30th November 2017 marked the end of Uganda discounted Gorilla permit deal. Following the communication sent to all Uganda tour operators, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) in conjunction with Uganda Tourism board (UTB) announced the scrap at the end of November 2017.
For many years, Uganda has been offering US$450 per permit during the month of April, May and November (Low season discounted rates). In peak season of January, February, March, June, July, August, September, October and December, Uganda Gorilla permit still cost US$ 600 each and it will continue to be in 2018 according to UWA and UTB.
In Uganda, Gorilla trekking is done in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with 14 habituated Gorilla groups and in Mgahinga National park which protects only Nyakagezi Gorilla family. In other words, Uganda protects the largest number of mountain Gorillas in East Africa.
Among the reasons for removing the low season discounted Gorilla permit rates are:
-Increased demand for Uganda Gorilla permits following the increase of Rwanda Gorilla permit from US$ 750 to US$ 1500 each. Uganda Gorilla permits became highly demanded as some visitors try to dodge the high cost of Rwanda Gorilla permit.
-The need to conserve for the future generation. The removal of discounted Gorilla permit will reduce the number of trekkers hence conserving Gorillas and their habitat. It should be noted that Gorillas and vegetation become disgusted with a large number of people.
-Uganda offers four Gorilla trekking sectors like Nkuringo, Rushaga, Ruhija and Nkuringo which gives guests a chance to trek where they think to be comfortable.