UWA Announces Gorilla Trekking Permit Fee Increase ( $800).
Today, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) declared that, as of July 1, 2024, permit prices for gorilla trekking excursions in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Park will increase. The cost of a trekking permit will go up from $700 to $800 for those who are not residents of the country. The cost will go up from $500 to $700 for nationals of the East African Community and foreign residents.
Following a thorough consultation process, thorough market research, and fruitful discussions with a range of stakeholders, UWA has conducted a full assessment of our conservation tariff, which has resulted in adjustments to the cost of certain park operations, according to UWA Executive Director Sam Mwandha.
This review’s major goal was to make sure that our pricing strategy continues to be reasonable, competitive, and representative of the state of the market as well as the range of viewpoints and ideas that were discussed throughout our consultation meetings.
Cost increases for gorilla trekking
UWA will be able to continue safeguarding and preserving Uganda’s mountain gorilla populations thanks to the cost hike. Supporting continued conservation efforts in Uganda is essential to the long-term survival of these amazing animals, since mountain gorillas are still in grave risk of extinction,” Smith said. The park’s operations, law enforcement efforts, community projects, and health monitoring of gorilla groups used to tourists would all benefit greatly from the updated fee system.
More than half of the world’s surviving mountain gorillas live in Uganda, primarily in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Between 2005 and 2019, the number of Bwindi mountain gorillas climbed from 302 to 459 thanks to UWA’s efforts. Additionally, gorilla tourism gives local communities a lot of money and job opportunities.
Uganda’s gorilla trekking products continue to offer outstanding value when compared to other east African nations, even though the new permit costs constitute a price hike. UWA is still dedicated to providing top-notch, environmentally friendly gorilla tourism experiences.
UWA undertook multi-stakeholder consultation and considerable research before approving the permit fee hike. Notification has been sent to all tourism partners so that plans and budgets can be adjusted. The UWA Sales Manager has more information about the updated charge schedule.
