How much does it cost to go to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest?

How much does it cost to go to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest? The cost of visiting Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda can vary widely depending on your travel style, activities, and preferences. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. Gorilla Trekking Permits

Gorilla trekking is the most popular activity in Bwindi, and the permit cost is fixed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

• Foreign Non-Residents: $800 per person.
• Foreign Residents (in East Africa): $700 per person.
• East African Citizens: UGX 300,000 per person (approximately $67).
  The fee includes park entry, a guide, and one hour with a gorilla family. Permits must be booked well in advance, especially for peak seasons (June to September and December to February).

2. Accommodation

Lodging around Bwindi varies widely depending on your budget. Prices per night include meals in most cases.

Budget Options:

• Cost: $40–$100 per night.
• Examples: Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Gorilla Friends Lodge.

Mid-Range Options:

• Cost: $150–$300 per night.
• Examples: Silverback Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Camp.

Luxury Options:

• Cost: $400–$1,200 per night.
• Examples: Mahogany Springs Lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp.

3. Transportation Costs

By Road:

• Kampala to Bwindi is about 8–10 hours by road.
• Private Vehicle Hire: $150–$250 per day (including fuel and driver).
• Shared Tour Van: Often included in safari packages, typically $50–$100 per person if shared.

By Air:

• Scheduled domestic flights from Entebbe to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips near Bwindi cost $250–$300 one way.
• Airport transfer to your lodge: $50–$100.

4. Meals and Drinks

• Meals are often included in accommodation packages.
• Additional costs for beverages or meals in transit: $5–$20 per meal.

5. Safari Packages

Many travelers opt for organized packages, which include transportation, permits, accommodation, and meals.

• Budget Packages: $1,200–$1,800 per person for 3–4 days.
• Mid-Range Packages: $2,000–$3,500 per person.
• Luxury Packages: $4,000+ per person.

6. Other Costs

• Tipping: Guides, porters, and drivers often expect tips.
  • Porters: $10–$20.
  • Guides and trackers: $10–$15.
• Additional Activities:
  • Community walks and cultural visits: $20–$50 per person.
  • Birdwatching or waterfall hikes: $30–$50.

Summary of Estimated Costs

• Low Budget Traveler: $1,000–$1,500 (3–4 days).
• Mid-Range Traveler: $2,000–$3,500.
• Luxury Traveler: $4,000+.

Sample Cost for a 3-Day Gorilla Trekking Experience

• Budget: $1,200–$1,500 per person
• Mid-range: $1,800–$2,500 per person

These prices are indicative, and actual costs depend on your choices for transportation, accommodation, and activities.

Contact us to plan your package to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park for your gorilla trekking experience.