Gorilla Permit Guide (Step-by-Step): Everything You Need to Know

Tracking mountain gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of Congo is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But before you can stand face-to-face with these gentle giants, you’ll need the most important ticket of all: a gorilla trekking permit.

This guide walks you through the process—step by step—so you can secure your permit stress-free and prepare for an unforgettable journey.

Step 1: Choose Your Destination

Gorilla trekking is available in only three countries worldwide:

  • Uganda – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest & Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
  • Rwanda – Volcanoes National Park
  • DR Congo – Virunga National Park

👉 Uganda is often the most popular choice due to its larger number of habituated gorilla families and relatively affordable permits.

Step 2: Know the Cost of a Gorilla Permit

As of 2025, here are the current prices:

  • Uganda: $800 per person (Bwindi/Mgahinga)
  • Rwanda: $1,500 per person (Volcanoes NP)
  • DR Congo: $400–$500 per person (Virunga)

💡 Tip: Uganda sometimes offers discounted permits in low seasons (April–May, November).

Step 3: Decide How to Book

You can get a permit in two main ways:

  1. Through a Tour Operator
    • Easiest and most reliable method.
    • Tour companies handle the entire process (permits, transport, accommodation).
    • Highly recommended for first-time visitors.
  2. Directly Through Authorities
    • Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) for Uganda
    • Rwanda Development Board (RDB) for Rwanda
    • Virunga National Park Office for DR Congo
    • More paperwork and patience required, but doable.

Step 4: Book Early

Permits are limited (only about 8 visitors per gorilla family per day). To avoid disappointment:

  • Book 6–12 months in advance, especially for peak seasons (June–September and December–February).

Step 5: Confirm and Pay

Once your booking is accepted:

  • You’ll receive an invoice.
  • Payments are usually made via bank transfer or credit card.
  • After payment, you’ll get a permit confirmation slip—keep it safe!

Step 6: Match With a Gorilla Family

On trekking day, park rangers assign visitors to specific gorilla families. Assignments often depend on your fitness level since some groups are easier to reach than others.

Step 7: Trek and Experience the Magic

With your permit in hand, you’ll finally step into the forest for your trek. Once you find the gorillas, you’re allowed one magical hour in their presence—observing, photographing, and connecting with them in their natural habitat.

Step 8: Respect the Rules

Your permit also carries responsibilities. Rangers will brief you, but key rules include:

  • Keep at least 7 meters (21 feet) from the gorillas.
  • Don’t trek if you’re sick (to protect gorillas from human diseases).
  • No flash photography.
  • Keep your voice low, and follow ranger instructions.

Final Word

Getting a gorilla permit may sound complicated, but with these steps, it’s straightforward. Think of the permit not just as a ticket, but as a contribution to conservation—your fee helps protect the critically endangered mountain gorillas and support local communities.

Once you’re standing face-to-face with a silverback in the misty jungle, you’ll know it was worth every step.