The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has rolled out several key updates designed to make your visit smoother while keeping conservation standards strong across all protected areas.

The updates include new habituated gorilla groups in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, golden cat tracking in Kibale National Park, and a more efficient payment system at UWA headquarters.  UWA Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi officially announced the changes on April 14, 2026.

Summary of Key Updates

Here’s what visitors and tour operators should know:

• A more reliable, transparent payment system now in use at UWA headquarters
• Two newly habituated gorilla groups available for trekking in Bwindi
• A golden cat tracking experience launched in Kibale National Park

These changes are part of UWA’s ongoing work to improve service and support sustainable tourism.

 Improved Payment System at UWA Headquarters

UWA has installed a new Inplant Machine at its Reservations Office in Kampala. All cash payments for permits and related services now go through this system.

Important details:

• Operating hours: Monday–Friday (8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.), Saturday (9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.)
• Processing time: Payments reflect in the system within approximately 24 hours
• Confirmation: Bookings are processed immediately after bank verification

Visitors are advised to plan accordingly and allow sufficient time for payment processing when making reservations.

Additional Gorilla Groups in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Two new habituated gorilla groups have been added to the official trekking program in Bwindi:

• Happy Group – Buhoma Sector
• Nshanjare Group – Rushaga Sector

These groups are fully integrated into the UWA booking system. Gorilla trekking permits continue to be issued under the standard daily quota to ensure minimal impact on the gorillas and their habitat.

This expansion helps distribute visitor activity across different sectors while maintaining a high-quality, low-impact trekking experience.

Golden Cat Tracking in Kibale National Park

UWA has introduced golden cat tracking in the Kanyanchu area along Ngogo Road in Kibale National Park. This offers visitors an opportunity to learn about and track one of Africa’s most elusive forest species.

Booking and participation guidelines:

• Reservations are made on-site only
• Booking should be done 24–48 hours in advance
• Fee: USD 350 per person (valid within a five-day tracking period)
• Visitors must be accompanied by a private guide, while UWA provides ranger support

This activity is designed as a low-impact experience suitable for visitors interested in wildlife research and conservation.

Enhancing Visitor Experience with Sustainable Tourism

The changes demonstrate UWA’s commitment to operating more effectively while maintaining the country’s biodiversity.

UWA has stringent permission limitations and carefully controlled wildlife activities to ensure that tourism remains sustainable and continues to benefit conservation.

Visitors to Bwindi and Kibale may anticipate well-managed operations that prioritize animal protection and visitor satisfaction.

Guidelines for Planning Your Visit

To make your vacation hassle-free, tourists should:

• Book gorilla permits in advance through UWA or a registered tour operator
• Check payment processing time while confirming bookings
• Arrange activities such as golden cat tracking with your lodge or guide
• Follow all park restrictions and ranger instructions when participating in activities

Plan Your Trip to Uganda’s National Parks

Uganda’s protected areas provide some of Africa’s most incredible wildlife encounters – from mountain gorilla climbing in Bwindi to discovering primates and forests in Kibale.

With these latest upgrades, expect better services and additional options to explore the parks and support conservation efforts.

Contact UWA or an authorised tour operator for further information or assistance with bookings.