The Uganda Wildlife Authority has just announced the introduction of discounted low season chimpanzee and gorilla trekking permits. We are proud to share that the discounted low season rates are only applicable in the months of April, May and November, starting this year. This implies that they are effective immediately. The new rates are as follows,
| Activity | Foreign nonresident ($) | Foreign resident ($) |
| Gorilla tracking | 600 | 500 |
| Chimpanzee tracking | 200 | 150 |
Unfortunately, they are not reschedulable like other gorilla and chimpanzee permits. Also it is important to know that the Uganda Wildlife Authority suspended the 7-day reservation period. This started from March 1, 2026. Therefore, at the moment you can only acquire a discounted chimpanzee and gorilla trekking permit after full payment at the time of book.
Why introduction of discounted low season chimpanzee and gorilla trekking permits?
The new rates are designed to encourage visitors to do the amazing gorilla and chimpanzee trekking tours during the low season. Remember during the low season, the gorilla and chimpanzee destinations are quieter due to lower visitor numbers in Uganda. Coincidentally low seasons occur during the wet season in Uganda. This however ensures that visitors experience challenging but rewarding trekking tours through the dense forest vegetation.
Meanwhile offering discounted low season chimpanzee and gorilla trekking permits ensures that the experiences remain exceptional and well-supported. This is because discounted low season chimpanzee and gorilla trekking permits ensures that more people visit the destinations during this period. While visitors enjoy more intimate and peaceful encounters with gorillas and chimpanzees, the country generates consistent revenue. This is for conservation of the primates and their habitats while enhancing community development initiatives.
Where is chimpanzee and gorilla trekking done during the low season?
During the low season, Uganda offers gorilla trekking tours in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Meanwhile chimpanzee trekking during the low season is offered in Kibale National Park and Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The National Forest Authority also offers chimpanzee trekking tours in Budongo, Bugoma and Kalinzu Forests, even in the low season. These however do not have discounted low season chimpanzee trekking permits.
How gorilla tracking is done in the low season?
With your discounted gorilla trekking permit you will have to be at the trailhead before 8:00 am. Attend a brief meeting where the ranger offers rules and regulations of gorilla tracking in the forest. With experienced ranger guides, enter the dense forest and follow gorilla trails to track a habituated gorilla family. The gorillas are allowed to be viewed for 1 hour upon encounter in the forest. Return to the trailhead to be debriefed. The entire tour takes 2-6 hours.
How chimpanzee tracking is done in the low season?
Arrive at the visitor center/trailhead with your discounted chimpanzee permit. Briefing will happen with the ranger explaining the rules and regulations to follow for a successful chimp trek. Follow the ranger guide as you search for a habituated chimpanzee community. Only 1 hour is allowed for you to be in the presence of the chimpanzees. Return to the starting point for debriefing. The entire adventure takes 2-4 hours.
Cost of chimpanzee and gorilla trekking permits?
In Uganda, the current rates for the ordinary permits are different from the discounted chimpanzee and gorilla trekking permits. These are presented below,
| Activity | Foreign nonresident ($) | Foreign resident ($) | Rest of Africa ($) | East African Community (UGX) |
| Gorilla trekking | 800 | 700 | 500 | 300,000 |
| Chimpanzee trekking (Kibale National Park) | 250 | 200 | 180,000 | |
| Chimpanzee trekking (Kyambura Gorge) | 100 | 80 | 50,000 |
However, starting January 1, 2027, the revised rates for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits by the Uganda Wildlife Authority will be,
| Activity | Foreign nonresident ($) | Foreign resident ($) | Rest of Africa ($) | East African Community (UGX) |
| Gorilla trekking | 800 | 700 | 500 | 300,000 |
| Chimpanzee trekking (Kibale National Park) | 300 | 200 | 100 | 180,000 |
| Chimpanzee trekking (Kyambura Gorge) | 200 | 150 | 100 | 50,000 |
What to pack during low season chimpanzee and gorilla trekking?
As you purchase your discounted low season chimpanzee and gorilla trekking permits, you must ensure to pack appropriately for the trips. Carry waterproof, breathable gear to protect you from mud and rain water. These should include, light rain jacket, long sleeved shirts, pair of trousers, hiking gloves, wool sweater and hiking boots. Also you will need insect repellent, first aid kit, camera, binoculars, hut and gaiters among others.
