Uganda wildlife Authority is mandated by the laws of Uganda to champion conservation of the national parks and some game reserves. Every 2 or so years, UWA revises their conservation rates either increasing, reducing or introducing new products and services. With the new financial year just a few months away the Uganda Wildlife Authority has revised their tariff to introduce new rates for the products that they offer in Uganda.
Most of the people involved in this business have been waiting on the gorilla trekking permits which is the most sought after product. Gorilla trekking in Uganda happens in Bwindi impenetrable national park and Mgahinga gorilla national park. In the past 2 years, gorilla trekking permits were frozen at $600 per person for foreign nonresidents who make up the biggest clientele for this activity. The Gorilla Habituation permit was/is $1500 per person. However starting 1 July 2020 there is a change in the tariffs with gorilla trekking permits increasing by $100 to $700 per person but the gorilla habituation permit staying at the same rate.
Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale national park is the second sought after primate activity. There are different chimpanzee trekking areas i.e. Kanioyo Pabidi, Budongo forest, Tooro Semuliki wildlife reserve, Kyambura gorge, Kalinzu forest etc. but Kibale forest remains the best place to see chimps in Uganda and Africa. The Chimpanzee Trekking permit and Chimpanzee Habituation permit fee have also been increased by $50 each. A chimpanzee trekking permit has been increased from $150 to $200 and the chimpanzee habituation permit increased from $200 to $250 per person.
The golden monkey trekking permit according to the new tariff will cost $100 for Foreign Non Residents. Golden monkey trekking happens in Mgahinga gorilla national park but is not on high demand as the chimp and gorilla trekking activities. However for a full primate experience in Uganda, you will want to include it on your Uganda primate safari.
All the filming costs will be charged at 40% of the activity, this is a welcome to the filming rates that was steep as advised by most people. Rwenzori Trekking on UWA managed trails will cost $50 for both foreign nonresidents, this among many other new services is welcome to lower hiking rates and reduce monopoly. The comprehensive tariff will be uploaded on the Uganda Wildlife Authority website before the end of August 2019.
