The Cost of Discounted 3-Day Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Picture yourself standing just 7-10 metres away from a silverback gorilla, deep in the misty forests of Uganda. For many travelers, that imagination remains a dream because of price tag of this once in life experience. This discounted 3-Day Gorilla Trekking package changes that. Available only in April, May, and November, it lets you experience one of the world’s greatest wildlife encounters without emptying your wallet. During these months, gorilla permits and lodge rates drop, making the trip far more affordable than usual.
These months technically fall in Uganda’s rainy season, yet the weather rarely behaves predictably. You could trek under clear skies or get caught in a light shower, so pack for both scenarios. Buhoma Sector offers the easiest terrain when trails turn muddy, although Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga remain open and welcoming too. One thing to note: trekkers must be at least 15 years old, so younger kids stay behind at the lodge while parents head into the forest.
What Does the Trip Cost?
The package costs $1,370 per person, based on two travelers sharing transport and a twin or double room in a comfortable budget friendly-lodge. Interestingly, the price per person drops further when your private group grows beyond two people.
Included in the price:
- A 4×4 Land Cruiser with fuel and a driver-guide
- Two nights of lodge accommodation with meals
- Your gorilla trekking permit ($600)
- Lunch during transit to and from Bwindi
- Bottled drinking water
- Government taxes
Not included:
- The optional evening Batwa Cultural Experience ($40 per person)
- An optional porter ($15–20)
- Souvenirs from local communities
- Tips for guides and staff
- Drinks other than water
Your Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Entebbe Pickup and Drive to Bwindi
Your adventure begins when a driver guide from Iconic Africa Safaris meets you at Entebbe Airport or your hotel, makes you comfortable in 4×4 land cruiser then drives toward Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park – a scenic journey lasting 8 to 9 hours. Along the way, you’ll stop for lunch, stretch your legs and snap photos at the equator crossing in Kayabwe.
Accommodation: Gorilla Bulf Lodge
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Day
This is the moment you’ve been waiting for. After an early breakfast, you’ll arrive at park headquarters by 7:30 AM for a briefing. Since each gorilla family allows only 8 trekkers, guides group visitors by fitness level. Given the nature of terrain, hiring a porter for $15–20 often makes the climb easier since they help in carrying your bag as well as making you steady on steep terrain.
By 8:00 AM, armed rangers lead your group into the forest. Depending on the gorillas’ location that day, the hike can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours. Once you find them, however, the wait is worth it: you get a full hour to watch silverbacks, nursing mothers and playful youngsters in their natural habitat.
Afterward, you’ll receive a trekking certificate before returning to the lodge for lunch and rest. In the evening, you can join the Batwa Cultural Experience or take a relaxed walk through nearby villages to browse handmade crafts.
Accommodation: Gorilla Bulf Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Departure Day
Following breakfast, you’ll check out and begin the drive back to Entebbe or Kampala. As before, you will have opportunity for stopovers to stretch your body, have lunch and a few last photos.
Accommodation: None unless requested at extra fee
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
What to Pack for your Gorilla Trekking Experience
- Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
- Facemask
- Waterproof jacket
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Gardening gloves
- Hat and sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Camera
How to Book Your Trip
Booking this adventure is simple, and a travel consultant usually replies within 12 hours or less. Choose whichever method suits you best:
- Email: Send your travel dates and group size to info@iconicafricasafaris.com
- WhatsApp: Message +256767585369, or tap the green icon on right bottom corner on your screen for a quick response
- Booking Form: Fill out the form below this post, and the team will follow up with a detailed quote
Since gorilla permits are limited and often sell out months in advance, booking 1 to 3 months ahead gives you the best chance of securing your preferred dates.
