Last-Minute Gorilla Trekking in 2026

Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda continues to rank among the most extraordinary wildlife experiences on earth. The 2026 high season will attract travelers from across the world who want to encounter mountain gorillas in the lush forests of Bwindi, Mgahinga, or Volcanoes National Park. However, many visitors wonder if it is still possible to secure a gorilla trekking permit at the last minute during peak months. While gorilla permits are in high demand and often sell out quickly, there are still ways to increase your chances of experiencing this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Why Are High Season Permits So Hard to Get?

The high season for gorilla trekking runs from June to September and December to February, when weather conditions are favorable for trekking. Trails remain drier, wildlife encounters are easier, and many international travelers schedule safaris during these months. However, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and Rwanda Development Board (RDB) issue only a limited number of permits per day to protect gorillas. This restriction makes demand far higher than supply.

Can Last-Minute Bookings Really Work?

Yes, but flexibility is key. Some travelers cancel their trips due to personal circumstances, and their permits are re-released into the system. Traford Safaris Ltd monitors such cancellations closely and can sometimes secure these permits for clients who reach out in time. However, the chances remain slim if you are tied to specific dates or want to travel during the busiest weeks of July and August.

Another way is to join waiting lists. Tour operators like Traford Safaris Ltd work directly with park authorities and maintain updated lists of travelers seeking high season permits. If a permit becomes available, those on the list are contacted immediately. Acting fast is essential because such opportunities often last only a few hours.

What About Off-Season Alternatives?

For travelers who cannot secure a permit during the high season, the off-season months (March–May and October–November) provide excellent alternatives. While the trails may be wetter and trekking slightly more challenging, the rewards can be even greater. Gorilla groups are often closer, the forests feel less crowded, and lodges offer discounted rates. In fact, many visitors who booked Uganda gorilla tours in the shoulder season found the experience more exclusive and intimate.

Combining off season gorilla trekking with a Kenya safari and gorilla trekking package or a Tanzania Uganda safari creates an even richer experience. Travelers enjoy fewer crowds in both wildlife parks and gorilla forests, while still witnessing incredible wildlife spectacles.

How to Maximize Your Chances of a Last-Minute Permit

1. Work with a Trusted Tour Operator – Traford Safaris Ltd has direct access to daily permit availability and cancellation updates.

2. Stay Flexible with Dates – Being open to different days or parks, such as Bwindi or Mgahinga, increases your odds.

3. Consider Rwanda as an Alternative – If Uganda permits are fully booked, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda may still have last-minute slots.

4. Plan for Quick Travel – Have your flights, lodges, and finances ready to move once a permit becomes available.

5. Book Off-Season if High Season Is Full – You’ll still enjoy the magic of gorilla trekking while benefiting from reduced competition.

Final Word: Book Early, But Don’t Lose Hope

The truth is clear: last-minute gorilla trekking in 2026 high season is possible, but never guaranteed. The safest option remains booking your gorilla trekking safari at least 12 months before travel, especially if you plan a longer journey such as Uganda gorilla trekking from USA or combining a Kenya safari and gorilla trekking itinerary.

That said, Traford Safaris Ltd ensures that even travelers making late decisions have a chance. With access to cancellation permits, waiting lists, and well-planned alternatives, you can still fulfill your dream. The key is to act quickly, stay flexible, and trust a safari expert who knows how to navigate the booking system.

Booking early secures peace of mind, but booking late with the right guidance still opens doors to the unforgettable encounter with mountain gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda.