Discounted Uganda Gorilla Tracking Permit $600: Low Season October–November & March–May

Uganda is one of Africa’s best destinations for mountain gorilla trekking, and travellers looking for a more affordable gorilla safari can take advantage of the Uganda low-season gorilla tracking permit at US$600 per person.

The discounted gorilla permit is available to foreign visitors travelling during two low-season periods: October to November and March to May. There are no additional park-stay, accommodation or activity conditions required to qualify for the US$600 permit.

This makes Uganda particularly attractive for international travellers searching for a discounted gorilla trekking permit, cheap Uganda gorilla safari, Uganda low-season gorilla trekking, or a budget-friendly Bwindi gorilla safari.

The saving is significant. Compared with the regular US$800 permit, an eligible foreign visitor saves US$200 per person during the promotional low-season periods.

For a couple, that means a potential permit saving of US$400, while four travellers can save US$800.

Uganda Gorilla Permit Price: Standard vs Low Season

The Uganda gorilla permit price is one of the most important costs when planning a gorilla safari.

During the promotional low-season periods, foreign visitors can obtain a gorilla tracking permit for US$600 per person.

Uganda Gorilla Permit	Price per person
Regular foreign visitor permit	US$800
Low-season discounted permit	US$600
Saving per person	US$200
Discount	25%

The US$600 promotional price applies during:

October – November

and:

March – May

The discounted rate applies to foreign visitors, with no additional conditions attached.

How Much Can You Save on Uganda Gorilla Permits?

The US$200 saving becomes particularly valuable for couples, families and groups.

Travellers	Regular permits	Low-season permits	Total saving
1	$800	$600	$200
2	$1,600	$1,200	$400
3	$2,400	$1,800	$600
4	$3,200	$2,400	$800
6	$4,800	$3,600	$1,200

For two people, the discounted permit reduces the combined gorilla permit cost from US$1,600 to US$1,200.

That leaves an additional US$400 that can be used towards accommodation, vehicle rental, fuel or other safari activities.

When Is the Uganda Gorilla Low Season?

The discounted Uganda gorilla tracking permit is available during two main periods.

October to November

The first promotional period runs through October and November.

This is an attractive time for travellers who want to experience Uganda’s gorillas while also enjoying a quieter safari atmosphere.

March to May

The second low-season period runs from March through May.

These months generally receive more rainfall, but the forest is lush and green, creating beautiful conditions for photography and nature experiences.

For travellers who are flexible with weather and want to reduce their gorilla safari budget, March to May can be particularly attractive.

Why Choose Low-Season Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

The biggest advantage is simple: you pay less for the gorilla permit without having to add another park or activity to qualify.

The US$600 permit allows travellers to concentrate on the gorilla experience itself while using the money saved to improve other parts of the safari.

You could use the saving towards:

• A better lodge
• Additional safari nights
• 4×4 rental
• Fuel
• Chimpanzee trekking
• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Lake Bunyonyi
• Murchison Falls
• Camping equipment
• Airport transfers

This makes the Uganda low-season gorilla offer particularly attractive to budget-conscious international travellers.

Where Can You Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Uganda’s mountain gorilla trekking takes place in two protected areas:

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

and

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Bwindi is the country’s most famous gorilla destination and is divided into several trekking sectors.

These include:

• Buhoma
• Ruhija
• Rushaga
• Nkuringo

Mgahinga is part of the larger Virunga mountain ecosystem shared by Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

When planning your safari, the available gorilla family and trekking sector will depend on permit availability for your selected date.

Uganda Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the world’s most important mountain gorilla habitats.

The ancient rainforest provides a spectacular setting for gorilla trekking, with steep hills, thick vegetation and a rich diversity of wildlife.

A gorilla trek can involve several hours of hiking depending on where the gorilla family is located.

The forest environment is part of the adventure.

You may walk through thick vegetation, cross muddy trails and climb steep slopes before reaching the gorilla family.

The reward is an unforgettable encounter with one of Africa’s most endangered and remarkable animals.

Uganda Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park provides another opportunity to see mountain gorillas in Uganda.

