Experience Uganda like never before! The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has updated its gorilla and chimpanzee permits, introducing low-season discounts, new safari activities, and revised booking rules.
Whether you are planning a bucket-list gorilla trek, a chimpanzee adventure, or a full Uganda safari, this guide ensures you know exactly what to pay, when to travel, and how to maximize your wildlife experience.
Previous UWA Tariff Rates (2024–2026)
The previous UWA tariff rates that have been affected by changes include
| SAFARI ACTIVITY | Foreign Non-Residents (USD) | Foreign Residents (USD) | Rest of Africa (USD) | East African Citizens (UGX) |
| Gorilla Trekking | 800 | 700 | 500 | 300,000 |
| Gorilla Habituation Experiences | 1,500 | 1,000 | 1,000 | 750,000 |
| Chimpanzee Tracking | 250 | 200 | – | 180,000 |
| Chimpanzee Habituation Experiences | 300 | 250 | – | 250,000 |
| Kyambura Gorge Chimpanzee Tracking | 100 | 80 | – | 50,000 |
| Lion Tracking in Queen Elizabeth Park | 200 | 150 | – | 200,000 |
| Guided Buhoma to Nkuringo Walk | 60 | 50 | – | 50,000 |
| Guided Rushaga to Nyabaremura | 60 | 50 | – | 50,000 |
NB: These tariffs were valid before February 2026.
New Low-Season Permit Rates (Apr, May, Nov 2026)
With the introduction of the low season permits starting immediately for the low season months of April, May, and November, UWA has made impressive strides to boost Uganda tours
| SAFARI ACTIVITY | Foreign Non-Residents (USD) | Foreign Residents (USD) |
| Gorilla Trekking | 600 | 500 |
| Chimpanzee Tracking | 200 | 150 |
Travel Tips:
- Best for fewer crowds and intimate wildlife experiences.
- Low-season permits cannot be rescheduled, so confirm your dates carefully.
- Savings can be redirected to luxury lodge stays or extended safari tours.
Revised Tariff Structure (Effective 1 January 2027)
Starting January 2027, the Uganda Wildlife Authority has announced new rates that will be used once the year begins, and they include
| SAFARI ACTIVITY | Foreign Non-Residents (USD) | Foreign Residents (USD) | Rest of Africa (USD) | East African Citizens (UGX) |
| Gorilla Trekking | 800 | 700 | 500 | 300,000 |
| Gorilla Habituation Experiences | 1,800 | 1,600 | 1,000 | 750,000 |
| Chimpanzee Tracking | 300 | 200 | 100 | 180,000 |
| Chimpanzee Habituation Experiences | 400 | 300 | 250 | 250,000 |
| Kyambura Gorge Chimpanzee Tracking | 200 | 150 | 100 | 50,000 |
| Golden Cat Tracking in Kibale National Park (5 DAYS) | 350 | 350 | 350 | 350,000 |
| Lion Tracking in Queen Elizabeth Park | 500 | 300 | 300 | 250,000 |
| Guided Buhoma to Nkuringo Walk | 100 | 50 | 50 | 50,000 |
| Guided Rushaga to Nyabaremura | 80 | 50 | 50 | 50,000 |
| Rhino Tracking in Ajai Reserve (Adults) | 20 | 15 | 10 | 10,000 |
| Rhino Tracking in Ajai Reserve (Children) | 5 | 5 | 3 | 2,500 |
Rwanda Gorilla Permit Comparison
| Country | Peak Gorilla Permit | Low-Season Gorilla Permit |
| Uganda | 800 USD | 600 USD |
| Rwanda | 1,500 USD | 1,000 USD |
Currently, Uganda offers more affordable gorilla trekking, particularly in the low season in East Africa.
Suspension of the 7-Day Reservation Period
- The previous system allowed a 7-day reservation without payment.
- Now, immediate payment is required, ensuring fair access and transparency.
- Reduces speculative bookings and improves tour operator planning.
Who Benefits Most?
- Budget travelers
- Safari planners booking in advance
- Tour operators packaging multi-park safaris
Gorilla Permit Pricing FAQs for Travelers
How Much Is a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda in 2026?
Under the UWA New Tariffs plus Uganda high-season and low-season discounted gorilla permit prices, high-season permits cost $800, while low-season permits cost $600 for foreign non-residents.
Where Can I Use a Uganda Gorilla Trekking Permit?
Permits are valid in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
What Is the Best Time to Book Discounted Gorilla Permits?
April, May, and November offer discounted rates and better availability, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
Are Uganda Gorilla Permits Cheaper Than Rwanda?
Yes. Uganda remains more affordable compared to Rwanda, especially during low-season discounts, with permits costing $800 in Uganda and $1,500 in Rwanda.
Do I Need a Licensed Tour Operator to Book Permits?
Yes. UWA requires foreign non-residents to book gorilla permits through licensed Uganda tour operators.
Don’t miss out on the fun in the low and high seasons of Uganda. Inquire from us, your trusted tour operators, and let us tailor the best Uganda safaris for you to create lasting memories!
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