1. Payment terms
- All trips must be confirmed upon receipt of the 40% deposit of the total trip fee. This helps reserve permits and other relevant advance bookings.
- The balance of 60% is paid 14 days before the start of the trip.
- Shoebill Safaris reserves the right to cancel the trip if payments are not received in relation to the above.
- Payments can be made by bank wire transfer and cash. This needs to be done before the trip begins.
- Bookings made within 20 days or less must be paid in full upon confirmation of availability.
2. Cancellation terms
Kindly put your cancellation in writing. This written notice helps us follow up and ensures proper accountability. In any case, we strongly advise that instead of cancelling a trip, where possible, you postpone it to a later date. This helps you avoid losing any advance payments.
Cancellations are effective once we have received them in writing. The following cancellation charges will apply before arrival:
- 90 days and above: 10%
- 60-30 days: 25%
- 29-9 days: 50%
- 8-2 days: 75%
- 24 hours or less: 100%
3. When Should One Book a Gorilla Tracking Permit?
- Gorilla tracking in Uganda is a remarkable and sought-after experience, as Uganda harbors half of the world’s mountain gorillas found in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
- To ensure a smooth gorilla tracking adventure, booking your gorilla tracking permit in advance is highly recommended. Both gorilla and chimpanzee permits are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Permits sell year in advance for peak seasons (June–September and December–February) and 6 months in advance for low seasons (March–May and October–November).
- Last-minute booking should not be an option. However, we can still try to get you permits, though availability may be limited. We can assist in finding any last-minute cancellations or available slots
4. The Importance of Gorilla Tracking Permits
But first, you must understand why gorilla tracking permits are necessary. These permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and are required for anyone wishing to track in the only two gorilla habituation parks, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These permits regulate the number of visitors to protect the endangered mountain gorillas and contribute to conservation efforts that also support local communities.
5. Best Time to Book Your Permit
You can book a gorilla tracking permit in Uganda any season throughout the year. Uganda being home to half of the world’s population of gorillas and Kibale National Park being the primate capital of the world
1. Seasons:
- Peak season: Due to high demand, it is recommended to book 12 months in advance to secure your permit. Gorillas in Uganda can be tracked any month throughout the year, as Ugandan weather is unpredictable but most favorable, especially to foreigners who compare it to other countries, as “Uganda is a blessed country.”
- Low seasons: The wet seasons provide a unique experience, as the tracking conditions require more energy as the forests become denser. Regardless, booking a gorilla permit would be recommended 6 months in advance.
2. Group Size:
- Gorilla tracking groups are limited to 8 people per gorilla family each day. For those traveling in larger groups, securing permits in advance is critical to ensure the group tracks together.
- There are 24 habituated gorilla families spread between Mgahinga and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Parks. Bwindi has the highest concentration spread between 4 tracking sectors, namely Buhoma, Rushaga, Nkuringo, and Ruhija. Mgahinga has 1 gorilla family: Nyakagezi.
3. Travel Plans:
- Flexible travel dates make it easier to book permits nearing the start of your trip. However, being flexible does not guarantee availability; therefore, it is still advisable to plan ahead.
- Traveling with Shoebill Safaris is convenient, as we handle the whole tedious process, including securing permits, organizing transportation, arranging accommodations, and any other relevant travel needs.
- Are you looking forward to a memorable adventure with Uganda’s majestic mountain gorillas? Contact us today at tours@shoebillsafaris.com for assistance with your gorilla tracking journey.
- Our experienced team is dedicated to making your trip a smooth one.