The park is located in the Virunga Mountains and is known for dramatic volcanic scenery.

Mgahinga is smaller than Bwindi but offers an excellent alternative for travellers who want a gorilla experience in a beautiful mountain environment.

The gorilla permit price should be confirmed for the chosen travel date and trekking arrangements.

What Does the Uganda Gorilla Permit Include?

The gorilla permit provides access to the regulated gorilla tracking experience.

The permit is not the same as a complete safari package.

Your wider safari budget may also need to cover:

• Accommodation
• Transportation
• Fuel
• Meals
• Airport transfers
• Driver-guide services
• 4×4 rental
• Travel insurance
• Additional activities
• Personal expenses

This is why combining the discounted gorilla permit with a self-drive or camping safari can be an effective way to manage the overall cost.

Uganda Gorilla Safari Cost With the $600 Permit

A low-season Uganda gorilla safari can be structured around different budgets.

For example:

Safari component	Budget consideration
Gorilla permit	$600 per foreign visitor
Accommodation	Budget, mid-range or luxury
4×4 rental	Depends on vehicle and duration
Fuel	Depends on route
Food	Depends on accommodation/camping
Chimpanzee trekking	Additional activity
Game drives	Additional activity
Boat safari	Additional activity
Camping	Optional
Driver/guide	Depends on arrangement

The most important point is that the US$600 gorilla permit does not require you to purchase an additional national park package.

You can therefore design your safari around your own interests and budget.

5-Day Uganda Low-Season Gorilla Safari

A short Uganda gorilla safari can focus primarily on Bwindi.

Day 1: Entebbe or Kampala – Bwindi

Depart early from Entebbe or Kampala and travel towards southwestern Uganda.

The drive takes you through Uganda’s beautiful countryside and highland landscapes.

Arrive near Bwindi and check into your accommodation.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking

After an early breakfast, travel to the gorilla trekking briefing point.

Meet your ranger team and receive instructions before entering the forest.

The trek may take several hours depending on the location of the gorilla family.

Once you find the gorillas, enjoy the regulated viewing experience before returning to the park headquarters.

Overnight near Bwindi.

Day 3: Bwindi – Lake Bunyonyi

Drive towards Lake Bunyonyi.

Enjoy the spectacular scenery and relax beside one of Uganda’s most beautiful lakes.

Optional activities can include a boat trip or community experience.

Day 4: Lake Bunyonyi – Queen Elizabeth National Park

Continue towards Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Depending on your arrival time, enjoy an evening game drive or relax at your lodge.

Day 5: Queen Elizabeth – Kampala/Entebbe

Begin the journey back towards Kampala or Entebbe.

Travellers with late flights can extend the itinerary by one night.

7-Day Uganda Gorilla and Wildlife Safari

For a more complete experience, combine gorilla trekking with Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Day 1: Entebbe – Queen Elizabeth National Park

Drive southwest towards Queen Elizabeth.

Day 2: Queen Elizabeth

Enjoy a morning game drive and an optional Kazinga Channel boat safari.

Day 3: Queen Elizabeth – Bwindi

Travel towards Bwindi through southwestern Uganda.

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking

Spend the day trekking mountain gorillas.

Day 5: Bwindi – Lake Bunyonyi

Relax around Lake Bunyonyi.

Day 6: Lake Bunyonyi – Kampala

Begin your return journey.

Day 7: Kampala/Entebbe

Departure or additional activities depending on your flight schedule.

8-Day Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari

Uganda’s low-season gorilla permit can also be combined with chimpanzee trekking.

A popular route is:

Entebbe → Kibale → Queen Elizabeth → Bwindi → Lake Bunyonyi → Entebbe

Day 1: Entebbe – Kibale

Travel towards Kibale Forest National Park.

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking

Take part in a chimpanzee trekking experience in Kibale.

Day 3: Kibale – Queen Elizabeth

Continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Day 4: Queen Elizabeth Safari

Enjoy a game drive and/or Kazinga Channel boat safari.

Day 5: Queen Elizabeth – Bwindi

Drive towards Bwindi.

