When to Book Gorilla Permits in Uganda: Best Time & Tips Complete Guide 2026

Book your Uganda gorilla permit 6–12 months ahead for peak season (June–September, December–February) and 2–4 months ahead for low season (April, May, November) to secure your preferred date and sector in Bwindi or Mgahinga

Below is a guide that covers permit costs, booking timelines, sector selection, rules, and practical tips to help your adventure be safe and smooth.

What Is a Gorilla Permit in Uganda?

A gorilla permit is an official document issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) that allows you to trek and spend up to one hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

• Only these two parks in Uganda require gorilla permits for trekking.

• Permits are non-transferable, tied to your passport details, and valid only for the date and sector allocated.

Uganda Gorilla Permit Prices (2026)

UWA revised tariffs effective July 2024–June 2026, with further updates for 2026/27.

Current standard rates for a 1-hour gorilla trek are:

Gorilla Habituation Experience (4 hours) in Bwindi:

• Foreign Non-Resident: $1,500–$1,800 (depending on operator/UWA updates)
• Foreign Resident: $1,000–$1,600
• ROA: $1,000
• EAC: UGX 750,000

Note: Low-season discounts apply only in April, May, and November.

Best Time to Book Gorilla Permits in Uganda

Peak Season (High Demand)

• Months: June–September, December–February

• Booking window: 6–12 months in advance (ideally 9+ months for July/August/December)

• Why? Limited daily permits (8 visitors per gorilla family), high international travel demand, and school holidays.

Shoulder Season

• Months: March, October, early June, late September, early December

• Booking window: 3–6 months ahead.

Low Season (Best Value)

• Months: April, May, November

• Booking window: 2–4 weeks to 2 months (sometimes less, but 2–3 months is safer)

• Permit price: $600 for foreign non-residents (vs. $800 peak)

How Gorilla Permit Allocation Works

UWA allocates permits by sector and date, not by specific gorilla family.

Bwindi has four main trekking sectors:

• Buhoma (west, near Kihihi airstrip)

• Rushaga (south, near Nkuringo)

• Ruhija (central-east)

• Nkuringo (south, steep terrain)

Mgahinga has one sector (Ntebeko).

Key implications for booking:

• Your accommodation should match your allocated sector to minimize transfer time on trek day.

• Flexibility on date or sector dramatically increases your chances of securing a permit.

Step-by-Step: How to Book a Gorilla Permit in Uganda

1. Choose your travel window (peak vs. low season) and preferred sector(s).
2. Contact UWA Reservations directly (email/phone) or work with a licensed tour operator.
3. Request availability for your desired dates and sectors. UWA typically responds in 2–5 business days.
4. Provide passport details: full name, passport number, nationality, and date of birth.
5. Make full payment via bank transfer or in-person at UWA offices (Kampala, Kiira Road).
6. Receive permit confirmation with date, sector, and gorilla family assignment (assigned on trek day).

Tip: Reputable operators (e.g., Adventure Uganda Safaris, GoSilverback Gorlla Safaris,, e.t.c) can secure permits at no extra cost when you book a full safari package.

Included in Your Permit

• Park entry for trekking day

• Guided trek with UWA rangers

• One hour with the gorillas (once located)

• Contribution to conservation and community projects.

Not Included

• Accommodation, meals, transport, tips, porter fees, or travel insurance.

Key Rules

• Minimum age: 15 years (strictly enforced).

• Health: Do not trek if you have a contagious illness (gorillas are highly susceptible).

• Group size: Maximum 8 visitors per gorilla family per day.

• Distance: Maintain 7–10 meters from gorillas at all times.

• No flash photography, eating, or smoking near gorillas.

Bwindi vs. Mgahinga: Which Park to Choose?

• Booking too late for peak season (July/August/December sell out 9–12 months ahead).

• Ignoring sector logistics (e.g., booking Nkuringo accommodation but getting a Rushaga permit).

• Assuming permits are refundable (UWA permits are generally non-refundable; some operators offer rescheduling).

• Not verifying operator legitimacy (always check UWA licensing and reviews).

Frequently Asked Questions:

How much is a gorilla permit in Uganda in 2026?

$800 for foreign non-residents in peak season; $600 in low season (April, May, November).

Can I book a gorilla permit on arrival in Uganda?

Technically yes, but highly discouraged—permits often sell out months ahead, especially in peak season.

Are gorilla permits refundable if I cancel?

UWA permits are non-refundable. Some tour operators may offer credit or rescheduling—confirm in writing before payment.

How many people can trek a gorilla family per day?

Maximum 8 visitors per habituated family per day.

Do children need gorilla permits?

Yes, anyone 15 years or older requires a full permit. Under-15s are not allowed to trek.

Final Booking Checklist

• Decide travel month (peak vs. low season)

• Choose preferred sector(s) in Bwindi or Mgahinga

• Book 6–12 months ahead for peak; 2–4 months for low season

• Confirm passport details match permit exactly

• Arrange sector-matched accommodation

• Pack trekking gear (waterproof boots, rain jacket, gaiters)

• Purchase travel insurance covering trekking activities

Ready to secure your Uganda gorilla permit? Contact a licensed operator today to check real-time availability across Bwindi’s sectors and lock in your 2026–2027 trek before permits sell out.