Rwanda’s mountain gorillas are among the most sought-after wildlife experiences globally, drawing conservationists, researchers, and adventure seekers to the Volcanoes National Park. The country’s rigorous conservation policies have positioned it as a leader in sustainable tourism, with permit fees funding habitat preservation, anti-poaching initiatives, and Community Development Programs.
Rwanda is one of the only three African countries that host the mountain gorillas. These great apes are among the endangered species with a global population estimated to be around just 1060 individuals.
Cost Of Gorilla Trekking Permits in Rwanda
The cost of a single gorilla permit in Rwanda is US$1500 for international travelers. The above price is discounted to US$200 for citizens of East African nationals and US$500 for foreign residents of Rwanda as well as citizens of Africa outside East Africa.
For one to visit the mountain gorillas, you must obtain a gorilla permit from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
Rwanda’s Discounted Gorilla Permits for 2026
Rwanda occasionally offers discounted gorilla trekking permits as part of strategic tourism initiatives to increase visitor numbers during specific periods. These discounts are typically introduced during the low season or as part of special promotions targeting specific demographics, such as regional tourists or foreign residents.
For 2026, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) has announced discounted permit opportunities, primarily available in the April-May and November periods. During these months, foreign non-residents may receive up to a 30% reduction, lowering the cost from $1,500 to approximately $1,050 per person. Though eligibility requirements apply, foreign residents, East African citizens, and Rwandan nationals may also benefit from further price reductions.
These discounts are often structured to encourage multi-destination travel within Rwanda. Visitors who book gorilla trekking alongside extended stays in Nyungwe Forest or Akagera Park may qualify for additional price reductions. This approach supports broader tourism distribution while alleviating the impact of concentrated visitor activity in Volcanoes National Park.
It is important to note that discounted permits come with specific conditions, including booking requirements and non-refundable payments. Availability is also limited, reinforcing the importance of early planning for those seeking to take advantage of reduced rates.
How to Book Gorilla Trekking Permits in Rwanda
Gorilla trekking permits are legal documents issued by Rwanda Development Board a government body in charge of tourism in Rwanda to visitors above age 15years allowing them to visit the habituated mountain gorilla families in Rwanda. Gorilla trekking is one of the popular and interesting activities that involve tourists moving on foot into the tropical rain forest in search of the habituated mountain gorillas and once found, one is allowed to spend 1hour with them in their natural environment. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is done in Volcanoes National Park.
Gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda can either be booked directly through Rwanda Development Board (RDB) a government body in charge of tourism in Rwanda by contacting the head office via email or telephone calls to check for permit availability for your desired dates. In case there are no permits on your desired dates, you will be asked to choose another date that has permit availability and also pay for your gorilla permit directly to Rwanda Development Board accounts. Once you have made payments, you will send a scanned proof of payment to RDB and when RDB receives the money, they will start processing your gorilla trekking permit and send you a scanned copy of the permit as confirmation.
Booking through a local tour operator is one of the best options to use while booking your gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda as we will save you the hustle and its less tiring and the best part of it all is that we not only acquire gorilla trekking permits for you, but we also plan for your entire safari including the accommodations, transportation and give you advise on other activities you can carryout while on your safari of gorilla trekking.