Day 6: Gorilla Trekking

Experience Uganda’s mountain gorillas.

Day 7: Bwindi – Lake Bunyonyi

Relax around Lake Bunyonyi.

Day 8: Lake Bunyonyi – Entebbe

Return to Entebbe for your departure.

Uganda Gorilla Trekking With a 4×4 Rental

A 4×4 rental is an excellent option for travellers who want flexibility during a Uganda gorilla safari.

Instead of booking a fixed group safari, you can create a private road trip around your gorilla permit.

A suitable 4×4 can take you from Entebbe or Kampala to:

Kibale → Queen Elizabeth → Bwindi → Lake Bunyonyi

The vehicle can also be used to explore other destinations before or after your gorilla trek.

For travellers planning to drive in southwestern Uganda, a high-clearance 4×4 is recommended because some roads can become muddy and challenging during the rainy months.

Uganda Gorilla Safari With a Rooftop Tent

Travellers looking for an even more affordable adventure can combine the US$600 low-season gorilla permit with a rooftop-tent 4×4 safari.

A camping-equipped 4×4 can provide greater flexibility and reduce accommodation costs during parts of the journey.

Depending on the rental package, equipment may include:

• Rooftop tent
• Mattress
• Sleeping bags
• Camping table
• Camping chairs
• Cooking equipment
• Gas stove
• Refrigerator
• Water containers
• Recovery equipment
• Spare tyre

The gorilla trek itself remains a guided activity inside the national park.

Camping arrangements should be made at designated campsites or approved accommodation facilities.

Best Time for Discounted Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The special low-season permit periods are:

October–November

and:

March–May

These periods can be ideal for travellers whose priority is reducing the cost of the gorilla permit.

The wetter conditions can make forest trails muddy, so travellers should prepare appropriately.

Bring:

• Waterproof hiking boots
• Rain jacket
• Long trousers
• Long-sleeved clothing
• Hiking socks
• Gardening or hiking gloves
• Waterproof backpack
• Insect repellent
• Drinking water
• Camera protection

The rainforest can receive rain at any time, so waterproof equipment is useful even when the forecast appears favourable.

Is Uganda Gorilla Trekking Good During the Rainy Season?

Yes.

Gorilla trekking continues during the wetter months.

The forest becomes exceptionally green and atmospheric, and the rainy season can provide a beautiful environment for photography.

The main challenge is the terrain.

Wet conditions can make trails slippery and muddy, and hiking can become more demanding.

Travellers who are comfortable with changing weather can therefore enjoy an excellent gorilla experience while benefiting from the discounted permit.

Uganda Gorilla Tracking for Couples

The US$600 low-season permit is particularly attractive for couples.

Two foreign visitors can pay:

2 × US$600 = US$1,200

instead of:

2 × US$800 = US$1,600

That creates a US$400 saving.

The saving can help cover a night at a lodge, fuel for the rental vehicle or part of the cost of a chimpanzee or wildlife activity.

Uganda Gorilla Trekking for Families and Groups

Groups can also benefit significantly from the discounted permit.

For four foreign visitors:

4 × US$600 = US$2,400

compared with:

4 × US$800 = US$3,200

The group therefore saves US$800.

For six travellers, the saving reaches US$1,200.

This makes the low-season period particularly attractive for private groups and friends travelling together.

Uganda Gorilla Tracking and Chimpanzee Trekking

Uganda is one of the world’s best destinations for combining mountain gorillas with chimpanzees.

A primate-focused safari can include:

Kibale Forest → Bwindi

Kibale is famous for chimpanzee trekking, while Bwindi provides the mountain gorilla experience.

Travellers can therefore experience two of Africa’s most iconic primates on one journey.

Uganda Gorilla Tracking and Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park fits naturally into a gorilla safari route.

The park offers opportunities to see:

• Elephants
• Buffalo
• Lions
• Leopards
• Hippos
• Antelope
• Primates
• Many bird species

The famous Kazinga Channel boat safari can also be added to the itinerary.

A route such as:

Kibale → Queen Elizabeth → Bwindi

is one of the strongest combinations for a Uganda wildlife and primate safari.

