Gorilla permits for Uganda are commonly US$800 per person (foreign non-residents). Book 6–12 months ahead for peak months and luxury lodges.
Uganda Gorilla Permits 2026/27: costs, booking timelines, luxury lodge pairings, and how Agasaro Safaris secures your spot
Why gorilla permits matter (and why you should act now)
Gorilla trekking permits are limited and sold on a first-come basis. Each gorilla family usually allows up to 8 guests per day. That makes permits the single most important booking item for Bwindi or Mgahinga treks. Locking permits early protects your dates and your choice of luxury lodge.
Want us to hold permits and lodge availability while you decide?
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Uganda Gorilla Permits 2026/27
How do I book gorilla permits in Uganda?
You can buy permits directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), but most travellers book through licensed operators. Working with an operator like Agasaro Safaris gives you:
- Provisional holds on permits and lodges
- Correct passport-name handling (no mistakes)
- Bundle pricing (permits + transfers + lodges)
- Faster, safer payment and confirmations
What we need from you:
Full passport names, preferred trek dates, and contact details.
We’ll send a pro-forma and place provisional holds while you confirm.
How far in advance should I book gorilla permits?
- Recommended: 6–12 months ahead for peak months (June–Sept; Dec–Feb).
- Minimum: Book as early as possible. Cancellations happen, but last-minute availability is rare and often more expensive.
If you want specific luxury rooms or honeymoon dates, earlier is safer.
How much are gorilla permits in Uganda (2026/27 prices)
Typical 2024–2026 pricing used by operators:
- Foreign non-residents: US$800 per person
- Foreign residents: ~US$700 per person
- Other African passport holders: ~US$500 (varies)
- East African citizens: local rate (e.g., UGX 300,000)
- Habituation permits (full day): ~US$1,500
Always confirm current tariffs with UWA or your operator before accepting a final quote.
Can tour operators secure last-minute gorilla permits?
Yes — sometimes. Operators monitor cancellation lists and can pick up released permits. But options are limited: dates, gorilla family and lodges may be restricted. For clients with fixed travel dates and lodge preferences, the reliable approach is to book early.
Pro tip: If you need last-minute space, tell us your date flexibility and lodge preferences; we’ll monitor cancellations and notify you immediately.
What documents do I need for gorilla permits?
Have these ready to speed booking:
- Full traveller names exactly as on passports
- Passport number and nationality
- Preferred trek date(s)
- Proof of Yellow Fever vaccination (required for entry to Uganda)
Submitting accurate passport names avoids costly reissues or denied permits.
Which lodges are best for Bwindi gorilla treks (luxury options)?
Luxury lodges near Bwindi provide comfort after a trek and often shorter transfers to trailheads. Frequently paired high-end options include:
- Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge — iconic views & villas
- Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp — intimate luxury in the forest
- High-end private cottages and boutique lodges across Bwindi sectors
Why book lodge + permit together: it secures room choice and the best transfer times. Luxury clients often add spa days, private dinners and villa upgrades.
Want sample luxury itineraries? Request sample itineraries
Best time to trek gorillas in Uganda
Gorilla trekking is possible year-round. Seasonal notes:
- Dry seasons (best): June–September and December–February — easier trails, clearer skies.
- Rainy months: March–May and October–November — trails can be muddy but crowds are smaller and scenery is lush.
If combining with the Great Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania/Kenya, match migration windows carefully (we can design a 10–14 day combined itinerary).
Trek difficulty, fitness & porter options
Trek difficulty ranges from short, gentle walks to steep, muddy climbs depending on the gorilla family’s location. Key points:
- Porters are available at trailheads — recommended for those who need support.
- Guides try to group by fitness level.
- Prepare: sturdy boots, gaiters, long sleeves, insect repellent, rain jacket.
- Viewing time: usually one hour with rangers, under strict supervision.
How to combine gorilla trekking with the wildebeest migration
Combining Bwindi with the Great Wildebeest Migration is high-value and popular. Consider:
- Timing: sync Bwindi dates with migration highlights (Ndutu calving or Mara river crossings).
- Logistics: domestic flights (Entebbe ↔ Kisoro or Arusha) or overland transfers.
- Value: 10–14 day luxury combo sells well to honeymooners and private groups.
We’ll build door-to-door itineraries that match the migration and guarantee permit/lodge availability.
Interested in a gorillas + migration combo? WhatsApp +256 754 944397 or Contact us directly here
Gorilla trek ethics & health requirements
To protect gorillas and guests:
- Maintain the required distance — rangers will advise.
- Do not touch or feed gorillas.
- Sick guests (especially with respiratory symptoms) must not trek.
- Carry a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate for Uganda entry.
These rules protect wildlife and ensure sustainable tourism for the future.
How many people per gorilla family?
Typically up to 8 guests per gorilla family per day. That limited number contributes to scarcity and is a core reason to book early.
Sample pricing & booking checklist
Ballpark figures (per person):
- Permit only: US$800
- 7–9 day luxury Uganda package (permit, lodges, transfers): US$4,500–US$11,000+
Simple booking checklist:
- Passport names → 2. Preferred dates → 3. Lodge preference → 4. Deposit/payment method → 5. Receive pro-forma → 6. We secure permits & lodge vouchers
Why book through Agasaro Safaris?
We handle the full flow: provisional holds, pro-forma invoices, deposit collection, UWA purchases, lodge confirmations, and final documents. That reduces errors and secures the experience you expect — especially for luxury and honeymoon bookings.
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