Ugandan gorilla permit prices to be slashed
20th May 2011
Uganda has reduced the price of off-season gorilla tracking permits in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
The plans will see gorilla tracking permit prices slashed in the quieter periods of March to May and October to November 2011.
The Ugandan Wildlife Authority said, "During the course of 2011, two new gorilla groups will complete their habituation program and be opened up to visitors. This will take the number of habituated gorilla groups up to eight. Because of the increase in number of permits that will become available, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has decided to reduce the price of gorilla permits for the above months."
Permits will be priced at $350 (down from $500) for foreign non-residents, $250 for foreign residents, and $45 for East Africans.
The move has raised concerns of creating tension with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, who also thrive on revenue made from gorilla tracking.
As part of a tripartite forum, the three had resolved that gorilla permits would be charged at the same rate all year round. In order to ease friction between the competitors, they also decided there would be no rebates, discounts or seasonal reductions.
Gorilla tracking permits are sold in relatively small amounts to prevent the gorillas feeling uncomfortable in the presence of a large amount of people; they are also extremely prone to contracting human diseases.
Primatologist and chairman of Ape Alliance Ian Redmond OBE believes this move will be good for the gorillas, "More people might now be able to visit gorillas, and this will ensure their protection; the rules against 'overwhelming large crowds' are well enforced whatever the price."
Uganda hopes that the reduction in permit prices will see the number of permits sold to rise from 64 to 80 per day.
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