How Expensive Is a Gorilla Trek? A Comprehensive Guide to Planning Your Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventure

How Expensive Is a Gorilla Trek? Understanding the True Cost of This Unforgettable Encounter

So, you're dreaming of an encounter with the gentle giants of the forest, the majestic mountain gorillas. The thought of observing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat is undeniably captivating. But, as you start planning, one question inevitably arises: how expensive is a gorilla trek? It's a fair question, and the truth is, a gorilla trek is not a budget backpacker's trip. It's a significant investment, but one that offers unparalleled rewards and contributes directly to vital conservation efforts. Let me tell you, from personal experience, the initial sticker shock can be real, but as you delve deeper into what makes up that cost, you begin to understand its profound value.

My own journey into the world of gorilla trekking began with a similar sense of apprehension about the financial aspect. I’d seen breathtaking photos and documentaries, and the urge to witness it firsthand was overwhelming. Yet, the figures I was seeing seemed astronomical. Was it truly worth it? After much research and speaking with seasoned guides and conservationists, I realized that the expense is intricately tied to the very essence of what makes this experience so special and, crucially, sustainable. It's not just about a permit; it's about a holistic ecosystem of conservation, community involvement, and ensuring a safe, ethical encounter.

The short answer to "how expensive is a gorilla trek" is that it varies significantly by country, but you should generally budget anywhere from $600 to over $1,500 per person for the gorilla permit alone. However, this permit is just one piece of the puzzle. The total cost encompasses flights, accommodation, transportation to the park, park entrance fees, guides, and sometimes even visas and vaccinations. It’s essential to break down these components to get a clear picture and plan accordingly. Let's dive deep into what contributes to the overall cost and how you can make this dream a reality.

The Core of the Cost: Gorilla Permits and Their Significance

The most substantial and often the most talked-about expense when considering how expensive is a gorilla trek is the gorilla permit. This permit is essentially your ticket to spending a limited amount of time observing a habituated gorilla family. The fee for this permit goes directly towards the conservation of these endangered primates and their habitat, as well as supporting the local communities that live alongside them.

Let's look at the primary destinations for gorilla trekking and their respective permit costs:

Uganda: The permit for trekking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park costs $600 per person for foreign non-residents. For foreign residents, it's $500, and for East African Community citizens, it's $40,000 Ugandan Shillings (approximately $11). These prices have been in place for a while, offering a relatively more accessible option compared to Rwanda. Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda's prime gorilla trekking destination, has a significantly higher permit fee. A permit here costs $1,500 per person for all international visitors. Rwanda has positioned itself as a luxury safari destination, and the higher permit fee is part of that strategy, which also channels substantial funds into conservation. Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): Virunga National Park, home to eastern lowland gorillas and a portion of mountain gorillas, offers some of the most affordable permits, typically around $400 per person for mountain gorillas. However, it's crucial to note that the DRC has historically faced political instability, and while efforts are being made to boost tourism and conservation, travelers must be exceptionally vigilant and informed about current safety conditions. Trekking in Virunga is an adventure in itself, and the lower cost reflects a different risk-reward calculation for many travelers.

It's important to understand *why* these permits are priced as they are. The revenue generated from these permits is not simply pocketed by tour operators. A significant portion is reinvested into:

Park Protection: Funding anti-poaching patrols, employing rangers, and maintaining park infrastructure are paramount. These rangers are the frontline defense for gorillas, risking their lives to protect them from snares and habitat encroachment. Habitat Conservation: Preserving the pristine mountain forests where gorillas live requires resources for reforestation, research, and managing human-wildlife conflict. Community Development: A portion of the permit fees is often channeled into local community projects, such as building schools, health clinics, and providing clean water. This "conservation dividend" is vital for gaining the support of local populations, making them stakeholders in gorilla conservation. Scientific Research: Supporting ongoing studies on gorilla behavior, health, and genetics helps inform conservation strategies and ensure the long-term survival of the species.

When you purchase a gorilla permit, you are not just buying an experience; you are actively contributing to the survival of a critically endangered species. This perspective shift can help contextualize the expense and make the decision to trek feel more meaningful.

