How to Book Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?

How to Book Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda: A Complete Guide

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is one of the most sought-after wildlife experiences in the world. Watching a family of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is a rare privilege that combines adventure, nature, and conservation in the heart of Africa. However, organizing a gorilla trekking safari requires careful planning — from securing your gorilla permit to arranging transportation and accommodation near Volcanoes National Park.

This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about how to book gorilla trekking in Rwanda, including the permit process, the best time to visit, what to expect on the trek, and practical tips to make your experience smooth, memorable, and meaningful.

Understanding Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Rwanda is one of only three countries in the world where you can see mountain gorillas in the wild — the others being Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In Rwanda, all gorilla trekking takes place in Volcanoes National Park, located in the Musanze District in the country’s northwestern region.

Volcanoes National Park is part of the Virunga Conservation Area, a transboundary ecosystem that protects more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking is strictly regulated by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to ensure the well-being of the gorillas and the safety of visitors.

Each gorilla group is visited by only eight trekkers per day, and the experience lasts one hour once the gorillas are located. These limits help protect the gorillas from stress and human disease while offering a peaceful, intimate viewing experience.

How to Obtain a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Rwanda

A gorilla trekking permit is mandatory for anyone who wants to visit the mountain gorillas. This official document grants access to Volcanoes National Park and is your entry ticket to one of the most unforgettable wildlife encounters on earth.

Where and How to Book Your Permit

There are two main ways to obtain a gorilla permit in Rwanda:

  1. Book directly through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB)

    • You can contact RDB by email or through their official website.

    • Payments are made in US dollars, typically via bank transfer.

    • RDB will issue a booking confirmation once payment is received.

  2. Book through a licensed Rwanda tour operator

    • This is the most convenient and popular method for international visitors.

    • Reputable companies such as Gorillas in Rwanda can secure your permits, arrange transport from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park, and coordinate your entire safari itinerary.

    • Operators often hold pre-purchased permits for popular dates, which ensures availability during peak seasons.

Permit Cost

  • USD $1500 per person per trek for foreign non-residents

  • USD $500 for African citizens

  • USD $200 for East African Community citizens

A portion of every permit fee directly supports conservation programs, community development, and anti-poaching efforts.

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking Your Gorilla Trek in Rwanda

Step 1: Choose Your Travel Dates

Gorilla trekking is available year-round, but demand is highest during the dry seasons (June–September and December–February). These months offer drier trails and clearer views of the mountains.

Step 2: Check Permit Availability

Because the number of daily permits is limited, it’s essential to book several months in advance — especially if traveling during high season.

Step 3: Confirm and Pay

Provide your personal details (name, nationality, and passport number) and make full payment to secure your permit.

Step 4: Receive Confirmation

Once confirmed, you’ll receive a booking receipt or permit code. The physical permit is issued at Kinigi Park Headquarters on the morning of your trek.

Step 5: Attend the Pre-Trek Briefing

Arrive at the park headquarters by 7:00 AM for registration and a safety briefing. Rangers will assign trekking groups according to fitness level and hiking preference before you begin your journey into the rainforest.

Choosing the Best Time to Visit

The best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda depends on your preferences:

  • Dry Seasons (June–September and December–February):
    Ideal for comfortable trekking conditions and easy photography.

  • Wet Seasons (March–May and October–November):
    Offer lush green landscapes, fewer tourists, and better rates on accommodation.

Regardless of the season, Volcanoes National Park maintains a cool, misty climate year-round, so visitors should always be prepared for rain and muddy trails.

Booking Through a Tour Operator

While you can book permits directly, working with a professional tour operator offers several advantages:

  • Seamless handling of permits, transport, and accommodation

  • Expert guidance on park regulations and travel logistics

  • Access to local knowledge and cultural experiences

  • Tailored multi-day itineraries that include other attractions such as Akagera National Park, Nyungwe Forest, or Lake Kivu

Tour operators like Gorillas in Rwanda simplify the process and enhance your overall experience, particularly for first-time visitors.

Preparing for Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure

A successful trek begins with good preparation.
Here is what to bring and how to get ready:

  • Sturdy waterproof hiking boots

  • Long-sleeved shirts and trousers

  • Lightweight rain jacket

  • Gardening gloves (for grabbing vegetation)

  • Reusable water bottle and snacks

  • Camera (no flash photography)

  • Insect repellent and sunscreen

Treks can last 2 to 6 hours depending on where the gorilla family is located. A moderate level of fitness is required, and hiring a local porter to carry your bag or offer support is highly recommended — it also provides direct income to the local community.

What to Expect During the Trek

After the morning briefing, trekkers enter the forest in small groups accompanied by experienced guides and armed rangers. As you walk through bamboo forests, moss-covered trees, and volcanic slopes, your guides will track the gorillas using fresh footprints, droppings, and nests.

Once you find the gorillas, you will spend one unforgettable hour in their presence. You may observe playful infants, nurturing mothers, and dominant silverbacks as they feed, groom, and interact.

During your visit:

  • Maintain a 7-meter distance from the gorillas

  • Keep voices low and avoid sudden movements

  • Never touch or feed the animals

  • Do not eat or drink near them

  • Avoid trekking if you are sick to prevent disease transmission

Your ranger will provide insights into the gorillas’ behavior, communication, and conservation challenges — an emotional and educational highlight of your journey.

Where to Stay Near Volcanoes National Park

Accommodation options around Musanze and Kinigi range from budget lodges to luxury eco-lodges:

Luxury: Bisate Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
Mid-Range: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Budget: Kinigi Guesthouse, La Palme Hotel

Staying near the park entrance ensures easy access for early morning treks.

Responsible Travel and Conservation

Your gorilla trekking experience directly contributes to Rwanda’s conservation success story. A percentage of every gorilla permit funds wildlife protection, ranger training, and community initiatives such as schools, health clinics, and infrastructure projects.

By choosing responsible tour operators, following park rules, and respecting local customs, visitors help ensure that gorilla tourism remains sustainable and beneficial for future generations.

Other Activities to Combine with Gorilla Trekking

Enhance your Rwanda safari by combining gorilla trekking with:

  • Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

  • Wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park

  • Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park

  • Cultural experiences in Iby’Iwacu Village

  • Lake Kivu relaxation and boat tours

  • Kigali City Tour and Genocide Memorial visit

These experiences make Rwanda one of Africa’s most diverse and rewarding travel destinations.

In conclusion, booking gorilla trekking in Rwanda may require careful planning, but every step is worth it. From securing your gorilla permit to hiking through the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park, this experience offers a rare connection with nature and contributes to the preservation of an endangered species.

With the help of a licensed tour operator, preparation, and respect for conservation guidelines, your gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda will be safe, inspiring, and unforgettable — a true encounter with the wild heart of Africa.