Budget Gorilla Safaris in Uganda & Congo: Best Deals

Budget gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Virunga – affordable Uganda & Congo safaris.

Budget Gorilla Safaris: Best Affordable Options in Uganda & Congo

If you dream of seeing mountain gorillas in the wild but don’t want to break the bank, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) offer the most budget-friendly gorilla trekking experiences in Africa. While Rwanda charges $1,500 per permit, Uganda and Congo provide cheaper alternatives without sacrificing the adventure.

Here’s everything you need to know about budget gorilla safaris, including permit costs, best trekking locations, and money-saving tips.

Uganda: The Best Budget Gorilla Trekking Destination

Why Uganda?

✅ Permits cost $800 (half the price of Rwanda).
✅ More gorilla families (20+ habituated groups).
✅ Combines well with chimpanzee trekking & wildlife safaris.

Best Budget Gorilla Trekking Spots in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Permit Cost:$800 (foreign non-residents).
Best Sectors for Budget Treks:
- Buhoma(easiest access, good for beginners).
- Ruhija(less crowded, slightly harder treks).
- Rushaga & Nkuringo(more challenging but rewarding).

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Permit Cost:$800 (only one habituated gorilla family).
Pros:
- Shorter, easier treks (sometimes just 1–2 hours).
- Stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes.

How to Save Money on a Uganda Gorilla Safari

✔ Travel in a group (shared transport & guide costs).
✔ Book last-minute permits (sometimes discounts apply).
✔ Stay in budget lodges (50–50–100/night instead of luxury 300+).✔∗∗Combinewithotheractivities∗∗(chimpanzeetrekkinginKibaleisonly300+).✔∗∗Combinewithotheractivities∗∗(chimpanzeetrekkinginKibaleisonly200).

Sample Budget Uganda Gorilla Safari (3 Days)

Day 1:Travel from Kampala to Bwindi (8–10 hrs).
Day 2:Gorilla trekking in Bwindi.
Day 3:Return to Kampala or extend to Queen Elizabeth NP.
Estimated Cost:1,200–1,200–1,800 (including permits, transport, lodging).

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): The Cheapest Gorilla Permits

Why Congo?

✅ Permits cost only $400 (cheapest in the world).
✅ Fewer tourists (more intimate experience).
✅ Combines with volcano hikes & lowland gorillas.

Best Budget Gorilla Trekking Spot in Congo

Virunga National Park

Permit Cost:$400 (half Uganda’s price).
Pros:
- Stunning scenery (active volcanoes, lava lakes).
- Chance to see both mountain gorillas & lowland gorillas.
Cons:
- Security risks(check travel advisories first).
- Poor road conditions (requires 4×4).

How to Save Money on a Congo Gorilla Safari

✔ Book through a trusted local operator (safety is key).
✔ Combine with Nyiragongo Volcano hike ($300 extra).
✔ Stay in Goma or budget lodges (luxury options are limited).

Sample Budget Congo Gorilla Safari (3 Days)

Day 1:Fly into Goma, transfer to Virunga NP.
Day 2:Gorilla trekking in Virunga.
Day 3:Optional volcano hike or return to Goma.
Estimated Cost:900–900–1,500 (including permits, transport, lodging).

Uganda vs. Congo: Which is Better for Budget Gorilla Trekking?

Factor	Uganda	Congo (DRC)
Permit Cost	$800	$400
Safety	Very safe	Risky (check advisories)
Accessibility	Long drive (8–10 hrs)	Fly to Goma (easier access)
Tourist Crowds	Moderate	Fewer tourists
Extra Activities	Chimps, wildlife safaris	Volcano hikes, lowland gorillas

✔ Choose Uganda if: You want a safe, well-organized, budget-friendly gorilla trek.
✔ Choose Congo if: You’re adventurous, on a tight budget, and okay with risks.

Tips for the Cheapest Gorilla Safari Possible