All you have yo know about Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit Bookings with Wild Nature Safaris Uganda
Uganda is world-famous for its mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga National Park, and for its wild chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, Budongo, and Kyambura Gorge. To trek these primates, every traveler must hold a valid permit issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
These permits are strictly limited:
. Gorilla permits allow only 8 visitors per gorilla family per day.
. Chimpanzee permits are also capped, with morning and afternoon tracking slots.
Because of this, permits often sell out months in advance, especially during peak seasons. Securing one is the single most important step in planning a primate safari.
Wild Nature Safaris offers a dedicated permit booking service that takes the stress out of the process. We handle everything from checking availability, reserving permits, making payments, and confirming your trek so you can focus on the adventure ahead.
Our experienced team has strong relationships with UWA and stays updated on permit policies, fees, and regulations. We provide personalized advice on the best times to visit, which gorilla or chimpanzee groups to track, and how to prepare for the trek.
🛠️ What We Do for You
- Liaison with UWA: We work closely with the Uganda Wildlife Authority to secure permits quickly and reliably.
- Availability Checks: We advise on which parks and dates have open slots, helping you plan around your travel schedule.
- Payment & Paperwork: We manage the official payments and documentation, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- With Safaris: We combine permits with transport, accommodation, and guiding services for a seamless experience.
- Advisory Support: We guide you on the best trekking regions (Bwindi vs. Mgahinga for gorillas, Kibale vs. Budongo for chimps) depending on your interests, fitness level, and travel style.
🌍 Why Book Permits with Wild Nature Safaris?
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Peace of Mind
Permits are scarce and highly competitive. Booking through us guarantees your slot without the stress of navigating UWA systems yourself.
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Local Expertise
As a Ugandan operator, we know the permit landscape inside out, which regions are best for photography, which treks are more challenging, and which seasons offer the best sightings.
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Convenience and Time-Saving
International travelers often face challenges with payments, communication, and logistics. We simplify the process into one smooth transaction.
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Transparency
We provide clear breakdowns of permit costs, UWA fees, and our service charges. No hidden surprises.
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Seamless Safari Planning
Beyond permits, we arrange transport, accommodation, and guides. Meaning your trek is part of a well-orchestrated safari experience.
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Flexibility and Options
We can extend your primate trek into Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park) or combine it with other Ugandan adventures like game drives, boat cruises, or cultural tours.
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Trusted Brand
Booking with Wild Nature Safaris Uganda means working with a professional, community-oriented company that values conservation, client satisfaction, and authentic experiences.
🎟️ Updated Permit Prices (Effective July 2025)
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Gorilla Trekking Permits (Uganda)
> Foreign Non-Residents: $800
> Foreign Residents: $700
> East African Residents: UGX 300,000
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Chimpanzee Tracking Permits (Uganda)
> Foreign Non-Residents: $250
> Foreign Residents: $200
> East African Residents: UGX 100,000
Frequently Ask Questions
• One trek with a habituated gorilla/chimpanzee group.
• One hour of viewing (gorillas) or up to 2–3 hours (chimps).
• Park entry fees and ranger guidance.
💳 Payment & Refund Rules for Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit Bookings
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Payment Policy
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Full Payment Required
Full payment is required at the time of booking. No partial payments are accepted.
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Accepted Methods
Bank transfer, mobile money, or secure online payment (USD or UGX).
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Confirmation
Bookings are only confirmed once payment is received and the permit is issued by UWA.
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Service Fee
A small handling fee may apply to cover administrative costs (clearly disclosed to clients).
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Refund & Cancellation Policy
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Non-Transferable
Permits cannot be transferred to another person or resold.
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Cancellation by Client
90+ days before trek → 75% refund of permit fee
46-89 days before trek → 50% refund
9-45 days before trek → 25% refund
0-8 days before trek → No refund
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Cancellation by UWA
(e.g., park closure, health restrictions): Full refund of permit fee.
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Cancellation by Wild Nature Safaris Uganda
(rare, e.g., logistical issues): Full refund of permit fee + service fee waived.
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Special Conditions
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Illness on Trek Day
If a client is deemed unfit to trek (e.g., flu symptoms, as gorillas are vulnerable to human diseases), UWA may cancel participation. Refunds are subject to UWA’s discretion
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Weather or Natural Conditions
Treks may be delayed or rescheduled due to heavy rains or safety concerns. Refunds are not guaranteed but rescheduling is prioritized.
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Force Majeure
Events beyond control (political unrest, pandemics, natural disasters) follow UWA’s official refund guidelines.
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Why these Policies?
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Transparency
Clients know exactly what to expect.
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Fairness
Refunds are tiered based on notice period.
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Reliability
Wild Nature Safaris aligns with UWA rules while offering added assurance.
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Professionalism
Clear terms reduce disputes and enhance brand credibility.