Beyond the Permit: Additional Costs to Factor In

Understanding how expensive is a gorilla trek requires looking beyond the permit itself. Several other essential costs contribute to the overall budget. These are often overlooked in initial estimations but are critical for a realistic financial plan.

1. International and Domestic Flights

Getting to the gateway countries for gorilla trekking—Uganda, Rwanda, or the DRC—involves international flights, which can be a substantial part of your budget. Flight prices vary wildly depending on your departure city, the time of year you book, and how far in advance you make your reservations. For example, flights from North America or Europe to Entebbe (Uganda) or Kigali (Rwanda) can range from $800 to $2,000 or even more. Once you are in the country, you might also need domestic flights to reach the nearest airstrip to the national parks, especially if you're on a tighter schedule. These can add another $200 to $500 per person.

2. Accommodation

The type of accommodation you choose will significantly impact your overall cost. While you can find budget-friendly guesthouses in nearby towns, most reputable gorilla trekking tours will include stays in lodges or hotels near the national park entrances. These can range from comfortable mid-range options to luxurious high-end lodges. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $600+ per night for accommodation, depending on the level of luxury and amenities offered. Some lodges are specifically designed to cater to gorilla trekkers, offering convenience and excellent service.

Here's a general idea of accommodation cost ranges:

Budget/Mid-range: $100 - $250 per night (often includes meals) Comfort/High-end: $250 - $500+ per night (often includes meals and sometimes drinks) 3. Transportation to and from the Park

Once you're in Uganda or Rwanda, you'll need reliable transportation to get to the respective national parks. This typically involves a private vehicle with a driver/guide. The journey can be long, often several hours, on sometimes challenging roads. Tour operators usually include this in their packages. For a 3-day gorilla trek, you can expect transportation costs to be around $300 to $600 for the vehicle, which is usually shared among a group. This cost covers the vehicle, driver's salary, fuel, and sometimes accommodation for the driver.

4. Park Entrance Fees (Beyond the Gorilla Permit)

While the gorilla permit grants you access to see the gorillas, national parks often have daily entrance fees. These are separate from the gorilla permit and contribute to the general upkeep of the park. In Uganda, for instance, foreign non-residents typically pay $40 per day for park entrance fees. In Rwanda, the park entrance fees are often bundled into tour packages or covered by the high gorilla permit cost, but it's always good to clarify. These fees help fund park infrastructure, ranger salaries, and other operational costs.

5. Visas and Vaccinations

Depending on your nationality and the countries you plan to visit, you will need to factor in visa costs. For Uganda and Rwanda, a tourist visa typically costs around $50-$100. It's also essential to consider any necessary vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis. Yellow Fever vaccination is often mandatory, and you’ll need proof of inoculation to enter some countries. Consult your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip to get the most up-to-date advice on required vaccinations and recommended preventative measures. These health-related costs can add another $100 to $300.

6. Travel Insurance

This is non-negotiable. When you're venturing into remote wilderness areas for an activity as physically demanding as gorilla trekking, comprehensive travel insurance is crucial. Ensure your policy covers:

Medical emergencies and evacuation Trip cancellation or interruption Lost or stolen baggage Activities like trekking and hiking

The cost of travel insurance will vary based on your age, coverage level, and the duration of your trip, but it’s a vital safety net that’s well worth the investment.

7. Tips and Gratuities

Tipping is customary in East Africa and is a way to show appreciation for the services provided by your guides, trackers, porters, and lodge staff. While not mandatory, it's highly recommended. A typical guideline for tipping might look like this:

Head Guide/Driver: $20 - $50 per day Tracking Guides: $10 - $20 per day Porters: $10 - $15 per trek (often shared among porters) Lodge Staff: A general tip to the lodge management to be distributed among staff, around $5 - $10 per guest per day.

These amounts can add up, so it's wise to budget an additional $150 to $300 for tips, especially if you're traveling in a smaller group.

Comparing the Costs: Uganda vs. Rwanda vs. DRC

To truly understand how expensive is a gorilla trek, a direct comparison between the primary destinations is invaluable. Each offers a distinct experience and a different price point.

