Low Season Uganda Gorilla Permit Discounts (UWA Tariffs Changes 2026/2027)
Uganda has announced important updates to its wildlife permit prices. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has revised conservation fees for key primate activities. At the same time, it has introduced attractive low season gorilla permit discounts in Uganda. For anyone planning a Uganda safari, this is big and exciting news.
These Changes Are Very Important
Permit costs are a major part of every Uganda safari budget.
The new structure affects when you should travel and how much you will spend. Smart travelers can now save money by choosing the right months. Uganda is also expanding its wildlife experiences. New activities like golden cat tracking in Kibale National Park and rhino tracking in Ajai Wildlife Reserve bring fresh energy to the safari scene. These are unique, conservation-focused adventures for curious wildlife lovers. At Greenway Nature Tours, we have studied the new UWA tariffs carefully. Below is a simple, clear guide to what has changed, and what it means for your next Uganda adventure.
Key Highlights of the UWA Tariff Update
One of the biggest surprises is that the standard high-season gorilla permit remains at USD 800. Many people expected the price to rise, but the Uganda Wildlife Authority has kept it unchanged. However, several other wildlife experiences have become more expensive. The most noticeable increases affect gorilla habituation, chimpanzee habituation, chimp tracking in Kyambura Gorge, and experiential lion tracking.
At the same time, UWA is moving strongly toward conservation-focused tourism. The launch of golden cat tracking and rhino tracking in Ajai Wildlife Reserve shows a clear shift toward research-based wildlife experiences. For travelers who want something unique and meaningful, this is an exciting development.
Low Season Discounts on Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permits
One of the most exciting updates is the introduction of low season permit discounts. These special rates apply during the quieter months of April, May, and November. The good news is that the discounts are effective immediately, so travelers can take advantage right away.
Discounted Low Season Gorilla Tracking Permits
- Foreign Non-Residents: USD 600
- Foreign Residents: USD 500
This is a substantial saving compared to the usual USD 800 rate.
Discounted Chimpanzee Tracking Permits
- Foreign Non-Residents: USD 200
- Foreign Residents: USD 150
These reduced prices are meant to encourage travel during the wetter months when the parks are less crowded.
Important Note: Low season permits cannot be rescheduled, so make sure your travel dates are confirmed before booking.
When Do the Revised Rates Start?
In February 2026, UWA Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi confirmed the timeline for the new rates.
- Discounted permits: Effective immediately
- Revised standard tariffs: Effective 1 January 2027
This clarification is important because earlier announcements suggested a different date. Travelers still have time to book at the current rates before the changes take effect in 2027.
Discounted Chimpanzee Tracking Permits
For standard gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks, there is good news: prices stay the same. The permits remain affordable and competitive compared to neighboring Rwanda.
Standard Gorilla Permit Prices:
- Foreign Non-Residents: USD 800
- Foreign Residents: USD 700
- Rest of Africa: USD 500
- East African Citizens: UGX 300,000
Gorilla Habituation Experience Sees an Increase
The gorilla habituation experience, a rare and exclusive adventure, now costs more. This four-hour encounter with a semi-habituated gorilla family is immersive and unforgettable.
New Gorilla Habituation Prices (from 2027):
- Foreign Non-Residents: USD 1,800 (+USD 300)
- Foreign Residents: USD 1,600 (+USD 600)
- Rest of Africa: USD 1,000
- East Africans: UGX 750,000
Despite the rise, this remains a once-in-a-lifetime experience for wildlife lovers.
Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale — Slight Increase
Chimp trekking in Kibale National Park has a modest price update, still excellent value for one of Africa’s top primate destinations.
Kibale Chimp Tracking Prices:
- Foreign Non-Residents: USD 300 (+USD 50)
- Foreign Residents: USD 200 (no change)
- Rest of Africa: USD 100
- East Africans: UGX 180,000
Kyambura Gorge — Steeper Price Increase
Kyambura Gorge, home to a smaller chimpanzee population, has seen significant fee increases to support conservation efforts.
