Gorilla and Chimpanzee Permit Cancellations & Rescheduling Policy

If you are unable to join your safari on the originally booked dates, we understand that plans can change. Below is a clear explanation of your options regarding gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits in Uganda, including cancellation, rescheduling, name changes, and refund possibilities. These permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and are strictly date-specific and personal.

1. Policy in Case You Are Unable to Attend on the Booked Dates

Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits are date-specific and issued by UWA. Once paid and confirmed, they are generally non-refundable in most scenarios. However, partial refunds may be possible depending on how far in advance you notify us of a cancellation (see refund details below).

We strongly recommend exploring rescheduling as the preferred and most practical solution whenever possible.

2. Rescheduling the Permits to a Later Date (e.g. September 2026)

Rescheduling is often the best option when availability allows.

Requests should ideally be made as early as possible, preferably at least 14–30 days before the original date.
UWA applies a late reschedule fee of 25% of the permit value if the change is requested close to the trekking date.
We can only reschedule if permits are available on your preferred new dates.
If rescheduling is not possible due to full availability, the standard cancellation policy will apply, and it will be treated as a cancellation plus a new booking.
A handling fee of USD 10 t0 50 per permit will apply for rescheduling depending on your tour operator.

Please let us know your preferred alternative dates (for example, September 2026) as soon as possible so we can check availability and assist you promptly.

3. Changing the Names of Participants

Name changes are generally not permitted on gorilla and chimpanzee permits, as they are issued on a personal basis for health, safety, and conservation reasons.

In exceptional circumstances, minor adjustments may sometimes be accommodated at the park briefing stage with supporting documentation (e.g., passport). However, this cannot be guaranteed and is entirely at the discretion of the rangers on the day.

It is always safer to reschedule or cancel and rebook under the correct names if needed.

4. Refundability of the Permits

Permits are largely non-refundable once issued and paid for. The current UWA cancellation policy for both gorilla and chimpanzee permits typically follows these guidelines (subject to final confirmation at the time of request):

91+ days before the trekking date → up to 75% refund possible
46–90 days before → approximately 50% refund
9–45 days before → approximately 25% refund
0–8 days before (or no-show) → no refund

Any refund would be processed by UWA (not directly by us), and bank or administrative charges may apply. We will handle the application on your behalf if needed.

5. Travel Disruptions and Exceptions by UWA

UWA does not automatically consider general travel disruptions (such as regional geopolitical issues, flight delays, or personal reasons) as grounds for full refunds or exceptions.

However, in cases of major force majeure events — such as official government travel bans, widespread conflict, or similar documented disruptions that prevent entry into Uganda — they may review requests on a case-by-case basis. We would need clear supporting evidence (e.g., official advisories or airline documentation) to submit a formal appeal.

At this stage, with your trip still months away, it is usually too early for such an exception to be considered.

6. How Close to the Trekking Date Can Changes Be Made?

Name changes — Best handled well in advance; very limited flexibility on the day.
Rescheduling — Possible up to roughly 14 days prior, but subject to the 25% late fee and availability.
Cancellations for partial refund — Must be notified before the 8-day cutoff for any chance of recovery.

To minimise risk and fees, we strongly recommend deciding on your preferred course of action (reschedule to specific September dates or explore cancellation) sooner rather than later. This gives us the best chance of securing alternative dates without incurring higher charges.

Need help?