How Many Gorilla Permits Are Issued Daily in Rwanda and Uganda?
Introduction
If you’re planning a gorilla trek, you might wonder how many permits are available each day. Both Rwanda and Uganda strictly control the number of visitors allowed to meet the mountain gorillas. These limits help protect the gorillas and maintain a quality experience for trekkers. Knowing the daily permit quota will help you understand why booking early is so important.
Rwanda’s Daily Permit Limits
In Rwanda, the number of permits issued depends on the number of habituated gorilla groups available for trekking. Currently, about 10 gorilla families are open to tourists. Each group allows only eight visitors per day. That means Rwanda issues approximately 80 gorilla permits daily.
The limited number keeps the trekking experience exclusive and minimizes stress on the gorillas. Rwanda has focused on high-end tourism, which favors fewer visitors paying a higher price. This approach supports both conservation and luxury tourism.
Uganda’s Daily Permit Limits
Uganda has more gorilla groups open to tourists than Rwanda, with around 17 habituated families spread across Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga National Park. Like Rwanda, Uganda restricts visits to eight people per group per day. This means Uganda can issue roughly 136 permits daily.
This larger quota makes Uganda a good option for travelers who want more flexibility with dates. It also reflects Uganda’s focus on balancing conservation with more accessible tourism.
Impact on Booking and Availability
Because permits are limited by group and visitor number, they often sell out months in advance, especially during peak seasons. The daily caps mean demand regularly exceeds supply. Booking your permit early is the only way to guarantee a spot on your preferred trekking date.
Why These Limits Matter
Limiting daily permits protects gorilla health and reduces habitat disturbance. It ensures each visitor enjoys a peaceful, intimate experience with the gorillas. Too many visitors at once could lead to disease spread and stress among the animals.
Final Thought: Plan Your Safari
Knowing that only a few hundred permits exist each day in Rwanda and Uganda highlights the importance of early planning. These limits preserve the gorillas and enhance your trekking adventure. Secure your permit well in advance to avoid disappointment
