How Much Does a Gorilla Permit Cost?
Gorilla permit cost is the single biggest line item in any trekking budget — here’s exactly what you’ll pay in Rwanda and Uganda, what the fee covers, and how the booking process actually works.
Permit Price by Country
Rwanda vs Uganda
Rwanda — $1,500
Set by Rwanda Development Board for Volcanoes National Park. A 30% discount applies if paired with 3+ days in Akagera or Nyungwe; conference guests get 15% off. See our Rwanda gorilla trekking page.
Uganda — $800
Set by Uganda Wildlife Authority for Bwindi and Mgahinga. Drops to $600 during the low-season months of April, May and November. See our Uganda gorilla trekking page.
What’s Included
What the Permit Fee Covers
The permit covers park entry, an armed ranger and tracker team, and one hour with a habituated gorilla family once you find them. It does not cover transport to the park, accommodation, porter fees, or tips — all of which we build into your itinerary separately. See our tours & packages for full trip costs.
Booking
How Permits Get Booked
In Rwanda, permits can still be booked directly with RDB or through an operator like us. In Uganda, as of 2026 permits must go through a licensed tour operator and are paid in full at the time of booking — UWA no longer accepts direct self-bookings. We handle the paperwork and payment for both countries. For peak season (June–September, December–February), we recommend booking 6–10 months ahead; permits for low season can usually be secured 1–2 months out.
Requirements
Age & Fitness Requirements
Trekkers must be at least 15 years old in both countries. There’s no hard fitness cutoff, but treks can run several hours over steep or muddy terrain — porters are available in both Rwanda and Uganda to carry your daypack and offer a hand on the trail.
Frequently Asked
Permit Questions
How much does a gorilla permit cost in total?
$1,500 per person in Rwanda, $800 in Uganda (or $600 in low season). Neither price includes transport, lodging, or porter tips.
Can I get a refund if my trek is cancelled?
Permit refund policies are set by RDB and UWA, not by tour operators, and vary by circumstance — we’ll walk you through the current policy when you book.
How far in advance should I book?
6–10 months for peak season (June–September, December–February); 1–2 months is often enough in low season.
Let Us Check Availability For You
Send us your dates and preferred country, and we’ll confirm what’s available.