When to Book a Uganda Safari for 2026 and 2027: Permits, Lodges and Timing
Book earlier for gorilla trekking and peak months; low season leaves more flexibility, but permits cannot be moved.
Book as early as you can if gorilla trekking is part of your trip. Gorilla permits are limited, and the best lodges sell out in peak months. In general, plan 3 to 6 months ahead for peak season (June to September and December to February).
Since 1 March 2026 UWA no longer allows 7-day payment-free permit holds, so permits are secured by full payment; see the permit notice.
At a glance
- Peak season: June to September, December to February
- Lead time: 3 to 6 months for gorilla permits in peak season
- Low season: April, May, November: lower permit rates
- Payment: Permits are paid in full at booking
A Simple Booking Timeline
- 6 to 12 months out: decide dates and routes; read best time to visit Uganda.
- 3 to 6 months out: confirm gorilla permits and lodges for peak dates.
- 2 to 3 months out: flights, visas and insurance; see entry requirements.
- 1 month out: vaccinations, packing; see packing list.
Peak vs Low Season
Peak months bring drier weather and easier trails. Low season (April, May, November) has lower permit rates for gorilla ($600 and $500) and chimpanzee tracking ($200 and $150), but permits cannot be rescheduled. See low season permits.
2026 and 2027 Pricing Changes
UWA announced a revised tariff from 1 January 2027; standard gorilla tracking stays at $800 for foreign non-residents while habituation and some chimpanzee rates rise. Read the full UWA tariff guide.
How to Start
Follow how to book a Uganda safari, compare gorilla packages and ask us for availability.
Ready to plan? Tell us your dates, compare Uganda safari packages or return to the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda safaris homepage.
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- Plan your safari with our team
Itineraries That Include This Experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Uganda Safari Pages
- How to Book a Uganda Safari with Ameera Africa Safaris
- Uganda Gorilla Permits Explained
- Best Time to Visit Uganda: A Month-by-Month Safari Guide
- Wildlife You Can See on a Uganda Safari: Primates, Big Game, Birds and More
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- Uganda Travel Guide: Practical Planning for Your Safari
Ready to Plan Your Uganda Safari?
Tell us your dates, group size and interests and our Kampala team will reply with a clear, personal itinerary.
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