Discounted Gorilla Permits in Rwanda: Rwanda has grown into one of Africa’s top tourism destinations, drawing thousands of visitors every year. Most travelers come specifically for gorilla trekking and primate watching in Volcanoes National Park. Tourism now ranks among Rwanda’s largest sources of national income. The Rwanda Development Board (RDB), which manages gorilla permit issuance, normally charges USD 1,500 per person for a gorilla trekking permit. However, the RDB offers a discounted rate of USD 1,050 per person during selected low season months. This discount makes Rwanda gorilla trekking more accessible to budget-conscious travelers. Notably, this discount does not apply in Uganda, where permits cost a flat USD 800 throughout the year.
When to Book Discounted Gorilla Permits
Rwanda offers discounted gorilla permits during the low season months of May and November. During these two months, fewer tourists visit Volcanoes National Park and other Rwandan national parks. As a result, the RDB reduces permit prices to attract more visitors. If you want to save money on your gorilla trekking adventure, plan your Rwanda safari for May or November. Booking during these months gives you the same unforgettable gorilla encounter at a significantly lower price.
How to Qualify for the Discount
To access the discounted rate of USD 1,050, you must meet one key condition. You need to spend a minimum of three days in other Rwandan national parks in addition to your gorilla trekking day. The more days you spend exploring Rwanda, the better your chances of qualifying. This requirement encourages visitors to experience more of what Rwanda offers beyond Volcanoes National Park.
Two national parks work particularly well for extending your stay. Nyungwe Forest National Park in the southwest offers chimpanzee trekking, canopy walking, and excellent birdwatching. Bird lovers especially enjoy Nyungwe, which records over 300 bird species. Akagera National Park in the east offers thrilling game drives where you can spot Africa’s Big Five. Adding either or both of these parks to your itinerary easily fulfills the minimum day requirement for the discount.
History of the Discounted Gorilla Permits
Rwanda introduced the discounted gorilla permit program in 2017. That year, the government raised standard gorilla permit prices sharply from USD 750 to USD 1,500 per person. This increase reflected Rwanda’s ambitious strategy to attract luxury investors and develop high-end lodges and conference facilities. To balance this premium pricing and maintain tourist numbers, the RDB introduced a 30% discount for the low season months of May and November, bringing the price down to USD 1,050 per person.
How to Book Your Discounted Permit
You can book discounted gorilla permits directly through the Rwanda Development Board. Alternatively, you can work with a trusted tour operator, which often simplifies the process. Your tour operator checks permit availability for your preferred dates in May or November and communicates available slots to you promptly.
Once availability is confirmed, you design an itinerary that includes extra days in parks such as Nyungwe or Akagera. After you agree to these conditions, the operator secures your discounted permit at USD 1,050 per person. Anthill Safaris specializes in organizing Rwanda gorilla safaris combined with visits to Nyungwe and Akagera. Contact them directly to check availability and start planning your discounted gorilla safari today.
Who Can Go Gorilla Trekking?
Gorilla trekking is open to anyone aged 15 years and above. Children below 15 are not permitted to participate. All participants must be physically fit, as the trek involves hiking through steep, forested terrain. Sedan chair services are available for trekkers with physical challenges, but you must book these in advance. Patience is also essential, as locating gorilla families can take time.
Gorilla Trekking Rules in Rwanda
The RDB enforces strict rules to protect both gorillas and visitors. Always maintain a distance of 8 to 10 meters from the gorillas. Each gorilla family receives a maximum of 8 visitors per day. You may spend only one hour with the gorillas. Do not eat, drink, smoke, or feed the gorillas during your visit. Never touch a gorilla under any circumstances. Keep your voice low and avoid sudden movements. Do not spit on vegetation inside the park. If a gorilla approaches you, crouch down calmly and avoid direct eye contact. Always switch off your camera flash before taking photographs. Failure to follow these rules may result in fines or removal from the trek.
What to Pack for Your Gorilla Safari
Pack wisely to ensure a comfortable experience. Wear neutral-colored, long-sleeved shirts and trousers to protect against insect bites and scratches. Bring sturdy, waterproof knee-length boots for the rugged trail. Garden gloves protect your hands from thorns. Carry warm layers, including a sweater or poncho, as mornings in the park turn cold. A waterproof rain jacket is essential regardless of the season. Pack insect repellent, sunscreen, a sun hat, and a waterproof backpack. Bring a camera, binoculars, cash for tips and emergencies, a refillable water bottle, and energy snacks to keep you going throughout the trek.
Other Activities to Enjoy in Rwanda
Rwanda offers much more than gorilla trekking. In Nyungwe Forest, chimpanzee trekking lets you observe these intelligent primates foraging and interacting in their natural environment. The canopy walk, suspended 50 meters above the forest floor and stretching 160 meters, delivers breathtaking forest views.
In Akagera National Park, game drives reveal lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, and zebras across open savannahs. Birdwatchers find Rwanda deeply rewarding, with over 700 recorded species nationwide, including the rare shoebill stork.
Cultural tours at the Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village near Volcanoes National Park offer traditional dances, basket weaving, and insights into Batwa heritage. A visit to Kigali’s Genocide Memorial Centre adds meaningful historical perspective to your trip.
Finally, Lake Kivu offers boat cruises, kayaking, swimming, and island exploration, making it the perfect place to relax after your adventures.
Rwanda truly has something extraordinary waiting for every traveler.