Uganda Gorilla Tracking and Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi is an excellent addition before or after gorilla trekking.

Located in southwestern Uganda, the lake is surrounded by green hills and numerous islands.

It provides a peaceful contrast to the physical challenge of gorilla trekking.

Travellers can relax, take a boat trip, visit local communities or simply enjoy the scenery.

Uganda Gorilla Tracking and Rwanda

Uganda can be combined with Rwanda for a broader East African primate safari.

A possible route is:

Kigali → Volcanoes National Park → Bwindi → Lake Bunyonyi → Queen Elizabeth → Kibale → Entebbe

This allows travellers to experience both countries while visiting some of the region’s best primate and wildlife destinations.

Cross-border travel requires appropriate visas, vehicle documentation, insurance and permission from the rental company where applicable.

Uganda Gorilla Tracking and Kenya

Travellers with more time can continue from Uganda into Kenya.

A longer itinerary could combine:

Uganda gorillas → Lake Nakuru → Maasai Mara → Nairobi

This creates an excellent combination of mountain gorillas and classic East African savannah wildlife.

Uganda Gorilla Tracking and Tanzania

A longer East African road trip can combine Uganda gorilla trekking with Tanzania’s famous safari destinations.

For example:

Uganda → Tanzania → Serengeti → Ngorongoro → Tarangire → Zanzibar

Travellers planning a cross-border self-drive trip should confirm vehicle insurance, border documentation and rental-company permissions before departure.

Gorilla Tracking vs Gorilla Habituation in Uganda

Travellers should distinguish between standard gorilla tracking and the Gorilla Habituation Experience.

Standard gorilla tracking is the more affordable and widely available option.

The habituation experience is a separate, more specialised activity designed around gorilla groups undergoing habituation.

The US$600 low-season promotion discussed in this article refers to standard gorilla tracking, not automatically to the gorilla habituation experience.

Travellers interested in habituation should request the applicable UWA permit price separately.

How to Book the $600 Uganda Gorilla Permit

Booking your low-season gorilla safari is straightforward.

Step 1: Choose Your Travel Dates

Select dates in either:

October–November

or:

March–May.

Step 2: Check Permit Availability

Gorilla permits are limited, so confirm availability for your preferred trekking date.

Step 3: Confirm the $600 Low-Season Rate

For foreign visitors travelling during the qualifying low-season period, confirm the US$600 permit price when making your reservation.

Step 4: Choose Bwindi or Mgahinga

Select the available trekking destination and gorilla family according to your safari plans.

Step 5: Arrange Accommodation

Choose accommodation near your trekking sector.

Step 6: Arrange Transportation

Choose between a safari vehicle with driver-guide, private safari or self-drive 4×4.

Step 7: Add Other Activities

Complete your Uganda adventure with chimpanzee trekking, game drives, boat safaris or Lake Bunyonyi.

Why Book Your Low-Season Gorilla Safari Early?

Although the permit is discounted, the number of gorilla permits available on each trekking date remains limited.

Popular dates can therefore sell out.

Booking early gives you a better chance of securing:

• Your preferred trekking date
• Your preferred gorilla trekking sector
• Suitable accommodation
• A suitable 4×4 rental
• Camping equipment
• Connecting safari activities

Travellers should particularly plan ahead if travelling as a group.

Uganda Gorilla Safari Cost-Saving Tips

The discounted permit is only one way to reduce your total safari cost.

You can also save money by combining destinations into one road trip.

For example, instead of taking separate trips for gorillas and chimpanzees, combine:

Kibale + Queen Elizabeth + Bwindi

You can also consider:

• Sharing a vehicle with friends
• Renting a 4×4 for a longer period
• Using mid-range accommodation
• Camping where appropriate
• Travelling during the promotional periods
• Booking accommodation in advance
• Combining several national parks into one route

The money saved on the gorilla permit can then be used to enhance other parts of the safari.

Why Choose Uganda for an Affordable Gorilla Safari?

Uganda offers a particularly attractive combination of gorilla trekking, wildlife, primates and road-trip opportunities.