Uganda: The Value Proposition

Uganda, with its $600 gorilla permit for foreign non-residents, is often considered the more budget-friendly option for a classic mountain gorilla trek. A typical 5-day gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, including permits, accommodation, transportation, park fees, and meals, might range from $2,500 to $5,000+ per person.

Pros of Trekking in Uganda:

More affordable gorilla permits. Greater variety of lodges and accommodation options, catering to different budgets. Opportunity to combine gorilla trekking with other activities like chimpanzee tracking, savannah safaris (Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls), and bird watching. Generally perceived as more accessible for first-time safari-goers.

Cons of Trekking in Uganda:

Travel distances between different parks can be longer. The terrain in Bwindi can be steeper and more challenging for some trekkers. Rwanda: The Premium Experience

Rwanda's $1,500 gorilla permit positions it as a premium, often luxury, safari destination. A typical 3-day gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda, including the permit, mid-range to high-end accommodation, and private transportation, can easily range from $3,500 to $7,000+ per person.

Pros of Trekking in Rwanda:

Shorter travel times to Volcanoes National Park from Kigali, making 3-day trips feasible. Luxurious accommodation options. Well-developed infrastructure and generally smoother travel. The permit fee is often perceived as directly supporting high-level conservation efforts.

Cons of Trekking in Rwanda:

Significantly higher permit cost. Fewer budget-friendly accommodation choices near the park. The experience, while exceptional, can feel more exclusive due to the cost. Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): The Adventurous and Affordable Option

With mountain gorilla permits in Virunga National Park costing around $400, the DRC offers the lowest entry price for mountain gorilla trekking. A full trip, including permits, accommodation, and transport, might cost between $1,500 and $3,000 per person, making it substantially cheaper than Uganda and Rwanda. However, this lower cost is intertwined with the inherent risks associated with travel in the region.

Pros of Trekking in the DRC:

Most affordable gorilla permits for mountain gorillas. Opportunity to see eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park (a separate permit). Direct contribution to a region actively working to rebuild and conserve its natural heritage amidst challenges.

Cons of Trekking in the DRC:

Significant safety concerns due to ongoing political instability and potential security risks. Travel requires careful planning, up-to-date security assessments, and often a higher degree of adventurous spirit. Infrastructure is less developed than in Uganda or Rwanda. The experience is not for the faint of heart and requires a high level of personal responsibility and awareness.

Table: Approximate Total Trip Cost Comparison (per person, excluding international flights)

Destination Gorilla Permit Cost Typical 3-5 Day Trekking Package (Mid-Range) Typical 3-5 Day Trekking Package (Luxury) Notes Uganda $600 $2,500 - $4,000 $4,000 - $6,000+ Good value, diverse activities. Rwanda $1,500 $3,500 - $5,000 $5,000 - $8,000+ Premium, shorter travel times, higher cost. DRC (Virunga) $400 $1,500 - $2,500 $2,500 - $3,500+ Most affordable, but significant safety considerations.

Factors Influencing Your Gorilla Trekking Budget

Beyond the country choice, several other factors can influence how expensive is a gorilla trek for *your* specific trip. Being aware of these allows for better budgeting and potential cost savings.

1. Duration of Your Trip

A short, focused gorilla trek (e.g., 3 days in Rwanda) will naturally be less expensive than a longer safari that incorporates gorilla trekking with other national parks and activities in Uganda (e.g., 7-10 days). Longer trips mean more nights of accommodation, more days of transportation, and potentially additional park fees.

2. Level of Accommodation and Services

As highlighted earlier, the choice between budget, mid-range, and luxury lodges is a major cost driver. Similarly, opting for a private tour versus a small group tour can impact the price, although private tours often offer more flexibility and personalized attention. Some tour operators also include more amenities in their packages, such as drinks, laundry services, or internal flights, which can increase the overall cost but add convenience.

3. Time of Year (Peak vs. Low Season)

While gorilla trekking is a year-round activity, some periods are considered peak seasons, often coinciding with drier months when trekking is generally easier. During peak seasons, accommodation might be more expensive, and availability can be tighter, potentially forcing you to book less desirable or more costly options. Conversely, the low season might offer slightly lower prices on accommodation, but you might encounter more rain, which can make trekking more challenging and potentially muddy.

