Uganda is one of the few countries in the world where travelers can experience the rare and unforgettable moment of seeing gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitats. These encounters are only possible through permits issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). But with the increasing demand for these permits, scammers have taken advantage of unsuspecting tourists. That’s why it is important to know how to book your gorilla or chimpanzee permit securely and avoid fraud.
Book Only Through Official Channels
All bookings for gorilla and chimpanzee permits must be made through the Uganda Wildlife Authority headquarters or through licensed tour operators who are approved by the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB). These are the only official and trusted sources for getting a valid permit. Booking through other unverified channels can lead to scams, loss of money, or fake permits that won’t be accepted at the park gates.
If you prefer to book through a tour operator, always confirm that they are listed on the official UTB website. You can find the current list of licensed tour operators here: https://utb.go.ug/licensed-tour-companies. These operators follow strict guidelines and are recognized by the government to offer tourism services, including booking permits.
Use Verified Payment Methods
The Uganda Wildlife Authority has set up secure and transparent payment channels. Whether you’re paying directly to UWA or through a licensed tour company, ensure that you are using one of these approved methods:
Mobile Money (MTN and Airtel):
- MTN MOMO Pay Code: 611906
- Airtel Pay Code: 1207670
These codes go directly to UWA and are safe for mobile transactions.
Bank Transfers or Online Payments:
- You can pay through UWA’s official online gateway at: https://payments.wildlife.go.ug This portal is managed by UWA and is secure for international and local payments.
Direct Contact for Reservations and Questions:
Email: reservations@wildlife.go.ug
Phone: +256 414 355 000 / +256 312 355 000
Use these contacts to inquire about permit availability, prices, and booking steps.
Be Careful and Avoid Scams
As exciting as it is to plan a trek to see gorillas or chimpanzees, it’s essential to remain cautious. Scammers often create fake websites, send emails with false offers, or ask for payment through personal mobile money numbers. Some may even promise faster processing or discounted permits. These are all red flags.
To protect yourself:
Never send money to a personal mobile money number.
Avoid any email address that is not from @wildlife.go.ug or listed on an official site.
Don’t trust anyone offering “discounted” permits. UWA has fixed rates.
When in doubt, contact UWA directly using their official contacts to verify anything.
Your Safety Comes First
UWA and UTB are working hard to ensure that tourists are protected from fraud. Following the correct procedures not only ensures a smooth and secure booking but also supports conservation efforts in Uganda. Your permit contributes to the protection of these endangered species and the communities around Uganda’s national parks.
Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking safaris are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Make it memorable for the right reasons by booking safely and responsibly.
