NEW GORILLA FAMILIES, RARE CAT TREKS, AND PAYMENT SHIFTS IN UGANDA

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has made some changes that affect your next safari in Uganda. From more convenient payment shifts to tracking new gorilla families and rare golden cats. Here is the detailed breakdown of what every traveler needs to know.

1. The New Headquarters Cash Payment System

UWA has just made payment for permits and other related services more convenient by introducing an in-plant banking machine directly at their Kampala headquarters reservations office.

You can settle fees between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM (Monday–Friday) and on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Patience is key! Payments take 24 hours to clear in the bank’s system. UWA will only process your permits once they receive bank confirmation, so make sure you pay on time before you need your documents to avoid delays at the park gate.

2. New Opportunities for Meeting the Happy and Nshanjare Gorilla Groups 

Great news for gorilla enthusiasts! The habituation of two new families means more opportunities to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

It is great news for gorilla enthusiasts, as UWA has just added two habituated groups from Bwindi National Park to the gorilla tracking list. These are the Happy Group from the northern Buhoma Sector and the Nshanjare Group in the southern Rushaga Sector.

In light of these changes, UWA, that is, inclusion in the tracking system, will no longer issue any extra gorilla permits.

You are encouraged to always check the digital system for the real-time availability of permits and reserve them on time.

3. The New Interesting Wildlife Experience: 5-Days African Golden Cat Tracking

The 5-days golden cat tracking is another interesting wildlife experience introduced in the Kanyanchu region in Kibale NP.

The Experience: This is an intensive 5-day tracking expedition priced at $350 USD per person. It is a deep-forest journey designed for those who want an immersive tracking experience.

Booking for this interesting wildlife experience is done on the ground since it has not yet been integrated into the digital booking system. All reservations should be made at least 24 to 48 hours before the trek begins.

Tour operators are encouraged to provide tourists with a primary guide, and the UWA will also provide a professional park ranger for security purposes within the forest.

To make the most of these changes, remember that preparation is your best asset. Pay your dues early, keep a close eye on the permit system and prepare for a truly special experience in the heart of Africa.