How to Book a Gorilla Permit for Mgahinga.
Book gorilla permit Uganda. Booking a gorilla permit for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park gives you access to one of Uganda’s most intimate gorilla encounters. The Nyakagezi Gorilla Family lives within a compact home range, and trekkers enjoy clear sightings and calm viewing moments. Because the park hosts only one habituated family, permits remain limited, and travellers must secure them early.
A smooth booking process ensures you choose the right date, secure availability, and plan the rest of your safari with confidence.
Understanding the Price of a Permit
A Uganda gorilla permit costs USD 800 for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. The price includes entry to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, ranger guidance, and one hour with the gorilla family.
This cost supports conservation, ranger patrols, and community projects around the park. Every permit contributes to protecting the gorillas and maintaining the overall ecosystem.
Booking Through a Trusted Tour Operator
The easiest and most reliable way to secure a Mgahinga permit is through a licensed tour operator. The operator checks availability, reserves your spot, and confirms the date without delays. This saves time and reduces the risk of booking errors.
Tour operators also coordinate transport, accommodation, and your trek briefing. This creates a complete package, especially for visitors planning multi-day trips in the region.
Booking Through Uganda Wildlife Authority
Travellers also book permits directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority reservation office. This option works when you already have your travel dates and lodging arranged. The reservation team helps you choose a trekking date and issues a confirmation once payment clears.
You must share your passport details and the exact date you want. The permit becomes valid only for that specific day, so your itinerary must match the booking.
When to Book Your Mgahinga Gorilla Permit
Permits for Mgahinga sell out quickly during the peak seasons of June to September and December to February. Trekkers secure their dates at least three to six months before travel.
Travellers visiting during the low season may find last-minute availability, but early booking still brings more comfort and flexibility.
Choosing the Best Trekking Date
Your preferred trekking date should match your travel route and lodge stay. Mgahinga sits close to Kisoro, so most trekkers stay in town or on the slopes near Mount Muhavura.
Choosing a mid-trip trekking date gives you time to settle in, rest, and prepare for the hike. It also gives you a buffer in case of travel delays.
What Happens After Booking
Once your permit is secured, you receive a confirmation receipt. This document holds your trekking date, your passport details, and the park name.
On the trekking day, you must arrive at Ntebeko Visitor Centre before the morning briefing. Rangers check your confirmation, assign you to the trekking group, and guide you into the forest to meet the Nyakagezi family.
Why Early Booking Matters
Mgahinga offers only eight trekking permits each day because the park protects a single gorilla family. This limited availability creates high demand. Early booking helps you avoid disappointment, secure the best travel dates, and plan your accommodation around the trek.
Final Thoughts
Booking a Mgahinga gorilla permit feels simple when you understand the process. Early planning ensures smooth travel, clear scheduling, and guaranteed access to the park. The reward becomes unforgettable because the Nyakagezi family offers a calm and beautiful gorilla encounter.
Travelers who secure their permits early enjoy stress-free journeys and well-coordinated safaris.
Plan Your Gorilla Permit
You can secure your Mgahinga gorilla permit and arrange your full trekking package through a trusted operator.
For quick reservations and guaranteed dates, book your permit with us at https://www.gorilla-permits.com
