Lowest Price Short Uganda Gorilla Safaris

Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, offers one of the world’s most affordable and rewarding gorilla trekking experiences. For travelers seeking to witness the magic of the endangered mountain gorillas without spending a fortune or taking too much time, short Uganda gorilla safaris provide the perfect balance of cost, adventure, and comfort. These compact itineraries are designed for visitors who want a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the gorillas but only have a few days to spare — ideal for add-ons to Kenya or Rwanda safaris, or even quick getaways from Entebbe or Kigali.

Below are the lowest-priced short Uganda gorilla safaris for 2024–2025, all offering exceptional value, well-managed logistics, and authentic jungle experiences in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

1. 3 Days Budget Gorilla Trekking Safari – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

This is the most popular and affordable gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, perfect for travelers who want a short, cost-effective adventure. The tour includes a scenic drive through the countryside, one gorilla trek, and budget-friendly accommodations.

Safari Highlights:
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Scenic stop at the Uganda Equator for photos.
Cultural encounter with the Batwa community (optional).

Itinerary Overview:
Day 1: Transfer from Kampala or Entebbe to Bwindi, with lunch and Equator stopovers.
Day 2: Early morning gorilla trekking experience followed by relaxation or a community walk.
Day 3: Return journey to Kampala or Entebbe.

Included: Gorilla permit ($800), transport, guide, park fees, and accommodation.
Starting Price: From USD 1,250 per person (budget).
Accommodation Options: Ride 4 a Woman Guesthouse / Buhoma Community Rest Camp / Gorilla Friends Resort.
Best For: Budget travelers and short-stay adventurers.

2. 3 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari from Kigali – Bwindi or Mgahinga

For travelers flying into Rwanda, this is the cheapest and fastest route to see Uganda’s mountain gorillas. The drive from Kigali to Bwindi or Mgahinga takes only 4–5 hours, saving both time and cost compared to starting from Kampala.

Safari Highlights:
Short, scenic transfer from Kigali to Uganda’s gorilla parks.
One gorilla trek in Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park.
Panoramic views of the Virunga Mountains.

Itinerary Overview:
Day 1: Pick-up from Kigali and drive to Bwindi via Cyanika or Katuna border.
Day 2: Gorilla trekking and optional village tour in the afternoon.
Day 3: Drive back to Kigali, with a city tour depending on flight time.

Included: Gorilla permit ($800 Uganda), park entry, transport, guide, meals, and accommodation.
Starting Price: From USD 1,050 per person (budget).
Accommodation Options: Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge / Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge / Travellers Rest Hotel.
Best For: Kigali arrivals, cross-border travelers, and those combining Rwanda and Uganda safaris.

3. 4 Days Budget Gorilla & Lake Bunyonyi Safari

A perfect blend of wildlife adventure and relaxation, this itinerary combines gorilla trekking in Bwindi with a scenic retreat at Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa’s most beautiful and peaceful lakes.

Safari Highlights:
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Relaxation and canoeing on Lake Bunyonyi.
Breathtaking highland views and cultural visits.

Itinerary Overview:
Day 1: Drive from Kampala or Kigali to Bwindi.
Day 2: Gorilla trekking experience and transfer to Lake Bunyonyi.
Day 3: Canoe ride, nature walk, or island exploration.
Day 4: Return journey to Kampala or Kigali.

Included: Gorilla permit, meals, accommodation, and all transfers.
Starting Price: From USD 1,350 per person (budget).
Accommodation Options: Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort / Arcadia Cottages / Crater Bay Cottages.
Best For: Couples, photographers, and travelers wanting adventure with relaxation.

4. 3 Days Mgahinga Gorilla Trekking Safari – One Park, One Volcano

For travelers who love scenic landscapes and fewer crowds, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers a quieter, cheaper alternative to Bwindi. It’s also the only place in Uganda where gorilla trekking happens on volcanic slopes with views of Rwanda and Congo.

Safari Highlights:
Trek to see the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family in Mgahinga.
Views of the Virunga Volcano ranges.
Optional golden monkey tracking or Batwa cultural trail.

Itinerary Overview:
Day 1: Drive from Kigali or Kampala to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Day 2: Gorilla trekking and optional evening village walk.
Day 3: Return to Kigali or Kampala.

Included: Gorilla permit, transport, park fees, and accommodation.
Starting Price: From USD 1,100 per person (budget).
Accommodation Options: Mount Gahinga Lodge (mid-range), Amajambere Iwacu Camp (budget).
Best For: Hikers, small groups, and off-the-beaten-path explorers.

5. 4 Days Gorilla Trekking & Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari

This short itinerary combines the best of Uganda’s wildlife and primates. You’ll trek gorillas in Bwindi and enjoy a game drive and boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Africa’s most biodiverse reserves.

Safari Highlights:
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi.
Game drive in Kasenyi Plains (lions, elephants, buffaloes).
Boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel.

Itinerary Overview:
Day 1: Drive from Kampala to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Day 2: Morning game drive and transfer to Bwindi.
Day 3: Gorilla trekking experience.
Day 4: Return to Kampala or Kigali.

Included: Gorilla permit, transport, park fees, accommodation, and meals.
Starting Price: From USD 1,480 per person (budget).
Accommodation Options: Pumba Safari Cottages / Enganzi Game Lodge / Buhoma Haven Lodge.
Best For: Wildlife lovers wanting both gorillas and big game.

Why Choose Uganda for a Budget Gorilla Safari

Lowest Gorilla Permit Cost: At USD 800, Uganda’s gorilla permit is far cheaper than Rwanda’s USD 1,500, while offering the same remarkable experience.
Accessible Parks: Both Bwindi and Mgahinga are easily reached by road or short domestic flights.
Affordable Lodges: A range of budget-friendly lodges and community guesthouses cater to all types of travelers.
Flexible Departures: Private or group tours depart daily, making it easy to fit your travel schedule.
Authentic Experience: Fewer crowds, deeper forest encounters, and strong community involvement in conservation.

Best Time for a Short Gorilla Safari

The best time to enjoy a short gorilla safari in Uganda is during the dry seasons — from June to September and December to February — when trails are drier and trekking conditions are ideal. However, gorilla trekking is available year-round, and low-season discounts are often available from lodges between March and May.

Final Thought

A short gorilla safari in Uganda offers the same life-changing encounter as longer tours — the moment when you stand before a mountain gorilla family in the misty jungle, watching them eat, play, and gaze curiously back at you. It’s pure magic, and thanks to Uganda’s affordability, it’s an adventure within reach for every traveler.