The cost of a safari in Uganda can vary widely depending on several factors, including the duration of the safari, the type of accommodations, the activities included, the number of people in your group, and the level of luxury you’re seeking. Here are some general cost considerations for planning a safari in Uganda:

1. Gorilla Trekking Permits: Gorilla trekking is a popular activity in Uganda, particularly in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The cost of a gorilla trekking permit for a single day can range from $600 to $700 (as of my last update in September 2021). These permits grant you the opportunity to spend one hour with a gorilla family.
2. Accommodations: Accommodation options in Uganda range from budget lodges to luxury safari lodges and tented camps. The cost per night can vary greatly, with budget options starting around $50 to $100 per person per night, mid-range lodges around $150 to $300, and luxury lodges often exceeding $500 or more per person per night.
3. Transportation: The cost of transportation can depend on whether you’re using a tour operator’s vehicles or self-driving. If you’re using a tour operator, transportation is often included in the package. If self-driving, you’ll need to consider rental fees, fuel costs, and potentially hiring a driver.
4. Activities: In addition to gorilla trekking, Uganda offers a variety of other activities such as chimpanzee trekking, wildlife safaris, boat cruises, and more. The cost of these activities can vary, with chimpanzee trekking permits generally ranging from $100 to $200.
5. Meals: Some safari packages include meals, while others might only include breakfast. Budget extra for meals if they’re not included in your package.
6. Park Entrance Fees: Many national parks in Uganda charge entrance fees, which can vary depending on the park and your nationality.
7. Tour Operator vs. Self-Planning: Booking a safari through a tour operator can simplify logistics and provide a comprehensive experience, but it might be more expensive. Self-planning gives you more control over your itinerary and budget, but requires more research and organization.
8. Group Size: If you’re traveling in a group, you might be able to secure group discounts on accommodations and activities.
9. Time of Year: Peak tourist seasons (such as the dry seasons) can lead to higher prices due to increased demand.

For a comprehensive safari experience in Uganda, including gorilla trekking, you should expect to budget a few thousand dollars per person. However, it’s important to research and compare different tour operators, packages, and accommodations to find options that align with your budget and preferences.

How many days you need to do a good safari in Uganda.

1. Gorilla Trekking Safari: If your main focus is gorilla trekking, it’s recommended to allocate at least 3 to 4 days. This allows for one day of trekking to see the gorillas and a couple of additional days for travel, rest, and potential second activities.
2. Wildlife and Game Viewing Safari: If you’re interested in wildlife and game viewing, particularly in national parks like Queen Elizabeth National Park or Murchison Falls National Park, you might want to consider a 5 to 7-day itinerary. This allows you to explore different areas of the parks and have multiple game drives.
3. Combined Gorilla and Wildlife Safari: For a more comprehensive experience that includes both gorilla trekking and wildlife viewing, a 7 to 10-day itinerary is recommended. This allows you to visit a couple of national parks, spend time with the gorillas, and also go on game drives to see other wildlife.
4. Chimpanzee Trekking and Primate Safari: If you’re interested in chimpanzee trekking and other primate experiences, like tracking golden monkeys, you should plan for around 5 to 7 days. Kibale National Park is a popular destination for chimpanzee trekking.
5. Birdwatching Safari: Uganda is known for its rich birdlife, with numerous species to be spotted. Birdwatching safaris can range from 7 to 14 days, depending on the extent of your birding interests and the areas you want to cover.
6. Cultural Safari: If you want to immerse yourself in Ugandan culture and interact with local communities, consider adding a cultural element to your safari. This might involve visiting traditional villages and learning about local traditions. A cultural safari could be incorporated into a longer itinerary of 7 to 10 days.

It’s important to remember that Uganda’s road infrastructure can sometimes make travel times longer than expected. Additionally, allowing for some flexibility in your itinerary is wise, as weather conditions, road conditions, and wildlife sightings can all affect your plans.

Ultimately, the number of days you need for a safari in Uganda depends on your interests and how in-depth you want your experience to be. It’s recommended to work with a reputable tour operator or travel agency to help you plan an itinerary that aligns with your preferences and ensures a well-paced and enjoyable safari experience.

What you need to know before you go for gorilla trekking safari.

1. Gorilla Permits: You’ll need to obtain a gorilla permit in advance. These permits allow you to track and spend time with gorilla families in their natural habitat. Permits are limited and in high demand, so it’s recommended to book well in advance.
2. Health and Fitness: Gorilla trekking involves hiking through dense forests and sometimes steep terrain. Good physical fitness is important for an enjoyable experience. Consult your doctor before the trip to ensure you’re fit for the trek.
3. Packing List: Pack appropriate clothing for both the trek and the climate. Sturdy hiking boots, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, a rain jacket, a hat, and sunscreen are essential. A small backpack, insect repellent, and a water bottle are also important.
4. Guides and Rangers: You’ll be accompanied by experienced guides and park rangers during your trek. Follow their instructions for safety and conservation reasons.
5. Rules and Etiquette: Maintain a minimum distance of 7 meters (21 feet) from the gorillas to reduce the risk of disease transmission. Avoid direct eye contact and flash photography, as this could stress the gorillas.
6. Duration and Difficulty: Gorilla treks can vary in duration and difficulty, ranging from a couple of hours to a full day of hiking. Make sure you’re aware of the specifics of your trek and prepare accordingly.
7. Weather: The weather in the gorilla habitat can be unpredictable. Be prepared for rain and varying temperatures. Dress in layers to accommodate changing conditions.
8. Photography: While photography is allowed, remember to respect the gorillas’ space and follow guidelines to avoid disturbing them. A good telephoto lens is recommended to capture clear shots from a safe distance.
9. Conservation: Gorilla trekking supports conservation efforts. Respect the environment by not littering and following Leave No Trace principles. Also, be mindful of the impact your presence can have on the gorillas and their habitat.
10. Cultural Sensitivity: Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Learn a few basic phrases in the local language to interact with the communities you might encounter.
11. Accommodation and Transportation: Research and book accommodations and transportation well in advance, especially if you’re planning to stay near the gorilla trekking areas.
12. Permit Costs: Gorilla permits can be quite expensive. Make sure you budget for this cost along with other expenses like transportation, accommodation, and meals.
13. Booking Through a Reputable Operator: Choose a reputable tour operator for your safari. They can assist with permit booking, transportation, and provide valuable guidance.
14. COVID-19 Considerations: Depending on the current situation, there might be specific health and safety guidelines related to COVID-19. Stay informed about any travel restrictions, testing requirements, and health protocols.

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