You cannot trek mountain gorillas in Rwanda without a permit, and permits sell out. So securing your Rwanda gorilla permit is the very first thing to do when planning a trip to Volcanoes National Park. This guide explains what a permit is, what it costs, when to book and the exact steps to get one.
What Is a Rwanda Gorilla Permit?
A gorilla permit is an official document that allows one person to join one gorilla trek on a set date. It is issued by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), which manages the parks on behalf of the government. In Uganda, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) issues permits for its parks.
Each permit gives you up to one hour with a habituated gorilla family once your group finds them. The trek to reach them can take anything from under an hour to several hours, depending on where the gorillas are that day.
Key facts at a glance
- Price: US$1,500 per person per trek, set by RDB.
- Time with the gorillas: a maximum of one hour.
- Group size: up to eight visitors per gorilla family per day.
- Minimum age: 15 years.
- Your name, passport number and nationality appear on the permit.
Because only a small number of permits exist each day, demand is high all year round. Prices can change, so always confirm the current rate when you book.
When to Book Your Rwanda Gorilla Permit
The earlier you book, the more choice you have. Early booking also gives you better options for lodges near the park.
Peak seasons
The busiest months are June to September and December to February. During these periods, book six months to a year ahead, especially for groups. Last-minute permits in peak season are rarely available.
Low seasons
The quieter months are March to May and October to November. Booking at shorter notice is sometimes possible then, but it is never guaranteed. Trails are also muddier in the rains, so pack good boots.
Whatever the season, fix your permit date first. Then build your flights, lodges and car hire around it.
Two Ways to Buy a Permit
You can book directly through RDB’s booking system, or through a registered tour or car hire company. Both routes lead to the same official permit.
Booking directly with RDB
Direct booking suits confident travellers who know their exact dates. However, you handle availability checks, payment and any changes yourself.
Booking through a local company
Most visitors book through a company like ours, because it saves time and stress. We check availability, hold dates, and match your trek with transport and lodges. We also know the different gorilla families and can advise on fitness levels and the best base for your trek.
Step-by-Step: Booking Your Permit With Us
The process is simple and usually takes a few days from first message to permit in hand.
- Contact us by phone, WhatsApp or email with your travel dates and the exact day you hope to trek.
- We check availability for that date and nearby dates, then confirm what is open.
- You pay a deposit to secure the permit, by bank wire transfer or credit card.
- We notify you as soon as the payment reaches our account, which usually takes about 3 to 4 days.
- You send passport details for each trekker: full name, passport number and nationality.
- We reserve the permit with RDB and send you a scanned copy.
Payment charges to expect
Bank fees apply to international payments. Typically, card payments carry a charge of about 5%, while a wire transfer costs around US$35. We confirm the exact amount before you pay.
Planning the Rest of Your Gorilla Trip
Once your permit is secured, plan how you will reach the park. Volcanoes National Park headquarters in Kinigi is about 2 to 2.5 hours from Kigali by road. Trekkers must report early in the morning, usually around 7 a.m.
For that reason, most people stay near Musanze the night before. A 4×4 is strongly recommended, because the tracks to some trailheads are rough and steep. See our Volcanoes National Park guide for more on the area.
Ready-made trekking trips
If you prefer a planned trip, we combine permits, transport and lodges. Popular choices include our full day gorilla trekking safari and the 5 days Rwanda gorilla safari.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Every season, some travellers run into the same avoidable problems. A little care at the booking stage prevents them.
- Booking flights before the permit, then finding the date is sold out.
- Sending passport details with spelling errors, which must match on trek day.
- Scheduling the trek the morning after a late international arrival.
- Buying permits from unregistered sellers online.
- Forgetting to plan transport to the park headquarters for the early start.
If anything about your booking looks unclear, ask before you pay. A registered company will always explain the process and send written confirmation.
Tips for Trek Day
- Bring your passport, because it must match the name on your permit.
- Wear long trousers, gloves and waterproof hiking boots.
- Hire a porter at the trailhead to carry your bag and help on steep slopes.
- Do not trek if you have a cold or flu, since gorillas can catch human illnesses.
- Keep at least seven metres from the gorillas and follow your guide’s instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I guaranteed to see gorillas?
Sightings are very likely, because trackers locate the families early each morning. However, they are wild animals, so no sighting can be fully guaranteed.
Can I change my permit date?
Changes depend on RDB rules and availability. Contact us as early as possible if your plans shift.
Can children trek?
Only visitors aged 15 and over can trek gorillas in Rwanda.
Can I book a permit and self-drive to the park?
Yes. Many guests book the permit with us and collect a 4×4 for the trip. Read about our self-drive Rwanda options.
Secure Your Permit Today
Send us your preferred trekking date on WhatsApp at +250 725 074659, or email info@4x4carrentalrwanda.com. We will check availability and guide you through each step.