Gorilla Trekking Permits for 2026–2027

Gorilla Trekking Permits for 2026–2027: Everything You Need to Know

Planning to go gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of Congo? One of the most important steps is securing your gorilla permit. These permits are official documents issued by wildlife authorities that allow you to access specific national parks and track a designated gorilla family. In this guide, Trek Africa Expeditions explains everything you need to know about booking gorilla trekking permits for 2026–2027 — including how much they cost, where to get them, how far in advance you should book, and tips for a successful trekking experience.

What Is a Gorilla Permit?

A gorilla permit is a mandatory authorization that allows tourists to participate in gorilla trekking in designated parks across East and Central Africa. Each permit carries a unique booking identification number confirming you’re approved to track a specific gorilla group on a given date.

• In Uganda, permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

• In Rwanda, permits come from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).

• In Congo, Virunga National Park manages the permits.

Where Is Gorilla Trekking Done in Africa?

Gorilla trekking is only possible in a few national parks that are home to the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas. These include:

• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda

• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda

• Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

• Virunga National Park, DR Congo

Additionally, Kahuzi-Biega National Park in DR Congo offers treks to see eastern lowland gorillas, a unique experience in Africa.

How Many Gorilla Permits Are Available in Uganda?

Uganda offers the highest number of gorilla permits daily, with over 150 permits available. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park alone has more than 20 habituated gorilla families, divided across four trekking sectors:

• Buhoma – 4 families

• Ruhija – 4 families

• Rushaga – 8 families (the largest concentration)

• Nkuringo – 3 families

Each group can be visited by a maximum of 8 people per day, helping to reduce environmental impact and ensure intimate wildlife encounters.

How Much Do Gorilla Permits Cost in Uganda (2026–2027)?

The cost of gorilla trekking permits in Uganda depends on your residency status:

• $800 USD – Foreign non-residents

• $700 USD – Foreign residents

• $80 USD – East African citizens (Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan)

These fees allow you to spend one hour observing a habituated gorilla family.

If you’re looking for a more in-depth experience, Uganda also offers a Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi, which costs $1,500 USD and gives you up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla group, accompanied by researchers and trackers.

How to Book Gorilla Permits for Bwindi or Mgahinga

To book your gorilla permit for 2026–2027:

1. Decide on your travel dates.

2. Contact Trek Africa Expeditions to check availability with the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

3. Once availability is confirmed, you’ll receive an invoice.

4. After payment, Trek Africa Expeditions will purchase the permit on your behalf and send you a scanned copy for your records.

We highly recommend booking at least 2–5 months in advance, especially if you plan to trek during the high season (June to September or December to February), when permits sell out quickly.

What Is the Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking?

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years. While there is no official upper age limit, participants should be in good physical health. For elderly or less mobile travelers, sedan chair carriers (human-powered stretchers) are available in Bwindi Forest at an extra cost (usually $400–$500), ensuring everyone can enjoy this unforgettable experience.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is possible year-round, but the best months are during the dry seasons:

• January – February

• June – September

These months offer better trekking conditions, clearer trails, and less dense vegetation, making it easier to spot gorillas.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking

To stay safe and comfortable in the rainforest, pack the following essentials:

• Waterproof hiking boots and thick socks

• Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers

• Gardening gloves (for grip and protection)

• Insect repellent

• Rain jacket or poncho

• Hat and sunscreen

• Reusable water bottle

• Binoculars for birding

• Camera (no flash)

• Lightweight backpack

• Sweater/fleece for chilly mornings

• Swimwear (if your lodge has a pool)

• Flashlight and spare batteries

• Wet wipes

Getting to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

By Road: From Entebbe or Kampala, it’s an 8–9 hour scenic drive through southwestern Uganda. If heading to the southern sectors (Rushaga or Nkuringo), you’ll turn off at Muko on the Kabale-Kisoro road.

By Air: You can book a domestic flight from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to Kisoro Airstrip, which serves Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors. Flights are operated by AeroLink and Fly Uganda. Trek Africa Expeditions can arrange your airport-to-lodge transfer.

Why Book Gorilla Permits with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we create meaningful, eco-friendly safari experiences. Our team is committed to:

• Personalized service with expert local guides

• Supporting conservation and community-based tourism

• Responsible travel under our motto: “Take nothing but photographs, leave only footprints.”

We handle the entire permit booking process and design customized itineraries to ensure a stress-free, unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, Rwanda, or DR Congo.

Contact Trek Africa Expeditions today to secure your gorilla trekking permit for 2026–2027 and start planning your once-in-a-lifetime experience with the mountain gorillas of East Africa.