Gorilla permits are required of every single tourist intending to track gorillas in Rwanda at a cost of USD 1500 per person for foreign visitors, during the low season when visitors are few; discounts for permits may be available at lower rates.

Gorilla permit costs are inclusive of park entry fees, you are recommended to get your own transport means from Musanze town near Kigali about 12 km to the park headquarters at Kinigi where tracking begins from.

Tourists out of Rwanda interested to book a permit should have to first contact the reservation offices at Kinigi the park headquarters by email asking about accessibility of dates you plan to track gorillas. They will respond back telling you to proceed with payment and transfer of money which should not take more than 3 days. You are advised to send a copy of the transaction receipt by fax or email to the head offices for verification.

Gorilla permits can be booked through Rwanda development Board. Alternatively visitors intending to track gorillas but cannot purchase a permit with the Rwanda development board can buy permits from reliable Rwandan local Travel agencies and tour operators that have been recommended by the board. Usually operators or agencies can charge a fee of 25 to 60 US dollars per gorilla permit, tour agencies tend to quicken the process of purchasing a permit than direct purchase with the Rwandan Development Board.

Availability of gorilla permits for a required date is not guaranteed due to the stiff competition for gorillas. Using a local company is relatively a cheap option Rwanda receives many visitors coming tour our gorillas thus it’s highly advisable to book your permit ahead of your trekking day as permits tend to get finished early. Purchasing a gorilla permit does not guarantee any visitor to see gorillas, however chances are very high.