The Cost of a gorilla permits in Uganda and what is included.

Gorilla permits in Uganda are essential for those who wish to experience the wonder of encountering these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Depending on the activity you choose, whether it’s gorilla trekking or the gorilla habituation experience, the cost of the permit varies.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Costs

For foreign nonresidents, the cost is $800, while foreign residents pay $700. East Africans can obtain permits for 300,000 shillings.

Gorilla Habituation Permit Costs

For foreign nonresidents, the cost is $1500, for foreign residents it’s $1000, and for East African residents, it’s 750,000 shillings.

What’s Included in the Gorilla Permit Cost

When you purchase a gorilla permit in Uganda, several things are included in the cost:

• Ranger guide fees
• Security
• Four hours of gorilla habituation experience or one hour of gorilla trekking
• Researcher fees during gorilla habituation experience
• Local community support
• Mountain gorilla conservation support
• Certificate, and others.

Exclusions in the Gorilla Permit Cost

However, there are some things that are not included in the gorilla permit cost:

• Transport
• Accommodation
• Porter hire
• Snacks
• Other personal expenses.

Where to Experience Gorilla Safaris in Uganda

In Uganda, there are two main places where you can experience gorilla safaris:

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a vast reserve covering about 327 square kilometers. It’s home to around half of the world’s mountain gorillas, with about 20 gorilla trekking families and two gorilla habituation families. The park is divided into four areas: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Mgahinga National Park

Although smaller in size compared to Bwindi, Mgahinga National Park is equally remarkable. It is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family and offers a unique opportunity to see mountain gorillas in a different setting. The park also boasts three volcanoes: Gahinga, Mountain Muhavura, and Mountain Sabyinyo, adding to its stunning landscape.

Best Time to Book a Uganda Gorilla Permit

It’s advisable to book your gorilla permits at least six months to a year in advance, especially during the high tourism season, which typically falls in June, July, August, September, December, and January. Availability during peak seasons can be limited, so booking early ensures you secure your spot. While the low season (March, April, May, and November) may offer more availability, it’s not guaranteed. Therefore, it’s essential to have a confirmed permit before planning your gorilla safari in Uganda.

How to Book a Uganda Gorilla Permit

Iconic Africa Safaris will always assist you in booking your gorilla permit for Uganda. Simply provide the necessary details such as your preferred date, the activity you wish to undertake, and the number of people in your group. Once availability is confirmed, you’ll need to provide personal details such as your full name, date of birth, nationality, and other relevant information. It’s crucial to purchase your permit as soon as possible as availability can change rapidly, and permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis.

Purchasing Uganda Gorilla Permits in Instalments

Uganda Wildlife Authority allows installment payments for gorilla permits if purchased at least 90 days before the safari date. You can pay 30% initially and the remaining 70% before the 90-day mark. However, failing to top up your permit may result in it being released to the public without a refund.

Refund Policy for Gorilla Permits in Uganda

If you’re unable to attend the gorilla safari due to unforeseen circumstances, you may request a refund. However, if you fail to notify the authorities in advance or do not show up on the day of the safari, you won’t be eligible for a refund. Refund requests should be made through your tour operator, who will assist you through the process according to Uganda Wildlife Authority’s refund policy.

Rescheduling Gorilla Permits in Uganda

If you need to reschedule your gorilla permit due to unforeseen circumstances, you can do so by writing to the Uganda Wildlife Authority reservation office. Provide the necessary details and evidence, if any, to support your request. Once approved, your permit can be moved to a new date within the same year, provided it’s fully paid for. Permits purchased in installments must be topped up before rescheduling.