Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is one of the most emotional wildlife experiences in the world. Standing just meters away from a mountain gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park is something travelers describe as “life-changing” and to protect these endangered giants, Rwanda requires every visitor to purchase a gorilla trekking permit.
This guide gives you everything you must know about the Rwanda gorilla trekking permit, updated costs, booking steps, availability, age limits, rules, and expert travel advice. All information is accurate for 2025/2026, based on official park policies and the real trekking experience we deliver at Hope Tours Africa.
What is a Gorilla Trekking Permit?
A gorilla trekking permit is a mandatory document issued by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) that grants visitors access to trek and spend one hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park.
How much does a Gorilla Permit cost in Rwanda: 2025/2026 Official Permit Prices
Let’s rip the band aid off immediately. Rwanda has positioned itself as a high-end, low-impact eco-tourism destination. The pricing reflects this strategy, which ensures the gorillas are not overwhelmed by mass tourism.
Here is the official pricing structure set by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB):
Traveler Category | Price (USD) | Notes |
| Foreign Non-Residents | $1,500 | Standard price for most international tourists (USA, UK, EU, etc.) |
| Foreign Residents | $500 | Must have valid residency/work permit in Rwanda. |
| East African Citizens | $200 | Citizens of Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan. |
| African Citizens | $500 | Citizens of any other African nation. |
Where does the Gorilla trekking money go?
It helps to know that you aren’t just paying for a ticket; you are funding survival. 10% of the revenue goes directly to the communities surrounding Volcanoes National Park to build schools and clinics (reducing poaching incentives). The rest funds the intense anti-poaching patrols and veterinary units that have successfully brought the Mountain Gorilla population back from the brink of extinction.
Is There any discounts on Gorilla Permits cost in Rwanda?
Many travelers don’t realize that you can trek for less if you are strategic with your dates. The RDB introduced a 30% discount to encourage longer stays in Rwanda.
How to Qualify for the $1,050 gorilla permit Rate:
The Rule: You must visit Volcanoes National Park (Gorillas) AND spend at least two days in either Akagera National Park (Safari/Big 5) or Nyungwe National Park (Chimps/Canopy Walk).
The Window: This applies during the Low Season (November to May).
Hope Tours Africa Insider Tip:
If you are planning a 7-day Rwanda itinerary, this is a no-brainer. You save $450 on the permit, which essentially covers the cost of your luxury accommodation in Akagera. It’s a “buy one, get the rest of Rwanda free” style deal.
How Many Gorilla Permits available per day in Rwanda?
This is where the urgency comes in.
There are only 12 habituated gorilla families in Rwanda.
Only 8 tourists are allowed to visit each family per day.
Total Daily Permits: 96.
That is 96 tickets for the entire world.
When should you book?
Peak Season (June–Sept, Dec–Feb): You must book 6–12 months in advance. We often see August dates sold out by January.
Low Season (Mar–May, Oct–Nov): You can sometimes find permits 2–3 months in advance, but it is still risky to wait.
Real Talk: Do not book your flights until your gorilla permits are confirmed. We have seen heartbreaking situations where travelers arrive in Kigali only to find the park is fully booked.
How to Book a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda?
Technically, you can book directly through the government portal. However, most travelers choose to book through a licensed operator like Hope Tours Africa. Here is why:
The DIY Risk:
The government system is rigid. If you make a mistake on the date or passport number, correcting it can take weeks of email chains.
Transferring thousands of dollars internationally to a government bank account can sometimes flag security blocks with Western banks.
The Hope Tours Advantage:
We hold the risk: We purchase the permit on your behalf instantly.
Logistics: We know which gorilla families trek from which trailheads (some are easier hikes than others) and can advise on where to stay based on your fitness level.
Rescheduling: If your flight is delayed, we have the local contacts at RDB to attempt a reschedule (subject to availability) far faster than you could do on your own.
How much is The Rwanda Gorilla safari Total Trip Cost?
While the permit is $1,500, travelers often ask us: “What is the total cost for the whole tour?”
For a standard 3-Day Luxury Gorilla Safari (including transport, permit, and mid-range lodging), you should budget between $2,500 and $3,500 per person.
If you opt for high-end exclusivity (staying at Bisate Lodge or Singita Kwitonda), the price can rise to $10,000+ per person.
Is the Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permit expensive?
Yes. but Is it worth it?
When you are sitting in the silence of the forest, watching a baby gorilla clumsily thump its chest while the massive Silverback watches over you, the $1,500 price tag evaporates. You aren’t just buying a ticket; you are buying a memory that will remain vivid for the rest of your life, and you are directly contributing to the survival of a species.
Ready to Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?
Dates for 2026 are filling up fast. Contact Hope Tours Africa today, and let us handle the permits, the paperwork, and the planning, so you can focus on the adventure
FAQs - Rwanda Gorilla permit cost 2025/2026
Is gorilla trekking cheaper in Uganda or Rwanda?
Uganda is cheaper. A Uganda permit is $800 compared to Rwanda’s $1,500. However, Rwanda is generally considered “easier” logistically—Volcanoes National Park is just a 2.5-hour drive on paved roads from the airport, whereas Bwindi in Uganda requires a 9-hour drive or a bush flight.
How much is a Rwanda gorilla trekking permit in 2025/26?
As of 2025, the cost of a single gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is US$ 1,500 for visitors from outside Africa. For citizens of Rwanda and other East African countries the price is discounted to US$ 200, the gorilla permit cost for foreign residents of Rwanda, African Citizens as well as Foreign Residents in all African Countries is US$ 500. but these vary year-to-year and are not always active. Always confirm through your tour operator or the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). The cost includes park entry, professional ranger guides, and an hour with a mountain gorilla family.
During the low season months of November to May, a discount of 30 percent is offered on gorilla permits in Rwanda, this reduces the cost for non – African residents to US$ 1,050. However, the discount applies only to tourists who pre-book at least 2 nights in either (or one night in each) of Nyungwe Forest National Park or Akagera National Park.
How far in advance do I need to book a Rwanda gorilla Tour ?
For peak seasons (June–September and December–February), we recommend booking 6 to 12 months in advance. Last-minute permits are extremely rare and risky.
What is the minimum age for gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
The strict minimum age is 15 years old. Visitors will have their passports checked at the park headquarters. Children under 15 are not allowed to trek.
Is the gorilla trek permit included in safari packages?
Usually, yes. When you book a package with Hope Tours Africa, the quote we give you includes the $1,500 permit fee, along with your transport, guide, and accommodation. We handle the purchase for you.
How many gorilla trek permits are available per day in Rwanda?
Rwanda typically allows 96 permits per day in Volcanoes National Park. Each habituated gorilla family may be visited by a maximum of 8 trekkers, and the park has around 12 operational families. Because of this strict limit, trekking slots fill up quickly, especially between June–September and December–February. Booking your permit 3–6 months in advance is strongly recommended.
How difficult is the gorilla trek in Rwanda?
Trek difficulty ranges from easy to challenging, depending on your assigned gorilla family and weather conditions. Some groups stay near the park’s edge, while others move higher into bamboo or hagenia forests. Treks can take anywhere from 2 hours to 8 hours. Hiring a porter greatly improves comfort and stability and supports local communities.
Can gorilla permits be refunded or rescheduled?
Gorilla permits are generally non-refundable due to their high demand and strict conservation policies. Rescheduling may be possible in some cases, but it is not guaranteed and depends on availability. Travel insurance is highly recommended, and using a tour operator helps manage changes more smoothly.
