Travellers planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda should be aware of two recent updates from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
First, new discounted permits have been introduced and are available immediately for booking. Second, some permit prices will increase from 1 January 2027. For travellers planning ahead, these changes create an opportunity to take advantage of lower permit prices – but they also highlight why securing permits early is so important.
As Africa travel specialists who regularly arrange gorilla trekking journeys for our clients, here is a clear breakdown of what has changed and what it means for your travel plans.
New Low-Season Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permits
Effective immediately for new permit purchases!
The UWA has introduced discounted low-season permits designed to encourage travel during quieter months. These permits are available for trekking during April, May and November in 2026 and 2027.
New Low-Season Permit Prices
- Gorilla Trekking Permit: USD 600
- Chimpanzee Trekking Permit – Kibale National Park: USD 200
These permits are available for booking immediately for travel during the specified months. For travellers who are flexible with timing, this represents excellent value. For example, a couple travelling together could save USD 400 on gorilla trekking permits alone. However, there is one important condition to be aware of: Low-season permits cannot be rescheduled! These discounted permits are designed specifically to stimulate travel during Uganda’s quieter months, so they come with stricter booking conditions than standard permits.
For travellers comfortable committing to fixed dates, however, they provide a fantastic opportunity to experience one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife encounters at a lower cost.
Permit Price Changes from 1 January 2027
Separately, the UWA has also announced updated permit pricing that will come into effect from 1 January 2027.
Gorilla Trekking Permits
- Gorilla Trekking Permit: USD 800
(No change to the current price.)
Uganda will therefore continue to offer one of the most competitively priced gorilla trekking permits in East Africa.
Chimpanzee & Habituation Permits (New 2027 Pricing)
- Kyambura Chimpanzee Permit: USD 200 (currently USD 100)
- Kibale Chimpanzee Permit: USD 300 (currently USD 250)
- Chimpanzee Habituation Experience in Kibale National Park: USD 400 (currently USD 300)
- Gorilla Habituation Experience – Kisoro: USD 1,800 (currently USD 1,500)
These updated rates apply from 1 January 2027 onwards.
Important: Permit Prices Are Based on Purchase Date
One detail that many travellers don’t realise is that permit pricing is based on the purchase date, not the trekking date.
This means:
- Permits purchased before 1 January 2027 will be charged at the current prices, even if the trekking takes place in 2027.
- Permits purchased on or after 1 January 2027 will be charged at the new rates.
For travellers planning ahead, this makes early permit reservations particularly worthwhile, especially for chimpanzee trekking or habituation experiences where prices will increase.
Why Gorilla Permits Are Limited
Gorilla trekking is one of the most carefully managed wildlife experiences in the world. Mountain gorillas remain endangered, and strict visitor limits help protect them from stress and disease. Each habituated gorilla family can only be visited by eight trekkers per day, accompanied by experienced rangers and trackers.
Once located, visitors are allowed one hour with the gorillas, observing them quietly in their natural habitat. This controlled system ensures a remarkable and intimate experience while maintaining strong conservation protections.
Expert Tips for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Because our team regularly plans gorilla trekking trips for clients, we’re often asked how to prepare for the experience. Here are a few practical tips.
- Be Prepared for a Proper Trek
The forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are rugged and densely vegetated. Treks can last anywhere from one hour to several hours depending on where the gorillas have moved overnight. A moderate level of fitness helps ensure you can fully enjoy the experience. - Hire a Porter
Hiring a porter at the start of your trek is one of the best decisions you can make. Porters assist with bags, provide support on steep terrain and make the trek much easier. The small fee also directly benefits local communities surrounding the national park. - Protect Your Camera
Flash photography is not permitted when viewing gorillas. A waterproof cover or dry bag helps protect camera gear in the rainforest environment, and a zoom lens is useful since the gorillas may be surprisingly close. - Wear the Right Gear
The rainforest environment can be muddy and humid. We recommend packing:
– Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
– Long trousers and long sleeves
– A lightweight rain jacket
– Gloves for grabbing vegetation
– A small backpack with water and snacks
 Is Low-Season Gorilla Trekking Worth It?
Many travellers assume that visiting during the rainy months means a worse experience, but that isn’t necessarily the case. April, May and November can see more rainfall, but the forest is incredibly lush and gorilla sightings remain excellent. In fact, lower visitor numbers often make the trekking experience feel more personal and exclusive. Combined with the new discounted permits, these months are becoming increasingly attractive for travellers looking for both value and availability.
Planning Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure
Gorilla trekking is one of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters in Africa, but it requires careful planning. Permits are limited, logistics into Uganda can be complex, and combining gorilla trekking with chimpanzee trekking or a safari elsewhere in East Africa can create an unforgettable journey. With new low-season permits available immediately and price changes coming in 2027, now is an excellent time to start planning ahead and secure the permits that will make your gorilla trekking adventure possible.
Contact our Africa experts today to start planning your Uganda gorilla trekking adventure today!
