How Much Does It Cost to Go on Safari in Uganda?

Explore Uganda’s captivating gorilla safaris with permits priced at $800 per person as of 2024. Accommodation options vary from $150 to $900, offering choices to suit every budget. For a basic 3-day safari in Bwindi, expect a starting cost of approximately $1200 per person, representing an affordable option for adventurers seeking an unforgettable experience.

Starting a safari adventure in Uganda offers an unforgettable journey through Africa’s untamed wilderness. From majestic elephants to elusive big cats, Uganda’s diverse landscapes promise a wildlife experience like no other. But for safari enthusiasts, one question looms large: “How much does it cost to go on safari in Uganda?” Let’s explore the factors influencing safari costs in Uganda.

Uganda Safari Packages:

Whether it’s a budget-friendly group tour or a luxurious private expedition, Uganda offers diverse safari packages. Prices typically cover accommodation, meals, park fees, transportation, and guided game drives

Uganda Safari Duration:

The duration of a safari in Uganda can significantly affect its cost due to various factors such as accommodation, transportation, park entrance fees, and activities included in the itinerary. Here’s a general breakdown of how the cost might vary based on the duration of the safari:

1. Uganda Short Safari (2-3 days):
   • Cost Range: $500 – $1500 per person.
   • Typically includes visits to one or two national parks or wildlife reserves, with accommodation in budget to mid-range lodges or tented camps.
   • Limited activities but still offering opportunities for game drives and perhaps a boat safari or nature walk.
2. Uganda Mid-Length Safari (4-6 days):
   • Cost Range: $1200 – $3000 per person.
   • Allows for visits to multiple national parks or reserves, providing a more comprehensive wildlife viewing experience.
   • Accommodation usually includes a mix of mid-range lodges and tented camps.
   • More activities included such as game drives, boat safaris, nature walks, and cultural experiences.
3. Extended Safari (7+ days):
   • Cost Range: $2500 – $6000+ per person.
   • Offers an in-depth exploration of various national parks, reserves, and other attractions.
   • Accommodation tends to include a mix of mid-range to luxury lodges and tented camps.
   • Allows for a wide range of activities including multiple game drives, boat safaris, chimpanzee tracking, gorilla trekking (if included), birdwatching, cultural visits, and more.

Shorter safaris like weekend getaways are more budget-friendly than week-long expeditions.

Accommodation Choices:

Uganda boasts various accommodations from rustic bush camps to luxurious lodges. Your choice significantly affects safari costs.

1. Budget Accommodation: Budget options like hostels, guesthouses, and basic campsites can range from $10 to $40 per night for a single occupancy room or tent.
2. Mid-Range Accommodation: Mid-range lodges, tented camps, and guesthouses typically charge between $50 to $150 per night for a standard room or tent.
3. Luxury Accommodation: Luxury lodges, safari camps, and resorts can range from $200 to over $1000 per night for a high-end suite or tent, especially in prime safari areas or national parks.
4. Exclusive and Boutique Accommodation: There are also exclusive and boutique accommodations that offer unique experiences and personalized service, with prices varying greatly but often starting from $300 per night and reaching several thousand dollars per night.

Uganda Safari Transportation:

Flights, transfers, and ground transport contribute to overall expenses. Opt for domestic flights or overland journeys, each with its costs.

Uganda Safari Park Fees and Gorilla Permits:

Entry fees and permits vary per park and activity. Costs depend on activities like gorilla trekking or game drives.

1. Additional Activities: Uganda offers cultural visits, boat safaris, and nature walks, enhancing your safari experience. Note that these may come with extra costs.
2. Seasonal Pricing: Safari costs fluctuate based on the season. Peak seasons with favourable weather and abundant wildlife sightings may have higher prices.
3. Tour Operator and Booking: Choose between local operators or online platforms for competitive prices. Tailor-made itineraries or specialized tours may incur additional charges.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority has updated the pricing for gorilla tracking permits at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park, with new rates of:

• USD 700 for foreign non-residents
• USD 600 for foreign residents
• 250,000 Ugandan Shillings for East African Citizens

For gorilla habituation experiences in Bwindi Impenetrable Gorilla Forest, permit fees are as follows:

• USD 1500 for foreign non-residents
• USD 1000 for foreign residents
• 750,000 Ugandan Shillings for East African Citizens

Unlike regular gorilla trekking which lasts one hour, gorilla habituation offers an extended four-hour encounter with these magnificent creatures.

Additional Uganda Safari Activities:

Beyond game drives and wildlife encounters, Uganda offers a plethora of additional activities and experiences, such as cultural village visits, boat safaris, and nature walks. While these activities enhance your safari experience, they may incur additional costs.

Uganda Safaris Seasonal Fluctuations:

The pricing for a Ugandan safari varies depending on the time of year. Peak seasons, boasting optimal weather and wildlife sightings, typically come with higher rates, while off-peak seasons offer more budget-friendly options for accommodation and tours.

Uganda Safari Booking Influence:

The cost of your safari is influenced by your choice of tour operator and booking method. Direct bookings with local operators or trusted online platforms often provide competitive rates, but opting for custom itineraries or specialized packages may result in added expenses.