The country’s gorilla permit is already competitive compared with some regional alternatives, and the US$600 low-season promotion makes the experience even more accessible to foreign travellers.

The ability to combine gorillas with chimpanzees, savannah wildlife and scenic destinations also means that travellers can build a complete safari rather than paying for a short gorilla-only trip.

Book Your Discounted Uganda Gorilla Safari

The US$600 Uganda low-season gorilla tracking permit provides foreign visitors with an excellent opportunity to experience mountain gorillas at a significantly reduced permit cost.

The promotional periods are:

October–November

and:

March–May

There are no additional conditions required to access the discounted price.

At US$600 per person, the low-season permit saves US$200 per traveller compared with the regular US$800 permit.

For a couple, that means US$400 in savings. For four travellers, the saving reaches US$800.

You can use that saving to build a wider Uganda safari combining Bwindi, Mgahinga, Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Bunyonyi and other destinations.

For adventurous travellers, we can also arrange a Uganda 4×4 rental, rooftop tent, camping equipment and self-drive safari itinerary.

Contact us today to check Uganda gorilla permit availability, confirm the US$600 low-season rate and receive a personalised gorilla safari or 4×4 rental quotation.

Frequently Asked Questions About the $600 Uganda Gorilla Permit

How much is the discounted Uganda gorilla permit?

The discounted low-season gorilla tracking permit is US$600 per foreign visitor.

When is the Uganda gorilla permit $600?

The promotional US$600 rate applies during October–November and March–May.

Who qualifies for the $600 Uganda gorilla permit?

The discounted rate applies to foreign visitors travelling during the specified low-season periods.

Are there additional conditions for the $600 permit?

No. There are no additional requirements to visit another national park, stay a certain number of nights or purchase another activity to qualify for the low-season price.

How much does a couple save?

Two foreign visitors save US$400 compared with two regular US$800 permits.

How much does a group of four save?

Four foreign visitors save US$800 compared with the regular permit price.

Where can I trek gorillas in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking is available in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Can I use the $600 permit for gorilla habituation?

The US$600 offer described here is for standard gorilla tracking. Gorilla habituation has a separate permit and pricing structure.

Can I combine gorilla trekking with chimpanzees?

Yes. Kibale Forest is an excellent destination to combine with Bwindi.

Can I combine gorilla trekking with Queen Elizabeth National Park?

Yes. Queen Elizabeth is one of the most popular additions to a Uganda gorilla safari.

Can I rent a 4×4 for a Uganda gorilla safari?

Yes. A suitable 4×4 can be used for a self-drive itinerary covering Bwindi and other Ugandan destinations.

Can I rent a 4×4 with a rooftop tent?

Yes. A rooftop-tent vehicle is an attractive option for travellers planning a longer Uganda self-drive and camping safari.

Is October a good time for gorilla trekking?

Yes. October is part of the promotional low-season period and can be a good option for travellers looking for the discounted permit.

Is November a good time for gorilla trekking?

Yes. November is included in the US$600 low-season promotion. Travellers should be prepared for possible rainfall and muddy forest trails.

Is March to May good for gorilla trekking?

Yes. These months are part of the discounted period. The forest is particularly lush, although rainfall can make trekking conditions more challenging.

Should I book the permit early?

Yes. Gorilla permits are limited for each trekking date, so early booking is recommended.

Can I combine Uganda gorilla trekking with Rwanda?

Yes. Uganda and Rwanda can be combined into a cross-border primate safari, subject to current border, visa, insurance and vehicle requirements.

Plan Your Uganda Low-Season Gorilla Safari

If you are looking for an affordable way to experience Uganda’s mountain gorillas, the US$600 discounted gorilla tracking permit provides an excellent opportunity.

Travel during October–November or March–May, save US$200 per person, and use the saving to create a wider Uganda adventure.

From the ancient forests of Bwindi to the chimpanzees of Kibale, the wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park and the scenic shores of Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda offers far more than a single gorilla trek.

Book your discounted Uganda gorilla safari with us and let us help arrange your gorilla permit, 4×4 rental, rooftop tent, accommodation and complete self-drive itinerary.