Looking for a Rwanda Gorilla trekking permit? We present reliable information about gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda. For one to be able to do a gorilla trekking tour in Rwanda or Volcanoes National Park, they must book or possess a gorilla trekking permit.
In simple terms, a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is the legal document obtained from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) that authorizes one to participate in the gorilla trekking safari activity in Rwanda or Volcanoes National Park. Rwanda Development Board is a government body that is in charge of managing and controlling the tourism industry in Rwanda. It works hand in hand with other relevant bodies like Dian Fossey Conservation Center and private tour operators to ensure the smooth running of tourism and responsible tourism in Rwanda.
One of the essential elements of planning a gorilla tour in Rwanda is acquiring gorilla permits. In this article, we will explore the significance of Rwanda gorilla permits, the process of obtaining them, their cost, availability, and the impact of gorilla tourism on conservation efforts and local communities. By the time you get to the bottom of the page, booking a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda will be an easy task and will not affect your planning of an amazing Rwanda gorilla trekking tour or Safari.
What is the significance of a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda?
You might be wondering why one must have a gorilla trekking permit before participating in a gorilla trekking expedition or gorilla tour in Rwanda. A gorilla trekking permit is the gateway to having a memorable gorilla adventure in Rwanda.
The permit serves several purposes that benefit the locals, the tourists, and the gorillas. For instance, gorilla trekking permits help in regulating the number of tourists trekking a gorilla family per day. Mountain gorillas can be hugely affected by overwhelming numbers of trekkers in a single day. This is why one gorilla family in Rwanda is restricted to fewer than eight people per day. Mountain gorillas must stay in their wilderness and to be able to maintain them in their natural habitats, a particular number of trekkers must be regulated and maintained in the park.
Additionally, the revenue generated from mountain gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda goes directly to the local communities. When you track mountain gorillas in Rwanda, you are directly contributing to building a school, hospital, or any other infrastructure in Rwanda. This is meant to support the conservation and practice of responsible tourism in Rwanda.
How much is a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda?
You do not have to break the bank to take on an amazing gorilla tour in Rwanda. A gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs USD 1500 per person per day. This price does not include transportation and accommodation for your entire safari or trip. It is important to book your Rwanda gorilla trekking permit through a reputable tour operator. Ask them the whole price of the trip inclusive of the gorilla permit fees.
What is included in the Rwanda gorilla permit fee?
After paying for the Rwanda gorilla permit, you are entitled to 2 to 8 hours of gorilla trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park. The permits also come with a professional guide from the Rwanda Development Board or Volcanoes National Park who will lead you through the gorilla trekking activity. You will also be given one hour to spend in the presence of a gorilla family upon meeting them. You will be allowed to take as many pictures as you wish as long as you are following gorilla trekking rules and regulations. At the end of your gorilla trekking activity, you will be given a fully signed gorilla trekking certificate.
What is excluded from Rwanda gorilla permit fees
While booking your Rwanda gorilla permit, you should know that the fees do not include any of the following;
- A porter to carry your luggage during the trek
- Lunch
- Transport to and from the park headquarters for briefing
- Drinking water
- Camera
- Other gorilla trekking equipment
- Travel Insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Penalty fees in case of breaching gorilla trekking rules and regulations
- Airport pickups
Does a Rwanda gorilla permit price Reduce in low seasons?
The standard price for a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is USD 1500 per person per day. However, this price may be reduced by the Rwanda Development Board, especially during low seasons. Low seasons in Rwanda are mainly the wet seasons which run from October to November and March to May. Gorilla trekking prices may be reduced by USD 50 or more depending on the forces of demand and supply. It is important to do thorough research with your local tour operator for the exact Rwanda gorilla permit prices before making a final payment.
Additionally, tour operators usually offer discounts for Rwanda gorilla trekking tours, especially in low seasons. You may negotiate for a reduced price for the whole Rwanda Gorilla tour package for an amazing experience.
How to book a Gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda?
Booking a Rwanda gorilla trekking permit becomes a challenging task for only those who do not plan their trips. Gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda are issued by the Rwanda Development Board. They can be purchased online and on arrival at the Volcanoes National Park headquarters. It is advisable to book your Rwanda Gorilla tour in advance at least 30 days before your arrival to avoid last-minute inconveniences. Booking your Rwanda gorilla permit through a reputable tour operator in Rwanda is the best way to plan an amazing trip. You will have to provide a few details like your passport and visa. Ensure to book with an authorized tour company to avoid being a victim of fraud.
When to book a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda?
Rwanda gorilla permits are limited to a certain number of people per day especially during high seasons. This is why you should book at least 30 days before your trip. Volcanoes National Park is open for gorilla trekking any time of the year including weekends and public holidays. Generally, the answer to when is the best time to book a gorilla permit in Rwanda entirely lies in the hands of the traveler.
