Understanding Uganda’s Revised Primate Permit Tariffs 2027 | Revised Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit Rates
Uganda’s primate tourism is evolving with the introduction of discounted low-season permits and the official rollout of the Revised Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit Rates that will guide pricing from 2027 onward. These changes strengthen conservation funding, improve transparency in the booking system and ensure Uganda remains one of the most rewarding destinations for primate tracking. For travelers planning a safari, this is the ideal moment to understand how the new permit structure affects future gorilla and chimpanzee adventures.
Why the Revised Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit Rates Matter for Travelers
The announcement of the Revised Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit Rates comes alongside new low-season discounts that give visitors a more flexible way to explore Uganda’s primate destinations. During April, May and November, gorilla trekking permits are now offered at 600 USD for foreign non-residents and 500 USD for foreign residents, while chimpanzee permits in the same period drop to 200 USD and 150 USD. These discounted months bring cooler weather, fewer crowds and greener forests, allowing travelers to enjoy more intimate encounters with primates.
Although low-season permits cannot be rescheduled, they offer the same high-quality ranger-guided experience and contribute directly to wildlife protection. The combination of seasonal discounts and revised tariff planning gives visitors more control over when and how they trek Uganda’s mountain gorillas and wild chimpanzees.
Where the Revised Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit Rates Apply in Uganda
The Revised Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit Rates apply to Uganda’s top primate destinations, each offering its own unique landscape and wildlife encounters. Gorilla trekking remains rooted in the ancient forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and the volcanic scenery of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi hosts nearly half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, with sectors such as Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga and Nkuringo giving travelers access to multiple habituated families.
For chimpanzee lovers, the prime destination continues to be Kibale National Park, home to one of the highest densities of chimps in East Africa. Visitors can also track chimps in Kyambura Gorge inside Queen Elizabeth National Park, where the steep underground rainforest forms a breathtaking setting that photographers and nature enthusiasts treasure. These destinations all benefit from improved tariff clarity and seasonal affordability, helping travelers design more personalized itineraries.
What Changes Under the Revised Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit Rates in 2027
Beginning 1 January 2027, the Revised Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit Rates will officially come into effect. Gorilla trekking permits will increase to 800 USD for foreign non-residents and 700 USD for foreign residents. The specialized gorilla habituation experience, which allows up to four hours with a semi-habituated family, will rise to 1,800 USD. Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale will be priced at 300 USD, while chimpanzee habituation will reach 400 USD.
Revised Tariff Structure Summary
| SN | ACTIVITY | Foreign Non-residents (USD) | Foreign Residents (USD) | Other Africans (USD) | East Africans (UGX) |
| 1 | Gorilla Tracking | 800 | 700 | 500 | 300,000 |
| 2 | Gorilla Habituation | 1,800 | 1,600 | 1,000 | 750,000 |
| 3 | Chimpanzee Tracking (KNP) | 300 | 200 | 100 | 180,000 |
| 4 | Chimpanzee Habituation | 400 | 300 | 250 | 250,000 |
| 5 | Chimpanzee Tracking (Kyambura) | 200 | 150 | 100 | 50,000 |
| 6 | Rhino Tracking, Ajai – Adults
Children |
20
5 |
15
5 |
10
3 |
10,000
2,500 |
| 7 | Experiential Lion Tracking | 500 | 300 | 300 | 250,000 |
| 8 | Golden Cat Tracking in KNP for 5 days | 350 | 350 | 350 | 350,000 |
| 9 | Guided Walks:
Rushaga to Nyabaremura Buhoma to Nkuringo |
80 100 |
50 50 |
50 50 |
50,000 50,000 |
These changes by UWA support long-term conservation investment, including ranger salaries, security, forest patrols and community programs that protect Uganda’s wildlife. By understanding the revised tariff structure early, travelers can choose whether to take advantage of current rates or plan ahead for 2027 and beyond.
How Booking Will Change After the Removal of the Seven-Day Reservation Window
Alongside the Revised Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit Rates, Uganda Wildlife Authority has suspended the traditional seven-day reservation window. Effective 1 March 2026, permits can no longer be held without payment. Instead, a booking is confirmed only upon full payment. This update improves fairness, ensures real-time permit availability and makes it easier for travelers to secure their preferred trekking dates without unexpected cancellation conflicts.
The new system gives travelers a more transparent experience, especially during high-demand months when gorilla and chimpanzee permits sell out quickly. It also helps tour operators plan efficiently and avoid booking bottlenecks.
Plan Your Safari with Engabi Tours and Travel
With the Revised Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit Rates and the introduction of low-season discounts, this is the perfect moment to plan your primate safari in Uganda. Engabi Tours and Travel is fully prepared to help you secure your permits, arrange accommodation, organize transport and design a safari itinerary that captures the heart of Uganda’s stunning wildlife destinations.
If you are ready to book your gorilla or chimpanzee permit and begin planning your journey, CONTACT US today. Your primate adventure starts the moment you reach out to us.
