
What to Expect on African Safari?
March 6, 2024
Booking Uganda Gorilla Trekking Holidays
March 7, 2024Gorilla Permits for 2025–2026: Plan Your Encounter with the Majestic Mountain Gorillas
Planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to see the endangered Mountain Gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda? Booking your gorilla trekking permit is the first and most important step. Trek Africa Expeditions is here to help you secure your permits for 2025 and 2026, so you can experience the unforgettable thrill of standing face-to-face with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Whether you’re drawn to the misty mountains of Uganda or the scenic slopes of Rwanda, gorilla permits are your golden key to an experience that’s as humbling as it is awe-inspiring. Let us walk you through the essential information you need to start planning your gorilla trekking safari.
Gorilla Permit Prices for Uganda and Rwanda in 2025–2026
Gorilla trekking is available year-round, and permit prices vary depending on the country:
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Uganda: Gorilla permits cost USD 800 per person per trek. Uganda also offers the exclusive Gorilla Habituation Experience, which allows you to spend up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family—perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
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Rwanda: Permits are priced at USD 1500 per person per trek, offering access to Volcanoes National Park, home to several habituated gorilla families.
Both options provide a rich and immersive primate experience, but Uganda is often favored by travelers seeking a more budget-friendly adventure without compromising the quality of the encounter.
What’s Included in a Gorilla Permit?
When you purchase a gorilla permit, you’re not just paying for an entry ticket—you’re supporting conservation and gaining access to an extraordinary wilderness experience.
A gorilla trekking permit includes:
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One hour of guided interaction with a habituated gorilla family
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Services of an experienced ranger/guide from the Uganda Wildlife Authority or the Rwanda Development Board
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Armed escorts for safety during your forest trek
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Entry fees to the national park (Bwindi, Mgahinga, or Volcanoes)
These permits are limited in number to protect the gorillas, so planning early is key.
Where Can You Go Gorilla Trekking?
Gorilla trekking in 2025–2026 can be enjoyed in the following locations:
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Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, and known for its diverse terrain and high number of gorilla families.
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Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – A scenic park located in Uganda’s Virunga Mountains, offering quieter trekking experiences.
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Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda’s flagship gorilla destination, made famous by Dian Fossey’s conservation work and the movie Gorillas in the Mist.
When Should You Book Gorilla Permits for 2025–2026?
Gorilla trekking is one of the most popular wildlife activities in East Africa, and permits sell out quickly—especially during the dry seasons (June to September and December to February). To secure your preferred trekking dates, we strongly recommend booking at least 3 to 6 months in advance.
If you’re planning a longer safari that includes gorilla trekking, it’s wise to contact Trek Africa Expeditions early. We can organize your full itinerary, including permit reservations, accommodations, and transfers. Start your journey here: Gorilla Trekking from Tanzania.
How to Book Gorilla Permits with Ease
There are two main ways to book your gorilla permits:
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Direct Booking:
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For Uganda, permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
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For Rwanda, permits are available through the Rwanda Development Board.
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However, direct booking can be time-consuming due to administrative procedures.
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Book Through a Trusted Tour Operator:
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Most travelers prefer to book permits through a local company like Trek Africa Expeditions, which simplifies the process.
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When you book an all-inclusive safari with us, we handle the entire process—from checking availability to securing the permits on your behalf.
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Start Planning Your 2025–2026 Gorilla Safari Today
Gorilla trekking is more than just a wildlife encounter—it’s a journey into the heart of Africa’s most ancient forests and a chance to support meaningful conservation efforts. Don’t wait until the last minute—permits are limited and in high demand.
Ready to start planning your gorilla adventure for 2025 or 2026? Contact Trek Africa Expeditions today for expert guidance and seamless booking assistance.