Uganda increases prices for tourism activities for 2024-2026

In addition to protecting Uganda's distinctive ecosystems, the move to increase pricing is a component of a bigger conservation strategy meant to support local people with long-term earnings. The government intends to discourage mass tourism and encourage responsible travel by raising the cost of tourism-related activities.

New Prices for Tourism Activities

Visitors to Uganda will pay new fees for several well-liked tourism activities as of July 1, 2024. The new rates will accurately represent the worth of these experiences, including the expenses associated with community development, infrastructure upkeep, and conservation initiatives. Some of the major adjustments are as follows:

New Permit fees for Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is a popular adventure in Uganda. A gorilla trekking permit will now cost USD 800, a substantial increase due to the restricted number of permits available and the expensive expenses of gorilla conservation. Although some tourists may find it more costly, this increase will contribute to the long-term conservation of these amazing animals.

Gorilla Tracking 

Foreign non Residents - USD 800

Foreign Residents USD 700

Rest of Africa  USD 500

East African Community - UGshs – 300 000

Gorilla habituation Experience

Foreign non Residents - USD 1500

Foreign Residents USD 1000

Rest of Africa  USD 1000

East African Community - UGshs -750,000

New Permit fees for tracking chimpanzees

Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda is a popular activity given the number of chimpanzees that can be found in Kibale National Park and other wildlife reserves. Chimpanzee tracking licences will now cost more in order to fund continued research and conservation initiatives. These permits give guests a rare chance to see these smart primates in their native environment. Below are the new rates for chimpanzee trekking in Kibale and Kyambura Wildlife Reserve. 

Kibale national park

Chimpanzee tracking

Foreign non Residents - USD 250

Foreign Residents USD 200

Rest of Africa  USD 200

East African Community - Ugshs -180000

Chimpanzee Habituation Experience

Foreign non Residents - USD 300

Foreign Residents USD 250

Rest of Africa  USD 250

East African Community - Ugshs -180000

Kyambura Wildlife Reserve. ( Queen Elizabeth National Park)

Foreign non Residents - USD 100

Foreign Residents USD 80

East African Community - Ugshs -50.000

Lion Tracking.

Lion tracking is done in Queen Elizabeth National Park and can be done any day, regardless of the weather. Uganda Wildlife Authority in this case has double the price. The new rates for lion tracking will be as follows.

Foreign non Residents - USD 200

Foreign Residents USD 150

East African Community - Ugshs -200000

Why the Increase in Tourism fees

The proceeds from the price increases will fund a variety of conservation and community development projects. The Ugandan government is aware of how critical it is to include local people in conservation initiatives and make sure that tourism benefits them. Some of the projects that will receive support are:

• Community-based tourism initiatives that empower local communities and give them sustainable incomes;

• Investments in wildlife conservation, such as anti-poaching patrols and habitat restoration projects.

• Educational initiatives aimed at increasing public knowledge of the value of sustainable tourism and conservation and also providing alternative sources of income for those who used to survive or depend on the forests and natural resources.

• The construction of surrounding infrastructure in protected areas to enhance tourist experiences. This will include the roads that surround the gorilla parks as they are in dire need of construction and also accommodation in some national parks.

Planning your Uganda trip.

Planning ahead and accounting for the updated costs of tourism activities is crucial if you're thinking about visiting Uganda in July 2024 or 2025. To help you get ready for your Ugandan experience, consider the following advice:

Advanced planning,

It is prudent that you research, organise and book your Uganda tour in advance. This is very important because there are limited gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits therefore securing yours will ensure that you do not miss out on a lifetime adventure. In addition, you get to pay a discounted fee for the entire tour.

Consider travelling during Low seasons.

Whilst visiting Uganda, we recommend that you travel during the low season, because, unlike the reduced congestion, these months come with discounts. Lodges and service providers provide low rates therefore making your trip affordable.

Visit Local communities.

Search for initiatives that are community-managed and visit these. These not only provide you an insight into the culture and traditions of the people but also contribute to sustainable development.  The locals around provide experiences like nature walks, cooking experiences, local brewing, vanilla and agricultural experiences, milking and so much more.

Treat Nature and wildlife with Respect.

Sustainable travel is not just about paying the high fees attached to it, but also about how o behaves whilst visiting nature.  For the safety and well-being of wildlife including flora and fauna, we recommend that you do not litter in wildlife parks and natural resources, and follow the safety precautions and also the rules and regulations of the park. In the bid to protect animals from any diseases, wearing masks near wildlife is mandatory.

Ultimately, travellers may be startled by the price increase for tourism activities in Uganda from 2024 to 2026. It is important, therefore, to comprehend the reasoning behind these modifications as well as the advantages they would offer Uganda's infrastructure, tourism and conservation. Although the cost of a gorilla safari may skyrocket, Uganda is committed to providing affordable and inclusive tourism options for people from all backgrounds. The opportunity to immerse oneself in Uganda's exquisite scenery, witness fascinating wildlife, and experience the compassion of its people is truly priceless, making the little price increase well worth it for a memorable vacation of a lifetime.