How Much Does a Safari Holiday in Uganda Cost? A Complete 2025 Guide
Uganda is one of Africa’s most stunning and underrated safari destinations. With its lush rainforests, open savannahs, and abundance of wildlife—including the famous mountain gorillas—Uganda offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. But how much should you budget for a safari holiday in Uganda in 2025?
The answer depends on several factors, including the type of safari you choose, your accommodation preferences, duration of your stay, activities, and the time of year. In this detailed guide, we’ll break down the cost of a safari in Uganda across budget, mid-range, and luxury levels. You’ll also get expert insights from Hillary Byamugisha, founder of Hillary Uganda Trips, a trusted local operator offering authentic and community-cantered safari experiences.
Why Uganda Safaris Are Worth Every Penny
Uganda combines the best of East African wildlife with the unique opportunity to trek gorillas in their natural habitat. Unlike more commercial safari destinations, Uganda offers more exclusive experiences, fewer crowds, and deeper cultural connections.
Highlights of a Ugandan Safari:
Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking
Big Five sightings
Boat safaris and crater lakes
Vibrant birdlife (over 1,000 species)
Lush landscapes and unique cultural tours
Let’s now dive into the real question—what does all of this cost?
Safari Cost Breakdown by Budget Type
A. Budget Safaris in Uganda (USD $120 – $200 per day)
Budget safaris are ideal for backpackers, students, solo travelers, or small groups looking for the essence of Uganda without overspending.
Inclusions:
Basic accommodation (hostels, guesthouses, tents)
Public or shared transport
Park entry fees and guided activities
Meals (often simple, buffet-style)
Sample Costs (Per Person):
- 3-Day Queen Elizabeth Safari: $400 – $550
- 4-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari (Mgahinga): $1,200 – $1,500 (permit included)
Hillary’s Insight: “We customize budget trips without compromising the experience. Travelers still enjoy wildlife, community visits, and great photo moments.”
B. Mid-Range Safaris in Uganda (USD $250 – $400 per day)
Mid-range safaris strike the perfect balance between comfort and adventure. Most travelers choose this category for the best value.
Inclusions:
Comfortable lodges or eco-camps
Private 4×4 vehicle and professional guide
Meals, park fees, and game drives
Optional cultural activities
Sample Costs (Per Person):
- 5-Day Gorilla & Wildlife Safari: $2,000 – $2,800
- 7-Day Wildlife Circuit: $2,800 – $4,200
Value Add: Traveling with Hillary Uganda Trips at this level often includes photography coaching, exclusive spots for sunrise/sunset shots, and community contributions.
C. Luxury Safaris in Uganda (USD $500 – $1,200+ per day)
For those seeking indulgence, Uganda offers top-tier safari experiences complete with luxury lodges, gourmet meals, and fly-in safaris.
Inclusions:
Luxury lodges (with private decks, spa services)
Charter flights between parks
Exclusive game drives and private guides
Personalized service and gourmet cuisine
Sample Costs (Per Person):
- 5-Day Luxury Gorilla Safari: $4,500 – $6,000
- 10-Day Ultimate Uganda Safari: $6,500 – $10,000
Note: Gorilla trekking permits and conservation fees are still extra unless included.
Gorilla Trekking Permit Cost (2025)
Gorilla trekking is one of the most sought-after experiences in Uganda. The permit allows you to spend one hour with a gorilla family in Bwindi or Mgahinga.
Standard Permit (Foreign Non-Resident): $800
Foreign Resident: $700
East African Citizen: UGX 300,000
Optional:
Habituation experience (4 hours with gorillas): $1,500
Hillary says: “Book permits early—at least 6 months in advance. We assist travelers with the entire process, including choosing the right trekking region.”
Feel free to contact Hillary to help you book your gorilla permit in time or plan your dream budget trip to Uganda via his WhatsApp +256726436969
Park Entry Fees and Activity Costs
Each national park in Uganda has a daily entry fee. These fees support conservation and community development.
National Park Entry Fees (Per Day):
Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, Kibale: $40
Lake Mburo: $30
Popular Activities and Costs:
Game drives: Usually included in package
Boat cruise (Kazinga Channel): $30 – $50
Chimpanzee trekking (Kibale): $250
Nature walks and birding: $15 – $30
Transportation Costs in Uganda
Transportation is a major part of safari costs. Choices range from public buses to private 4×4 safari vehicles or internal flights.
