What is a gorilla trekking permit?

A gorilla trekking permit is an official ticket authorizing you to enter national parks (e.g., Bwindi, Mgahinga, Volcanoes) and spend one hour observing a habituated gorilla family. It ensures limited daily visitors (max. 8 per group) and directly supports conservation efforts, park upkeep, ranger salaries, and local community development.

🇺🇬. Uganda Permit Cost & Booking (2025)

• Foreign non-residents: US $800 per trek
• Foreign residents: US $700
• East African citizens: $80)
• Other African nationals: US $500
• Habituation experience (Uganda only – 4-hour trek): US $1,500

Booking process:

Permits are issued by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), typically via licensed tour operators. You must supply your biodata (passport number, nationality, and date of birth). Book 3–12 months in advance, especially for peak month treks (June–Sept & Dec–Feb) .UWA offices in Kampala also sell permits in-person. Plan early—slots often fill fast, and tour operators sometimes add a small service fee (~$20–100).

Refund & reschedule policy:

• No refunds within 0–8 days before trek
• 25% refund for 9–45 days
• 50% for 46–90 days
• 75% for 91+ days out

🇷🇼. Rwanda Permit Cost & Booking (2025)

• Foreign non-African visitors: US $1,500 per trek
• Rwandan/East African residents: US $200
• Other African nationals: US $500

Discounts:

• 30 % off non-African visitors traveling in low season (Nov–May) if staying 3+ nights in other parks
• Other minor discounts may apply to conferences or special group packages

Booking process:

Rwanda Development Board (RDB) issues permits, which you can book online via IREMBO.gov.rw or through tour operators who coordinate logistics and availability.

Permit Availability & Seasonality

• Only 8 permits per gorilla family are issued daily to control human impact
• Uganda (Bwindi + Mgahinga): ~200 permits/day
• Rwanda (Volcanoes): 96 permits/day (12 families × 8 permits)
• Peak seasons: June–Sept and Dec–Feb — best weather, but permits sell out quickly
• Low seasons: Mar–May, Oct–Nov — permits are more available and occasionally cheaper

How to Ensure You Get a Permit: Step-by-Step

1. Decide your country: Choose Uganda for cost-effectiveness and more gorilla groups, or Rwanda for shorter travel time and luxury options.
2. Plan in advance: Book 3–12 months ahead for peak seasons.
3. Provide accurate info: Passport details, health/fitness conditions (helps in allocating groups).
4. Book via tour operator: They handle logistics, timing, gear, transport, and ensure permit acquisition.
5. Complete payment: Through UWA/RDB or operator.
6. Receive confirmation: Permit with your trek date and assigned group.
7. Prepare for trek: Hire a porter for steep terrain, pack for changing weather.

Why Permit Fees Matter

• Conservation: ~75% of Uganda’s fees support gorilla monitoring, anti‑poaching, and park management.
• Community benefits: ~10%–20% reinvested in local schools, health, and infrastructure.
• Essential to maintain sustainable tourism and prevent habitat destruction .

Tips & Reminders

• Age limit: Must be 15 or older to trek.
• Permit validity: Date-specific—can’t transfer to another date.
• Refunds/rescheduling: Provide 15+ days notice and follow official policies .
• Avoid scams: Book only through certified operators or official agency offices—avoid private agents.
• Pack right: Long sleeves, boots, rain gear for muddy forests.
• Porters available: Especially helpful in rugged terrain, for hire on trek day.

Summary Table

Finals Takeaway

Getting a gorilla trekking permit requires planning and timely action. In Uganda, permits are more affordable and accessible, while Rwanda offers a premium experience but comes at a higher cost. Regardless, fees are pivotal in funding conservation and supporting local communities.

Recommendation: Secure permits at least 3–6 months in advance (up to 12 months during peak periods) through reputable, licensed tour operators to ensure a seamless and ethical gorilla trekking experience.