4. Tour Operator vs. Independent Planning

Most travelers opt for booking their gorilla trek through a reputable tour operator. This is often the easiest and safest way to arrange permits, accommodation, and transport, especially for first-time visitors. Tour operators have established relationships with lodges and local guides and can navigate the logistics efficiently. While you might think booking independently could save money, it can be complex to secure permits and coordinate all the elements, and sometimes operators get better rates on accommodation and transport due to volume.

If you choose to plan independently:

Book Permits Directly: Contact the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or Rwanda Development Board (RDB) well in advance to inquire about permit availability and booking procedures. This can be challenging from overseas. Arrange Transportation: You'll need to find and book a reliable 4x4 vehicle with a driver. Book Accommodation: Research and book lodges near your chosen park. Coordinate Logistics: Ensure seamless transfers between your accommodation, park entrance, and trekking starting point.

For most, the peace of mind and seamless experience offered by a tour operator justifies the cost.

5. Additional Activities

If your gorilla trek is part of a larger safari, the cost of other activities will add to the total. This could include:

Chimpanzee trekking Golden monkey tracking Game drives in savannah parks Canoe trips Cultural village visits Canopy walks

Each of these adds to the overall travel experience and budget.

Making Your Gorilla Trek Affordable: Tips and Strategies

Given the significant investment, you might be wondering how to make a gorilla trek more affordable without compromising the experience or, more importantly, the conservation impact. Here are some practical strategies:

1. Choose Uganda

As we’ve discussed, Uganda offers the most competitive permit price for mountain gorillas. If your primary goal is to see gorillas and you're looking for better value, Uganda is the clear choice. You can still find excellent lodges and well-organized tours that provide a fantastic experience.

2. Travel in the Shoulder or Low Season

While the dry seasons (June-August, December-February) are popular, traveling during the shoulder seasons (March-May, September-November) or even the low season can sometimes lead to slightly lower accommodation prices. However, be prepared for potential rain, which can make the trekking trails muddy and slippery.

3. Opt for Mid-Range Accommodation

You don't necessarily need the most luxurious lodge to have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Many excellent mid-range lodges offer clean rooms, good food, and a great atmosphere at a more reasonable price. These still contribute to the local economy and provide essential amenities.

4. Share Costs with a Group

If you're traveling with friends or family, sharing the cost of a private vehicle and accommodation can significantly reduce the per-person expense. Larger groups may also sometimes negotiate better rates with tour operators.

5. Combine Activities Wisely

Instead of booking separate, short trips, consider a well-designed itinerary that combines gorilla trekking with other attractions. For instance, a 5-day trip in Uganda might include gorilla trekking and a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering more value for your travel time and money.

6. Book Well in Advance

This is crucial for securing permits, especially during peak season. Booking permits and lodges well in advance (6-12 months) can give you more options and potentially allow you to lock in prices before any potential increases. It also ensures you get your preferred dates.

7. Look for All-Inclusive Packages

Many tour operators offer packages that include permits, accommodation, meals, and ground transport. While the upfront cost might seem higher, these packages often provide better value and simplify budgeting, as most of your expenses are covered.

8. Consider Citizen or Resident Rates (If Applicable)

If you are a resident of Uganda or Rwanda, or a citizen of East African Community countries, you can avail of significantly lower permit prices. This is a major incentive for those living in the region.

Is a Gorilla Trek Worth the Expense? My Perspective

Now that we've broken down the costs, let's address the fundamental question: is a gorilla trek worth the expense? From my experience, and from speaking with countless others who have embarked on this journey, the answer is a resounding YES.

The moment you come face-to-face with a mountain gorilla, something shifts within you. It's an experience that transcends the monetary value. Seeing a silverback guide his family, watching young gorillas play, or observing a mother tenderly care for her infant is profoundly moving. These are not zoo animals; they are wild beings in their natural, albeit protected, environment. The sheer presence and intelligence of these creatures are awe-inspiring.

Beyond the personal encounter, there’s the immense satisfaction of knowing that your trek directly contributes to the survival of this critically endangered species. Every dollar spent on permits and associated tourism goes towards protecting them from poaching, preserving their habitat, and supporting the communities that co-exist with them. This is not just a vacation; it’s an act of conservation.

