If you are planning gorilla trekking in Uganda, understanding the UWA New Tariffs plus Uganda high season and low season discounted gorilla & chimp permit prices is essential.
On 26 February 2026, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) announced major updates to conservation tariffs, low-season permit discounts, and booking procedures.
These changes directly affect gorilla trekking permits, chimpanzee tracking permits, Uganda experiences, lion tracking, guided forest walks, and new premium wildlife tracking products in parks such as:
This pillar guide breaks down everything you need to know, including previous tariffs, discounted low-season prices, revised 2027 rates, booking reforms, and a detailed Uganda vs Rwanda gorilla permit comparison.
Before the February 2026 announcement, the following conservation tariffs applied:
| Safari Activity | FNR (USD) | FR (USD) | Rest of Africa (USD) | EAC (UGX) |
| Gorilla Trekking | 800 | 700 | 500 | 300,000 |
| Gorilla Habituation Experience | 1,500 | 1,000 | 1,000 | 750,000 |
| Chimpanzee Tracking | 250 | 200 | – | 180,000 |
| Chimpanzee Habituation | 300 | 250 | – | 250,000 |
| Kyambura Gorge Chimp Tracking | 100 | 80 | – | 50,000 |
| Lion Tracking – Queen Elizabeth | 200 | 150 | – | 200,000 |
| Buhoma–Nkuringo Walk | 60 | 50 | – | 50,000 |
| Rushaga–Nyabaremura Walk | 60 | 50 | – | 50,000 |
These rates positioned Uganda as Africa’s most competitive mountain gorilla destination.
To stimulate travel during rainy months, UWA introduced structured low-season discounts.
Discounted Permit Rates
| Safari Activity | FNR (USD) | FR (USD) |
| Gorilla Trekking | 600 | 500 |
| Chimpanzee Tracking | 200 | 150 |
Important Conditions
This makes Uganda gorilla trekking permits $200 cheaper than peak season.
High Season (Peak Demand)
Best weather conditions and highest demand.
Low Season (Discount Period)
Fewer tourists, greener forests, better availability.
UWA will implement updated conservation tariffs in 2027.
| Safari Activity | FNR | FR | Rest of Africa | EAC |
| Gorilla Trekking | 800 | 700 | 500 | 300,000 |
| Gorilla Habituation | 1,800 | 1,600 | 1,000 | 750,000 |
| Chimpanzee Tracking | 300 | 200 | 100 | 180,000 |
| Chimpanzee Habituation | 400 | 300 | 250 | 250,000 |
| Kyambura Chimp Tracking | 200 | 150 | 100 | 50,000 |
| Golden Cat Tracking (5 Days) | 350 | 350 | 350 | 350,000 |
| Lion Tracking | 500 | 300 | 300 | 250,000 |
| Buhoma–Nkuringo Walk | 100 | 50 | 50 | 50,000 |
| Rushaga–Nyabaremura Walk | 80 | 50 | 50 | 50,000 |
| Rhino Tracking (Adult) | 20 | 15 | 10 | 10,000 |
| Rhino Tracking (Child) | 5 | 5 | 3 | 2,500 |
New premium wildlife experiences strengthen Uganda safari diversity.
For travelers comparing destinations, here is the key pricing difference:
| Country | Gorilla Permit Price (FNR) | Notes |
| Uganda (High Season) | $800 | Available in Bwindi & Mgahinga |
| Uganda (Low Season) | $600 | April, May, November |
| Rwanda | $1,500 | Year-round flat rate |
Rwanda’s permits are issued for trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
Cost Advantage
For families or groups, savings multiply significantly.
The following remain unchanged:
Previously, tour operators could hold permits for 7 days without payment.
Now:
This reform protects serious travelers and enhances trust in the UWA booking system.
These changes:
Uganda continues to lead Africa in affordable primate tourism.
To secure your Uganda gorilla trekking permits:
✔ Book 6–12 months ahead for high season
✔ Travel in April, May, or November for discounts
✔ Use licensed Uganda tour operators
✔ Prepare full payment immediately
High-season gorilla permits remain $800 for foreign non-residents. Low-season discounted gorilla permit prices are $600 in April, May, and November.
No. Discounted permits are non-rescheduleable and require full payment at booking.
January 1, 2027.
Yes. Uganda charges $800 (or $600 in low season) compared to Rwanda’s $1,500.
Yes. Foreign non-residents must book permits via licensed Uganda tour operators.
Inquire from us now and let us tailor the best Uganda gorilla safaris and chimpanzee tours for you to create lifelong memories in the Pearl of Africa!
Cate
Samuel
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