Introduction Choosing where to stay is an important part of planning a gorilla trekking safari…
Uganda Gorilla Trekking Permit Prices 2026: New Low-Season Rates and 2027 Changes
Introduction
If you’re planning a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, the cost of your permit is one of the first things to consider. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has introduced discounted gorilla trekking permit rates for selected low-season months in 2026. While a revised tariff structure will take effect from 1 January 2027.
These changes give travelers more options when planning their Uganda gorilla safari, especially if their dates are flexible.
Uganda Gorilla Trekking Permit Prices in 2026
For the regular 2026 rate, a gorilla trekking permit costs:
Regular 2026 Gorilla Trekking Permit Rates
| Visitor Category | Gorilla Trekking Permit |
|---|---|
| Foreign Non-Resident (FNR) | US$800 |
| Foreign Resident (FR) | US$700 |
Regular permit rates apply outside the specified low-season promotional period.
These permits are used for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
New Low-Season Gorilla Permit Rates for 2026
UWA introduced discounted rates for April, May and November to encourage travel during the quieter season
2026 Low-Season Gorilla Trekking Permit Rates
| Visitor Category | Gorilla Trekking Permit |
|---|---|
| Foreign Non-Resident (FNR) | US$600 |
| Foreign Resident (FR) | US$500 |
Low-season rates apply during April, May and November 2026.
Important Conditions for Low-Season Permits
The discounted rate comes with an important condition: low-season permits cannot be rescheduled. Travelers should therefore confirm their trekking date carefully before making payment.
UWA’s update also states that the discounted rates are intended to encourage travel during the low season while supporting Uganda’s primate conservation and visitor experience.
What Changes From January 2027?
UWA has announced a revised tariff structure taking effect on 1 January 2027.
For standard gorilla trekking, the rates are:
Gorilla Permit Rates From 1 January 2027
| Visitor Category | Gorilla Tracking | Gorilla Habituation |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign Non-Resident (FNR) | US$800 | US$1,800 |
| Foreign Resident (FR) | US$700 | US$1,600 |
| Rest of Africa (ROA) | US$500 | US$1,000 |
| East African Community (EAC) | UGX 300,000 | UGX 750,000 |
These revised rates take effect from 1 January 2027.
Should You Trek During the Low Season?
If your travel dates are flexible, the discounted months can make a significant difference to the cost of your gorilla safari.
The main advantage is the lower permit price. However, travelers should also consider the conditions of traveling during the wetter months and, most importantly, remember that discounted permits cannot be rescheduled.
How to Plan Your Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari
The permit is only one part of the total safari cost. Travelers should also consider accommodation, transportation, meals, park-related arrangements and other activities they may want to include in their Uganda itinerary.
For visitors planning their trip, Let’s Go Gorilla Uganda can help organize the safari around the preferred trekking date, accommodation style and travel plans.
For more details on current permit costs, booking, requirements, and what the permit includes, see our Gorilla Trekking Permits in Uganda guide.
