Securing a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is the first and most essential step for anyone planning to visit the endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. Rwanda is one of only three countries in the world where you can see mountain gorillas in the wild, and due to strict conservation efforts, the number of daily visitors is limited. Permits are issued and managed by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and should be booked well in advance, especially during the high season.
As of now, the cost of a Rwanda gorilla permit is $1,500 USD per person for one day of trekking and one hour with a habituated gorilla family. This fee not only grants access to one of the world’s most powerful wildlife encounters but also contributes directly to conservation, anti-poaching, and local community development efforts.
There are two main ways to obtain a gorilla permit:
Book Directly Through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB):
You can contact the RDB via their official website, email, or phone to inquire about availability and make reservations. Payment is made by bank transfer, and confirmation is issued once payment clears. This method is straightforward but can be time-consuming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local logistics.
Book Through a Licensed Tour Operator or Travel Company:
Most travelers choose to book their permits through a registered tour operator, such as your company, Unique Rwanda Vacation Experts. Reputable tour companies handle the entire process on your behalf checking availability, securing the permit, coordinating payment, and bundling it with accommodation, transportation, and guiding services. This is the most convenient and stress-free option, especially for international visitors unfamiliar with Rwanda’s systems.
Gorilla permits are non-refundable and non-transferable, so it’s crucial to choose your trekking date carefully. Travelers must be 15 years or older to participate in gorilla trekking, and all participants must attend a mandatory pre-trek briefing at the Kinigi Park Headquarters on the morning of the trek.
Because of the limited availability only 96 permits are issued daily (8 permits for each of the 12 habituated gorilla groups)it’s strongly advised to book at least 3 to 6 months in advance, or even earlier for high seasons (June–September and December–February). Reach out to Unique Rwanda Vacation Experts for a help in booking a gorilla permit and also help you with other details including booking accommodation, transport and guiding for your activities.