How Much Does Gorilla Trekking Cost

Gorilla Trekking Cost Breakdown by Country (2026-2027)

• Gorilla Habituation Experience (Uganda only): A special 4-hour experience costs $1,500 per person.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Costs

You can have a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with these incredible animals of Africa with the gorilla permit. It’s also the biggest outlay of cash you’ll have to make while organising your gorilla adventure. Let’s take a look at the ins and outs of getting this sought-after pass in Rwanda and Uganda, including the costs.

Uganda Gorilla Permit Costs (2025):

• Foreign Non-Residents: US$800 per person
• Foreign Residents: US$700 per person
• Citizens of African Countries (outside East Africa): $500 per person
• East African Citizens (Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, South Sudan, Burundi): UGX 350,000 per person (approximately US$95)

Rwanda Gorilla Permit Prices (2025):

• Foreign Non-Residents: $1500 per person
• Foreign residents: $500 per permit
• African citizens (outside East Africa): $500 per person
• East African citizens (Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, South Sudan, Burundi): $200 per person

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking Cost

One of the most charming sustainable wildlife adventures is trekking with gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda, but how much does it cost to actually meet these magnificent primates? Get a good grasp on all the expenditures associated with your dream excursion before you start organising it. This includes permit fees, lodging, transportation, and any additional expenses that may pop up.

In the year 2026, a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda would set you back $1,500 and in Uganda it will cost $800. For this price, you can join a guided walk into the verdant rainforests of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda or Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. You’ll get to spend an exciting hour watching mountain gorillas in their native environment. Permits cost $1,500 if you want to participate in Uganda’s special Gorilla Habituation Experience, which gives you four hours to spend with the gorillas.

However, your overall budget does not include the permit. A 5-day gorilla trekking safari in Uganda can cost anything from $2,400 to $4,500 per person, with the difference being attributed to the quality of the accommodations chosen. Rwanda is known for its expensive lodges and services, so be prepared to spend $3,500 to $7,000+ per person.

Factors Affecting the Total Gorilla trekking Cost

• Permit Fee: This is the largest and most essential cost, with funds going towards conservation efforts.
• Accommodation: Options range from budget lodges (around $50/night) to luxury eco-lodges (upwards of $1,000/night), greatly impacting the total price.
• Transportation: Costs include flights (domestic or international), ground transport (private 4×4 vehicles often cost around $200/day), and fuel.
• Tour Operator: Most travelers book all-inclusive packages through operators, who set varying prices based on the level of service and inclusions.
• Duration: The number of days on safari and additional activities (e.g., golden monkey tracking, game drives) affect the overall price.
• Porter Fees & Tips: Hiring a porter to carry your belongings (recommended for support and community benefit) usually costs around $25 per trek, plus tips.
• Season: While discounted permits are generally no longer offered, low-season travel might provide better deals on accommodation or other services.

Typical Gorilla trekking Safari Package Costs (Uganda/Rwanda Example):