The gorilla trekking experience is also about the journey itself: the challenging hikes through misty rainforests, the dedication of the guides and trackers who know the jungle intimately, and the camaraderie with fellow trekkers. It’s an adventure that tests your limits, rewards your perseverance, and leaves you with memories that last a lifetime. When you weigh the cost against the unparalleled privilege of witnessing these magnificent creatures and contributing to their future, the expense, though significant, feels entirely justified.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gorilla Trekking Costs

How much does it cost to trek gorillas in Uganda for 3 days?

A typical 3-day gorilla trekking trip in Uganda usually involves one day of travel to the park, one day of trekking, and one day of travel back. The core costs include the gorilla permit ($600 per person for foreign non-residents), park entrance fees (around $40 per day), accommodation for 1-2 nights near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and ground transportation. If you book through a tour operator for a mid-range experience, you can expect the total cost, excluding international flights, to be in the range of $1,500 to $2,500 per person. This would typically cover permits, park fees, mid-range lodge accommodation with meals, and a shared safari vehicle with a driver-guide.

The exact cost will depend on the specific lodge chosen, the quality of the vehicle, and whether you are traveling solo or with others to share costs. For a more luxurious experience with higher-end lodges, the cost could easily exceed $3,000 per person for a 3-day trip.

What is the cheapest way to trek gorillas?

The most direct way to have the cheapest gorilla trekking experience is to choose the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and trek mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park. The permit fee there is around $400, which is significantly less than in Uganda ($600) or Rwanda ($1,500). Additionally, accommodation and ground transportation in the DRC tend to be more budget-friendly. A complete trip package, including permits, basic to mid-range accommodation, and transport, might be achievable for around $1,500 to $2,000 per person. However, it is absolutely critical to underscore that the DRC presents significant safety and security considerations. Travelers must undertake extensive research on the current political climate, heed all government travel advisories, and likely use a highly reputable and experienced tour operator specializing in travel to this region. The "cheapness" of the DRC option comes with a heightened level of risk and requires a more adventurous and informed traveler.

If safety is a primary concern and the DRC is not an option, then Uganda offers the best value for money compared to Rwanda. By opting for mid-range lodges, traveling in a group to share costs, and perhaps extending your trip to combine gorilla trekking with other affordable activities within Uganda, you can manage the overall expense more effectively than opting for Rwanda's premium pricing.

Does the price of a gorilla permit include everything?

No, the price of a gorilla permit does not include everything. The permit itself is a voucher that grants you permission to spend a set amount of time (usually one hour) with a habituated gorilla family on a specific day. It covers the operational costs directly related to gorilla conservation, tracking, and monitoring, including funding rangers and research. However, it does not typically cover:

International Flights: The cost of getting to the country where you will trek. Domestic Flights: If you need to fly within the country to reach the park. Accommodation: Your lodging before and after the trek, or near the park. Ground Transportation: The cost of vehicles and drivers to get you to and from the park and around the country. Park Entrance Fees: Some parks have separate daily entrance fees in addition to the gorilla permit. In Uganda, for example, foreign non-residents pay $40 per person per day for park entry. Visas: The cost of obtaining a visa for the country you are visiting. Vaccinations and Medications: Costs associated with necessary health precautions. Travel Insurance: Essential but separate. Tips and Gratuities: For guides, trackers, porters, and lodge staff. Meals and Drinks: Unless explicitly stated as part of an all-inclusive package.

Therefore, when planning your budget, it's crucial to factor in all these additional expenses to get an accurate picture of the total cost of your gorilla trekking adventure.

Why are gorilla permits so expensive?

