How to Book a Gorilla Permit
January 7, 2025
Top National Parks in Uganda for Your Safari
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Securing Gorilla Permits for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo
Planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, Rwanda or DR Congo? One of the first things you’ll need to do is secure a gorilla permit, which is essential for tracking these majestic creatures. Many travelers have questions about how to book these permits, where to purchase them and when the best time for gorilla trekking is. In our Gorilla Permit Booking Information guide, we address these questions and provide you with all the information you need to ensure you’re ready for an unforgettable experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park (Uganda) or Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda).
Where is Gorilla Trekking Done in Africa?
Gorilla trekking takes place in Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo, all of which are home to the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas. The key national parks include:
- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda
- Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda
- Virunga National Park in DR Congo
In DR Congo, you also have the opportunity to see lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Beiga National Park. To trek gorillas in any of these parks, you must secure a gorilla permit. It’s best to start planning and booking your gorilla trip as soon as possible, especially if you plan to trek during peak seasons, as permits can sell out quickly.
How to Secure Gorilla Permits in Uganda
Once you’ve finalized your travel dates, it’s time to secure your gorilla permit. Simply email us at info@trekafricagorillas.com and we’ll check the availability of permits for your chosen dates with the Uganda Wildlife Authority. If permits are available, we’ll inform you and send an invoice for payment. After payment is received, we’ll immediately purchase your permits and send you a scanned copy for your records. This ensures your booking is confirmed for the Gorilla Trekking Experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
Since permits are limited and sell out quickly, we recommend booking at least 2-3 months in advance to secure your spot, especially during the peak season (June to September).
Gorilla Permit Costs in Uganda
- Foreign Non-Residents: $800 per person per trek
- Residents: $700 per person
- East African Citizens: $80 per person (Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi and South Sudan)
With your Uganda gorilla permit, you’ll spend one hour with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Uganda is home to 18 habituated gorilla families, 17 in Bwindi and 1 in Mgahinga, which means there are 136 permits available each day.
Additionally, Uganda offers the Gorilla Habituation Experience for a more immersive experience. This allows you to spend 4 hours with the semi-habituated gorillas under the guidance of researchers and trackers. The Gorilla Habituation Permit costs $1500 per person.
You can book your gorilla permits directly with the Uganda Wildlife Authority or through a trusted tour operator like Trek Africa Gorillas.
Gorilla Permit Costs in Rwanda
- Foreign Non-Residents: $1500 per person per trek
- Foreign Residents: $500 per person
- East African Citizens: $200 per person
Rwanda offers 12 gorilla families, with 96 permits available each day in Volcanoes National Park. Permits can be booked directly with the Rwanda Development Board or through a reliable tour operator like Trek Africa Gorillas.
Gorilla Permit Costs in DR Congo
- Virunga National Park (Mountain Gorillas):
- High Season (Mid-December to Mid-March & June to October): $400 per person per trek
- Low Season (Mid-March to Mid-May & Mid-October to Mid-December): $200 per person per trek
- Kahuzi Beiga National Park (Lowland Gorillas):
- Foreign Non-Residents: $400 per person
- East African Residents: $200 per person
- National Residents: $20 per person
Gorilla trekking permits in DR Congo can be booked directly with Virunga National Park or through a reputable tour operator like Trek Africa Gorillas.
What’s Not Included in the Gorilla Permit Price?
When booking your gorilla permit, please note that the cost excludes accommodation, air tickets, ground transportation, meals and any additional expenses. It’s essential to check the full package details with your tour operator to ensure you’re well-prepared for your gorilla trekking adventure.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Africa
Gorilla trekking is possible year-round but the best time to trek is during the drier months of January, February and from June to early September. During these months, conditions are generally easier for trekking as the trails are less muddy and visibility is better since vegetation is not as thick. These months provide the best experience for observing the gorillas in their natural habitat.
What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Africa
When preparing for your gorilla trekking adventure, packing the right gear is essential. You’ll need comfortable and durable clothing, as well as some additional items to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trek. Here’s a list of recommended items to pack:
- Comfortable hiking boots (essential for muddy, uneven terrain)
- Long-sleeve cotton shirt and lightweight long trousers (to protect from the undergrowth, stinging nettles and biting ants)
- Insect repellent (to keep pesky bugs at bay)
- Torch/flashlight (with extra batteries)
- Water bottle (to stay hydrated)
- Camera and lenses (to capture the moment)
- Gardening gloves (helpful for tracking through the forest)
- Rain jacket (weather can change quickly)
- Sweater/fleece (for cooler temperatures)
- Swimwear (if you plan to swim during your safari)
- Hat and sunscreen (for sun protection)
- Binoculars (for bird and game watching)
Be sure to pack everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable trek through the African wilderness.
Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking in Africa
Gorilla trekking is an unforgettable experience and it’s open to most age groups. The minimum age for trekking is 15 years, while the maximum age is typically 85 years, depending on your fitness level. This means that if you’re in good physical condition, you can enjoy the adventure, regardless of age.
For older travelers or those who may have limited mobility, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest offers sedan chair carriers. These chairs, carried by porters, allow individuals who are unable to walk into the forest to be comfortably transported during their trek. The sedan chair service can be arranged in advance or on the day of the trek and the cost typically ranges from $400 to $500.
Gorilla Permit Cancellation Policies in Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo
Booking a gorilla permit is required for tracking gorillas in Africa and it’s essential to make sure you’re able to use the permit on the scheduled date. If you need to cancel or reschedule, it’s important to be aware of the cancellation penalties.
For gorilla permits in Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo, cancellation penalties apply if you don’t make it to your trek date. If you cancel within 0 to 8 days of the trek, no refund will be issued.
Why Book Your Gorilla Permits with Trek Africa Gorillas?
At Trek Africa Gorillas, we provide personalized service, ensuring your safety, comfort and enjoyment throughout your journey. We are deeply committed to making a positive impact on both our guests and the communities we work with, all while protecting the environment. Our eco-friendly approach reflects the ethos of “Take Nothing but Photographs, Leave Only Footprints.”
We make sure all our service providers follow the necessary health guidelines, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience on safari. When you book with Trek Africa Gorillas, you’re not just securing a trek – you’re supporting responsible, sustainable tourism.
