife diversity and the unique chance to see tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector. The park is also famous for boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel, which hosts huge populations of hippos and water birds.

Kidepo Valley National Park, in the remote northeastern region, is less visited but offers an unspoiled safari experience. It is home to cheetahs, ostriches, lions, zebras, and large herds of buffalo.

Lake Mburo National Park, closest to Kampala, is ideal for short safaris. It offers game drives, boat cruises, and guided nature walks with opportunities to see zebras, impalas, topis, hippos, and more.

For the best game viewing experience, consider booking with Kenlink Tours—your trusted Ugandan tour operator.

Combining Gorilla Trekking with Game Drive in Uganda

Combining gorilla trekking with a game drive in Uganda offers the ultimate African safari experience, blending close encounters with the majestic mountain gorillas and thrilling wildlife safaris across the savannah. Uganda is one of the few countries in the world where travelers can enjoy both in one trip.

Start your adventure with gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where you’ll hike through thick rainforests to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat—a truly humbling and unforgettable experience.

After this magical encounter, transition to the savannah for classic game drives in parks like Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you can see elephants, lions (including tree-climbing lions in Ishasha), buffaloes, and antelopes, or head to Murchison Falls National Park for sightings of giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and the dramatic waterfall. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Kidepo Valley National Park offers untouched wilderness and rare species like cheetahs.

Combining these activities not only maximizes your time in Uganda but also gives you a broader view of the country’s rich biodiversity and diverse landscapes