How to Secure Gorilla Permits in Africa

How to Secure Gorilla Permits in Africa for an Unforgettable Trekking Experience

How to Secure Gorilla Permits in Africa — Planning your dream gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda or Rwanda? The first step is securing your gorilla permits! If you’re wondering where and how to book your permit, this guide will help answer all your questions, from the best time to trek to the cost and booking details.

Why You Need a Gorilla Permit for Your African Safari

A gorilla permit is essential for accessing the national parks where mountain gorillas reside, such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda), Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda) and Virunga National Park (Congo). A permit guarantees you a chance to trek with these endangered animals in their natural habitat.

Top Gorilla Trekking Destinations in Africa

Gorilla trekking can be done in three African countries that are home to the world’s remaining mountain gorillas:

• Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
• Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park
• Congo: Virunga National Park (for mountain gorillas) and Kahuzi-Biega National Park (for lowland gorillas)

Each of these parks requires a permit for entry and it’s best to book early due to high demand, especially during the peak season.

Gorilla Permit Costs in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo

Uganda

• Foreign Non-Residents: $800 per person
• Residents: $700 per person
• East African Citizens: $80 per person

In Uganda, you can also opt for the Gorilla Habituation Experience at Bwindi, which costs $1500 per person and allows you to spend 4 hours with the gorillas instead of the usual 1 hour.

Rwanda

• Foreign Non-Residents: $1500 per person
• Foreign Residents: $500 per person
• East African Citizens: $200 per person

Rwanda offers a similar experience to Uganda, with 12 habituated gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park.

Congo

• Virunga National Park (Mountain Gorillas): $400 per person during the high season (mid-December to March and June to October), $200 during the low season (mid-March to mid-May and mid-October to mid-December).
• Kahuzi-Biega National Park (Lowland Gorillas): $400 for foreign non-residents, $200 for East African residents.

Gorilla permits in Congo can be booked directly with the park authorities or through a trusted tour operator.

How to Book Gorilla Permits in Uganda

Booking your gorilla permit in Uganda is easy and we’re here to assist you every step of the way. Once your travel dates are confirmed, send us an email at info@trekafricagorillas.com. We’ll check permit availability for your chosen dates with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). Once we confirm availability, we’ll send you an invoice. After payment is made, we’ll promptly secure your permit and send you a scanned copy as proof of booking for your gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Important Tip: Since permits are limited, it’s best to book 2-3 months in advance, especially during peak seasons (June to September).

When is the Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking?

Gorilla trekking is available throughout the year but the best time to go is during the dry months of January, February, June to early September. This is when the weather is more favorable and the trails are less muddy, making trekking easier.

What is the Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking?

The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years, with no upper age limit as long as the individual is physically fit to trek. Elderly travelers can opt for sedan chair carriers in Bwindi, where porters will carry them into the forest. The cost for this service is between $400 and $500, depending on the trek.

Gorilla Permit Cancellation Policy

Please note that gorilla permits are non-refundable and cancellations within 0-8 days of the trek will result in no refund.

Packing List: What to Bring for Gorilla Trekking in Africa

A successful trek begins with being well-prepared. Here’s what to pack for your gorilla trekking adventure:

• Insect Repellent
• Torch/Flashlight with Spare Batteries
• Wet Wipes
• Water Bottle
• Camera and Extra Lenses
• Comfortable Hiking Boots
• Gardening Gloves (for tracking)
• Rain Jacket
• Hat and Sunscreen
• Sweater/Fleece for the cold
• Binoculars (for bird/game watching)
• Swimwear (for post-trek relaxation)

Why Book Your Gorilla Permits with Trek Africa Gorillas?

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we provide personalized service with a focus on safety and client satisfaction. We care about the well-being of our guests, local communities and wildlife. Our eco-friendly safaris adhere to the principle: “Take Nothing but Photographs, Leave Only Footprints.” Additionally, we prioritize your health and safety.

Contact us today to secure your gorilla permits and book your unforgettable trek in Uganda, Rwanda or Congo!