Low Season Gorilla and Chimpanzee Permits in Uganda: April, May and November
Save on gorilla and chimpanzee permits by travelling in April, May or November, if you accept the rainy-season trade-offs.
UWA introduced discounted low season rates for gorilla and chimpanzee tracking in the months of April, May and November. They are meant to encourage travel in quieter, wetter months while keeping the quality of the primate experience the same.
This guide explains the rates, who they apply to and what to weigh up before booking a low season permit. For the wider picture, see the price change notice.
At a glance
- Months: April, May, November
- Gorilla tracking: $600 FNR, $500 FR (standard rate $800 and $700)
- Chimpanzee tracking: $200 FNR, $150 FR
- Important: Low season permits cannot be rescheduled
The Low Season Rates
As published in UWA's February 2026 letter:
| Activity | FNR (USD) | FR (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Gorilla tracking (standard) | $800 | UGX 700 |
| Gorilla tracking (low season) | $600 | UGX 500 |
| Chimpanzee tracking, Kibale (standard, printed tariff) | $250 | UGX 200 |
| Chimpanzee tracking (low season) | $200 | UGX 150 |
The letter gives low season rates for foreign non-residents and foreign residents only. These rates apply to the months, not to the day you book, so the trekking date must fall in April, May or November.
About these rates. UWA states that tariff fees are subject to change without prior notice. FNR = foreign non-resident, FR = foreign resident, ROA = rest of Africa, EAC = citizen of an East African Community member state (paid in UGX). Source: Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Conservation Tariff July 2024 to June 2026 and UWA letter ref. TDO 93/04 dated 26 February 2026.
Is Low Season Worth It?
The saving on a gorilla permit is $200 for a foreign non-resident, which is meaningful for couples and families. The trade-offs are practical: April and May are the long rains, so trails are muddier and roads slower, and November is the start of the short rains. Treks still go ahead in rain, and many travellers enjoy greener scenery and fewer visitors. Pack accordingly; see the packing list and fitness and preparation.
Because low season permits cannot be rescheduled, build a little flexibility into the rest of your trip and buy travel insurance. See best time to visit Uganda for how the seasons work.
Planning a Low Season Trip
- Choose lodges with good drainage and covered areas.
- Allow extra driving time; see driving distances.
- Pair gorilla trekking with Kibale chimpanzees to use both discounted permits.
- Remember permits must be paid in full at booking; read the notice.
Using This Page When Planning Your Uganda Safari
If you are weighing the saving against the weather, compare a low season trip with a standard one using the same itinerary. Pair it with what affects the cost of a Uganda safari, gorilla permits explained and how to book a Uganda safari.
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- Uganda Annual Park Entrance Passes for Residents and East Africans
- Uganda National Park Fees and UWA Tariff 2026-2027: Permits, Entrance and Activities
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