A last-minute safari is one booked within about 60 days of travel. We check gorilla and chimp permit availability and lodge space first, then build the best trip around what is open. Prices are not always lower, because permits and parks have fixed fees, but flexible dates and lodge choices often open good options, especially outside the busiest months.
Key takeaways
- Booked within about 60 days of travel.
- We check permits and lodges first.
- Not always cheaper: permits and park fees are fixed.
- Flexibility on dates and lodges helps most.
- Full payment is due at booking for trips within 60 days.
Life does not always allow planning a year ahead. If you have a gap in your calendar, a short break between work trips or a sudden chance to travel, a last-minute safari can still be wonderful.
How it works
- Tell us your dates and flexibility. Even a few days’ flexibility makes a big difference.
- We check permits first. Gorilla and chimp permits are the limiting factor. We check every sector and date that fits.
- We check lodges. We look for good availability in the right areas, from budget to luxury.
- You receive a proposal built around what is open.
- Confirm and pay. For trips within 60 days, full payment is due at booking, as set out in our booking terms.
Is last-minute cheaper?
Not always. Permits and park fees are fixed by the park authorities, and the best lodges can sell out. Sometimes, lodges with spare rooms offer better rates close to the date, and in the green season prices are lower anyway. See consider the green season and our travel deals.
Tips for last-minute success
- Be flexible on gorilla sector and trekking date.
- Consider Rwanda for short trips: Volcanoes National Park is only 2–2.5 hours from Kigali.
- Consider fly-in options to save time. See fly one long leg.
- Have your passport details ready; permits need them.
- Check visa and vaccination requirements quickly. See sort visas and vaccinations early.
Short trips that work well
- A 2-day Rwanda gorilla trekking safari.
- A 3-day Uganda gorilla fly-in safari.
- A 1-day Mabamba shoebill trip from Entebbe.
Frequently asked questions
How late can I book a gorilla trek?
Sometimes within days, if permits are available, but in peak months they may be sold out weeks or months ahead.
Is payment different for last-minute trips?
Yes. For trips within 60 days, full payment is due at booking.
What if permits are sold out?
We look at other sectors, Rwanda, or other primate experiences such as chimps and golden monkeys.
Written by our Kampala-based planners and guides, who arrange these trips every season. Prices and rules are checked before every quote.
