Low Season Gorilla Trekking Permits in Uganda (USD 600) | Book Your Safari for April, May & November
Low Season Gorilla Trekking Permits in Uganda – 2026/2027 Rates and Booking Guide
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a globally recognized and sought-after wildlife experience, attracting travelers from around the world to witness the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The activity is available year-round, but the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has introduced discounted low season rates for April, May, and November, making this an ideal time to embark on your gorilla trekking adventure while enjoying significant savings.
These special rates aim to encourage travel during the off-peak months when tourism is slower, allowing more visitors to experience the magic of Uganda’s forests without the crowding often associated with the high season. For travelers looking for an affordable yet extraordinary experience, the low season offers an excellent opportunity to trek the endangered mountain gorillas while benefiting from reduced costs and maintaining the same world-class experience.
With low season permits priced at USD 600 for foreign non-residents (FNR), this is a cost-effective way to experience one of the most exceptional wildlife encounters in Africa. Foreign residents (FR) can enjoy even further savings, with their permits priced at USD 500.
The low season permits are only valid during April, May, and November, and they cannot be rescheduled. This makes early planning even more important to secure your preferred dates and ensure availability.
If you’re looking to plan an unforgettable gorilla trekking safari with reduced prices, the low season months offer the perfect opportunity to visit Uganda at a more affordable rate while still enjoying a premium wildlife experience.
What Are the New Low Season Rates for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?
In an effort to promote travel during the low season, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has introduced discounted permit rates for gorilla trekking that apply to the months of April, May, and November. These new rates make gorilla trekking in Uganda more accessible, while maintaining the high quality of the experience and contributing to ongoing conservation efforts.
Updated Permit Rates for 2026:
- Foreign Non-Residents (FNR): USD 600
- Foreign Residents (FR): USD 500
These rates are a significant reduction from the standard peak season rates of USD 700 for foreign non-residents. The new discounted rates are available exclusively during the low season months, April, May, and November. The low season offers travelers the opportunity to enjoy the incredible mountain gorillas of Uganda without the high-season price tag, making it an ideal option for budget-conscious travelers or those seeking a quieter, more exclusive experience.
Why the Price Reduction?
This move by UWA is designed to stimulate tourism during Uganda’s low travel seasons, when demand for permits typically decreases. By offering discounted permits, UWA is also helping to spread out tourism throughout the year, ensuring that visitors can enjoy a high-quality experience even during off-peak months. The permit prices are structured to maintain the sustainability of the gorilla trekking program, with all proceeds going directly toward conservation, habitat protection, and community development around the national parks.
Low Season Benefits:
- Less Crowding: With fewer visitors during the low season, the trekking experience is more peaceful and intimate, allowing for more personal interactions with the gorillas and the surrounding nature.
- Better Availability: Due to the reduced number of travelers, there’s a better chance of securing permits during the low season months. Availability during the high season is often limited, especially during peak months such as June, July, and August.
- More Favorable Rates: The discounted rates provide a more cost-effective option for travelers who want to experience the incredible gorilla trekking adventure without paying the peak-season prices.
However, it is important to note that low season permits are only valid during the months of April, May, and November. Additionally, these permits cannot be rescheduled once booked, so it is crucial to secure your travel plans and permits early to avoid any inconvenience.
The low season for gorilla trekking in Uganda is the perfect time to visit for those looking to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience at a reduced cost. With the new permit rates at USD 600 for foreign non-residents (FNR) and USD 500 for foreign residents (FR), travelers can enjoy a discounted price without compromising the quality of the experience. The reduced rates, along with the peaceful, less-crowded environment of the low season, make April, May, and November the ideal months for anyone wishing to trek gorillas in Uganda’s breathtaking national parks.
Benefits of Trekking Gorillas in the Low Season
While Uganda is a fantastic year-round destination for gorilla trekking, the low season spanning the months of April, May and November offers unique advantages that make it an ideal time for a visit.
Fewer Crowds: A More Intimate Experience with the Gorillas
One of the most significant benefits of visiting Uganda during the low season is the reduced number of tourists. With fewer visitors in the parks, trekking groups tend to be smaller, which allows for a more intimate and personal experience with the mountain gorillas.
This lower volume of tourists also means there are fewer vehicles on the road and fewer groups in the forest. You’ll have more time and space to observe the gorillas without feeling rushed, and the experience will feel more authentic and exclusive.
Lush Green Forests: A More Vibrant Landscape
The low season coincides with the rainy season, which brings lush greenery to Uganda’s forests. While it may rain occasionally, the beauty of the landscape during these months is unmatched. The forests in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are especially vibrant, with an abundance of fresh foliage, flowering plants, and a rich array of colors.
This lushness not only makes the forest more picturesque, but it also creates an energetic atmosphere that’s often missing in the drier months when the landscape can appear parched and less alive.
In addition, this period attracts an abundance of wildlife. The rainy season means the forest is brimming with life, and chimpanzees, monkeys, and various birds are more visible during this period. For nature lovers, this is a prime time to experience the vibrant flora and fauna of Uganda’s rainforest.
