Rwanda Gorilla permit availability | Cost of Gorilla Trekking Permits in Rwanda
Here’s everything you need to know about Rwanda gorilla trekking permits.
Rwanda is one of the three countries in the world where you can see the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Mountain gorillas in Rwanda can be found in Volcanoes National Park, in the Virunga Mountain Ranges. Volcanoes is a well-organized destination where gorilla trekking is made possible as well as hiking to the former research station established by the legendary Dian Fossey.
Gorilla tracking in Rwanda is an exciting and life-transforming wildlife experience. It is also one of the best ways of protecting gorillas and conserving their habitats. Revenue generated can be used to fund these projects and support surrounding communities.
However, to see mountain gorillas in Rwanda, you must first obtain a trekking permit from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). Below we explain exactly what Rwanda gorilla trekking permits entail.
What is a gorilla permit?
A gorilla permit is a legal document or card that allows visitors to see mountain gorillas. It is the primary requirement for anyone going to track these gentle giants in the wild and is obtained after paying a certain fee.
How Much Does a Rwanda Gorilla Permit Cost?
A gorilla permit in Rwanda costs USD 1,500 for foreign non-residents, USD 500 for foreign residents, USD 500 for African Citizens, and USD 200 for East African Citizens. The cost includes park entrance fees, guided trek fees, and mandatory security/trackers but does not cover accommodation, the logistical aspect of your tour (to be covered by your tour operator), porters, or tips.
Discounts on gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda include;
- A 30% Discount on gorilla permits is offered to those visiting other Rwanda national parks (Akagera National Park and Nyungwe National Park) for 3 days and more during the low seasons from November to May. It reduces the cost for non-African residents to USD 1,050.
- 15% discount (US$ 1,275) on conference guests who stay pre & post MICE events to see gorillas.
- $15,000 for Private gorilla trekking of an entire group with an exclusive personalized tour guide service.
- US$ 30,000 for a minimum of 3 visitors (not per person) for 3 consecutive days (for behind the scenes with gorillas).
Gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda are generally more expensive in contrast to Uganda’s because Rwanda positions itself as the high-end gorilla trekking destination, reflected in the higher permit price and the wider range of high-end accommodations.
Rwanda has some elegant luxury properties and a fair number of overpriced mid-range ones. We recommend booking with caution or contacting your travel company.
How many gorilla permits are sold in Rwanda?
There are 96 gorilla permits available per day in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, distributed among the 12 habituated gorilla families. A maximum of eight visitors (not including guides and porters) are allowed to visit a gorilla family.
Why Is a Gorilla Permit Required?
A gorilla permit is mandatory for all trekking travelers, whether they do so in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park or in the neighboring Uganda or the DRC.
The permit system allows the park authorities to regulate the number of people visiting any given gorilla family on any given day. It also contributes to the conservation of gorillas and their habitat, as well as to the well-being of communities living outside the park.
How can I book a gorilla permit in Rwanda?
There are two ways you can obtain a gorilla permit in Rwanda.
- Through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), which governs Rwandan tourism. They can be reached by email at reservation@rwandatourism.com.
- Booking through a local tour operator or travel company is the most convenient way to obtain a permit. You can work closely with a reliable local tour operator to help secure one for you. We recommend reserving your gorilla permit well in advance of your actual tracking date, as they sell out quickly.
When can I book a gorilla permit?
Normally, we recommend visitors book permits at least six months to a year in advance if they’re travelling during peak seasons (June to August and December to February). This is because they are limited and non-transferable, and booking early offers greater assurance and ensures adequate planning.
Gorilla trekking is one of the most sought-after wildlife experiences. The fact that just 96 permits are given out each day indicates that demand is tremendous. In order to avoid last-minute disappointment, last-minute reservations are typically discouraged. You can book your permit up to two years in advance.
Is It Possible to Cancel a Gorilla Permit in Rwanda?
Yes, it is possible to cancel a Rwanda gorilla permit but the cost is non-refundable except in extreme circumstances like medical emergencies and natural disasters. For special considerations, you may have to provide valid documentation and any decision would be at the discretion of the Rwanda Development Board.
You cannot sell or give a permit to somebody else, as your passport details will be checked against the permit on the actual day of trekking. If you book your permit through a licensed tour operator, you can reschedule it to another date with a minimum of 30 days’ notice subject to availability.
An exception is made when;
- You are unable to track due to unexpected movement of your allocated gorilla family. You’ll be given the choice of trying again the next day or receiving a full refund.
- You track all day and fail to find any gorilla family. A 75% refund is due.
For how long is a gorilla permit valid?
Gorilla permits are only valid for a single trekking trip per person per day and they cannot be transferred. However, it is acceptable and typical to purchase multiple gorilla permits for various trekking dates. A gorilla permit is only valid from the date it is issued until the day you actually go trekking after that it expires.