A gorilla permit is an essential document that allows travelers to access gorilla trekking experiences in the National parks, primarily in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the only countries in the world where travelers can visit and spend time with the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. These permits are regulated by the respective wildlife authorities and are mandatory for any tourist hoping to embark on a guided trek to view mountain gorillas in their natural habitats.
The cost of a gorilla permit varies significantly depending on the country, time of year, and the applicant’s residency status. It is crucial to plan ahead, as permits are limited and often sell out months in advance.
Gorilla Permit Cost in Uganda
In Uganda, gorilla trekking takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These parks are managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). Uganda offers one of the most affordable gorilla trekking experiences while providing access to the largest population of mountain gorillas in the world, with Bwindi Impenetrable National Park carrying the lion’s share, with beyond half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The latter goes ahead to share the remaining gorilla population, Mgahinga Gorilla Park, with DR Congo and Rwanda in the Virunga Massif. The gorilla permit cost is as below.
- Foreign Non-Residents: USD 800 per person
- Foreign Residents: USD 700 per person (a proof of residency required)
- African Nationals: USD 500
- East African Citizens: UGX 300,000 per person
Gorilla Permit Cost in Rwanda
Rwanda has positioned itself as a luxury destination with premium high-end lodges for luxury tourism and premium gorilla trekking experiences in Volcanoes National Park. The park is managed by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), and this body is responsible for selling and issuing Gorilla permits in Rwanda. The gorilla permit cost is as below.
- Foreign Non-Residents: USD 1,500 per person
- East African Citizens: USD 200
- African Nationals: USD 500 (a proof of residency required)
- Foreign Residents: USD 500 (a proof of residency required)
Gorilla Permit Cost in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Mountain Gorilla trekking occurs in Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The DRC is also blessed with lowland gorillas found in Kahuzi Biega National Park. The DRC offers the lowest permit prices, which is attributed to present security concerns raised by the continuous civil wars in the country, especially in Eastern Congo, where all the national parks that are home to Gorillas are found. This calls for careful planning with reputable tour operators. The gorilla permit cost is as below.
- All Foreigners: USD 400 per person
Gorilla Habituation Experience (Only in Uganda)
Travelers who seek to spend more time with gorillas can opt for a gorilla habituation experience, which allows them to spend four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, only in Rushaga. Travelers join the trackers very early in the morning and step into the forest for the tracking experience. This experience is ideal for photographers, researchers, or wildlife enthusiasts seeking deeper interactions with gorillas. It’s more intense and physically demanding than the standard trek.
- Cost: USD 1,500 per person
How to Book a Gorilla Permit
Travellers can only book gorilla trekking and habituation permits through licensed tour operators, and at GoWild Forever Journeys, we offer these services and all-inclusive gorilla trekking adventures and safari packages for you to have a hassle-free trip that will gather lifetime memories. We highly recommend that our clients to book at least 6 months in advance, especially if traveling in the high season.
