Uganda Safari Cost: Planning Your Safari Budget

Uganda's safari experience is truly one-of-a-kind, standing out from its neighbors like Tanzania and Kenya due to its comparative lack of crowds. But what truly sets it apart is its diverse wildlife. In addition to the iconic 'Big-Five’ – elephant, leopard, lion, buffalo, and rhinoceros – Uganda is home to the elusive mountain gorillas, a species not found in Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, or South Africa. 

In recent years, Uganda has been a hotspot for travelers who wish to enjoy the unparalleled experience of gorilla trekking, with a population of mountain gorillas of approximately 450 individuals. However, for many visitors, the trip to explore the diverse array of giant species in Uganda is often accompanied by questions about the associated costs. Understanding the expenses involved is crucial for planning a memorable and budget-friendly safari. Here, Uganda Immigration Services will clarify the factors that will contribute to the overall cost of your safari, from which you can estimate the Uganda safari costs for a budget-friendly trip.

How much should you budget for an Uganda safari per day?

The estimated daily expenses for a Uganda safari are categorized into budget, mid-range, and luxury safari options. These estimates do not include the cost of flight tickets to Uganda, accommodation, travel insurance, or additional expenses such as souvenirs.

Please note that the figures we provide in the following are for reference, and the exact price will depend on the destination you go on safari and the activities you participate in:

• Budget Safari: Approximately US$ 250 to US$ 350/person per day

• Mid-Range Safari: Roughly US$ 350 to US$ 550/person per day

• Luxury Safari: Typically US$ 700 to US$ 1000/person daily.

Cost of a Uganda safari per day

Uganda National Park Entrance fees

Entry fees to national parks and permits for activities such as gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking constitute a significant portion of safari costs. These fees vary depending on the park and activity. During your visit to Uganda, you have to pay an entrance fee for each national park you wish to explore. These fees are valid for 24 hours and cover admission only, excluding any activities in the parks. Below are the entrance fees for some of Uganda's renowned national parks:

• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park: US$ 40 per adult and US$ 20 per child.

• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: US$ 40 per adult and US$ 20 per child.

• Queen Elizabeth National Park: US$ 40 per adult and US$ 20 per child.

• Murchison Falls National Park: US$ 45 per adult and US$ 25 per child.

It is important to note that if you opt for a self-drive safari in Uganda, an additional tariff will be imposed on your vehicle in addition to the per-person park fees. This tariff varies depending on the type of vehicle and ranges from US$40 to US$200.

Uganda national park entrance fee

Cost of Activities On A Uganda Safari

In addition to the park entrance fees, visitors will be charged the activity fees associated with various safari experiences. Popular activities in Uganda's national parks often include gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, golden monkey trekking, bird watching, and guided nature walks.Uganda has gained renown as a prime destination for gorilla trekking owing to the affordability of permits. For instance, the gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest provides approximately four hours of intimate observation with these majestic creatures at a comparable cost to permits in Rwanda.

Because the gorilla trekking experience is often chosen by most tourists to Uganda, permits must be secured within 06 months before your trip to ensure availability. Here are some of the activities available in Bwindi, Mgahinga, Queen Elizabeth, and Murchison Falls National Parks, along with their respective costs.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Activities Costs

• Gorilla Tracking (permitted for adults above 15 years old) costs $700.

• Gorilla Habituation Experience (permitted for adults above 15 years old) is priced at $1500. 

• Other activities include Nature Walks, which cost $30, Long Nature Walks, which cost $50; and Batwa Forest Experiences, which cost $40.

Certain groups are free admission to protected areas, including all children under five years old and individuals residing near the protected area with permission from the Warden In-Charge.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Activities Costs

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park Activities Costs

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to a single-habituated gorilla family. Gorilla trekking begins early in the morning following a comprehensive briefing on park rules, regulations, and expectations at the park headquarters. 

Visitors can encounter various primates, such as golden monkeys, and diverse mammals, including giant forest hogs, forest elephants, bush pigs, and buffaloes, alongside numerous bird species. Upon locating the gorillas, visitors are granted one hour to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

• Gorilla trekking permits are available to visitors aged 15 and above, priced at $700 for foreign residents.

• The Gorilla Habituation Experience is priced at $1000 for foreign residents. 

• Other activities within the park include Golden Monkey Trekking Permit at US$ 60, Golden Monkey Habituation Experience at US$ 100, Volcano Climbing Fees at US$ 80, Guided Bird Watching at US$ 30, and Batwa Trail Fees at US$ 80.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park Activities Costs

Queen Elizabeth National Park Activities Costs

For those seeking encounters with primates on a Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari, the Chimpanzee Trek in Kyambura Gorge is available for US$ 50.

• The guided game permits visitors to witness the park's diverse wildlife up close for US$ 30. 

• A tranquil boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel is also priced at US$30.

• Nature enthusiasts can immerse in intricate ecosystems through guided nature walks, available for US$ 15. 

• Guided mongoose tracking sessions are offered at US$ 30.

Queen Elizabeth National Park Activities Costs

Uganda Safari Accommodation Costs

Relaxing accommodation is worth considering for the most comfortable experience during your safari trip in Uganda. Accommodations in Uganda cater to various budgets, from economical options to mid-range and luxury. Accommodation choices include tented camps, camping sites, budget lodges, bungalows, budget-friendly guesthouses, and hotels. The following is the estimated cost for Uganda safari accommodation, from which you can arrange affordable Uganda safaris:

• Budget accommodation: US$ 80 per night

• Mid-range accommodation: US$ 185 per night

• Luxury accommodation: US$ 500 per night

• High-end Accommodation: Between $1000 to $2500 per night 

The rates above are provided as estimations and are subject to change. When planning your adventure in Uganda, it is advisable to consult with an experienced safari consultant for the most current safari costs.

Uganda safari accommodation cost

Uganda e-Visa Cost

A valid visa is required for travelers before a safari trip to Uganda. With the introduction of Uganda's electronic visa system, obtaining a visa for Uganda is quicker and easier than ever. Foreigners can get a Uganda tourist e-visa, which permits them to stay in the country for up to 90 days to engage in tourist activities. The application process is conducted online at an affordable cost. The costs of a Uganda e-visa consist of the government fee and the service fee. Travelers can have the details about the visa fees here. It's crucial to note that visa requirements may differ depending on your country of origin. Thus, confirming this information on our website is advisable before your journey.

The Best Time To Visit Uganda For Safaris

The best time to visit Uganda falls between December and February or June and August. 

June to August is the peak of the dry season, characterized by full waterholes and parched brown grasslands. This condition makes it easier to spot animals from a distance. During these months, bird watching is also highly recommended. Nevertheless, Uganda's inviting climate, with temperatures ranging from approximately 24°C to 30°C, makes it a year-round destination. July is the ideal month for a visit.

June, July, and August are the best months for gorilla trekking adventures in Uganda's Bwindi National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla. Meanwhile, December, January, and February are optimal for birding. Game-viewing safaris are most rewarding during July, August, December, and January. Conversely, March marks the rainy season until May, making them less favorable times to explore the "Pearl of Africa." Traveling during off-peak seasons or being flexible with travel dates can result in cost savings, as accommodation and activity prices may be lower during these periods.

Generally, a Uganda safari trip is a fun-filled experience that offers unparalleled encounters with the wonders of nature. While estimating the costs associated with such an adventure may seem daunting, employing prudent budgeting strategies can help ensure a budget Uganda safari within your financial means.