Gorilla Safaris in Uganda: Bwindi Trekking Tours & Permits
Gorilla Safaris in Uganda: Discover gorilla safaris in Uganda, including Bwindi trekking, permit costs, best time to visit, safari packages, and travel tips.
Gorilla safaris in Uganda cater to a wide range of budgets and preferences, from short express treks to extended multi-park adventures. Packages typically include gorilla trekking permits (currently $800 per person for standard trekking, as set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority for 2025-2026), transportation, accommodations, meals, and guided activities.
Prices vary based on group size, season, and inclusions like flights or additional wildlife experiences. Below, I’ve outlined popular packages across budget, mid-range, and luxury categories, drawing from reputable operators.
These are åapproximate ranges based on current market data (as of early 2026); always confirm with operators for the latest rates, as they can fluctuate with permit availability and fuel costs.
Budget Gorilla Safaris in Uganda Packages (Under $2,000 per person)
Budget options focus on essential experiences with shared transport, basic lodges, and group tours. They’re ideal for solo travelers or small groups looking to minimize costs while still securing a gorilla permit. Expect simple full-board meals and ground transfers from Entebbe or Kampala.
- 3-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trek & Lake Bunyonyi Tour
Price: $1,300–$1,600 per person (for groups of 2–6; e.g., $1,346 for 2 people, dropping to $1,078 for 6).
Inclusions: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (1 permit), visit to Lake Bunyonyi for relaxation, 2 nights in budget lodges (e.g., Buhoma Community Rest Camp), full-board meals, 4×4 transport, park fees, English-speaking guide, and bottled water.
Highlights: Quick trek focused on gorillas with a scenic lake add-on; suitable for time-constrained travelers. Operator example: Epic Uganda Vacation or similar. - 3-Day Express Gorilla and Chimpanzee Tour
Price: $1,500–$1,900 per person.
Inclusions: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi, chimpanzee tracking in Kalinzu Forest Reserve, 2 nights in budget lodges, full-board meals, ground transport, permits, and airport transfers.
Highlights: Combines two primate experiences affordably; max group of 6 for a social vibe. Operator example: Safari Vacations and Travel Services. - 6-Day Budget-Friendly African Safari & Gorilla Trekking
Price: $1,800–$2,100 per person.
Inclusions: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi, game drives in Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo National Parks, 5 nights in budget lodges/guest houses, full-board meals, 4×4 transport, and all park fees.
Highlights: Adds Big Five wildlife to the gorilla trek for broader value. Operator example: Home To Africa Tours and Travel.
Budget tips: Opt for low season (March–May or October–November) to save 10–20%; prices are per person sharing and exclude tips ($10–20/day) or personal insurance.
Mid-Range Gorilla Safaris in Uganda Packages ($2,000–$4,000 per person)
Mid-range packages offer comfort with well-equipped lodges, smaller groups, and added activities like boat cruises. They’re perfect for families or couples seeking a balanced experience without extravagance.
- 3-Day Bwindi Gorilla Tour in Uganda
Price: $2,000–$2,500 per person (e.g., around $2,035 for shared groups).
Inclusions: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi (1 permit), 2 nights in mid-range lodges/resorts (e.g., Buhoma Lodge), full-board meals, private 4×4 transport, park fees, and guide.
Highlights: Focused gorilla encounter with comfortable amenities; max 6 people per group. Operator example: Bugoli Adventures. - 5-Day Uganda Safari – Gorillas, Chimps & Queen Elizabeth
Price: $2,500–$3,000 per person.
Inclusions: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park, game drives and boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth NP, 4 nights in mid-range lodges (e.g., Mweya Safari Lodge), full-board meals, transport, permits, and transfers.
Highlights: Diverse wildlife mix including Big Five; great for photography. Operator example: Naleyo Tours and Travels. - 7-Day Gorilla, Chimpanzees and Wildlife Tour
Price: $2,400–$2,800 per person.
