Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permits: Cost, Booking & 2025-2027

Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permits are the golden keys to one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife encounters — standing face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. Every trekker must hold a valid permit, but prices, booking steps, and regulations can change year to year.

In this updated 2025-2027 guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permit cost, how to book it, the latest government updates, and essential traveler tips to secure your spot early and plan confidently.

Why You Need a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Rwanda

A gorilla trekking permit is your official authorization to visit one of Rwanda’s habituated gorilla families inside Volcanoes National Park.

Only 96 permits are issued per day — with 8 trekkers allowed per gorilla family. This limit ensures minimal human impact and gives every traveler an intimate, respectful, and unforgettable experience with the gorillas.

Holding a permit also means you’re directly supporting wildlife conservation, anti-poaching patrols, and the local communities surrounding the park. In short, the permit fee funds both protection and prosperity.

Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permit Cost (2025-2027 Updates)

As of 2025, the official Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permit price remains:

USD 1,500 per person per trek

This fee allows you one full day of trekking and one magical hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park.

Special Discounted Permits in 2025-2027

The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) occasionally offers promotional rates during low seasons or for specific groups. These are subject to change, but as of early 2025, here’s what applies:

• African citizens (from East African Community): USD 500 per person

• Foreign residents in Rwanda: USD 500 per person (valid residency ID required)

• Delegates attending conferences in Rwanda: USD 1,250 per person (must show proof of participation)

Note: All discounts must be pre-approved by RDB, and proof must be presented when booking.

What the Permit Cost Covers

The $1,500 fee may sound high, but it includes much more than just a ticket to enter the forest. Here’s what’s included in your Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permit:

• One guaranteed gorilla trekking session with a ranger guide

• Briefing and registration at Kinigi Park Headquarters

• Park entrance fee for Volcanoes National Park

• Contribution to community development and conservation programs

• Armed ranger protection throughout the trek

What’s Not Included

Your permit does not include accommodation, meals, transport from Kigali, or porter services. These are typically organized through a tour operator like  Gorilla trek from Kigali as part of a complete package.

How to Book a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Rwanda

There are two main ways to book your gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda:

1. Book Directly with RDB (Rwanda Development Board)

You can contact the RDB via email (info@rdb.rw) or through their official website. You’ll be asked to:

• Provide your passport details

• Specify your preferred trekking date(s)

• Make full payment (usually by bank transfer)

However, this method can be slow due to high demand and limited daily allocations.

2. Book Through a Licensed Tour Operator

The most reliable way is to book your gorilla permit through an authorized tour company like Universal Journeys Rwanda.

Tour operators have priority access to the RDB permit system and can:

• Check real-time availability

• Hold and confirm your permit quickly

• Arrange full safari packages (transport, lodges, park transfers)

• Handle all paperwork and payment processing

Booking through a trusted local operator saves time, ensures accuracy, and guarantees your trek slot — especially in peak months.

When to Book Your Permit

Due to the limited number of daily permits, early booking is crucial.

• High season (June–September & December–February): Book 3–6 months in advance.

• Shoulder/Green seasons: Booking 1–2 months ahead is usually enough.

Booking early gives you flexibility to choose your preferred gorilla group, accommodation near Kinigi, and travel dates that match your flights from Kigali International Airport.

Validity and Usage Rules

A Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permit is valid only for the specific date and person issued. It is non-transferable and non-refundable, except under special RDB conditions.

Trekkers must present:

• Original passport or national ID used at booking

• Permit confirmation letter (printed or digital)

• A valid COVID-19 certificate or yellow fever card if required at the time of travel

Note: Permits cannot be shared or resold.

What Happens on Trekking Day

1. Morning briefing: Arrive at Kinigi Headquarters by 7:00 AM for registration and a safety briefing.

2. Group assignment: Trekkers are assigned to a gorilla family based on fitness and preference (easy, moderate, or difficult hikes).

3. Drive to trailhead: Vehicles take each group to the starting point for the hike.

4. Trekking: Hike through bamboo and montane forest until gorillas are located.

5. One-hour encounter: Once found, you’ll spend exactly one hour observing and photographing the gorillas.

6. Return and certification: After your trek, you’ll receive a gorilla trekking certificate—a beautiful souvenir of your achievement.

Why the Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permit Is Worth It

While some travelers compare costs between Rwanda vs. Uganda, Rwanda’s gorilla permit offers exceptional value for several reasons:

• Easy access: Volcanoes National Park is only 2.5 hours from Kigali — no long drives or domestic flights.

• Luxury infrastructure: Rwanda focuses on premium eco-tourism with world-class lodges near the park.

• High conservation standards: Rwanda invests heavily in ranger welfare, community projects, and anti-poaching.

• Security and stability: Rwanda is one of Africa’s safest countries for travelers.

Every dollar you spend directly supports Rwanda’s sustainable tourism model, helping preserve gorillas for generations.

Gorilla Trekking Permit 2025 – Key Updates

Here are the latest official updates for 2025 from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB):

• The permit price remains $1,500 per person (unchanged from 2024).

• Digital permit system upgrade: RDB introduced a new online platform allowing licensed tour operators to check availability faster.

• Community revenue share increased to 15% — ensuring more local benefits.

• Expanded ranger training program launched to enhance guest safety and interpretation skills.

• Discount eligibility verification now automated for residents and conference delegates.

These updates reflect Rwanda’s continued commitment to balancing exclusive tourism with wildlife protection and community empowerment.

Tips for Securing Your Permit Smoothly

• Book through a reputable local operator for faster confirmation.

• Have your passport copy and travel dates ready before inquiry.

• Combine your permit with accommodation near Kinigi to simplify logistics.

• Avoid last-minute requests during June–September, as all 96 slots often sell out.

• Carry a printed permit confirmation and your passport on the trekking day.

Planning ahead ensures a seamless experience from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park.

Summary: Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permit Facts (2025)

Conclusion: Plan Early, Trek Responsibly

Securing a Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permit is your first and most important step toward meeting the world’s most magnificent primates. While the price may seem high, the reward — an hour in the presence of a wild mountain gorilla family — is beyond measure.

By booking early, choosing trusted partners, and respecting conservation rules, you help sustain Rwanda’s powerful story of wildlife recovery, community benefit, and world-class eco-tourism.

Start your journey today — book your Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permit from Kigali and prepare for an unforgettable encounter in the heart of Africa.