Who sells Gorilla Permits in Uganda? Uganda is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it one of the top gorilla trekking destinations globally. These gentle giants can be found in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in the southwestern region of the country. To see them up close in their natural habitat, visitors must first secure a gorilla permit — a special pass that grants one-time access to trek and observe gorillas.

But who exactly sells these gorilla permits in Uganda? And how can travelers get their hands on one easily? In this blog, we explain everything you need to know, including how Kenlink Tours, our trusted tour company, can help you secure your permit and plan an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience.

1. Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) – The Official Permit Issuer

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) is the only government agency authorized to sell gorilla permits in Uganda. UWA is responsible for the management and conservation of national parks, and it regulates all trekking activities to ensure the protection of endangered gorillas and their habitats.

However, Uganda Wildlife Authority also strongly advises buying the permits through tour operators.

Gorilla Permit Prices (as of 2025):

• Foreign Non-Residents: $800 USD per person

• Foreign Residents (East Africa): $700 USD per person

• East African Citizens: UGX 300,000 per person

Each permit grants access to trek one of the habituated gorilla families and spend one hour in their presence.

UWA has a quota system that allows only eight visitors per gorilla family per day, so demand is high, especially during peak seasons (June–September, December–February).

How to Buy from UWA:

Travelers can attempt to buy permits directly from UWA by:

• Emailing their reservations office

• Visiting UWA headquarters on Kira Road in Kampala

• Calling the official lines

However, this process may be complicated for international travelers due to time zone differences, payment procedures, and permit availability. That’s why most people turn to experienced local tour operators.

2. Tour Operators – Your Gateway to Permits and Seamless Safaris

Although UWA is the only official seller of permits, travelers can purchase them through registered and licensed tour operators in Uganda. This is often the most convenient, stress-free, and reliable option.

At Kenlink Tours, we specialize in organizing gorilla trekking safaris and securing permits on behalf of our clients. As a registered Ugandan tour company with years of experience, we are officially authorized by UWA to access and reserve permits.

Why Book Through Kenlink Tours?

• Guaranteed Permit Access: We check real-time availability and secure permits fast — even during busy seasons.

• Full Safari Packages: We don’t just get you the permit; we offer all-inclusive trips with transport, accommodation, meals, park entry, and expert guides.

• Local Expertise: Our deep understanding of Uganda’s parks, terrain, and communities allows us to customize your experience.

• Flexible Itineraries: Whether you’re combining gorilla trekking with other adventures like chimpanzee tracking or a wildlife safari, we design the perfect itinerary for you.

3. Why You Should Book in Advance

Gorilla permits are highly competitive. Booking 3 to 6 months in advance is strongly advised, especially if you plan to travel during the high season. Due to limited slots (only 160 permits per day across all families), last-minute bookings are rarely successful.

At Kenlink Tours, we help you:

• Check real-time availability

• Reserve your permit instantly

• Coordinate your trek location (Bwindi or Mgahinga)

• Choose the best sector (Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, or Ruhija)

4. What’s Included in a Gorilla Permit?

The permit fee includes:

• Park entry to Bwindi or Mgahinga

• One hour with a gorilla family

• Services of a trained UWA ranger/guide

• Security and medical support during the trek

Note: The permit does not include transport, accommodation, meals, or tips — these are handled in our safari packages at Kenlink Tours.

5. How Gorilla Permit Sales Support Conservation

By purchasing a gorilla permit, you’re directly supporting:

• Gorilla conservation efforts: anti-poaching patrols, veterinary care, and habitat protection

• Community development: A portion of each permit fee goes to local communities to fund schools, clinics, and infrastructure, encouraging residents to protect rather than harm wildlife

• Research and monitoring: Scientists use funds to study gorilla behavior and ensure long-term survival of the species

6. Why Choose Kenlink Tours?

Kenlink Tours has become a trusted name in gorilla trekking and conservation safaris across Uganda, Rwanda, and the Congo. We’re passionate about responsible travel, community impact, and creating once-in-a-lifetime journeys for our guests.

With Kenlink, you can expect:

• Transparent pricing (no hidden fees)

• Professional, English-speaking guides

• Comfortable safari vehicles

• Tailor-made experiences to fit your budget, timeframe, and interests

Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, group, or photographer, we can customize your gorilla safari.

Gorilla permits in Uganda are sold exclusively by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), but the easiest and most effective way to get one is through a trusted tour operator like Kenlink Tours. We take the stress out of the process, helping you secure permits quickly and offering full safari packages that deliver unforgettable memories in the heart of Africa’s misty jungles.

Let Kenlink Tours help you track Uganda’s mountain gorillas.
Contact us today to check permit availability, get expert advice, and start planning your dream gorilla trekking safari.