Where and How to Buy Gorilla Permits in Rwanda

Where and How to Buy Gorilla Permits in Rwanda

Planning a trip to Rwanda for gorilla trekking and wondering where and how to buy your gorilla permit? We’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about securing your Rwanda gorilla permit to make your experience smooth and memorable.

Why Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?

Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience where you get to visit habituated mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. You’ll watch these incredible primates as they feed, play, groom each other, and live together as a family. It’s an intimate and humbling experience that offers a glimpse into the lives of our closest animal relatives, who share 99% of their DNA with humans.

Gorilla Trekking Permits in Rwanda

To go gorilla trekking in Rwanda, you need a gorilla permit issued by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). The permits are your entry ticket to trek in Volcanoes National Park, home to over 10 habituated gorilla families. Each gorilla family can be visited by a maximum of 8 people per day, making a total of 80 permits available daily.

With such limited availability, it’s important to book your permit well in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons.

How Much Does a Gorilla Permit Cost in Rwanda?

The cost of a Rwanda gorilla permit is $1,500 per person, regardless of nationality. This fee covers:

• One hour of gorilla viewing.
• Services of a park guide and ranger.
• Conservation contributions to protect the endangered mountain gorillas.

While the cost may seem high, it directly supports conservation efforts and the protection of these critically endangered species.

Booking Your Gorilla Permit

You can book your gorilla permit directly through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or through a trusted tour operator like Trek Africa Expeditions. Booking through a tour operator can be more convenient as we handle all the paperwork, check availability, and secure your permit for your preferred dates.

Gorilla trekking typically starts at 7:00 AM at the Kinigi Park Headquarters with a briefing session. During the briefing, you’ll learn about the trekking guidelines and safety measures, as gorillas, while habituated, are still wild animals.

What to Expect During Your Gorilla Trek

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family you are assigned to. The trek can be challenging as it involves hiking through dense forest and uneven terrain, but the experience of encountering a gorilla family up close makes it all worthwhile.

You’ll spend one hour observing the gorillas once you find them. Watch as they eat, play, and interact—it’s a magical moment that many describe as life-changing. Make sure to follow the park guide’s instructions and maintain a respectful distance.

About Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans in French) is located in northeastern Rwanda, near the town of Musanze. It’s one of Africa’s oldest national parks and is part of the Virunga Conservation Area, which includes a series of extinct volcanoes: Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, Mount Karisimbi, and Mount Bisoke.

The park is famous for its mountain gorillas, but it’s also home to golden monkeys, various bird species, and other wildlife like forest hogs and bushbucks. The park’s unique blend of wildlife and volcanic landscapes makes it a must-visit destination in Rwanda.

How to Book a Gorilla Permit in Rwanda

Planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda? Securing your Rwanda gorilla permit is the first and most important step. Here’s a simple guide on how to book your permit with Trek Africa Expeditions.

Step 1: Contact Us to Check Availability

When you reach out to us at Trek Africa Expeditions, let us know your preferred trekking dates. We’ll check the availability of permits using the online system of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). Since permits can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons, it’s best to book several months in advance. If your desired date isn’t available, we’ll suggest alternative dates that fit your schedule.

Step 2: Payment and Confirmation

Once we confirm the availability of your gorilla permit, we’ll send you an invoice for payment. Gorilla permits are a top priority because they guarantee your spot for trekking. After receiving your payment, we will secure your permit and provide you with a receipt and booking ID as proof of your confirmed reservation. It’s a straightforward and transparent process, designed to give you peace of mind as you prepare for this unforgettable experience.

Why Book in Advance?

Rwanda’s gorilla permits are in high demand and tend to sell out quickly, especially during the high season (January, February, July, August, September, and December). By booking early, you increase your chances of securing a permit for your desired trekking date and avoid last-minute disappointments.

How Many Gorilla Permits Are Available Daily?

In Volcanoes National Park, there are 80 gorilla permits available each day, as the park allows only 8 visitors per gorilla family. This limited availability ensures a more intimate and less disruptive experience for both visitors and the gorillas.

Last-Minute Gorilla Permit Bookings

Need a last-minute booking? We’ve got you covered! If you find yourself in Rwanda unexpectedly for a conference, seminar, or a change of plans, we can help arrange a last-minute gorilla permit. Whether you’re traveling over the weekend or have a free day during your stay, we will do our best to secure a permit for you. We can either obtain permits directly from the Rwanda Development Board or help find available permits from those reselling.

The Gorilla Trekking Experience

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is a unique and awe-inspiring experience. The trek usually begins early in the morning with a briefing at the Kinigi Park Headquarters. You’ll hike through the lush bamboo forests, guided by experienced rangers and trackers, to find the gorilla families in their natural habitat. The trek can be challenging, involving steep and sometimes slippery trails, but the reward is a magical hour spent observing these gentle giants up close.

Despite their impressive size, mountain gorillas are peaceful creatures. They may even approach you or show curiosity by touching one of the guides. The experience of seeing gorillas in the wild is one of Africa’s most cherished travel highlights.

Why Book Your Gorilla Permit with Trek Africa Expeditions?

• Trusted Expertise: We are a local tour operator with extensive experience in booking gorilla permits and organizing safaris in Rwanda and Uganda.
• Personalized Service: We offer tailor-made tour packages to fit your budget and preferences, ensuring you get the most out of your gorilla trekking experience.
• Reliable and Transparent: We have a strong partnership with the Rwanda Development Board, making the permit booking process smooth and secure.
• Highly Rated: Our clients consistently leave positive reviews on TripAdvisor, praising our professionalism, attention to detail, and the unforgettable experiences we create.

Ready to embark on your gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda? Contact us today to book your permits, and let us help you plan an incredible journey to meet the mountain gorillas in their natural home.