Gorilla permits are expensive primarily because they are a critical tool for the conservation of endangered mountain gorillas and their fragile habitats. The high cost is a strategic decision to ensure the long-term survival of these primates and to support the surrounding communities. Here’s a breakdown of why they are priced as they are:

Conservation Funding: A significant portion of the permit fee goes directly into funding anti-poaching patrols, employing and equipping park rangers, habitat restoration, and scientific research. These efforts are essential to protect gorillas from threats like poaching, habitat loss, and disease. Controlled Tourism: The high cost helps limit the number of tourists visiting the gorillas each day. Only a small number of permits are issued per gorilla family per day (typically 6-8), ensuring that the gorillas are not overwhelmed by human presence, which could cause stress and disrupt their natural behavior. This controlled approach is vital for their well-being. Community Empowerment: A percentage of the revenue from permits is often directed towards community development projects in areas surrounding national parks. This includes building schools, health clinics, and providing other essential services. By investing in local communities, conservation efforts gain local support, as people see the tangible benefits of protecting gorillas and their habitat. Economic Sustainability: The tourism revenue generated through gorilla trekking provides a sustainable economic incentive for governments and local populations to protect these areas. Without this revenue, protected areas might be more vulnerable to encroachment for agriculture or other resource extraction. Exclusivity and High-Value Tourism: Countries like Rwanda have adopted a strategy of promoting high-value, low-volume tourism. The high permit price aligns with this strategy, attracting visitors who are serious about conservation and willing to invest in an exceptional, once-in-a-lifetime experience, while ensuring that the impact on the environment and the gorillas is minimized.

In essence, the expense of a gorilla permit is an investment in the survival of a species and the health of an ecosystem. It's a price that reflects the immense effort and resources required to safeguard these magnificent animals.

Can I trek gorillas independently without a tour operator?

While it is technically possible to trek gorillas independently without booking through a tour operator, it is generally not recommended, especially for first-time visitors. The process can be extremely complex and challenging. Here’s why:

Permit Acquisition: Securing gorilla permits often requires contacting wildlife authorities directly (e.g., Uganda Wildlife Authority or Rwanda Development Board). Permits are limited and sell out months in advance, especially during peak seasons. Booking requires specific procedures and sometimes being present in the country or having local contacts. Tour operators have established channels and can often secure permits more reliably. Transportation Logistics: Independent travelers need to arrange their own reliable 4x4 transportation to and from the national parks, which are often located in remote areas with challenging road conditions. This involves finding trustworthy drivers, negotiating prices, and ensuring the vehicle is suitable for the terrain. Accommodation: You would need to research, book, and arrange transport to lodges near the park. Availability can be an issue, especially for popular lodges. Park Entry and Regulations: Navigating park entry procedures, understanding the trekking rules, and ensuring compliance can be confusing for independent travelers. Safety and Support: In case of any issues, such as vehicle breakdown or personal emergencies in remote areas, independent travelers may lack the support network that a tour operator provides.

Tour operators offer a comprehensive package that simplifies these logistical hurdles, often securing better rates on accommodation and transport due to their established relationships. They also provide invaluable local knowledge and support throughout your trip, ensuring a smoother and safer experience. The added cost of a tour operator is usually well worth the convenience, peace of mind, and expertise they bring.

If you are determined to plan independently, it requires significant research, flexibility, and potentially having contacts within the country. You would need to contact the respective wildlife authorities well in advance to inquire about permit booking procedures and then independently arrange all your ground logistics and accommodation.

Conclusion: Investing in an Unforgettable Experience and Vital Conservation

So, how expensive is a gorilla trek? It's an investment, certainly. You should be prepared for a significant financial outlay, with the gorilla permit being the most substantial single cost, ranging from $400 to $1,500 depending on your chosen destination. When you add international flights, accommodation, transportation, park fees, visas, insurance, and tips, the total cost can easily range from $1,500 to $8,000+ per person for a typical 3-5 day experience, excluding your international airfare.

However, it's crucial to view this expense not just as the cost of a vacation, but as an investment. An investment in an unparalleled wildlife encounter that will undoubtedly remain a highlight of your life. It's an investment in the vital conservation efforts that are working tirelessly to protect these magnificent, endangered creatures and their precious rainforest homes. And it’s an investment in supporting the local communities whose well-being is intrinsically linked to the success of these conservation initiatives.

Whether you choose the value of Uganda, the premium experience of Rwanda, or the adventurous, more affordable (yet riskier) option of the DRC, the journey to see gorillas is transformative. By understanding all the components that contribute to the overall cost, planning strategically, and choosing a reputable operator, you can make this dream adventure a reality. The memories you forge, the lessons you learn, and the contribution you make to safeguarding the future of mountain gorillas are, in my opinion, priceless.