Chimpanzee Trekking Price Increase in Uganda: What You Need to Know
Uganda remains one of the top destinations for chimpanzee trekking in Africa, offering immersive encounters with our closest relatives in the wild. But as of July 2024, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) announced a price increase for chimpanzee trekking permits.
This change affects all major chimpanzee destinations in the country, including Kibale Forest National Park, Budongo Forest, Kyambura Gorge, and Toro-Semliki Wildlife Reserve.
New Chimpanzee Permit Prices (Effective July 2024)
According to UWA’s updated tariff structure:
- Kibale Forest National Park
- Foreign non-residents: $250 USD (was $200)
- Foreign residents: $200 USD (was $150)
- East African citizens: UGX 180,000 (was UGX 150,000)
- Budongo Forest (via Jane Goodall Institute or NFA)
- Prices vary slightly but have increased by $20–$30 across categories
- Kyambura Gorge (in Queen Elizabeth NP)
- Foreign non-residents: $100 USD (was $50)
- Less popular than Kibale but still an option for travelers with tighter budgets
These new prices apply to both independent travelers and tour operators. Park entry fees are charged separately in most locations.
Why the Price Increase?
The price hike helps fund:
- Conservation efforts to protect endangered chimpanzee populations
- Habitat maintenance in forest reserves and national parks
- Community development in areas near chimp trekking zones
- Training and salaries for expert rangers and trackers
Higher permit costs also help control visitor numbers to reduce stress on chimpanzees, particularly in heavily visited parks like Kibale.
Is It Still Worth It?
Absolutely. Uganda offers some of the best chimpanzee trekking in Africa, with habituated groups and high success rates of sightings. In Kibale, sightings exceed 90% on most treks.
You get a one-hour encounter with a troop in their natural habitat, led by expert guides. The experience is wild, raw, and deeply personal.
Compared to chimpanzee treks in Rwanda or Tanzania, Uganda remains more affordable and more rewarding in terms of group sizes and success rates.
How to Book Your Permit
- Kibale Forest permits are booked through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or licensed tour operators
- For Budongo, permits go through the Jane Goodall Institute or a registered lodge or operator
- Kyambura Gorge permits are managed by UWA under Queen Elizabeth National Park
- It’s best to book 2–3 months in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (June–Sept, Dec–Feb)
Plan Your Trek
Before your trip:
- Choose the right location for your interests and budget
- Pack good walking boots, long sleeves, insect repellent, and water
- Hire a knowledgeable guide or tour company to manage permits and transport
- Respect guidelines: keep your distance, wear a mask if requested, and don’t visit if ill
Chimpanzees share 98.7% of our DNA. Trekking to see them isn’t just an adventure—it’s a connection to our evolutionary story and a contribution to their survival.
