Rwanda Safari Prices: Rwanda is one of only three African countries where you can see mountain gorillas. Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are the other two. Because Rwanda sits in central-eastern Africa, you can easily combine a gorilla safari with other East African adventures. In Rwanda, mountain gorillas live exclusively in Volcanoes National Park, part of the famous Virunga range.
However, Rwanda offers much more than gorillas. Akagera National Park delivers exciting wildlife safaris, while Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to remarkable primates and birds. Additionally, visiting the Genocide Memorial sites gives you a powerful and moving understanding of the tragic 1994 genocide. At Anthill Safaris, we design every Rwanda safari around your budget and interests.
Cost of Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla Trekking Permits
To trek mountain gorillas, you must first obtain a gorilla trekking permit. The Rwanda Development Board issues these permits to anyone aged 15 and above. Currently, a Rwanda gorilla permit costs USD 1,500 per person. In comparison, Uganda charges USD 800 for foreign non-residents, while the DR. Congo charges USD 400. Therefore, Rwanda holds the most expensive gorilla permits among the three destinations.
Your permit covers one hour with the gorillas, ranger fees, park admission, and advanced tracker services. Anthill Safaris recommends booking your permit at least two months in advance due to high demand. You can also obtain permits directly through the Rwanda Development Board at reservation@rwandatourism.com.
Accommodation Costs
Accommodation significantly affects your total Rwanda safari cost. Fortunately, Rwanda offers options across all budgets. Luxury lodges near Volcanoes National Park cost between USD 300 and USD 2,500 per night. Mid-range hotels range from USD 150 to USD 250, while budget options cost up to USD 100 per night. Anthill Safaris helps you find the best accommodation that fits your budget and is closest to your safari activities.
Transportation Costs
After securing your permit, transportation becomes the next important cost to plan. International flights into Kigali International Airport vary depending on your country of origin. Once in Kigali, most gorilla trekking expeditions begin there, and Volcanoes National Park is roughly a three-hour drive away. Private transport to the park costs around USD 50, while pre-arranged transport through Anthill Safaris costs approximately USD 100, depending on the vehicle type. We always recommend pre-arranged transport because it is more reliable and comfortable.
Packing List
To enjoy your gorilla trek fully, pack the right gear. You will need insect repellent, hand gloves, a good camera, sturdy hiking shoes, long-sleeved clothing, birding binoculars, and a rain jacket. Purchase all these items before arriving in Rwanda.
Visa and Border Crossings
If you plan to combine Rwanda with Uganda or DR. Congo for gorilla trekking, border crossings are available. Crossing into DR. Congo at Goma costs around USD 100. Crossing into Uganda at Katuna or Cyanika costs approximately USD 50. Alternatively, an East African Tourist Visa costs USD 100 and covers entry into multiple East African countries, making it a smart and cost-effective choice.
Porter Services
Hiring a porter at the park headquarters costs USD 10 per porter. If you need a sedan chair, expect to pay around USD 400. Porters come from local communities, and using their services directly supports local livelihoods. Anthill Safaris encourages all clients to hire a porter, as it enriches your experience and empowers the community.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is available year-round. However, the best time to visit is during the dry seasons, which run from June to September and December to February. During these months, trails are easier to navigate, and malaria risk is lower. On the other hand, the rainy season from March to May can make trails muddy and difficult. Nevertheless, the rainy season often comes with discounted gorilla permit prices.
Wildlife Safari in Akagera National Park
Rwanda Safari Prices: Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s only savannah park and home to the Big Five. Park entry fees for international adults are USD 100, while children aged 6 to 12 pay USD 50. Foreign East African residents pay USD 50 for adults and USD 30 for children.
Day game drives cost USD 180 for up to five hours, including a driver and safari vehicle for up to seven people. A full-day game drive costs USD 280. Night game drives are available at USD 40 per adult and USD 25 per child.
Boat rides cost USD 20 per adult per hour, while sunset boat cruises cost USD 40 per adult. Camping costs USD 25 per night for adults and USD 15 for children. Fishing excursions and cultural community visits cost USD 25 and USD 3,0 respective, ly for adults.
The best time to visit Akagera is from June to September, when dry conditions make wildlife viewing easier and more rewarding.
Primate Safari in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Rwanda Safari Prices: Nyungwe Forest, located five to six hours from Kigali, is Rwanda’s primate paradise. A chimpanzee trekking permit costs USD 250 for foreign non-residents, USD 75 for foreign residents, and USD 25 for East African citizens. Trekkers must arrive at Uwinka Park headquarters by 7:00 a.m. for a briefing, with the trek starting at 8:00 a.m. You get one hour with the chimpanzees after locating them.
For other primate treks, foreign non-residents pay USD 60. Bird-watching permits cost USD 50 for foreign non-residents. With over 275 bird species, Nyungwe is a top birding destination, best visited from January to June.
Additional Safari Costs
Rwanda Safari Prices. Other costs to factor into your Rwanda safari include English-speaking driver-guide fees, daily meals, tipping for rangers and porters, souvenir shopping, and your tour operator’s service fee. At Anthill Safaris, we offer fully inclusive safari packages, so you enjoy a seamless, stress-free Rwanda experience from arrival to departure.
Contact Anthill Safaris today to start planning your dream Rwanda safari.
