Gorilla permits: prices, rules and how to book
Eric Nshimiyimana · Gorilla trekking guideUpdated 28 Aug 2026 · 5 min read
Everything you need to know about Rwanda’s gorilla permits — what they cost, who can trek, and how to make sure you get one.
How much is a gorilla permit?
$1,500 per person
The permit covers one trek and one hour with a gorilla family. Ten percent of permit revenue goes to communities around the park.
Rwanda’s permits are priced high on purpose: fewer visitors means less disturbance to the gorillas and more money for conservation. The fee is set by the Rwanda Development Board and is the same for every operator.
The rules
Visitors must be 15 or older. Groups are limited to eight people per gorilla family, and you spend one hour with them, keeping a distance of seven metres. Anyone with a cold or flu cannot trek, as gorillas catch human illnesses.
How to book
Permits are limited to 96 a day across twelve families, and they sell out months ahead for June–September and December. We book them for you through the Rwanda Development Board the day your trip is confirmed.
Permits are non-refundable once issued, but can often be moved to another date. We handle any changes for you.
Recommended tourGorilla trekking & golden monkeys in the Virungas · 3 daysFrom $1,890 pp
