Rescheduling a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda

Rescheduling a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is possible, but it involves following a set procedure through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). The UWA is the official body responsible for managing gorilla trekking permits in Uganda, and they have a formal process in place for rescheduling permits. Here’s how to go about it:

Steps to Reschedule a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda:

1. Contact the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA)

• The first step is to get in touch with the UWA to request a reschedule. You can contact them via:
  • Phone: +256 414 355000
  • Email: info@ugandawildlife.org or reservations@ugandawildlife.org
• It’s essential to provide all the necessary details, such as:
  • The original date of your trekking permit.
  • The permit number (found on the permit receipt).
  • Your preferred new trekking date.

2. Check Permit Availability

• UWA will check the availability of permits for your new preferred date. Since gorilla permits are limited (only 8 people are allowed to visit each gorilla family per day), availability for your desired new date is not guaranteed.
• If permits are available for the new date, UWA will confirm your rescheduling request.

3. Pay Rescheduling Fees (If Applicable)

• Rescheduling within the Same Year: UWA typically allows rescheduling within the same calendar year without any additional cost, as long as you notify them in advance (typically at least two weeks before the original trekking date).
• Rescheduling to a Different Year: If you are rescheduling to a different year or making a last-minute request, a fee may apply. The exact fee depends on UWA’s policies and how close your original trekking date is.
• High/Low Season: If you are rescheduling from a low season (when permits are cheaper) to a high season, you may need to pay the difference in permit costs.

4. Obtain New Confirmation

• Once the rescheduling is approved, UWA will issue a new confirmation with the updated trekking date.
• Ensure that you receive a new receipt or permit confirmation showing the new date. This will serve as proof of your updated booking when you arrive for your trek.

Rescheduling Through a Tour Operator

If you booked your gorilla trekking permit through a tour operator or travel agent, it is often easier to ask them to handle the rescheduling process on your behalf. Most reputable tour companies are familiar with the UWA procedures and can quickly assist in rescheduling your permit.

• Contact your tour operator with the same details (original date, permit number, preferred new date), and they will check availability with UWA.
• The operator can also advise you on any rescheduling fees or penalties, depending on the timing and circumstances of the change.

Key Points to Consider:

1. Notify UWA Early:
   • Try to request a reschedule as early as possible. Ideally, notify UWA at least 2-4 weeks before your original trekking date. Last-minute rescheduling may not be allowed, especially if it is within days of the trek.
2. Permit Availability is Limited:
   • Availability for gorilla permits is highly competitive, especially during the peak seasons (June to September, December to February). There’s no guarantee that your preferred new date will have permits available.
3. No Refunds:
   • Gorilla trekking permits are non-refundable. If you cancel your permit entirely, you will not get a refund. Rescheduling is the only option to avoid losing the entire cost of your permit.
4. Travel Insurance:
   • It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers changes to your itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances like illness, flight cancellations, or other emergencies. This can give you peace of mind if you need to reschedule your trek at the last minute.

By following these steps and working closely with the Uganda Wildlife Authority or a tour operator, you can successfully reschedule your gorilla trekking permit and avoid losing the chance to experience one of Uganda’s most memorable wildlife encounters.