Transport Options:
Budget: Public buses or shared vans ($20 – $60 per trip)
Mid-range: Private safari vehicle ($100 – $200/day for the group)
Luxury: Charter flights between destinations ($250 – $400 per leg)
Hillary Uganda Trips provides reliable, custom-outfitted 4×4 vehicles for comfort, charging, and photography support.
Accommodation Types and Prices
Uganda offers accommodation for every taste—from riverside tents to forest lodges and boutique hotels.
Price Guide (Per Person, Per Night):
Budget: $30 – $60 (basic rooms, shared facilities)
Mid-range: $80 – $180 (comfortable lodges, en-suite, great meals)
Luxury: $250 – $800+ (all-inclusive resorts, private service, premium views)
Hillary helps clients pick the best options based on their budget, location preferences, and photographic opportunities.
Safari Duration vs. Cost
Safari costs are directly tied to how many days you travel and how many parks you visit. Here’s a general guide:
Cost per Safari Length (Per Person):
3 Days: $400 – $1,500
5 Days: $1,200 – $3,500
7–10 Days: $2,500 – $6,500+
Pro Tip: Combine fewer destinations with longer stays to reduce transport costs and enjoy a deeper experience.
Additional Costs to Consider
Tips: $10–$20 per day for guides and porters
Visa: $50 for most nationalities (East Africa Visa $100 covers Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda)
Drinks & snacks: $5–$20 daily (not always included)
Souvenirs & crafts: Budget $50–$200
Travel insurance: $50–$150 depending on provider
Vaccinations (Yellow Fever, Hep A, Typhoid): $100–$300 if needed
When to Travel for Better Rates
Uganda’s safari prices can vary depending on the season:
High Season (June–September, December–February):
Best wildlife viewing
Higher prices and demand
Low Season (March–May, October–November):
Fewer tourists, greener scenery
Discounted rates (up to 20–30%) on lodges and activities
Sample Itineraries & What They Cost
Budget 5-Day Safari:
Day 1: Kampala – Queen Elizabeth NP
Day 2–3: Game drives, boat cruise
Day 4: Transfer to Bwindi
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking
Cost: ~$1,500 (including gorilla permit)
Mid-Range 7-Day Photography Safari with Hillary:
Destinations: Bwindi, Lake Bunyonyi, Queen Elizabeth NP
Activities: Gorilla trekking, community visit, game drives
Cost: ~$2,800 per person (shared trip)
Luxury 10-Day Fly-in Safari:
Destinations: Murchison Falls, Kibale, Bwindi
Accommodation: Boutique lodges & charter flights
Cost: $6,000 – $10,000 per person
Why Choose Hillary Uganda Trips
Hillary Uganda Trips is a locally owned, conservation-focused tour company founded by Hillary Byamugisha, a professional wildlife photographer and safari guide from Kabale.
What Sets Hillary Apart:
Customizable trips at every budget level
Guided photography tours and gear advice
Community support with every booking
Insider access to lesser-known locations
Transparent pricing and ethical tourism
Hillary says: “Whether you have $1,000 or $10,000, we create memorable, meaningful safaris that leave you with lasting memories and stunning photos.”
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Final Tips to Save on Your Safari Budget
1. Book early for gorilla permits and accommodation discounts.
2. Travel in groups to split costs on vehicles and guides.
3. Visit during low season for better deals.
4. Choose mid-range lodges that include meals and activities.
5. Let Hillary Uganda Trips handle the logistics—no middlemen, no hidden costs.
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Start Planning Your Uganda Safari Today
No matter your budget, a safari in Uganda is a priceless experience filled with adventure, culture, and natural beauty. From gorilla trekking in Bwindi to photographing elephants in Queen Elizabeth, Hillary Uganda Trips ensures every dollar is well spent.
Visit: www.hillaryugandatrips.com
Email: hillary@hillaryugandatrips.com
Follow on Instagram: @hillaryugandatrips
Travel Local. Shoot Wild. Support Conservation. [/vc_column_text]