More Flexible Dates: Greater Availability of Permits
Another benefit of the low season is better availability of permits. With fewer visitors traveling during April, May, and November, there is a greater likelihood that you’ll secure your preferred trekking dates.
During the high season (June to October), permits for gorilla trekking in Uganda can be difficult to obtain due to high demand. In contrast, during the low season, permits are often more readily available, giving you more flexibility when planning your trip.
For a Quieter, More Exclusive Experience
For travelers seeking a quieter, more exclusive experience, the low season offers the perfect solution. The reduced number of visitors allows you to trek in a more peaceful environment without the crowds and noise often associated with high season travel. The serenity of the low season also enhances the experience of being in the forest, providing a more personal and tranquil connection with the mountain gorillas.
In summary, visiting Uganda for gorilla trekking in the low season provides a unique set of benefits:
- Fewer crowds for a more intimate and peaceful trekking experience.
- Lush, vibrant landscapes that make the forest come alive.
- Better availability of permits for greater flexibility in planning.
- A quieter, more exclusive environment to observe and connect with the gorillas.
What’s Included in Your Low Season Gorilla Trekking Permit
The USD 600 low season permit grants access to the gorilla trekking experience in Uganda’s top gorilla trekking locations: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This permit includes a range of services and contributions that ensure a well-organized and high-quality trekking experience.
Here’s what’s included in the permit:
Guided Trekking Experience
Upon arrival at the park, you’ll be paired with a professional park guide and ranger, who will lead you through the forest on a guided trekking experience. The guide will be familiar with the forest’s pathways and the chimpanzees’ behavior, ensuring your safety and offering insights into the surrounding flora and fauna.
Guides and rangers are also trained to interpret chimpanzee behavior, so they can explain what you’re witnessing during the tracking, enriching the experience.
1-Hour with the Gorillas
Once the gorillas are located, you’ll spend one hour observing them in their natural habitat. This is the core of the experience, as it allows you to witness their behaviors up close, including their social interactions, feeding habits, and movement through the dense forest.
This one-hour encounter is strictly controlled to minimize stress on the gorillas, and is one of the most sought-after experiences in the world.
Park Fees
The permit price also includes entry fees to the park, which contribute directly to the conservation efforts for the gorillas and other wildlife in the area. These fees go toward:
- Maintaining the park infrastructure
- Supporting wildlife conservation projects
- Funding community-based initiatives surrounding the parks
Conservation Contributions
A portion of the permit fee supports genuine conservation programs that ensure the survival of the mountain gorillas and their habitat. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has been a key player in the successful recovery of the mountain gorilla population, and these funds help to protect the gorillas’ natural habitat and contribute to efforts to increase the population.
Gorilla trekking permits play a crucial role in conservation efforts and are a key part of ensuring the survival of this endangered species for future generations.
Where To Trek Gorillas in Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – The Leading Gorilla Trekking Destination
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is Uganda’s premier location for gorilla trekking, with the largest population of mountain gorillas in the world. Home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, Bwindi is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a global icon for gorilla conservation.
Bwindi is divided into four main trekking sectors:
- Rushaga
- Buhoma
- Ruhija
- Nkuringo
Each sector offers a unique experience, with varying landscapes, hiking difficulty levels, and gorilla families. Trekking through Bwindi’s dense forest provides an unforgettable, immersive experience, where you’ll witness mountain gorillas in their natural environment.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – A More Exclusive Trekking Experience
Located in the southwestern corner of Uganda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is part of the larger Virunga Massif, which spans Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mgahinga is smaller than Bwindi but is equally vital to the conservation of mountain gorillas.
The park is home to a smaller number of gorillas, which allows for a more exclusive and intimate trekking experience. The scenic landscape of Mgahinga, with its volcanic hills and rolling grasslands, adds a layer of beauty to the trekking experience.
Mgahinga offers a more tranquil and exclusive trek compared to Bwindi, making it an ideal choice for those looking to avoid large crowds.
How To Book Your Low Season Gorilla Permit
How to Secure Your Gorilla Trekking Permit
Booking a gorilla trekking permit for Uganda is an essential part of planning your trip. Permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and can only be purchased through licensed tour operators like Nextgen Safaris. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to secure your low season permit for gorilla trekking in Uganda:
1. Book Through a Licensed Tour Operator
To secure your permit, it must be purchased through a licensed tour operator. Working with a tour operator like Nextgen Safaris ensures that your booking is confirmed in advance, and the process runs smoothly. Licensed operators can manage all aspects of your trekking experience, including arranging accommodation, transportation, and expert guides.
- For Foreign Non-Residents (FNR), the low season rate is USD 600.
- For Foreign Residents (FR), the permit rate is USD 500.
Permits are issued for April, May, and November, with specific dates available for booking. We recommend booking your permits early, especially if you have a preferred trekking sector or a specific travel window in mind.
2. Reserve Early
While the low season generally means less crowding, it’s still highly advisable to book your permits well in advance, particularly for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which are the most popular trekking destinations in Uganda.
