Rwanda gorilla permits – Rwanda’s gorillas live in Volcanoes National Park, a well-maintained park where primate aficionados can also hike to a former research station founded by the famous Dian Fossey.
Tracking gorillas here is one of Africa’s most thrilling wildlife experiences. However, before you can do that, you must purchase a gorilla permit, and here we explain what that means.
A gorilla trekking permit (more commonly referred to simply as a gorilla permit) is a legal requirement for anyone who wishes to track a gorilla, whether it is in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda or in another neighboring country.
This permit system serves two purposes: first, it allows park authorities to control the number of people who can visit a particular group of gorillas on a given day.
It’s also important to be aware of the Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations to ensure a safe and respectful experience.
Second, the gorilla trekking permit fee makes an important financial contribution not only to the protection of gorillas in the park and their habitat but also to the prosperity of communities living near the park.
How much does a gorilla permit cost in Rwanda?
The gorilla permit fee in Rwanda is USD 1,500 as of 2024.
This fee applies to visitors from outside of Africa. If you are a citizen of Rwanda or another East African country, the gorilla permit fee is reduced to USD 200.
The gorilla permit fee is USD 500 if you are a foreign resident of Rwanda or another African country.
Rwanda offers a 30% discount on gorilla permits during the low season (November to May).
For more insights on discounts and offers, visit our guide on Low Season Gorilla Permits in Rwanda.
Non-Africans can get a gorilla permit for as little as $1,050, but only if they have pre-booked at least two nights in either Akagera or Nyungwe national parks.
How to get a Rwanda Gorilla Permit?
If you are an independent traveler, you can book your gorilla permit online directly through the official Rwanda Development Board (RDB) website.
If you are traveling with a tour operator, it is common practice to let them book your permit.
The permits for each day are usually reserved well ahead of time, so it is recommended to reserve your permit before making any other travel arrangements.
How many gorilla permits are available in Rwanda?
There are 96 gorilla permits available daily for Volcanoes National Park.
These permits are divided into eight permits per day for each of the twelve habituated gorilla groups you can visit.
There are eight other habituated gorilla groups in the park, but they are more difficult to get to and are mainly visited by researchers.
If a gorilla group designated for tourism crosses into either Uganda or the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), one of the groups visited by researchers is allocated to a tourist visit instead.
What does the gorilla permit cover?
Whether you are tracking in or around Rwanda, the gorilla permits will only allow you to enter the national park, go on a guided trek, and spend a maximum of one hour with the gorillas.
The permit does not cover porter charges, tips for the tracker and guide, accommodation, transport costs, meals, or any other activities.
What is the Age Limit for Gorilla Permits?
The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years, as per an agreement between the three countries where trekking is possible.
There is no upper age limit for gorilla trekking, but it is a strenuous activity, so older travelers or those with restricted mobility must decide if they are physically able to do the trek.
Can a gorilla permit be cancelled?
If you cancel your gorilla permit in Rwanda, or if you don’t show up on the date, for any reason, you will not be reimbursed for your gorilla permit.
You are also not allowed to sell or transfer your gorilla permit to someone else.
Your passport information will be verified against your gorilla permit before you embark on your gorilla trekking trip.
If you book your gorilla permit via an operator, you can usually reschedule your gorilla trekking permit at least 30 days in advance.
If you don’t trek because your allocated gorilla group moves unexpectedly, you’ll have the option to try again the following day or get your money back.
If you’re trekking all day and don’t make contact, you’re entitled to a 75% refund.
Can someone visit any other park in addition to gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
Although gorilla trekking is the most popular tourist activity in Rwanda, there are many other attractions as well.
Nyungwe National Park is home to a large forest where chimps can be tracked, and a variety of forest-specific birds and monkeys can be seen.
Akagera National Park is a more traditional safari destination that supports all of the Big Five animals (including lions, leopards, buffalo, elephants, and rhinos).
It is recommended to combine a visit to either of these two parks with a gorilla trekking trip at any point in the year.
A 30% discount will be offered on a gorilla permit if the visit is made between November and May, provided that two nights are spent across both parks.
In conclusion, obtaining a gorilla permit is essential for tracking gorillas in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
The fees contribute to conservation efforts and community welfare.
The permit allows for a one-hour guided trek with the gorillas, and visitors can also explore other attractions like Mount Muhabura, Nyungwe National Park, and Akagera National Park while in Rwanda.
