Gorilla trekking is often considered a luxury experience, but with smart planning, you can see mountain gorillas without breaking the bank. Here’s how to make it affordable in Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC.
1. Choose the Cheapest Gorilla Permit
Permit prices vary drastically by country:
| Country | Cost (2024) | Best Budget Option? |
|---|---|---|
| Uganda | $800 | ✅ Best value |
| DRC (Virunga) | $400 | ❗ Risky due to instability |
| Rwanda | $1,500 | ❌ Most expensive |
Tip: Uganda offers the best balance of affordability, safety, and accessibility.
2. Travel in the Low Season
- April-May & November: Permits are easier to get, lodges are cheaper.
- Avoid: June-September & December-February (peak prices).
Trade-off: Trails are muddier, but gorillas are easier to find (stay near food sources).
3. Stay in Budget Accommodation
Uganda (Bwindi Area)
- $30-$80/night:
- Buhoma Community Rest Camp (basic but clean)
- Rushaga Gorilla Camp (tents with shared bathrooms)
- Traveler’s Rest Hotel (old-school, used by Dian Fossey)
Rwanda (Near Volcanoes NP)
- $50-$100/night:
- Kinigi Guesthouse
- Muhabura Hotel
Tip: Book guesthouses instead of lodges—many include breakfast.
4. Use Public Transport (Uganda Only)
- From Kampala to Bwindi: Take a bus to Kabale (~$10), then a shared taxi to Buhoma (~$5).
- From Kigali to Bwindi: Cross via Cyanika/Katuna border (~3hrs, $50 private taxi).
Warning: Only for adventurous travelers—delays are common.
5. Skip the Porter (But Consider Tipping)
- Porter fee: $15-$20 (optional but helpful).
- Guides & rangers: Tip $10-$20 per trek.
Budget hack: Carry your own backpack to save on porter costs.
6. Pack Your Own Snacks
- Buy nuts, energy bars, and fruit in Kampala/Kigali (cheaper than lodges).
- Refill water bottles at lodges (avoid buying plastic bottles).
7. Group Tours Save Money
- Join a shared group safari (splits transport costs).
- Example 3-day budget tour (Uganda): ~$1,200 (incl. permit, transport, lodging).
DIY alternative: Book permits + lodging separately, use public transport.
8. Apply for Discounts (If Eligible)
- East African residents: Uganda permits at $300 (proof of residency required).
- Student discounts? Sometimes available—ask tour operators.
Sample Budget Breakdown (Uganda)
| Expense | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Gorilla permit | $800 |
| Budget lodge (2 nights) | $60 |
| Public transport (Kampala-Bwindi roundtrip) | $30 |
| Meals & snacks | $40 |
| Tips | $20 |
| Total | $950 |
vs. Rwanda: Same experience costs $2,000+.
Final Tips
✔ Book permits early (budget lodges sell out).
✔ Negotiate with tour operators for last-minute deals.
✔ Travel mid-week (fewer crowds, better prices).