How far in advance should I book a gorilla trekking permit?

During peak seasons (June to September and December to February), permits can sell out months in advance. Booking 3 to 6 months ahead is recommended for these periods. During the wet season, permits are sometimes available on shorter notice.

Can I book a permit directly or do I need a tour operator?

Permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). You can book directly through UWA, but many visitors use licensed tour operators who handle the permit application, logistics, and accommodation. Both approaches are valid.

What happens if I cannot trek on my permit date?

UWA has specific cancellation and rescheduling policies. Cancellations made well in advance may be eligible for a partial refund, but policies change and fees may apply. Contact UWA or your tour operator as soon as possible if your plans change.

Is the gorilla permit worth the cost?

The $800 permit fee funds gorilla conservation, anti-poaching patrols, community development programs, and park management. The one-hour encounter with a wild gorilla family in their natural habitat is widely considered one of the most profound wildlife experiences on Earth.

Can children go gorilla trekking?

The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years. This regulation exists to protect both the gorillas (children may be unpredictable or carry illnesses) and the young visitors (the trek can be physically demanding).

What if the gorillas are not found during the trek?

Habituated gorilla groups are tracked daily by UWA rangers, and the success rate of finding them is extremely high, well above 95 percent. On the rare occasion that a group cannot be reached, UWA typically offers a complimentary permit for the following day.

Permits | Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Gorilla Trekking Permits

A gorilla trekking permit is required for every visitor who wishes to trek to a habituated gorilla group in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The permit is issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and costs $800 per person for foreign visitors. This fee includes park entry for the day of the trek.

Each habituated gorilla group receives a maximum of 8 visitors per day. The one-hour time limit with the gorillas is strictly enforced to minimize disturbance. With multiple habituated groups across four sectors, the park issues a limited number of permits daily.

Park Entry Fees

Separate from the gorilla trekking permit, all visitors entering Bwindi must pay a park entry fee. Current rates are:

Foreign non-residents$40 per person per day

Foreign residents$30 per person per day

East African citizensUGX 20,000 per person per day

If you hold a gorilla trekking permit, park entry for the trekking day is included. The separate entry fee applies to additional days or activities such as nature walks, birding, or visiting without a gorilla permit.

Booking Process

Choose your dates and sector. Consider the season, your itinerary, and which gorilla groups you are interested in. Each sector has different families available.
Contact UWA or a licensed tour operator. Permits can be booked directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority office in Kampala or through accredited tour operators. Many operators handle the entire process.
Provide identification details. A copy of your passport is required for the permit application. The permit is non-transferable and tied to your passport number.
Make payment. Full payment is required to confirm the permit. Payment methods and terms vary between UWA and operators.
Receive confirmation. Your permit will specify the date, sector, and gorilla group. On the morning of the trek, report to the designated briefing point with your permit and passport.

Trekking Rules and Regulations

Minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years.
Maximum 8 visitors per gorilla group per day.
Maintain a minimum distance of 7 metres from the gorillas.
One hour maximum with the gorilla family.
Do not use flash photography.
If you are ill with a cough, cold, or any infectious disease, you will not be permitted to trek. This protects the gorillas from human diseases.
Stay with your group and follow the guide and ranger instructions at all times.
Do not eat or drink within close proximity of the gorillas.
Turn away or cover your mouth if you need to sneeze or cough during the encounter.

Other Permits and Activities

Beyond gorilla trekking, Bwindi offers several other activities that may require separate permits or fees:

Gorilla Habituation Experience: A full-day (4-hour) experience with a gorilla group still undergoing habituation. Limited availability and typically more expensive than standard trekking.
Guided Nature Walks: Various trails through the forest with a UWA ranger. Fees vary by trail and duration.
Birding Walks: Specialized guided walks for birders, particularly popular in Ruhija sector.
Batwa Cultural Experience: Community-based cultural activities near various sectors. Fees support the local Batwa community.

Permits