Rwanda Gorilla Permit Cost in 2026 (and How to Book One)
The single biggest cost of a Rwanda trip, explained: what you pay, what you get, and how to secure your date.
Eben Safari Tours TeamUpdated 2 min read
What the permit includes
- Entry to Volcanoes National Park for the day
- A ranger-guided trek with trackers to a habituated gorilla family
- One hour with the gorillas
- A share of revenue that goes to communities around the park
It does not include transport to the park, accommodation, porters (about US$15–20) or tips.
Why is it so expensive?
Rwanda deliberately chose a high-value, low-volume model. Limiting each family to eight visitors a day reduces disturbance and disease risk, while the revenue funds rangers, veterinary care and community projects. Mountain gorilla numbers have grown over the past decades, and that model is one reason why.
How to book a gorilla permit
- Choose your date (have a backup date if travelling June–September).
- Book through a tour operator like us, or directly via the Rwanda Development Board's booking channels.
- Pay in full to secure the permit. Permits are issued in the trekker's name and passport number.
- Bring your passport on trek day; it is checked at the briefing.
When you book a gorilla tour with us, we secure the permit as the first step, and the cost is included in the package price.
Can I get a refund?
Permits are generally non-refundable. Rescheduling is sometimes possible depending on availability and current park policy, and rangers may deny entry if a visitor shows signs of illness. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Rwanda vs Uganda permits
| Rwanda | Uganda | |
|---|---|---|
| Permit price | US$1,500 | US$800 |
| Drive from international airport | ~2.5 h from Kigali | 8–10 h from Entebbe (4–5 h from Kigali to southern Bwindi) |
| Terrain | Volcano slopes, bamboo | Steep, dense forest valleys |
Many travellers on a budget fly into Kigali and trek in Uganda's southern Bwindi. See our 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking from Kigali.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy a gorilla permit on the day?
Very rarely. Permits are limited to eight people per family per day and usually sell out in advance. Message us to check last-minute availability.
Is the porter included in the permit?
No. Porters are hired at the trailhead for around US$15–20 and are highly recommended.
Written by the Eben Safari Tours team
We are a Kigali-based tour operator, guiding travellers through Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania since 2015. Our guides trek with the gorillas, drive Akagera and climb the volcanoes every week, and we update these guides whenever rules or prices change.
