Kampala, Uganda: The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has announced a reduction in gorilla trekking permit fees during the low tourism season, lowering the price from $800 to $600 for the months of April, May, and November.
The announcement was made by UWA Executive Director Dr James Musinguzi during a consultative meeting with tour guides at Skyz Hotel in Kampala, where stakeholders gathered to discuss tourism operations, conservation management, and collaborative partnerships.
Dr Musinguzi said the seasonal reduction is aimed at boosting visitor numbers during traditionally slower months while maintaining conservation standards.
“We are adjusting the low-season gorilla permit price from $800 to $600 to stimulate demand and sustain tourism flows throughout the year,” he said, adding that an official tariff document detailing the changes will soon be released.
New Tourism Products in the Pipeline
The Acting Commissioner for Tourism and Business Development, Dorcus Rukundo, used the platform to unveil several new tourism products UWA is developing to diversify Uganda’s wildlife experience.
Among the planned attractions are a glass bridge over the River Nile, canopy walks, houseboats, golden cat tracking, zip-lining experiences, and hot air balloon rides.
Officials said the innovations are designed to extend visitor stay, create new revenue streams, and reduce reliance on a single product such as gorilla trekking.
The meeting provided an opportunity for tour guides to seek clarification on emerging sector issues and strengthen cooperation between UWA and private operators.
UWA emphasized that continuous dialogue with tour guides and operators remains critical in positioning Uganda as a competitive nature-based tourism destination.
The Authority noted that diversifying products across parks will not only enhance visitor experience but also create employment opportunities and increase community benefits around protected areas.
Uganda remains globally renowned for mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, but officials say expanding offerings will make the country even more attractive to repeat and first-time visitors alike.
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