Uganda Opens National Game Parks Free of Charge for Three Days to Mark World Tourism Day

UgandaToday: Uganda Opens National Game Parks Free of Charge for Three Days to Mark World Tourism Day

By UgandaToday Reporter

Uganda has announced a three-day free entry programme to all its national game parks as part of activities to commemorate World Tourism Day 2026, in a move aimed at encouraging domestic tourism and showcasing the country’s rich natural heritage.

The announcement was made by Susan Nakawuki, the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, who revealed that all visitors will enjoy free access to Uganda’s national game parks from September 25 to September 27, 2026.

The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities is mandated to develop and promote Uganda’s tourism, wildlife and cultural heritage sectors as key drivers of socio-economic transformation.

Free Access to Uganda’s Wildlife Treasures

Speaking in the video announcement, Minister Nakawuki said the three-day initiative is intended to enable more Ugandans and international visitors to experience the country’s renowned wildlife attractions while joining the nation in celebrating World Tourism Day.

The free entry programme covers the period leading up to and including the annual global tourism celebrations, providing an opportunity for families, students, nature enthusiasts and other travellers to visit Uganda’s protected conservation areas without paying park entrance fees.

The initiative is expected to boost domestic tourism while increasing appreciation of Uganda’s diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife.

Promoting Domestic Tourism

Tourism remains one of Uganda’s leading foreign exchange earners and an important source of employment across hospitality, transport, conservation and community enterprises.

By removing park entrance fees during the three-day period, the ministry hopes to encourage citizens who may not have previously visited national parks to experience the country’s unique biodiversity firsthand.

Officials believe that increasing domestic participation in tourism strengthens conservation efforts by creating greater public appreciation of protected areas.

Uganda’s Diverse Tourism Attractions

Uganda is internationally recognised for its exceptional tourism assets, including mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, the Big Five, spectacular waterfalls, diverse birdlife and vibrant cultural heritage.

Its network of national parks offers experiences ranging from classic wildlife safaris and boat cruises to mountain trekking and primate tracking, attracting visitors from around the world.

The ministry continues to position Uganda as a premier tourism destination under initiatives that promote sustainable tourism development while safeguarding the country’s natural and cultural heritage.

World Tourism Day Celebrations

World Tourism Day is commemorated annually on September 27, highlighting tourism’s contribution to economic growth, cultural exchange, environmental conservation and sustainable development.

Uganda’s free-entry initiative is expected to form one of the major highlights of this year’s celebrations, encouraging more people to discover the country’s world-class tourism destinations.