Gorilla Trekking vs Big Five Safaris. Are you dreaming of coming face-to-face with a 400-pound…
Gorilla Trekking Safari Packages Explained
Gorilla Trekking Safari Packages Explained
Gorilla trekking safari packages offer one of the most extraordinary wildlife adventures on Earth: coming face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas in the misty forests of East Africa. Whether you’re seeking a quick 3-day escape or a multi-country primate odyssey, these packages combine gorilla permits, expert guiding, accommodations, transfers, and often extras like chimpanzee tracking or cultural visits.
At Monumental Expeditions and Safaris, based in Kampala, we specialize in crafting personalized gorilla trekking Uganda packages and Rwanda gorilla trekking packages that prioritize safety, sustainability, and unforgettable encounters. With only ~1,060 mountain gorillas left in the wild, your trek supports vital conservation while creating memories that last a lifetime.
Ready to find your perfect package? Contact Monumental Expeditions today for a free tailored quote and permit assistance.
Why Book a Gorilla Trekking Safari Package?
Booking a structured gorilla trekking safari package simplifies planning. Permits are limited and sell out months ahead, especially in peak season (June–September, December–February). Professional operators like us secure spots, arrange logistics, and provide knowledgeable guides who enhance your experience.
Key advantages:
- Guaranteed gorilla permit allocation
- All-inclusive pricing (often covering meals, transfers, park fees)
- Expert guidance on trails and gorilla behavior
- Options for budget, mid-range, luxury, or combined safaris
- Support for conservation and local communities
Uganda remains the most affordable option with gorilla permit cost 2026 at $800 per person (foreign non-residents), while Rwanda offers a more luxurious experience at $1,500 (with promotional discounts for certain groups in low season).
Internal link suggestion: Learn more in our Gorilla Trekking in East Africa: Complete Guide overview.
Understanding Gorilla Permit Costs in 2026
Permits are the core of every package:
Uganda (Bwindi & Mgahinga):
- Standard trek: $800 (foreign non-residents), $700 (foreign residents), $500 (Africans), UGX 300,000 (East Africans)
- Gorilla Habituation Experience (4 hours with gorillas): $1,500 (non-residents)
Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park):
- Standard: $1,500 (international visitors)
- Promotional/low-season rates (extended to Dec 2026): $200 (Rwandans/EAC), $500 (Africans/residents)
These non-refundable permits fund rangers, veterinary care, and community projects. We handle booking through official channels (UWA & RDB).
Secure your gorilla permit cost 2026 spot now – request a quote.
Popular Gorilla Trekking Safari Packages in Uganda
Uganda hosts over half the world’s mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (multiple sectors) and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Package
The most popular entry-level option. Fly or drive to Bwindi, trek one gorilla family, return.
Typical itinerary:
- Day 1: Transfer to Bwindi, briefing
- Day 2: Gorilla trek (2–8 hours), 1-hour observation
- Day 3: Optional community walk or return to Entebbe
Sample cost (mid-range, per person sharing): $1,550–$2,000 (includes $800 permit, lodge, meals, transport, guide) Best for: First-timers, short trips Internal link: View our 3 Day Gorilla Trekking Uganda
4-Day Gorilla & Chimpanzee Combo Package
Add Kibale Forest for chimpanzee tracking.
Itinerary highlights: Bwindi gorilla trek + Kibale chimps + Bigodi wetland walk.
Cost: $2,200–$3,200 Why choose it: Best value for primate lovers Internal link: Explore the 4 Day Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Tour
Gorilla Habituation Experience Package
Spend 4 hours with semi-habituated gorillas (instead of 1 hour).
Ideal for photographers/research enthusiasts. Limited slots.
Cost uplift: +$700 (total permit $1,500) Internal link: Details on Gorilla Habituation Experience options.
Longer Uganda Packages
- 5–8 Days: Combine Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth NP (Big Five), Kibale, Murchison Falls
- Luxury fly-in versions from Entebbe/Kampala
See full Uganda gorilla trekking tours
Popular Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari Packages
Rwanda delivers shorter treks, gentler terrain, and premium lodges.
2–3 Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Package
Fly into Kigali, transfer to Volcanoes NP, trek, return.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Kigali arrival, transfer to Kinigi
- Day 2: Gorilla trek, optional Dian Fossey grave visit
- Day 3: Golden monkey trek or city tour, depart
Cost (mid-range): $2,800–$4,000 (includes $1,500 permit) Best for: Luxury seekers, short getaways Internal link: Book our 2 Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari or 3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Safari
Multi-Day Rwanda & Uganda Cross-Border Packages
Combine both countries for two gorilla treks.
Example: 5–8 Days – Start Kigali, trek Rwanda, cross to Bwindi, trek Uganda.
Cost: $4,500–$8,000+ Highlight: Double gorilla encounters, diverse experiences Internal link: Check 5 Days Uganda and Rwanda Gorilla Luxury Safari or 8 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari
Budget vs Luxury Gorilla Trekking Safari Packages
Budget/Mid-Range:
- Basic lodges/guesthouses
- Shared/group transfers
- Uganda focus: $1,500–$3,000 for 3–5 days
Luxury:
- High-end lodges (Singita, Bisate, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp)
- Private 4x4s, fly-in options
- Spa, fine dining, exclusive groups
- $4,000–$10,000+
Tip: Low season (Mar–May, Oct–Nov) offers discounts on lodges and sometimes permits.
What’s Typically Included & Excluded in Packages
Included:
- Gorilla permit
- Full-board accommodation
- All transfers & park fees
- English-speaking guide
- Meals & bottled water
Excluded (varies):
- International flights
- Visa ($50–$100)
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Tips, drinks, laundry
We customize inclusions to fit your needs.
How to Choose the Right Gorilla Trekking Safari Package
Consider:
- Time available (2–14 days)
- Budget & preferred comfort level
- Fitness (Uganda treks steeper)
- Add-ons (chimps, Big Five, culture)
- Group size vs private
Not sure? Let our experts match you with the ideal gorilla trekking safari packages – free consultation!
Responsible Tourism & Conservation Impact
Every package supports anti-poaching, habitat protection, and jobs for locals. We partner with eco-lodges and communities.
Choose certified operators for ethical experiences.
Conclusion: Start Your Gorilla Adventure Today
Gorilla trekking safari packages deliver profound, life-changing moments with our closest relatives. Uganda offers affordability and variety; Rwanda provides luxury and ease.
At Monumental Expeditions and Safaris, we turn dreams into reality with reliable, passionate service.
Browse all packages or contact us now to plan your journey.