Gorilla Trekking Information
Important note: Gorilla permits are sold on a first come first serve and can’t be provisionally held; this therefore means it can be guaranteed upon purchase.
The Gorilla trekking experience starts at the park headquarters/offices where guests are grouped in a maximum of 8 people, briefed on park & safety guidelines, allocation of park guides and rangers as well as what to expect during the trek. Treks may last between 1 hour – 6 hours or more depending on the location of the gorilla family you are allocated to. You are advised to keep a distance of 7 meters from the gorillas.
Gorilla Permit Fees
Rwanda
US$1,500 for a regular trek and US$15,000 for an exclusive trekking experience.
With the exclusive gorilla trekking experience, guests are briefed at their lodge by the park guides and can start the trek later but not after 10h00.
Uganda
US$ 800 regular trek and US$1,500 for the habituation experience.
The habituation experience in Uganda is limited to only a maximum of 4 people per group in the Rushaga sector, the experience allows trekkers to spend 4 hours in the presence of gorillas, unlike the regular trek where it’s strictly 1 hour. The habituation permits must be purchased at least 6 months before the habituation date.
Age Restrictions
Trekkers must be aged 15 years and above.
Trekking kits
Comfortable hiking shoes, long pants & long-sleeved tops, rain jacket, garden gloves, gaiters, backpack with some snacks and water, hat, face mask, walking stick are provided at the park. Our travel experts will further advise you on what kits are provided by the accommodation you select to stay at.
Fitness level
A moderate level of physical fitness is needed. The trails are steep and may be very slippery and muddy during the rainy season. Porters are available to give you a supporting hand and carry any backpack for you at a small fee of US$15. Treks vary in length categorized as short, medium, and long treks but sometimes even the short trek might take longer as gorillas keep moving.
An option of using a sedan chair is available for guests with walking difficulties to be carried, this is at an extra fee and is inclusive of 8 porters who take turns.