WHAT DOES RWANDA GORILLA TREKKING COST?
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is more expensive compared to Uganda. In Rwanda in 2025, a standard gorilla trekking permit costs $1500 per person. This permit allows for a one-hour encounter with mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. However, discounts may be available for East African residents, foreign residents, and during the low season (March, April, May, and November).
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- Regular Permit: $1,500 per person (for international visitors).
- Discounted Permits: During the low season (March, April, May, and November), permits may be reduced to $1,050 if staying 2+ nights in Akagera or Nyungwe National Parks.
- Special Rates: East African citizens pay $200, and African citizens/foreign residents in Africa pay $500.
Additional Notes:
- The higher permit price in Rwanda supports extensive conservation efforts and community development programs.
- Gorilla permits can be booked through recognized safari companies or directly with the Rwanda Development Board.
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is expensive primarily because of high conservation costs, limited gorilla populations, and high demand . The cost of each permit helps to fund park operations, research, and community development, all crucial for gorilla conservation. Additionally, the limited number of mountain gorillas and the need to manage tourist numbers due to their endangered status contribute to the high price.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- High Conservation Costs: Protecting and managing the gorillas' habitat, including research, monitoring, and anti-poaching efforts, is expensive, and the permit fees help cover these costs.
- Limited Gorilla Population: Mountain gorillas are an endangered species, with only a few hundred individuals remaining globally. This, coupled with the high demand for trekking, necessitates higher permit prices to control the number of visitors.
- High Demand: Rwanda is a popular destination for gorilla trekking, leading to high demand for permits. This high demand allows the government to set permit prices that reflect the value of the experience and its contribution to conservation efforts.