Gorilla or Chimpanzee Permit: Navigating the Recent Changes
Gorilla or chimpanzee Permit – UWA imposes new price for primate trekking: Uganda wildlife Authority (UWA), which is government organization and ruling body managing all the National parks and reserves in Uganda. UWA works for the conservation and the protection of al the wildlife and primate species in Uganda. Uganda is blessed country and biodiverse economy with several attractions ranging from the wildlife, primate’s species (Gorillas, chimpanzees and several monkey species). The primates have become the number leading tourism activity in Uganda which has brought in number of visitors from all parts of the world.
Uganda Wildlife Authority therefore, endeavors for the continued existence of these primates and wildlife and also to protect their habitat for future generation. In that for the visitors participating in these activities, there is a fee imposed on them. The gorilla or chimpanzee Permit is an income generated to aid in the conservation and the protection of these endangered animals. Therefore, the increase in permit prices, is generate adequate revenue to aid in this process.
The permit prices were imposed on the primate trekking in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Kibale forest National Park and Queen Elizabeth National. These changes are to take effect effective 1st July, 2024.
Cost of New prices for gorilla or chimpanzee Permit
The permit is document issued by Uganda wildlife Authority to any person above the age of 15 years participating in Gorilla and Chimpanzee trekking. The fees are for the management and the support of the park duties and for the conservation of the primates.
For the foreign non-resident’s visitors, the gorilla permits will increase from $700 per person to $800 per person tracking. The Chimpanzee permits for Kibale forest National Park, will increase from $200 to $250 per person tracking. As well as chimpanzee Habituation permits which will increase from $250 to $300 per person.
Kyambura gorge is situated in queen Elizabeth national park also known for harboring the chimpanzees. The permit fees for Kyambura gorge will increase from $50 to $100 per person tracking.
The old fee will still apply on the old purchased Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit and the new price/ fee will be applicable to the non-confirmed and new bookings. The price changes will take effect immediately for all the new bookings for 1st July 2024 onwards.
New booking between now and 30th June 2024, will still have the original Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit price but come 1st July 2024 the new price will take effect.
Gorilla trekking: Gorilla trekking in Uganda is done in two National parks that is Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Why gorilla Trekking Is Famous In Bwindi Forest
Compared to other national park in East Africa, Bwindi Forest has got the biggest population for over half of the world’s remaining number found in Bwindi. The has also got 4 sectors (Nkuringo, Buhoma, Ruhija and Rushaga) each having habituated gorilla groups opened for gorilla trekking on daily basis. While in Mgahinga Gorilla national park, there is also one habituated gorilla family but also habituated golden monkey for Golden monkey tracking.
Gorilla trekking therefore, is the act of moving in the forest in the search for the habituated Gorilla families and when you find them, you will spend one hour with them in their Natural habitat as you observe them go about their daily activities. The trek itself takes about 1-8 hours before you set eyes on the gorillas.
Chimpanzee trekking in both Kibale forest national park and Kyambura gorge in Queen Elizabeth national park. Just as gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking too as the same procedures. Morning pre trekking briefing, and after you will be divided in to groups and assigned a chimp or gorilla family you will be trekking on that day. You will spend one hour with them as you observe them play, feed, groom young ones among other daily activities.
Faqs About gorilla or chimpanzee Permit
Why You Need a gorilla or chimpanzee Permit
Gorilla permit is a document issued by Uganda wild Authority to any visitors participating in gorilla or chimpanzee trekking. The gorilla permit allows you to access the chimps or gorillas in their Natural habitat. The trekking is only conducted on habituated chimps or Gorillas that are used to having humans around them. To be able to trek the gorillas or chimpanzees, you need to have gorilla or chimpanzee trekking permit which is the legal document issued to all the trekkers.
The permit fees give you access to see these primates in their Natural habitat. No person will be allowed to trek the Gorillas or chimpanzees without an Authorized document, the trekking permit.
How to book Your gorilla or chimpanzee Permit
Booking through a tour operator
One best and convenient way to obtain/book your permit is consulting tour operators on ground for either Uganda or Rwanda Gorilla permits. The all process of gorilla or chimpanzee permit booking can be done by ground tour operator on the behalf of the visitors.
Park Authorities -Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and for Rwanda, Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
Alternatively, you may have your gorilla permit booked through a reservation team at the respective park authority. In Uganda, you can contact the reservationist at UWA, and in Rwanda, get in touch with the reservationist at RDB.
Best time to see Gorillas which is almost identical to Best time to visit chimpanzees.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo, can be done any time and all throughout the year, the park is open for the visitors. Gorilla trekking is done on daily basis and the permits are issued on daily basis to track the gorillas. The best time to track is also considered to be the dry season which is from the month of June to September/ December to February, these months are known for favorable weather conditions and characterized by little or no rainfall at all. The ground is dry and the park trails are dry too thus easier to navigate the forest.
Being all round experience, even the wet season, Gorilla trekking is still possible and you will still be able to see the mountain Gorillas in any of the National parks in Uganda, Rwanda and DRC. The two wet seasons occur in the month of march, April and May and then from October to November.
Essentials for Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking in Uganda, Rwanda and DRC.
Gorilla trekking is a unique and exciting adventure that requires careful planning and preparation. While the specific packing list may vary based on the location and individual preferences, here is a general list of items you might want to consider bringing for a gorilla trekking expedition:
Clothing:
Long-sleeved shirts and pants: Protect against scratches, insect bites, and vegetation.
Lightweight waterproof jacket: Weather can be unpredictable.
Sturdy hiking boots: Comfortable and supportive for uneven terrain.
Gaiters: Protect against mud, insects, and thorny vegetation.
Hat with a brim: Shield against sun and rain.
Gloves: Useful for gripping vegetation and protecting hands.
Equipment:
Daypack: Carry essentials like water, snacks, and camera.
Water bottle or hydration system: Stay hydrated during the trek.
Binoculars: Enhance wildlife viewing.
Camera with a zoom lens: Capture distant wildlife without disturbing them.
Trekking poles: Aid in stability on uneven terrain.
Personal Items:
Sunscreen: Protect against sun exposure.
Insect repellent: Guard against mosquitoes and other insects.
Personal first aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptic, and any necessary medications.
Prescription glasses/contact lenses: If needed.
Tissues/wet wipes: Maintain hygiene in the field.
Permits and Documents:
Gorilla trekking permit: Essential for entry.
Identification: Passport or ID.
Insurance: Travel and health coverage.
Miscellaneous:
Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, dried fruits for quick boosts.
Headlamp/flashlight: Useful in low-light conditions.
Power bank: Keep electronic devices charged.
Local currency: For tips and souvenirs.
Notebook and pen: Record observations and memories.
Additional Tips:
Check with your tour operator or local authorities for any specific requirements.
Respect the environment and wildlife by following guidelines and regulations.
Dress in neutral colors to blend in with the natural surroundings.
Pack light but be prepared for variable weather conditions.
Remember, this is a general guideline, and you should adapt it to the specific requirements and conditions of the gorilla trekking destination you choose. Always check with your tour operator for any additional recommendations.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority Conservation Tariff: CHANGES IN UWA CONSERVATION TARIFF
