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How to Book Gorilla Trekking Permits: Learn how to secure gorilla trekking permits in Uganda, Rwanda & the DRC -costs, official booking steps, deadlines, best times to trek, FAQs, insider tips & permit process.
How to Book Gorilla Trekking Permits
Mountain gorilla trekking is one of the most sought-after wildlife experiences in the world — but without a permit, you simply can’t trek.
This guide breaks down how to get gorilla trekking permits in Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC, with clear steps, costs, timelines, and expert travel tips so you can secure your spot and have the best possible experience.
1. What Are Gorilla Trekking Permits? (And Why You Must Have One)
A gorilla trekking permit is an official document that grants you legal access to trek and spend time with habituated mountain gorillas in designated national parks. You must present this permit before you can begin your trek — no permit means no entry into the gorilla zones.
Permits support conservation efforts and regulated tourism that protect these endangered species, as identified by UNESCO.
2. Where Gorilla Trekking Permits Are Required
Mountain gorillas are found in three main destinations:
- Uganda – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park & Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda Wildlife Authority) Bwindi Park Tours
- Rwanda – Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda Development Board)
- DRC – Virunga National Park (Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature). Each destination has its own process, costs, and number of permits available. Planning ahead is essential.
Gorilla trekking Safari Guide and experience differences are explained in this article.
3. Where Gorilla Trekking Permits Are Issued
| Country | Park & Authority | Daily Permit Allocation |
|---|---|---|
| Uganda | Bwindi Impenetrable & Mgahinga National Parks -Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) | Limited (e.g., 8 per group) |
| Rwanda | Volcanoes National Park -Rwanda Development Board (RDB) | ~96 per day |
| DRC | Virunga National Park – Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature (ICCN) | Limited & variable |
Permits are very limited — booking early is essential, especially in peak seasons.
4. How to Get Gorilla Trekking Permits: Step-by-Step
Step 1 – Choose Your Destination
Decide whether you want to trek in Uganda, Rwanda, or the DRC based on budget, trekking difficulty, and travel preferences:
- Rwanda is generally more expensive ($1,500) but has well-organized logistics and shorter treks.
- Uganda is slightly more affordable ($800 and $1,500 GHX) with diverse sectors but rugged trails. Bwindi Guide and Gorilla Trekking Vs Habituation.
- DRC tends to be less expensive ($400–$500) but comes with unique safety and travel considerations.
Step 2 – Decide Your Booking Route
You can book a permit in one of two ways:
- Directly with the official authority:
- Uganda: Uganda Wildlife Authority reservation team. Rwanda: Rwanda Development Board via online portal or email. DRC: Virunga National Park official site or contact email
- Through a registered tour operator (recommended for most travelers):
- Saves time & administrative hassle
- Ensures permits are properly secured
- Helps with accommodation, transport & fly-in logistics
- Often includes assistance with itinerary planning
Booking through an operator can be especially helpful if you’re coordinating complex travel arrangements across multiple parks or countries. Bwindi Park Tours
Gorilla trekking in Uganda Vs Rwanda
Step 3 – Submit Your Details
Whether booking direct or with an operator, you will be asked for:
✔ Full name (as in passport)
✔ Nationality & passport number
✔ Preferred trek dates
✔ Number of permits required
Operators and national authority teams will confirm availability and process payment instructions.
Step 4 – Pay & Get Confirmation
Permits are usually paid for by:
- Bank transfer
- Credit/debit card
- Operator-facilitated payment
Once the payment clears, you’ll receive:
Payment receipt
Permit confirmation (sometimes printable/electronic)
Make sure to save these documents — you must present them on trekking day.
5. Permit Costs (Typical 2026-2027 Rates)
| Country | Foreign Non-Resident Fee |
|---|---|
| Uganda | $800 and $1,500 per person – UWA |
| Rwanda | $1,500 per person –RDB |
| DRC | $400-$500 per person – Virunga NP |
Note: East African citizens and residents often pay discounted rates.
6. Important Tips for Travelers
✔ Bring Your Passport — Permits are non-transferable and tied to your passport.
✔ Plan Transport & Accommodation Early — Trek points are remote with early starts. Reddit
✔ Hire a Porter (Optional) — Local porters can help you on steep trails.
