How Do I Get a Gorilla Trekking Permit, and How Much Does It Cost?

How do I get a gorilla trekking permit, and how much does it cost? This is one of the most frequently asked questions by travelers preparing to embark on the life-changing journey of gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda. Whether you’re planning an all-inclusive Uganda safari or a cross-border Rwanda safari, securing your gorilla permit is the first and most essential step toward encountering these majestic primates in their natural habitat.

Gorilla trekking is more than just a wildlife encounter—it’s a profound connection with nature, conservation, and the raw beauty of the African wilderness. Uganda is home to the world-renowned Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, while Rwanda offers luxury treks in the scenic Volcanoes National Park. These parks harbor the rare mountain gorillas—one of the most endangered species on Earth.

But Uganda and Rwanda are not just gorilla trekking destinations. The region boasts diverse safari opportunities such as Murchison Falls safaris, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest, and traditional wildlife safaris that include the Big Five. Adding cultural immersion and cross-border experiences elevates your African adventure to an unforgettable expedition.

In this detailed article by Renai Safaris, we’ll walk you through how to get a gorilla trekking permit, how much it costs, and how to combine gorilla trekking with other top-notch safari experiences across East Africa.

Understanding the Gorilla Trekking Permit: What It Is and Why You Need One

Why a permit is essential for gorilla trekking

To go gorilla trekking in either Uganda or Rwanda, you must first secure a gorilla trekking permit. This permit grants you official access to visit one of the habituated mountain gorilla families under the supervision of park rangers and conservation experts. The permit also helps fund ongoing conservation efforts and community development initiatives in and around the parks.

When asking, how do I get a gorilla trekking permit, and how much does it cost?, it’s crucial to know that availability is limited. Only 8 permits are issued per gorilla family per day, meaning there’s a cap on the number of trekkers to ensure a low-impact, safe, and sustainable experience for both gorillas and visitors.

Gorilla trekking permits are distributed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) for Uganda, and the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) for Rwanda. Permits must be obtained in advance, ideally 3 to 6 months before your planned travel, especially during peak seasons (June–September and December–February).

Booking your permit through a trusted tour operator like Renai Safaris ensures a smooth process, proper scheduling, and the chance to craft a custom safari itinerary that includes not just Uganda Gorilla Trekking or Gorilla Trekking Rwanda, but also chimpanzee tracking, Murchison Falls safaris, and vibrant cultural experiences.

Gorilla Permit Costs in Uganda and Rwanda

A country-by-country breakdown

Now, let’s tackle the second part of your question: How much does a gorilla trekking permit cost? The answer depends on the country and nationality of the traveler.

Uganda Gorilla Trekking Permit Prices (2025):

• Foreign Non-Residents: $800 USD
• Foreign Residents (with work permits): $700 USD
• East African Citizens: UGX 300,000

These permits are valid for a single trek, allowing you one magical hour with a mountain gorilla family in either Bwindi or Mgahinga National Parks.

Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permit Prices (2025):

• All foreign nationals: $1,500 USD
• African Union Citizens: $500 USD
• Rwandan Citizens: RWF 30,000

Rwanda’s higher permit cost reflects its emphasis on high-end, low-volume tourism. The premium rate includes luxury facilities, well-maintained infrastructure, and a seamless trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park.

Both countries uphold the same minimum age for trekking: 15 years. Permit fees cover park entry, the trekking experience, ranger services, and conservation contributions. Booking through Renai Safaris gives you added value—logistical coordination, transportation, lodging, and expert local guides—all in one convenient package.

How to Get a Gorilla Trekking Permit: Step-by-Step Process

A simple guide to securing your place with the gorillas

1. Choose your trekking destination:

Decide whether you want to experience Uganda Gorilla Trekking in the wild terrain of Bwindi or Mgahinga, or go for the luxurious feel of Gorilla Trekking Rwanda in Volcanoes National Park. Uganda offers more trekking options due to a larger population of gorillas and habituated families.

2. Pick your dates and book early:

Once you have your travel window, let Renai Safaris check availability and secure your permit. The earlier you book, the better your chances—especially in high season.