Kyambura Chimp Tracking Prices:
- Foreign Non-Residents: USD 200 (previously USD 100)
- Foreign Residents: USD 150 (previously USD 80)
- Rest of Africa: USD 100
- East Africans: UGX 50,000
Golden Cat Tracking — A New Experience
Kibale National Park now offers golden cat tracking, a specialist, research-led wildlife activity. The elusive African golden cat is rarely seen, making this a premium adventure for serious wildlife enthusiasts.
Golden Cat Tracking (5-Day Experience):
- Foreign Non-Residents: USD 350
- Foreign Residents: USD 350
- Rest of Africa: USD 350
- East Africans: UGX 350,000
Experiential Lion Tracking — Significant Update
Lion tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park, offered in partnership with the Uganda Carnivore Programme, has grown in popularity. The fees reflect the hands-on and immersive nature of this experience.
New Lion Tracking Prices:
- Foreign Non-Residents: USD 500 (+USD 300)
- Foreign Residents: USD 300
- Rest of Africa: USD 300
- East Africans: UGX 250,000
Rhino Tracking in Ajai Wildlife Reserve
Ajai Wildlife Reserve now offers rhino tracking, a new and affordable conservation-focused activity. In 2025, white rhinos were translocated from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, marking a major step in restoring their historic range.
Ajai Rhino Tracking Prices:
- Foreign Non-Residents: Adults USD 20, Children USD 5
- Foreign Residents: Adults USD 15, Children USD 5
- Rest of Africa: Adults USD 10, Children USD 3
- East Africans: Adults UGX 10,000, Children UGX 2,500
Low Season Discounts — A Smart Opportunity
Uganda now offers low season discounts for gorilla and chimpanzee permits during April, May, and November. This is a great way to save while enjoying quieter forests and greener scenery.
Discounted Low Season Gorilla Permits:
- Foreign Non-Residents: USD 600 (save USD 200)
- Foreign Residents: USD 500 (save USD 200)
Discounted Chimpanzee Tracking Permits:
- Foreign Non-Residents: USD 200 (save USD 100)
- Foreign Residents: USD 150 (save USD 50)
These discounts encourage travel during off-peak months when crowds are lower, and lodges are less busy. Important: low season permits cannot be rescheduled, so travelers should confirm their dates carefully before booking.
Why the Low Season is Worth Considering
Many travelers worry about rain, but the low season offers real benefits:
Advantages:
- Fewer tourists for a more private experience
- Lush green landscapes for stunning photos
- Easier availability of permits and accommodations
- Lower lodge and tour prices
Challenges:
- Trails may be muddy
- Occasional rain showers
- Treks may take slightly longer
Even with rain, wildlife viewing remains excellent. Mountain gorillas and chimpanzees can be spotted year-round. Many experienced travelers prefer the low season for the peaceful, intimate encounters.
Planning Ahead — Beat the 2027 Increase
Travelers also have the option to book now, before the 2027 increases take effect. Gorilla habituation, Kyambura chimp tracking, and lion tracking are the experiences most affected. Early booking guarantees current rates and secures permits during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Uganda continues to shine as one of Africa’s top primate destinations. The new UWA tariff structure reflects a balance between conservation funding and visitor experience. The expansion of specialist activities, like golden cat and rhino tracking, shows the country’s commitment to wildlife research and responsible tourism.
The introduction of low season discounts is particularly exciting. It allows smart travelers to enjoy world-class wildlife encounters at excellent value. Whether you choose to travel in the low season for savings or book early before 2027, there’s never been a better time to plan a Uganda safari.
At Greenway Nature Tours, we are ready to guide you every step of the way. Contact us to plan your ultimate primate adventure and take full advantage of these new UWA rates.
Our Best Safaris In Uganda
Talk To a friendly team
Africa Safaris
Safaris By Type
Top Safari Parks
Help & Info
- About us
- Travel Blog
- Travel FAQS
- Gorilla Permits Bookings
- Contact Us
- Pay Online