UWA NEW TARIFFS PLUS UGANDA HIGH SEASON AND LOW SEASON DISCOUNTED GORILLA & CHIMPANZEE PERMIT PRICES (PLAN SMARTER FOR 2026–2027)

If you are planning a Uganda safari, you must understand the UWA New Tariffs, plus Uganda’s high season and low season discounted gorilla and chimpanzee permit prices before booking.

On 26th February 2026, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), led by Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi, announced discounted low-season permits, revised conservation tariffs, and a major booking system change.

These updates affect gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, habituation experiences, lion tracking, golden cat tracking, rhino tracking, and guided walks across Uganda’s national parks.

If you want the best value for your safari budget, timing your visit correctly now matters more than ever.

Key Takeaways for Safari Travelers

• Low-season gorilla permits are now $600 (FNR) in April, May & November.
• Chimpanzee tracking reduced to $200 (FNR) during low season
• Peak season gorilla permits remain $800 (FNR).
• Gorilla habituation increases to $1,800 (FNR) from January 2027.
• Lion tracking in QENP rises to $500 (FNR).
• 7-day reservation window removed instant payment required
• Low-season permits cannot be rescheduled

Uganda High Season vs Low Season Gorilla and Chimpanzee Permit Prices 

Uganda’s gorilla trekking takes place mainly in:

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Uganda’s chimpanzee tracking takes place in:

• Kibale National Park
• Kyambura Gorge near Queen Elizabeth National Park

Previous Gorilla and Chimpanzee Permit

New Discounted Low-Season Gorilla and Chimpanzee Permit Rates (Effective April, May & November)

Important Booking Rule

Low-season permits:

• Must be paid immediately
• Cannot be rescheduled
• Are strictly valid within April, May, and November

This pricing strategy increases accessibility while supporting conservation and anti-poaching operations.

Previous Tariff Structure (June 2024–June 2026)

Revised Tariff Structure (Effective 1 January 2027)

Elimination of the 7-Day Reservation Window (Effective 1 March 2026) 

Previously, operators could reserve permits for 7 days without payment. Many blocked inventories without confirmed clients.

New Rule

• Gorilla and Chimpanzee permits are only secured upon payment.
• No speculative booking
• Immediate confirmation

Why This Matters for You

• Faster booking confirmation
• Greater fairness
• Better availability for serious travelers

Embark on your Uganda trip now for a thrilling gorilla trekking and chimpanzee trekking at discounted rates in the low season.

Browse through UWA’s updated tariffs and the new introduced activities like golden cat tracking in Kibale National Park so book now to make unforgettable memories.