Gorilla permit fees in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are a critical consideration for international travelers planning a trek in this Ugandan wilderness. As part of the Virunga Massif, Mgahinga offers an intimate gorilla experience, with fees structured to support conservation and local communities while ensuring accessibility for global visitors.
This fee includes park entry, a mandatory ranger guide, and one hour with the Nyakagezi gorilla group after a 2-6 hour trek. Children under 15 are not permitted to trek, aligning with safety and conservation policies.
Payment is processed through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or licensed tour operators, typically via bank transfer or credit card, with full payment required to secure the permit. The fee reflects Mgahinga’s exclusivity; only eight visitors are allowed daily compared to Bwindi’s higher capacity. No additional habituation experience (like in Bwindi) is offered in Mgahinga, keeping costs straightforward.
Permits should be booked 3-6 months in advance, especially for dry seasons (June-September and December-February), as demand peaks. Late cancellations incur penalties: 25% within 45 days, 50% within 21 days, and 100% within 14 days. Fees fund gorilla monitoring, anti-poaching efforts, and community projects, offering travelers a chance to contribute to conservation.
Mgahinga’s gorilla permit delivers exceptional value for a rare, transformative adventure, appealing to wildlife lovers worldwide.