Inclusions: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi, chimp tracking in Kibale, wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth (including tree-climbing lions in Ishasha), 6 nights in mid-range lodges/hotels, full-board meals, 4×4 transport, and all fees.
Highlights: Comprehensive primate and savanna experience. Operator example: Dav Safaris. - 9-Day Gorilla Trekking, Lion Tracking & Culture Safari
Price: $3,000–$4,000 per person (customizable).
Inclusions: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi, chimp trekking in Kibale, lion tracking and boat cruises in Queen Elizabeth, cultural visits (Batwa trail, coffee tours), 8 nights in mid-range lodges, full-board meals, 4×4 transport, one domestic flight (Bwindi to Entebbe), permits, and emergency insurance.
Highlights: Blends wildlife, culture, and adventure; max group of 6. Operator example: African Budget Safaris.
Mid-range notes: These often include semi-private elements; add-ons like porters ($20–30) enhance the trek.
Luxury Gorilla Safari Packages (Over $4,000 per person)
Luxury options emphasize exclusivity with fly-in transfers, gourmet dining, and high-end eco-lodges. They’re tailored for honeymooners or VIPs, often with private guides and spa-like amenities.
- 4-Day Fly-In Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari
Price: $4,000–$5,000 per person.
Inclusions: Fly-in gorilla trekking in Bwindi, chimp tracking in Kyambura Gorge, 3 nights in luxury lodges (e.g., Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp), full-board gourmet meals, private charter flights, 4×4 transport, permits, and dedicated guide.
Highlights: Minimizes road time for maximum comfort. Operator example: Myler Africa Safaris. - 5-Day Exclusive Uganda Luxury Gorilla Trekking Safari
Price: $4,500–$6,000 per person.
Inclusions: Exclusive gorilla trekking in Bwindi (fly-in), optional habituation experience ($1,500 permit upgrade), 4 nights in luxury lodges (e.g., Bwindi Lodge), full-board with fine dining, private transport/flights, permits, and personalized services like spa treatments.
Highlights: Ideal for couples/families with privacy focus. Operator example: Gorilla Safari Discovery. - 8-Day Gorilla Trekking, Chimpanzees and Africa’s Big 5
Price: $5,000–$7,000 per person (luxury upgrade).
Inclusions: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi, chimp tracking in Kibale, Big Five safaris in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls, 7 nights in luxury resorts/lodges (e.g., Mweya Safari Lodge deluxe), full-board gourmet meals, private 4×4/game vehicles, domestic flights, permits, and all fees.
Highlights: All-encompassing with premium wildlife viewing. Operator example: Nature Connect Safaris Uganda. - 11-Day Best of Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Wildlife Safari
Price: $6,000–$8,000 per person.
Inclusions: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi, chimp tracking in Kibale, extensive game drives in multiple parks, 10 nights in luxury lodges, full-board, private flights/transfers, permits, and cultural add-ons.
Highlights: Ultimate immersion for discerning travelers. Operator example: Kajie Safaris.
Luxury insights: Prices reflect per-person sharing in peak season; expect 20–30% premiums for solos or customizations. Factors like habituation permits ($1,500) or helicopter transfers can add $500–$1,000.
Explore with Us
Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with Gorilla Nests Safaris, your trusted local experts in crafting unforgettable gorilla safaris in Uganda. As a dedicated tour operator specializing in personalized primate encounters and wildlife experiences, we handle everything from securing your gorilla permits to arranging luxury accommodations and expert-guided treks.
Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate Bwindi gorilla trekking tour, a comprehensive multi-park itinerary combining gorillas with Big Five safaris, or a fully customized package tailored to your group’s preferences, we’re here to make it happen.
Contact us today at Gorilla Nests Safaris for your customized itineraries. Our team of local guides and safari specialists will work with you to design the perfect Uganda adventure—secure, seamless, and filled with magical moments in the wild.
Reach out via our website, email, or WhatsApp to start planning your gorilla safari. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Pearl of Africa!