Gorilla Permits Booking Information

Booking a Gorilla Permit: Everything You Need to Know

Booking a gorilla permit is a crucial step for anyone planning a mountain gorilla trekking safari in East Africa. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about how permits work, their costs, where to buy them and how to ensure your experience is smooth and unforgettable.

What is a Gorilla Permit?

A gorilla permit is your official pass to an extraordinary experience—tracking a habituated mountain gorilla family in their natural habitat. This permit grants you an escorted trek through the East African jungles, led by professional trackers and guides, to spend up to 60 minutes observing these majestic creatures in the wild.

Mountain gorillas are an endangered species, with around 1,008 left in the wild. Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts by organizations like the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and national park authorities, their population is steadily increasing. When you purchase a gorilla permit, you’re not only securing an unforgettable wildlife experience but also contributing to the ongoing protection of these incredible animals.

Why Gorilla Permits Are Essential

Mountain gorillas face many threats, from habitat loss due to human encroachment, poaching snares, diseases and the effects of climate change. Given their limited population and habitat, protecting these animals is a top priority for conservationists. Your purchase of a gorilla permit helps fund these critical efforts to safeguard the future of the species.

The funds generated through gorilla permits help maintain over 780 square kilometers of natural forest across Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo, ensuring that the gorillas and their habitat remain protected.

How Much Does a Gorilla Permit Cost?

Gorilla permits are understandably expensive due to the resources required to protect these animals and their environment. Here’s the current pricing:

• Uganda: $800 per person per day for foreign non-residents and $700 for foreign residents.
• Rwanda: $1,500 per person per day since 2017.
• DR Congo: $400 per person, though the country’s instability makes it a less popular destination.

Are There Cheaper Gorilla Permit Options?

Gorilla permits are sold at fixed prices set by government authorities and it’s illegal to sell them at different rates. However, you can find more affordable options by choosing to trek in Uganda or DR Congo, where permits are cheaper than in Rwanda.

While there are no official discounts, some operators may offer lower rates on permits they’ve already purchased, especially during the low season. This isn’t guaranteed, so it’s best to book in advance to secure your spot.

How to Book a Gorilla Permit

Gorilla permits are limited due to the small number of habituated gorilla families. Each family can be visited by only eight people per day for one hour. With just 19 habituated groups across Uganda and Rwanda, the demand for permits far exceeds supply, especially during peak seasons (June to October and January to March).

To secure your permit, it’s recommended to book 4–6 months in advance. For larger groups, booking a year ahead is wise.

Where to Buy a Gorilla Permit

Permits are issued by the respective national wildlife authorities:

• Uganda: Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA)
• Rwanda: Rwanda Development Board (RDB)
• DR Congo: Virunga National Park authorities

Licensed tour operators, like Eco Adventure Safaris, can also help you secure your permit and organize your trek. In Uganda, you can visit the UWA office on Kira Road in Kampala or contact them via phone or email. Rwanda permits can be booked through the RDB or online through their Irembo portal.

Can I Buy a Gorilla Permit Online?

Yes, in Rwanda you can purchase a gorilla permit online via the Irembo platform. Uganda, however, has yet to introduce an online option. That said, booking through a licensed tour operator is just as reliable as purchasing directly. Many operators will handle the process on your behalf, ensuring a smooth booking experience.

What Do You Need to Buy a Gorilla Permit?

First, decide on the dates you want to track gorillas. It’s a good idea to have a few alternative dates in case your preferred option is fully booked. You’ll also need to provide your name, nationality and passport number—sending a scanned copy of your passport to your tour operator is recommended.

The best way to pay for your permit is via bank wire transfer, especially if you’re buying directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or Rwanda Development Board (RDB). You’ll need to send them proof of payment via email. If you choose to book through a tour operator, they often accept credit cards but keep in mind there’s usually a surcharge (3%–9%).

Once your tour operator has your preferred dates and personal details, they’ll make a temporary reservation for your permit. You should receive a scanned copy of your permit within a few days or weeks for confirmation. The original permit will be handed to you when you arrive in the country, either by your tour operator or directly from UWA/RDB offices if you’re traveling independently.

Your gorilla permit is unique, with a serial number and your personal information printed on it. It is non-transferable and you must carry your passport to the briefing on the day of your trek to verify your permit.

Gorilla Permit Rules and Restrictions

Is There an Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking?

Yes, there is. To protect both the visitors and the gorillas, anyone under the age of 15 is not permitted to trek mountain gorillas and, therefore, cannot be issued a permit.

Can I Cancel or Get a Refund on a Gorilla Permit?

UWA allows a 50% refund if you cannot start the trek due to illness but only upon the recommendation of the Warden in Charge. Visitors who can’t reach Bwindi due to travel complications may receive a full refund. If you complete the trek but don’t spot any gorillas, UWA offers a 75% refund.

If you need to cancel your permit, UWA will retain fees according to this schedule:

• 0–8 days before tracking: No refund
• 9–45 days before tracking: 25% refund
• 46–90 days before tracking: 50% refund
• 91+ days before tracking: 75% refund

Is a Gorilla Permit Transferable?

No, a gorilla permit is non-transferable. However, if you booked through a licensed tour operator, they may be able to help resell your permit through their network. In most cases, it’s tough to get a refund or transfer the permit once it’s been issued but an experienced tour operator might be able to assist.

Important Tips for Gorilla Trekking

Uganda’s gorilla families are spread across a large area, so it’s crucial to book accommodation close to your trekking starting point—within an hour’s drive or a short walk.

When booking in Uganda, you’ll need to specify whether you want to visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga National Park. The Uganda Wildlife Authority will assign you a gorilla family based on your fitness level and interests.

In Rwanda, you don’t need to specify a gorilla family when purchasing your permit but it’s recommended to stay within an hour’s drive of Kinigi, the main trailhead for all gorilla trekking activities.

Final Thoughts on Gorilla Permits

Booking a gorilla trekking permit is a crucial part of your safari adventure. If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out to our team of gorilla trekking experts. At Iconic Travel, all our gorilla trekking tours include permits, accommodation, transfers, meals and entertainment. We’re here to ensure your experience is smooth and unforgettable!

Take a look at our recommended gorilla trekking itineraries to start planning your adventure.