Cancellation Policy of Gorilla Permits in Uganda
Booking a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda means securing a gorilla permit in advance. This permit, issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), is your official ticket to visit the endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Because permits are in high demand and limited to a few people per day, travelers often ask: what is the cancellation policy for gorilla permits in Uganda?
Understanding Gorilla Permits
A gorilla permit is a document that grants you access to trek and spend one hour with a habituated gorilla family. Each permit currently costs USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. Due to their high value and demand, the Uganda Wildlife Authority enforces strict booking and cancellation policies.
The Official Cancellation Policy
The Uganda Wildlife Authority sets clear rules regarding cancellations:
- Cancellation 91 days or more before trekking date: 75% refund of the permit fee.
- Cancellation between 46 and 90 days before trekking date: 50% refund of the permit fee.
- Cancellation between 9 and 45 days before trekking date: 25% refund of the permit fee.
- Cancellation within 0 to 8 days before trekking date: No refund.
These conditions apply per permit, and refunds are processed only through UWA.
Why the Policy is Strict
Gorilla tourism is tightly regulated to protect the endangered gorillas. Permits are limited to ensure conservation, and once booked, they block another traveler from securing a slot. Strict cancellation rules discourage last-minute changes and help UWA maintain consistent conservation funding.
Can Permits Be Rescheduled?
Yes, in some cases. If you cannot trek on your booked date due to unavoidable circumstances, you may request to reschedule your permit to another date. However, this depends on availability and must be approved by UWA. Rescheduling is usually easier than requesting a refund.
What Happens if You Miss Your Trek?
If you fail to show up for your trek without notifying UWA or your tour operator in advance, your permit automatically becomes invalid and non-refundable.
Travel Insurance and Gorilla Permits
Because of the strict cancellation policy, travel insurance is strongly recommended. A good insurance policy covers unexpected events such as illness, flight cancellations, or emergencies that may prevent you from trekking. This way, you protect your investment even if UWA refund terms do not favor you.
Plan Your Gorilla Safari with African Wild Trekker
Understanding the gorilla permit cancellation policy helps you plan wisely and avoid disappointment. At African Wild Trekker, we secure your permits early, guide you through refund or rescheduling options, and advise on travel insurance for peace of mind. Inquire and book your Uganda gorilla safari with us today, and explore Bwindi with confidence.