In the high season (June to October), permits are often fully booked months in advance, but by reserving early during the low season, you increase the chances of securing your preferred dates and trekking sectors. Popular sectors like Rushaga and Nkuringo (in Bwindi) can sell out quickly.
Booking your permit in advance also ensures that your travel plans run smoothly, and you won’t have to worry about availability during your trip.
3. Payment
Once your permit has been reserved through your licensed tour operator, a deposit is typically required to confirm your booking. The deposit amount varies depending on the tour operator’s policy but usually ranges between 30% to 50% of the total cost.
The balance is due prior to the trek (usually 30 days before departure), which gives you time to finalize your plans.
Booking your permit early and paying your deposit promptly ensures a seamless trekking experience and guarantees that you are booked for your selected trekking dates.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
When is the Best Time to Trek Gorillas?
The best time to trek gorillas in Uganda depends on your preferences for trekking conditions, landscape, and overall experience. While Uganda offers year-round trekking opportunities, the conditions vary throughout the seasons. Let’s break down the dry season vs. low season benefits:
Dry Season: June to October and December to February
The dry season is the most popular time for gorilla trekking in Uganda, with June, July, August, September, October, and December to February being the peak months. These months provide the most favorable trekking conditions, including:
- Drier forest paths, making trekking easier and more comfortable.
- Better visibility, with fewer obstacles in the forest and clearer views of the gorillas.
- The gorillas are highly active, and you’re likely to find them in a more predictable location.
However, the dry season also comes with higher demand and higher prices, especially for permits and accommodations. It’s essential to book early to secure your spot during these months.
Low Season: April, May, and November
The low season—which includes April, May, and November—is a wonderful alternative for travelers who prefer fewer crowds and more affordable prices. Here’s why the low season is worth considering:
- Lush Greenery: The rainy season during these months makes the forest lush and vibrant. The greenery adds a beautiful touch to the trekking experience, and the landscape is at its most picturesque.
- Lower Prices: The permit rates are reduced, making the low season more affordable. This is a great opportunity to trek the gorillas without the high-season price tag.
- Quieter Parks: With fewer visitors, you’ll enjoy a more peaceful trekking experience. There will be fewer groups in the forest, allowing for a more personal and intimate encounter with the gorillas.
The low season is also a perfect time to combine gorilla trekking with other activities, such as wildlife safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park or Murchison Falls.
Summary of Best Time for Gorilla Trekking:
- Dry Season (Peak Season): June–October and December–February (easier trekking, more comfortable, higher prices, and more tourists).
- Low Season: April, May, and November (lower permit prices, fewer crowds, lush forest conditions, more intimate experience).
The low season provides a great opportunity to experience gorilla trekking without the crowds, offering a more relaxed and budget-friendly experience.
Cost Of Gorilla Trekking Permits
Permit Prices for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
The cost of your gorilla trekking permit is essential to consider when planning your trip. The permit grants you access to track mountain gorillas in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Current Low Season Permit Rates:
- Foreign Non-Residents (FNR): USD 600 (for the low season, April, May, and November).
- Foreign Residents (FR): USD 500 (for the low season).
The discounted prices for April, May, and November are a significant opportunity for travelers who wish to experience gorilla trekking in Uganda without the peak season price tag.
From 1st January 2027:
- FNR: USD 800
- FR: USD 700
As part of the price adjustment, UWA has introduced a new tariff that will take effect from January 2027, where permits will be priced at USD 800 for foreign non-residents and USD 700 for foreign residents.
What’s Included in Your Permit?
- 1-hour with the gorillas: Once located, you will have one hour to observe the gorillas in their natural habitat.
- Guided experience: You will be accompanied by a trained guide and rangers who ensure safety, manage the trekking, and interpret the behavior of the gorillas.
- National Park Fees: The permit includes entry fees for the park, supporting the ongoing conservation of mountain gorillas.
- Conservation Contribution: A significant portion of the permit fee goes toward the conservation programs that support the gorilla population and their habitat.
Why Do Permit Prices Differ?
Permit prices vary based on:
- Location: Bwindi has the largest population of gorillas, making it a more popular destination, while Mgahinga offers a more exclusive experience.
- Season: Low season prices are lower to encourage travel during quieter months and support park conservation.
- Demand: High season permits are more expensive due to increased demand and limited availability.
Booking your permit in advance is critical, particularly during high season, to secure your spot for trekking.
With the above details, you are equipped to make an informed decision about booking your gorilla trekking permit in Uganda. Whether you’re traveling during the low season or high season, the unmatched experience of tracking mountain gorillas is something you will never forget.
Book Your Low Season Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda Today
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience one of the most incredible wildlife encounters in the world at a discounted low season price. Trek the majestic mountain gorillas in Uganda’s world-renowned Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park while enjoying lush forests, peaceful surroundings, and fewer crowds.
Take advantage of the reduced permit rates of USD 600 for foreign non-residents (FNR) during the months of April, May, and November, and create unforgettable memories with an exclusive and immersive experience in Uganda’s rainforests.
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