Gorilla Permit Costs and Booking Tips.
Gorilla trekking is one of Africa’s most awe-inspiring wildlife experiences, and also one of the most sought-after. Whether you’re planning to track mountain gorillas in Rwanda or Uganda, securing your gorilla permit is the first and most important step.
At Mandari Travel, we’ve created this complete guide to gorilla permit costs in 2025 and essential booking tips to help you plan your adventure with confidence.
What Is a Gorilla Permit?
A gorilla permit is an official document issued by wildlife authorities that grants you access to trek and spend one hour with a habituated family of mountain gorillas in the wild. Permits are limited and must be booked well in advance especially during peak travel months.
Gorilla Permit Costs for 2025
Here’s a breakdown of gorilla permit prices for Rwanda and Uganda in 2025:
Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park)
- Cost: $1,500 per person per trek
- Issued by: Rwanda Development Board (RDB)
- Rwanda offers luxury trekking with excellent infrastructure and easy access from Kigali.
Uganda (Bwindi & Mgahinga National Parks)
- Cost: $800 per person per trek (as of July 2024 increase)
- Issued by: Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA)
- Uganda also offers a Gorilla Habituation Experience for $1,500 (spend up to 4 hours with gorillas).
Tip: Mandari Travel handles all permit bookings on your behalf as part of your safari package, so you don’t have to worry about availability or logistics.
When to Book Gorilla Permits for 2025
Permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis and often sell out months in advance. Here’s our recommended timeline:
- Book 6 to 12 months in advance, especially for high season (June–September, December–February)
- If you’re planning to travel during the green season (March–May, October–November), permits may be more available
Important Booking Tips
1. Book through a trusted tour operator like Mandari Travel to secure your permit as part of a complete package, including accommodations, transport, and park entry.
2. Ensure your travel dates are confirmed before securing a permit, permits are non-refundable and date-specific.
3. Have your passport details ready at the time of booking, as they are required for permit issuance.
4. If you want a more immersive experience, consider the Gorilla Habituation Experience in Uganda, but book even earlier as slots are very limited.
5. Combine your gorilla trek with other East African experiences like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, or Zanzibar for a diverse itinerary.
Final Thoughts
Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and securing your permit early is the key to a smooth and unforgettable safari. Whether you’re drawn to Rwanda’s accessibility or Uganda’s affordability and adventure, Mandari Travel is here to guide you every step of the way.
info@mandaritravel.com
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