Rwanda Gorilla Permits and Trekking Rules: How They Work and What to Expect

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda takes place only in Volcanoes National Park, in the Virunga mountains, and permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board. Each habituated gorilla family can be visited by one group of up to eight people a day, which keeps the pressure on the animals low and means permits for the busiest months can sell out well ahead.

The rules in the forest are the same ones you will meet in Uganda: stay about seven metres from the gorillas, keep your voice low, never eat or drink in their presence, and stay home if you are unwell, because gorillas can catch human illnesses. Rwanda prices its permit well above Uganda's, which is the main reason many travellers compare the two countries in Uganda vs Rwanda gorilla trekking.

This guide is part of our East Africa travel guides. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Booking a Permit

Permits are tied to a date and a trekking sector, not a named gorilla family. The family you meet is assigned by park guides on the morning, based on the fitness and wishes of the group. If you want a short, easier trek, say so at the briefing and the guides will try to match you with a family that is not far from the trailhead.

Because dates fill quickly, it is sensible to secure permits first and arrange flights and lodges around them. Our team can reserve permits for Rwanda and Uganda together; see Uganda gorilla permits explained to compare.

The Morning of the Trek

You report to the park headquarters at Kinigi early in the morning for a briefing and family allocation, then drive to the trailhead. Trekking times range from under an hour to several hours each way, over steep and often muddy volcano slopes with bamboo, nettles and fields on the lower edge. Porters are available locally and are worth hiring, both for the help and for the income they bring to nearby communities.

Rules to Follow

• Keep at least seven metres from the gorillas, and step back if they approach.
• Do not use flash photography.
• Cover coughs and sneezes, and turn away from the animals.
• Do not leave rubbish in the park.
• Follow the guide at all times.

Planning Rwanda with Uganda? Tell us your dates and we will combine both countries in one smooth itinerary, with transfers and permits arranged.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team