How to Get Gorilla Trekking Permits—Booking Tips and Tricks
Planning a gorilla trekking adventure starts with one crucial step—securing a gorilla permit. Without it, you cannot take part in a trek. These permits are limited, regulated, and in high demand, especially during peak seasons.
This guide explains how to book gorilla permits in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo, with helpful tips to ensure you don’t miss out.
Why You Need a Gorilla Trekking Permit
A gorilla permit gives you official permission to visit a habituated mountain gorilla family. It includes the cost of park entry, ranger guides, trackers, and a maximum one-hour visit with the gorillas. Only 8 people are allowed per gorilla group each day, so space is limited.
Buying a permit also supports conservation. A large portion of the fee funds anti-poaching units, ranger salaries, veterinary care, and local community projects.
Where to Buy Gorilla Permits
-
Uganda (Bwindi & Mgahinga National Parks)
You can get a Ugandan gorilla permit through:
- Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA): The main source. You can book directly at their office or via email.
- Trusted Tour Operators: Most visitors book through a registered safari company. These agents hold permit quotas and can secure permits on your behalf.
The cost of a gorilla permit in Uganda is:
- $800 for foreign non-residents
- $700 for foreign residents
- UGX 300,000 for East African citizens
If you want a longer gorilla experience, opt for the Gorilla Habituation Experience. It costs $1,500 and gives you up to 4 hours with the gorillas.
-
Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park)
Permits in Rwanda are booked through:
- Rwanda Development Board (RDB): Visit their website or email them directly.
- Authorized Safari Companies: Tour operators can bundle permits with transport and lodging.
The cost of a Rwandan gorilla permit is $1,500 per person. Rwanda positions its permit as a premium conservation experience with luxury add-ons and infrastructure.
-
Democratic Republic of Congo (Virunga National Park)
Virunga’s gorilla permits are available via:
- Virunga National Park Website: Booking is done online. Permits are tied to tour packages for added security.
- Approved Travel Agencies: They arrange tours and handle permit bookings for you.
The cost of a Congo permit is $400, making it the most affordable option. However, travel conditions in the region can change, so check safety advisories before booking.
When to Book Your Gorilla Permit
Book at least 3 to 6 months in advance, especially for high season (June–September and December–February). Permits often sell out during these periods. If you plan to travel in low season, you might get lucky with last-minute availability, but it’s risky.
Tips and Tricks for Booking
- Be flexible with dates. If your preferred date is booked, nearby dates may still be open.
- Use a reliable tour operator. They can check real-time availability and manage everything for you.
- Combine with lodging. Some high-end lodges reserve permits for their guests.
- Have passport details ready. Your permit is tied to your name and ID, so accurate information is essential.
- Confirm your permit. Always ask for a scanned copy or booking reference.
Can You Get a Last-Minute Permit?
Yes—but only occasionally. If other travelers cancel, permits may be reissued. Local operators often know of these last-minute openings. This option works better in Uganda than Rwanda. Still, advance booking remains the safest bet.
Plan your safari today.
Getting your gorilla trekking permit is the key to an unforgettable wildlife experience. Act early, use the right channels, and work with experts when needed. Whether you choose Uganda, Rwanda, or Congo, your permit opens the door to one of the most powerful and rare wildlife encounters on the planet.