✔ Stay Healthy & Fit Enough — Trekking can be strenuous with uneven terrain
7. How Long Does Gorilla Trekking Take? (By Country)
Below is a breakdown of average gorilla trekking times you can expect in each destination — from the morning briefing through the hike, the one-hour Gorilla Encounter, and the return to base.
| Country / Park | Typical Trek Duration | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Uganda (Bwindi & Mgahinga) | 2–8+ hours | Trekking times vary widely depending on where your assigned gorilla family spent the previous night. Some groups may be near the trailhead (~2 hrs) while others may require hours of trekking through steep forest terrain before you find them, followed by the standard 1-hour with gorillas and return hike. Uganda Safari Packages |
| Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park) | 2–6+ hours | Volcanoes NP treks generally take slightly less time than in Uganda because some gorilla families can be closer to headquarters. However, total trek time still depends on gorilla movements and trail conditions; the trek includes one hour with the gorillas once found. View our Rwanda Safari Packages |
| DRC (Virunga National Park) | 2–6+ hours (approx.) | Treks in Virunga also vary based on the distance to the gorilla group. While some reports suggest average treks around 3–5 hours, each day’s endurance depends on terrain and how far the gorillas are from the trailhead – completing the trek includes the hour with gorillas and hiking back. DRC Safari Packages |
Summary Notes
- Start time: Most gorilla treks begin early (often around 7:00 AM) with a briefing at the park headquarters.
- One-Hour Rule: All destinations follow strict rules allowing only one hour with the gorillas once they are located — this is part of park management and conservation guidelines.
- Variability: Gorilla locations change daily, so trekking durations are not fixed — they depend on terrain, fitness, weather, and where the gorillas moved the night before.
What This Means for Your Day
Most trekkers should plan for a half-day or full-day excursion -even if the gorilla group is close, the forest terrain can slow progress, and the return hike adds time. In some cases, especially in Uganda’s Bwindi sectors, trek days can stretch toward 8 hours or more when groups are farther from the trailhead and also experience the best lodges in Bwindi with Agasaro Safaris.
8. When to Book Permits (Timing & Seasons)
Gorilla trekking permits are highly competitive and sell out fast, especially during peak dry seasons:
📅 Peak Season
- June – September
- December – February
During these months, booking 6–12 months in advance is recommended.
📅 Low Season
- March – May
- October – November
Trails may be muddy, but some permits might still be available with 3–6 months’ planning.
9. Top Tips for a Smooth Permit Booking
🔹 Book early — permits are limited and often sold out months ahead.
🔹 Use a trusted tour operator — simplifies logistics and reduces the risk of errors or unresponsive contacts. Bwindi Park Tours
🔹 Bring your passport — name on the permit must match your passport exactly.
🔹 Pack accordingly — proper gear ensures comfort during trekking conditions. Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
🔹 Consider travel insurance — important for high-value safaris.
Conclusion — Your Next Steps
Securing your gorilla trekking permit is the first essential milestone on your once-in-a-lifetime safari.
➡ Decide which country you’ll trek in.
➡ Choose direct or tour-operator booking.
➡ Submit passport details, pay early, and lock in your date.
With the right planning and this guide in hand, you’re on the path to one of Africa’s most unforgettable wildlife experiences.
FAQ
Do you need a permit to trek gorillas?
Yes – you must have a valid gorilla trekking permit issued by the relevant authority in Uganda, Rwanda, or the DRC.
How far in advance should I book a permit?
During peak season, book 6–12 months before travel; low season may allow 3–6 months.
Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Refund/cancellation policies vary by country and operator, so check before booking. Uganda & Rwanda have structured refund guidelines.
Can I book permits directly online?
Yes – you can book directly with the official authorities, but many travelers use tour operators for convenience.
Does the permit include guides and transportation?
No – the permit covers the trekking access, not transport or lodging. Plan these separately or through a tour operator. Reddit
Final Words
Securing your gorilla trekking permit is the first and most crucial step toward one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences on Earth.
With proper planning, accurate information, and early booking, you can lock in your trek date with confidence and focus on preparing for the adventure of a lifetime.
Talk to our Gorilla Safari Planners and Experts to start your trekking experience now, or select from our Tailored Safari packages for the destinations with gorilla trekking.
Visit our Website for more info: www.agasarosafaris.com