How to Book Rwanda Gorilla Permits for 2026/2027

How to Book Rwanda Gorilla Permits for 2026/2027 with Trek Africa Expeditions

Planning to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park in 2026 or 2027? One of the most important steps in organizing your safari is securing your gorilla trekking permit in advance. At Trek Africa Expeditions, we help travelers easily book Rwanda gorilla permits and arrange complete trekking experiences tailored to your travel dates and preferences.

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking Your Rwanda Gorilla Permit

Booking a gorilla permit in Rwanda is simple when you follow the right process. Here’s how you can secure your trekking experience with us:

1. Decide on Your Travel Dates

Choose when you plan to travel. Gorilla permits sell out quickly during Rwanda’s dry season (June–September and December–February), so we recommend booking several months in advance.

• High Season: June–September, December–February – permits are in high demand.

• Low Season: March–May, October–November – easier to get permits and discounted rates may apply.

2. Contact Trek Africa Expeditions

Once your dates are confirmed, email us with your preferred trekking day(s). We’ll check real-time permit availability with the Rwanda Development Board and notify you of open slots.

3. Reserve Your Gorilla Permit

After confirming availability, we’ll send you an invoice. Upon receiving payment, we’ll immediately purchase your permits and send you scanned copies for your records.

4. Permit Fees

As of 2026/2027, Rwanda gorilla trekking permits cost:

• $1,500 per person (standard rate)

• $1,050 per person for permits booked for dates between 1st November and 31st May (off-season promotion)

5. What You Need to Book

To book your permit, you’ll need to provide:

• Full name

• Passport details

• Your preferred trekking date

6. Payment and Confirmation

Payments can be made via bank transfer or credit card. If you book through Trek Africa Expeditions, we’ll handle all payment logistics and permit processing for you.

What to Expect on the Day of Your Gorilla Trek

On the day of your trek, arrive at the Volcanoes National Park headquarters by 7:00 AM for a mandatory briefing by park rangers. You’ll be assigned to one of the habituated gorilla groups—each group is visited by a maximum of 8 tourists per day.

Your trek can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on where the gorilla family is located. Once you find them, you’ll have one unforgettable hour to observe and photograph these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Be sure to bring:

• Sturdy hiking boots

• Long-sleeved shirt and long pants

• Rain jacket

• Drinking water and snacks

• A good camera (no flash)

Where to Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda takes place only in Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwest corner of the country. The park lies in the Virunga Mountains and is home to over 10 habituated mountain gorilla families.

Each day, visitors are guided into the rainforest by experienced rangers to track these iconic primates. The treks are well-organized, safe, and offer an incredible opportunity to see mountain gorillas in one of Africa’s most scenic national parks.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

The best months for gorilla trekking in Rwanda are during the dry seasons:

• June to October

• December to March

During these months, trails are drier and visibility is better, making it easier to trek and capture stunning photographs.

However, trekking is possible year-round. The wet season (April, May, and November) often means shorter hikes as gorillas stay closer due to abundant food—making for a potentially easier trek, even if the trails are a bit muddy.

Where to Stay During Your Gorilla Safari in Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park offers a wide range of accommodation options:

Luxury Lodges:

• Bisate Lodge

• Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

• Virunga Volcanoes Lodge

• Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

• Mountain Gorilla’s Nest Lodge

Prices range from $300 to $1,000+ per person per night.

Mid-Range Lodges:

• Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

• Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge

• Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

Budget-Friendly Options:

• Kinigi Guesthouse

• Hotel Muhabura

• Gorilla Solution Lodge

• Villa Gorilla

• Virunga Hotel

• Faraji Hotel

• La Palme Hotel

Whether you prefer eco-luxury or simple, clean lodging near the park, Trek Africa Expeditions can help you choose and book accommodations that fit your budget and comfort level.

How to Get to Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is easily accessible by road from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. The drive takes around 2 to 3 hours through the picturesque hills of Rwanda’s countryside. Your driver-guide from Trek Africa Expeditions will pick you up from your hotel or Kigali International Airport and ensure a smooth journey to the park.

Why Book with Trek Africa Expeditions?

Trek Africa Expeditions is a trusted local tour operator specializing in customized gorilla trekking safaris across Rwanda, Uganda, and other East African destinations. We are passionate about eco-tourism, conservation, and delivering personalized safari experiences that respect both local communities and the environment.

We offer:

• Fast and secure gorilla permit booking

• Tailored gorilla trekking packages

• Private safaris and group tours

• Expert local guides and safari planners

We also partner with reputable operators in Kenya, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to offer seamless multi-country African adventures.

Ready to Book Your Rwanda Gorilla Permit for 2026/2027?

Let Trek Africa Expeditions handle all the details—from checking permit availability and processing payment to organizing transport and accommodation. Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda.

Email us now to secure your spot and begin your journey to meet the mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park.