Planning a gorilla trekking holiday in Rwanda is an exciting experience, but how much should you expect to budget for the trip?
The cost of a Rwanda gorilla trekking safari depends mainly on the gorilla permit, accommodation, transport, meals and the number of days you spend in the country. The standard gorilla trekking permit for foreign non-resident visitors is US$1,500 per person. A complete safari costs more because accommodation, transport and other services are additional expenses.
Pearl Nature Holidays organizes private and tailor-made Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris, helping tourists to select packages according to their budget, travel dates and preferred comfort level.
How Much Does Gorilla Trekking Cost in Rwanda?
The cost of a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda will depend on your travel plans.
- Gorilla trekking permit.
- Accommodation near Volcanoes National Park.
- Private or shared safari transport.
- Professional driver-guide services.
- Meals and refreshments.
- Additional activities and personal expenses.
From Kigali you can do a short safari of two or three days or a longer safari of four or five days to allow time for other experiences such as golden monkey trekking and Lake Kivu.
How Much Is a Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permit?
Published tourism rates in Rwanda show that the standard gorilla trekking permit for foreign non-resident visitors is US$1,500 per person.
The permit allows for one visitor to join a guided mountain gorilla trek inside Volcanoes National Park with a maximum of one hour spent with the assigned gorilla family.
Prices and conditions may vary for visitors in other categories and eligible promotional offers. Before you travel, always check the rate and availability applicable at the time through the official Rwanda Development Board booking portal.
Gorilla permits are limited and it is recommended to book early in popular travel periods.
Complete Rwanda Gorilla Safari Cost Breakdown
A gorilla trekking permit is just one component of your safari budget. Here’s a look at the major costs to consider.
Prices depend on travel date, accommodation availability, group size and level of service. Ask for a full quotation to know the full price before you book.
1. Accommodation
One of the big things that influence the overall price is accommodation.
Travelers can choose:
- Budget: Affordable hotels, comfortable guesthouses.
- Midrange: Good hotels and safari lodges for more comfort.
- Luxury: Gourmet dining, unique experiences and personalized services at first-class lodges.
Luxury accommodation includes Bisate Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge and Virunga Lodge. Rates and availability may vary seasonally.
For convenience in setting up an early morning trek you might want to stay in Musanze or near Kinigi.
2. Transport and Safari Guide
Most visitors reach Volcanoes National Park by road from Kigali. The drive will generally take between 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
The flexibility and comfort of a private 4×4 with a professional driver/guide. The cost of transportation will vary depending on the vehicle, the size of the group and the number of days of travel.
3. Meals and Additional Activities
Some safari packages include full board accommodation while others cover breakfast or half board meals.
Other experiences could include:
- Trekking Golden Monkeys.
- Visits to Dian Fossey research and conservation sites.
- Boat trips on Lake Kivu.
- Kigali city Tour.
- Cultural and community experiences.
Some activities have their own permits or entrance fees.
Budget, Midrange and Luxury Rwanda Gorilla Safaris
Budget Rwanda Gorilla Safari
Best for: Those looking to do gorilla trekking but keep accommodation and other costs down. And packages might contain comfortable lodges and basic safari services.
Midrange Rwanda Gorilla Safari
Often has well-appointed accommodation, private transport and professional guiding. Tends to strike the right balance between comfort and affordability.
Luxury Safari Gorilla Rwanda
For the traveler looking for premium accommodation, personalized service, private transfers and exclusive safari experiences.
The gorilla trekking experience itself is regulated regardless of the accommodation category. The main differences between these packages are comfort, services and overall travel arrangements.
How Much Does a 3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari Cost?
$4000-$7500 especially for those with limited time, a three day gorilla trekking safari from Kigali is a viable option.
A typical itinerary might look like this:
Day 1: Kigali to Volcanoes National Park
You arrive in Kigali and meet your driver/guide and transfer to Musanze. Check into your accommodation, have lunch and relax before tomorrow’s trek.
Day 2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking
Have early breakfast then transfer to Volcanoes National Park headquarters in Kinigi for registration and briefing. And then you’ll meet up with your guided trekking group and assigned ranger.
Trekking time will vary depending on the location and movement of the gorilla family. You will spend an hour watching the gorillas before heading back to your lodge.
Day 3: Return to Kigali
Breakfast, then transfer to Kigali. Depending on your departure schedule, you may arrange a short city visit before your international flight.
The final package price depends on the permit, accommodation, transport, group size and inclusions.
Explore our 3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari from Kigali for a detailed itinerary and booking arrangements.
Is Rwanda More Expensive Than Uganda for Gorilla Trekking?
Both Rwanda and Uganda are great places to trek mountain gorillas but the permit prices and other safari arrangements vary.
The standard foreign non-resident permit prices are:
Destination Standard permit priceRwandaUS$1,500 per personUgandaUS$800 per person
These are standard foreign non-resident rates; other visitor categories and applicable offers may differ. Confirm current rates with the respective wildlife authorities before booking.
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is also relatively accessible from Kigali, making it a good option for short gorilla trekking trips.
Gorilla trekking is available in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These parks are accessible by road from Entebbe or Kampala or by flying into Kigali and then transferring into southwestern Uganda.
Although Uganda has a lower standard permit price, the total safari cost depends on the accommodation, transport, duration of travel and additional activities.
The best destination depends on your budget, how much time you have and what experience you want.
How to Get the Best Value from Your Rwanda Gorilla Safari
You don’t have to go for the most expensive package to enjoy a memorable gorilla trekking experience.
Here are some tips to consider:
- Book gorilla permits ahead.
- Find accommodation that fits your budget.
- Travel with friends or family to save on transport.
- Keep near the park headquarters for ease of morning transfers.
- If you have extra days, combine nearby activities.
- Compare what’s in the package, don’t just look at the headline price.
How to Book a Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari
Booking a safari is easy with Pearl Nature Holidays.
To get a personalized quotation, please provide:
- Your preferred dates of travel
- Number of travelers.
- Your preferred type of accommodation.
- Whether you’re looking for a private safari or a group safari.
- Any other things you want to add.
We can assist with gorilla permits, accommodation, transport and guided experiences to suit your itinerary and budget.
Contact Pearl Nature Holidays for a personalised Rwanda gorilla trekking safari quotation. Whether you are planning a short trip from Kigali or a longer holiday combining gorilla trekking, golden monkeys and Lake Kivu, we can help arrange your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Costs
1. How much is a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda?
The normal foreign non-resident permit is US$1,500/person. Promotional rates and other visitor categories may vary.
2. How much does a complete Rwanda gorilla trekking safari cost?
$4000-$7500, The total cost will depend on the permit, accommodation, transport, food, activities and duration of the safari. For an exact price please request a quotation.
3. Does the gorilla permit include accommodation?
No. Accommodation, meals and transport are extra unless they are included in your safari package.
4. How many days do I need for gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
You can do a focused gorilla trekking safari from Kigali in two or three days. Four to five days allow for additional activities and relaxation.
5. Is Rwanda more expensive than Uganda for gorilla trekking?
Rwanda’s foreign non-resident gorilla permit is costlier than Uganda’s. However, the total safari cost will depend on transport, accommodation and travel arrangements.
6. Can I book a private Rwanda gorilla trekking safari?
Yes. Private safaris can offer personalized transport, accommodation, permits and additional activities to suit your tastes.
If you have a specific lodge in mind or travel dates, it is best to book your permit and lodge well in advance.
7. Can I combine gorilla trekking with other activities in Rwanda?
Yes. Depending on your holiday duration you can combine gorilla trekking with the golden monkey trekking, visits to Lake Kivu, city tours of Kigali and other experiences.