Gorilla Tourism Fuels Uganda's Economy, Generating Nearly Shs400 Billion

Mountain gorilla tourism has proven to be a powerful economic engine for Uganda, with revenue from these gentle giants accounting for a substantial portion of national park earnings.

Over the last four years, from 2022/23 to 2025/26, Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks have collectively generated approximately Shs584.3 billion. A remarkable Shs398.8 billion of this total can be directly attributed to gorilla tourism activities.

Uganda is a critical sanctuary, hosting more than half of the world’s dwindling population of mountain gorillas, which are also found in neighboring Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Visitor numbers to these key parks have shown a consistent upward trend. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park saw visitor numbers rise from 3,601 in 2021/22 to 6,222 in 2024/25. Similarly, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park’s figures climbed from 20,367 in 2021/22 to 43,716 in 2024/25, although these figures encompass all tourism activities within the parks, not solely gorilla trekking.

Beyond direct revenue, the success of gorilla tourism has had a positive ripple effect on local communities. In the year ending June 2025, Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) channeled Shs2.97 billion to communities surrounding the Bwindi-Mgahinga Conservation Area. This has supported the development of high-end lodges, created employment opportunities, and stimulated markets for local goods and services.

Officials emphasize that gorillas remain a cornerstone of Uganda’s tourism appeal, drawing a significant percentage of international visitors. There is a call for continued focus on sustainable tourism practices to ensure the long-term conservation of these precious primates and the economic benefits they provide.

This information was reported by the Daily Monitor.