How Much Does a Uganda Safari Cost in 2027?
Updated 7 November 2026 · By the Mwema Safaris team
Short answer: a private Uganda safari for 2027 costs from about $1,864 per person for a 3-day gorilla trek, $3,969 for 7 days with gorillas and chimps, and $5,464 for 10 days, in midrange lodges with 2 people sharing. Below are the real prices of every trip we run, and what moves the price up or down.
Uganda safari prices for 2027 (per person, 2 sharing)
Gorilla and chimp permits are included at the UWA rate. Prices are guide prices for 2027 and are confirmed in your written quote.
What drives the cost
- Permits. The gorilla permit is US$800 per person (US$600 in April, May and November), chimpanzee tracking in Kibale is US$250 in 2026 and US$300 from 1 January 2027. See gorilla permit cost and chimpanzee trekking.
- Lodge style. The same trip in luxury lodges can cost twice the midrange price or more, mainly because of the lodges near Bwindi.
- Number of days. Uganda's parks are far apart (Bwindi is 8–10 hours by road from Entebbe), so extra days mean more vehicle, guide and lodge nights.
- Group size. A private 4x4 and guide cost the same for one or several travellers, so the price per person falls as the group grows.
- Season. Peak months (June–September, December–February) fill lodges and permits first. See the best time to visit.
Fixed government fees to know (UWA, foreign non-resident)
| Fee | Price |
|---|---|
| Gorilla trekking permit | US$800 (low season US$600) |
| Gorilla habituation, from 1 Jan 2027 | US$1,800 |
| Chimp tracking Kibale, from 1 Jan 2027 | US$300 (incl. park entry) |
| Park entry, Murchison Falls (per 24 hrs) | US$45 |
| Park entry, Bwindi, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Kidepo, Lake Mburo (per 24 hrs) | US$40 |
| Launch cruise, Murchison or Kazinga Channel | US$30 |
How payment works
To confirm, we ask for any gorilla or chimpanzee permits in full plus a 30% deposit on the rest of the trip; the balance is due 60 days before arrival. You can pay by bank transfer in US dollars or by card (3.5% fee). Full details are in our terms and conditions.
Sources: Uganda Wildlife Authority conservation tariff July 2024–Dec 2026 and circular TDO 93/04 of 26 Feb 2026. Checked 7 November 2026. These are government fees, not Mwema package prices, and can change; we confirm the rate for your dates in writing before you pay.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a 3-day gorilla safari in Uganda?
Our 3-day Bwindi gorilla trek costs from $1,531 per person in budget style, $1,864 midrange and $2,564 luxury, for 2 people sharing in 2027, including the US$800 gorilla permit.
How much is a 7-day Uganda safari?
Our 7-Day Primates & Wildlife Safari costs from $3,969 per person midrange (2 sharing, 2027), including gorilla and chimp permits.
Why is Uganda cheaper than Rwanda for gorillas?
The biggest difference is the permit. Uganda's standard gorilla permit is US$800 for foreign non-residents; Rwanda's is higher. Check the Rwanda Development Board for its current rate.
Are permits marked up?
No. Gorilla and chimpanzee permits are charged at the UWA rate. Our margin is on the transport, guiding and lodge arrangements only.
What is not included?
International flights, visas, travel insurance, tips, drinks and personal items. Each tour page lists exactly what is and isn't included.
Ready for a price for your dates? Request a free quote.