How to Book Gorilla Trekking Permits

How to Book Gorilla Trekking Permits?

How to book gorilla trekking permits is one of the first and most important questions every traveler asks when planning a gorilla safari in East Africa. Gorilla trekking is one of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters in the world. To spend time with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat—deep in the rainforests of Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of Congo—is a dream for many travelers. However, before you can embark on this unforgettable journey, you need to secure one of the most essential components of the experience: a gorilla trekking permit.

In this detailed guide, we explain everything you need to know about how to book gorilla trekking permits, including the steps involved, where and when to book, how much they cost, and the best practices to ensure you get the permits in time.

What is a Gorilla Trekking Permit?

A gorilla trekking permit is an official document issued by the respective wildlife authorities that grants visitors the right to trek and spend one hour with a habituated gorilla family. The permit is mandatory and strictly regulated, as it helps control the number of tourists and protects the gorillas and their habitats from disturbance and over-tourism.

Where Are Gorilla Trekking Permits Required?

You’ll need to secure a permit if you plan to go gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, or DR Congo. Each country has its own tourism authority responsible for issuing permits:

  • Uganda: Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA)

  • Rwanda: Rwanda Development Board (RDB)

  • DR Congo: Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature (ICCN)

How Much Does a Gorilla Trekking Permit Cost?

Permit prices vary by country, and often differ for foreign non-residents, residents, and East African citizens.

Uganda (Bwindi & Mgahinga):

  • Foreign Non-Residents: $800 per person per trek

  • Foreign Residents: $700

  • East African Citizens: UGX 300,000

  • Gorilla Habituation Experience: $1,500 (allows 4 hours with gorillas)

Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park):

  • All Foreign Tourists: $1,500 per person per trek

  • Discounts may apply for conference delegates and long-stay travelers.

DR Congo (Virunga National Park):

  • Tourist Permit: $400 (can go lower in off-peak seasons)

How to Book Gorilla Trekking Permits

1. Booking Directly from the Wildlife Authority

You can book your permits directly through the official bodies:

  • Uganda: Visit the Uganda Wildlife Authority website (www.ugandawildlife.org) or call their reservations office. Payments are made via bank transfer or mobile money.

  • Rwanda: Use the Rwanda Development Board’s online portal (www.rdb.rw) to inquire and book. Some bookings may still require email confirmation and payment through bank wire.

  • Congo: Visit www.visitvirunga.org to book permits for Virunga National Park directly.

Booking direct can be more affordable, but it often involves paperwork, follow-up emails, and international money transfers.

2. Booking Through a Licensed Tour Operator

The most convenient and reliable way to secure a gorilla permit is to go through a licensed gorilla trekking tour operator in Uganda, Rwanda, or DR Congo. These companies usually:

  • Handle the entire booking process for you

  • Pay on your behalf and send you a copy of your permit

  • Bundle the permit into your full itinerary, including transport, guide, and accommodation

Most travelers prefer this route as it saves time and ensures that all logistics are well coordinated.

Tip: If you are booking a multi-day gorilla trekking safari, the cost of the permit is usually included in your overall tour package.

When Should You Book Your Gorilla Trekking Permit?

Gorilla permits are limited to only 8 people per gorilla family per day, making them extremely competitive—especially in the peak seasons of June to September and December to February.

It is recommended to book your permit 4 to 12 months in advance, especially if:

  • You plan to trek during peak season

  • You are part of a large group

  • You want to secure permits for specific dates

Last-minute permits may be available during the low/rainy season, but availability is not guaranteed.

Information Required to Book a Gorilla Permit

When booking your gorilla trekking permit, whether directly or through an operator, you’ll need to provide:

  • Full names (as per passport)

  • Nationality

  • Passport number

  • Preferred trekking date

  • Preferred trekking park (Bwindi, Volcanoes, Virunga, etc.)

Once the permit is paid for, it is usually non-refundable and non-transferable unless under special circumstances.

Best Time to Book Gorilla Trekking Permits

The best time to book your gorilla trekking permit aligns with the dry seasons when trekking trails are more manageable:

  • Uganda & Rwanda Dry Seasons:

    • June to September

    • December to February

Permits sell out quickly during these months, so early planning is essential.

Why Book with a Gorilla Trekking Tour Operator?

Professional tour operators for gorilla trekking offer added convenience and expertise. They:

  • Monitor permit availability

  • Guide you on the best trekking regions (e.g., Buhoma vs. Rushaga in Bwindi)

  • Offer transportation and accommodation options

  • Provide knowledgeable local guides

They also know how to handle permit rescheduling in case of emergencies or delays, giving you peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Choose Which Gorilla Family to Trek?

In Uganda, especially in Bwindi, you can request to trek a specific sector (e.g., Ruhija, Buhoma, Rushaga), but the actual gorilla group is allocated on the day of trekking based on your fitness level and availability.

Are Permits Refundable?

Generally, no. However, in rare cases such as serious illness or political unrest, the authorities may consider rescheduling or partial refunds.

What Happens After Booking?

Once booked, you’ll receive an official permit slip or confirmation. On the trekking day, you’ll report to the park headquarters with your passport and permit for the pre-trek briefing.

Booking a gorilla trekking permit is the gateway to experiencing one of Africa’s most intimate and life-changing wildlife encounters. While it requires early planning, some paperwork, and a significant financial investment, the rewards are more than worth it.

Whether you choose to book your permit directly or through a licensed gorilla safari tour operator, make sure to do it well in advance and choose your travel dates wisely. With your permit secured, you’ll be ready to embark on a life-altering adventure into the misty jungles where mountain gorillas still roam.