3. Provide your passport details:

To issue a permit, authorities require a copy of your passport information page. Your permit will be registered in your name and cannot be transferred.

4. Make payment:

Renai Safaris will guide you through the payment process. We accept multiple international payment methods and will provide a receipt and confirmation.

5. Permit confirmation and itinerary planning:

Once secured, we finalize your travel itinerary, including your gorilla trekking day, lodging, transport, and any additional activities like chimpanzee tracking, cultural tours, or wildlife safaris in parks like Murchison Falls.

How do I get a gorilla trekking permit, and how much does it cost? With Renai Safaris, the process is smooth, transparent, and handled by experts committed to making your safari experience extraordinary.

What Else to Do While on a Gorilla Safari in Uganda or Rwanda

Adding more experiences to enrich your adventure

Securing a gorilla permit is just the beginning. Once you’ve got your answer to how do I get a gorilla trekking permit, and how much does it cost?, it’s time to explore what else you can do to make the most of your trip.

Popular Safari Combinations Include:

• Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest (Uganda): Known as the “Primate Capital of the World,” this lush forest offers intimate chimpanzee encounters.
• Murchison Falls Safaris (Uganda): Witness the Nile River explode through a narrow gorge before plunging 43 meters below—plus game drives teeming with lions, elephants, and giraffes.
• Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda): Home to tree-climbing lions and the breathtaking Kazinga Channel boat safari.
• Akagera National Park (Rwanda): A classic wildlife safari destination for game drives and Big Five sightings.

Each of these can be easily combined with your gorilla trek. At Renai Safaris, we help you craft custom itineraries that may include cultural village visits, traditional music and dance, and interactive experiences with communities living around the parks.

Whether you’re on a short vacation or a two-week grand tour, combining Uganda Gorilla Trekking or Gorilla Trekking Rwanda with other attractions makes your trip well-rounded, educational, and unforgettable.

Cultural Experiences to Add to Your Gorilla Trekking Safari

Beyond wildlife: Embrace East Africa’s living cultures

Understanding how do I get a gorilla trekking permit, and how much does it cost? is important—but equally vital is knowing how to make your journey meaningful. Incorporating cultural experiences provides context, connection, and purpose to your travels.

In Uganda:

• Batwa Cultural Trail (Bwindi): Learn about the forest’s original inhabitants, the Batwa pygmies. Participate in storytelling, music, and traditional forest survival demonstrations.
• Karamojong Homesteads (Northeastern Uganda): Visit warrior tribes known for their cattle traditions and colorful attire.
• Kampala City Tour: Explore Uganda’s capital through its royal palaces, markets, and historical sites.

In Rwanda:

• Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village (near Volcanoes National Park): Experience Rwandan traditions including hunting techniques, drumming, and traditional dance.
• Kigali Genocide Memorial: Gain a deep understanding of Rwanda’s history, resilience, and transformation.

Adding these to your itinerary after securing your gorilla trekking permit ensures that your safari supports local communities and provides a well-rounded experience that combines wildlife with human stories.

Final Thoughts: Booking Your Gorilla Safari with Renai Safaris

Let us handle the logistics while you focus on the adventure

To recap, how do I get a gorilla trekking permit, and how much does it cost? You can obtain a permit through trusted tour operators like Renai Safaris—we handle the process end to end, from checking availability and securing your permit to designing a fully immersive safari experience.

Here’s what you get when you book with Renai Safaris:

• Guaranteed gorilla permits at fair pricing
• Customized itineraries that combine trekking with wildlife safaris, chimpanzee tracking, and cultural experiences
• Comfortable transport, experienced guides, and top-rated accommodation
• 24/7 support before and during your safari

We believe that a safari isn’t just a vacation—it’s a journey of discovery. And it all begins with one simple step: asking how do I get a gorilla trekking permit, and how much does it cost?

Let Renai Safaris turn that question into a once-in-a-lifetime adventure across Uganda and Rwanda—home to some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes and creatures on Earth.