Uganda Safaris – The Pearl of Africa
Uganda safaris offer the most diverse wildlife experience in East Africa – the only place on earth where you can track mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, watch tree-climbing lions on the savanna, cruise the wildlife-packed Nile and Kazinga Channel, and climb the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains, all in one welcoming, green and remarkably affordable country famously named “the Pearl of Africa.”
Our Uganda safaris range from short gorilla-trekking getaways in Bwindi to comprehensive multi-week expeditions taking in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Kibale Forest and the remote Kidepo Valley. Whether you are planning a first safari, a honeymoon, a family adventure, a birding tour or a primate-focused trip, every Uganda safari we arrange is private, tailor-made and guided by experienced local driver-guides.
Uganda Safari Experiences Beyond Gorilla Trekking
While gorilla trekking is the crown jewel, Uganda safaris offer so much more. Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest – the primate capital of East Africa – brings you close to our closest relatives, while Big Five game viewing in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks delivers classic savanna drama, including the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha. Boat cruises on the Victoria Nile and the Kazinga Channel, white-water rafting at the Source of the Nile in Jinja, birding for the rare shoebill, and the remote wilderness of Kidepo Valley all add unforgettable dimensions to a Uganda safari.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda
Gorilla trekking is Uganda’s crown-jewel experience: a guided walk through montane forest to spend one unforgettable hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family. Each family receives a maximum of eight visitors per day, led by an experienced ranger guide – read the full guide on our gorilla trekking safaris page.
Top Uganda Adventure Packages in 2025/2026
When it comes to Uganda gorilla safaris and tours, there are only two places to consider a must-visit. These include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. It is in these lush African protected areas where half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population all live.
Around 25 habituated gorilla families are spread across five trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Ntebeko in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Your permit is issued for a specific sector, so we match your trekking location to your lodge when planning.
Uganda gorilla trekking permit prices/cost - Payment methods
A Uganda gorilla permit costs US$800 for foreign non-residents, US$700 for foreign residents, US$500 for citizens of other African countries, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens – the same price for Bwindi and Mgahinga. Booking is simple: we confirm availability for your preferred dates and sector with the Uganda Wildlife Authority, you pay via card, mobile money, or bank transfer to our official accounts, and we secure the permit and send you a copy – typically within 48 hours.
Permits sell out months ahead in peak season – start planning early to lock in your dates.
Gorilla Trekking Rules and regulations
The essentials: trekkers must be 15 or older and in good health; each gorilla family receives a maximum of eight visitors for one hour per day; keep 8–10 metres from the gorillas, speak softly, never touch them, and photograph without flash. Stay calm if a gorilla charges and always follow your ranger guide’s instructions.
What to pack for your Uganda gorilla safari
Pack waterproof hiking boots, long trousers and sleeves, gardening gloves, a rain jacket, and a flash-free camera – porters are available and hiring one directly supports the local community.
National Parks in Uganda
Explore the protected areas behind every Uganda itinerary – from the gorilla forests of Bwindi and Mgahinga to the savannahs of Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, and Kidepo.
Best Time to Go & Planning Your Uganda Safari
Uganda is a year-round safari destination near the equator. The dry seasons – June to September and December to February – offer the easiest gorilla trekking and game viewing with firmer forest trails, while the wetter months bring lush scenery, excellent birding and quieter parks. Gorillas and wildlife are present every single day of the year.
Most Uganda safaris begin in Entebbe or Kampala and can be combined with gorilla trekking in Rwanda, a Kenya or Tanzania extension, or a Congo gorilla add-on. From budget group departures to private luxury lodges, we tailor every Uganda safari to your travel style, dates and budget – handling permits, park fees, accommodation and logistics from start to finish.
Explore More Uganda Safari Experiences
Uganda’s variety means there is a safari for every traveller. Dive deeper into the experiences that interest you most: gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, wildlife safaris, birding safaris, cultural safaris and honeymoon safaris. Planning a wider trip? Combine Uganda with Rwanda, Kenya or Tanzania for the ultimate East African adventure.
Uganda Safari FAQ
How much does a gorilla permit cost in Uganda? Uganda’s gorilla permits are mid-priced compared with Rwanda, making it one of the most affordable places in the world to track mountain gorillas. We secure permits as part of your safari.
When is the best time for a Uganda safari? The dry seasons – June to September and December to February – offer the easiest trekking and game viewing, though wildlife is present year-round.
Is Uganda safe for tourists? Yes – the main tourist regions are considered safe and welcoming. See our Uganda safety guide for details.
How many days do I need? A short gorilla trip needs 3–4 days; a comprehensive Uganda safari taking in gorillas, chimps and savanna parks is best over 8–12 days.
Do I need a visa? Most visitors need a visa or the East Africa Tourist Visa, which we can advise on.
