How Much Does a Uganda Safari Cost?

Prices for Uganda safaris vary widely because the same itinerary can be delivered in very different ways. A basic road safari in a shared vehicle and a private fly-in safari with luxury lodges are both Uganda safaris; they simply cost very different amounts. We do not publish a single number here because it would mislead you. Instead we explain the factors, so you can budget with confidence and then ask us for a quote for your exact plan.

This page works alongside packages by budget and Uganda safari packages.

What Goes Into the Price

1. Gorilla and chimpanzee permits. Set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and a fixed part of the cost when included. Current UWA rates are listed further down this page.
2. Park entry fees. Charged per person per day in each national park.
3. Accommodation. The biggest variable, from simple lodges to luxury.
4. Transport. A private vehicle and driver-guide, plus any internal flights.
5. Activities. Boat cruises, guided walks, cultural visits and adventure activities.
6. Meals and extras. Included in some packages and not others.

What Is Usually Not Included

• International flights to Entebbe.
• Visa fees and travel insurance.
• Tips and gratuities.
• Personal items, drinks and optional extras.

Every tour page lists the exact inclusions and exclusions.

How to Get Good Value

• Travel in the wetter months, when some lodges offer lower rates.
• Travel in a group of three or four to share vehicle costs.
• Choose a shorter itinerary focused on your top priorities.
• Book early so you have the best choice of permits and lodges.

See also group and private safaris.

How We Quote

We send a written itinerary with a clear price for your exact dates and group size, and show what is included. If you want to compare options, we can prepare two or three versions at different levels. Read how to book a Uganda safari for the full process, or request a quote now.

What Drives the Cost

• Permits: gorilla and chimpanzee permits are major costs.
• Accommodation: budget, mid-range or upmarket lodges.
• Duration and parks: more days and parks mean more driving.
• Transport: road trips vs fly-in options.
• Season: peak months cost more.
• Group size: sharing a vehicle spreads costs.

Ways to Manage Budget

Travel in shoulder seasons, share a vehicle, choose a mix of lodge levels and prioritise your must-do activity. See packages by budget, how to compare packages and group and private options. We give an exact quote for your dates rather than publishing figures that change.

Extras to Budget For

• International flights and domestic transfers.
• Visa fees and insurance.
• Tips for guides, porters and lodge staff.
• Drinks, laundry and souvenirs.
• Optional activities such as boat trips, night drives or rafting.

Ask for a written breakdown so you can see what is in and out. See money and tipping.

Park Fees and Permits Within Your Budget

Published UWA fees are only part of the cost, but they are the part set by the park authority. Examples from the 2024 to 2026 tariff for foreign non-residents: gorilla tracking $800, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale $250, Kyambura $100, golden monkey tracking $60, park entrance $35 to $45 per day depending on the park, Kazinga Channel or Murchison launch cruise $30, guided day game drive $25 per guide.

Low season (April, May, November) gorilla permits are $600 and chimpanzee permits $200, and a revised tariff takes effect on 1 January 2027. Use the full tariff guide, entrance fees and the price notice to build your own estimate, then add accommodation, transport and guiding.

About these rates. UWA states that tariff fees are subject to change without prior notice. FNR = foreign non-resident, FR = foreign resident, ROA = rest of Africa, EAC = citizen of an East African Community member state (paid in UGX). Source: Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Conservation Tariff July 2024 to June 2026 and UWA letter ref. TDO 93/04 dated 26 February 2026.