The Cost of Uganda Gorilla Trekking Permit
Knowing what the cost of a Uganda gorilla trekking permit is essential to planning any Uganda gorilla safaris. A Uganda gorilla trekking permit is a document issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority permitting any eligible travelers to go gorilla trekking in Uganda. Only individuals above the age of 15 are allowed to trek gorillas in Uganda after purchasing a permit.
What is the cost of Uganda Gorilla Trekking Permit? Following an increment in the cost of each Uganda gorilla trekking permit, each permit now costs US$ 700 for foreign non-residents, US$ 600 for foreign residents and Ugandan Shillings 250,000 for Ugandans and East African Citizens. Foreign non-residents are tourists who come into the country with a tourist visa for the purposes of gorilla trekking and maybe other Uganda primate tracking tours. Foreign residents are persons who are not Ugandans but staying in Uganda with working permits. The increment was made from US$ 600 for foreign non-residents and US$ 500 for foreign residents. For each of these categories they had US$ 100 increase. However, the cost of a Uganda gorilla trekking permit remains the same for East African citizens.
Uganda gorilla trekking permits are sold at the same cost for both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park as well as Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Permits are available all year round offering an experience that makes every penny spent, hiking and distance worth it the moment you set eyes of the elusive mountain gorilla giants.
However, the cost of a gorilla permit in Uganda should not be confused as the general cost for Uganda gorilla trekking tours. The permit cost is only for the document that permits a person to trek gorillas and to have your total estimate cost of gorilla safaris in Uganda consider including transport costs, meals, accommodation, visas and many more essentials for your trip.
How to Purchase a Uganda gorilla Tracking permit?
After knowing the cost of a Uganda gorilla trekking permit and decided to plan Uganda gorilla trekking safaris then knowing the right procedure is essential. To book and purchase a gorilla permit in Uganda, it is easy if you contact a credible Uganda tour operator like Jewel Safaris. All bookings and payments will be made to your interests. Individually booking through the Uganda Wildlife Authority is also possible.
Here’s a general guide on how to purchase a Uganda gorilla tracking permit:
Determine Your Preferred Dates: Decide on the dates you plan to go gorilla tracking in Uganda. It’s advisable to book your permits well in advance, as they are in high demand and limited in number.
Choose the Gorilla Group and Location: Uganda has multiple gorilla groups in two main locations: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. You can select your preferred location and gorilla group based on your interests, available permits, and accessibility.
Contact a Tour Operator: While it is possible to book permits directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority, many visitors find it more convenient to book through a reputable tour operator like Jewel Safaris. These operators can assist you in obtaining permits, arranging transportation, and planning your entire gorilla trekking experience.
Reserve Your Permits: Once you’ve chosen your dates, group, and location, inform your chosen tour operator or contact the Uganda Wildlife Authority directly. Provide them with the necessary information, including your preferred trekking dates, the number of permits you need, and any other specific requirements.
Payment: Make payment for the gorilla tracking permits. As of my last update, the cost of a gorilla tracking permit for foreign tourists was approximately USD 700 per person. However, permit prices may have changed, so check for the latest rates.
Confirmation: After making your payment, you will receive a confirmation of your gorilla tracking permits. This confirmation typically includes the permit details, such as the tracking date, group, and location.
Plan Your Trip: Once you have your permits, work with your tour operator to plan the rest of your trip, including accommodation, transportation, and other activities.
Gorilla Trekking Experience: On the day of your gorilla trek, arrive at the designated briefing point in the park. You’ll receive a briefing on the rules and guidelines for gorilla tracking. Then, you’ll set out with experienced guides to find and observe the gorillas in their natural habitat.
Remember that gorilla tracking permits are subject to availability, so it’s essential to book well in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the peak tourist season.
When should a person book a gorilla permit in Uganda?
Booking for Uganda gorilla permits should be done at least six months in advance during the peak season and three months prior during the low season. This is because permits are at a high demand and therefore can be fully booked for the date you may desire to go tracking.
The high season is during the dry months of December to February and June to July. During these times tourists flock the park for gorilla trekking and that’s why early permit booking is recommended.
Booking a gorilla permit in Uganda is a crucial step in planning your gorilla trekking experience. These permits are in high demand, and availability can be limited, especially during the peak tourist season. To ensure you secure your permits and have a successful gorilla trek, it’s advisable to book well in advance.
Here are some guidelines on when to book your gorilla permit:
Book as Early as Possible: Ideally, you should book your gorilla permit as early as you know your travel dates and have decided on your preferred location and gorilla group. Some travellers even book their permits up to a year in advance, especially if they have specific dates in mind.
Peak and High Seasons: Gorilla trekking in Uganda is popular year-round, but certain months are considered peak or high seasons. These months include June to September and December to February. During these times, permits tend to be in high demand, so booking several months to a year ahead is advisable.
Low Seasons: The low season, which includes the rainy months of April, May, and November, often sees fewer tourists. If you’re flexible with your travel dates and willing to trek in less favorable weather conditions, you may find permits more readily available during these months, and last-minute bookings might be an option.
Consider Weekdays: If you’re looking for more availability, consider booking your gorilla trek on a weekday (Monday to Thursday) rather than on weekends. Weekends tend to be busier, so there may be more competition for permits.
Through a Tour Operator: Many travelers prefer to book their gorilla permits through a reputable tour operator. These operators often have better access to permit availability and can help you plan your entire gorilla trekking experience, including accommodations and transportation.
Check Availability: Before finalizing your travel plans, it’s a good idea to check the availability of gorilla permits for your preferred dates with the Uganda Wildlife Authority or your chosen tour operator. This can help you adjust your plans if necessary.
Remember that gorilla permits are limited in number to protect the gorillas and their habitat, so it’s crucial to plan ahead and secure your permits early to avoid disappointment.
The cost of each gorilla trekking permit contributes to the conservation of these elusive mountain gorillas which makes it all worth it. Book your gorilla trekking permit to Uganda and have a memorable trekking experience like no other. Jewel safaris can help you tailor any form of gorilla trekking safari in Uganda and also Rwanda.
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