The Uganda Wildlife Authority occasionally offers discounted gorilla trekking permits for specific low-season periods as part of efforts to smooth out the extreme seasonality of gorilla tourism demand. These discounts — when they are offered — represent the most significant price reduction available on the $800 international permit and are typically announced with limited notice. Understanding when sales have historically occurred and how to position yourself to benefit from them is useful for budget-conscious gorilla trekkers.
When Permit Sales Have Occurred
The Uganda Wildlife Authority has historically offered permit discounts during the long rainy season (April-May) when permit uptake is lowest and capacity remains underutilised. Discounts of 30-50% on the standard rate have been offered in some years for this specific window. The discounts are announced on the UWA website and communicated through licensed tour operators. They are time-limited and specific to the low-season period for which they are offered.
Not every year produces a permit sale. The Uganda Wildlife Authority’s decision to offer discounts depends on occupancy rates, revenue projections, and policy decisions that are made internally. There is no guarantee that a sale will be announced for 2027. But monitoring the UWA’s official communications and working with a tour operator who stays informed of these announcements is the best way to be positioned when a sale is announced.
The Standard Permit Price
The standard gorilla trekking permit costs $800 USD for international visitors in 2027. This is the Foreign Non-Resident rate set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. It applies year-round in the absence of a specific discount promotion. For most visitors, the standard rate is what they will pay — and the experience it delivers, at any point in the year, is worth the price. The permit sale is a bonus opportunity, not a necessary condition for a worthwhile gorilla trek. Contact us to receive notifications when permit discounts are announced and to discuss the best timing for your 2027 trip.
