Gorilla trekking permit is a significant tool every trekker should have if he or she is to be allowed to trek mountain gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda or Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Gorilla permit at hand gets you opportunity to track only one habituated gorilla family in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in southwestern Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda or Virunga National Park in eastern DR Congo.
When planning for gorilla trip to Uganda, Rwanda or DR Congo, for any plans to track gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda or DRC, you are advised to book your permit at least 3-6 months before embarking on actual trek but other visitors even book permits 2 years earlier. Booking a permit in advance comes with lots of benefits as it gets you out of the stressful moment to book a permit at last minute the fact that demand gorilla permits is high.
In Uganda, about 20 gorilla families have been habituated and can be tracked in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga National Park which represents 160 gorilla permits. Each gorilla permit costs $800 per person whereas in Rwanda, 80 gorilla permits are available for booking with each costing $1500 per person per trek and DRC, there are 64 gorilla permits and each cost $450 per person.
To book a gorilla permit, you need to deal with trustworthy, recognized ground tour operator in Uganda, DRC, Rwanda. Send your email with dates you wish to track gorillas and we shall check the availability of gorilla permits for you as you sit back home. The dates you intend to track gorillas are available, we shall reserve a permit for you and you will be required to make a deposit.
Gorilla trekking Holidays in Uganda & Rwanda are getting very competitive to book and thus require in advance Gorilla safari planning especially when it comes to booking Gorilla permits, getting good rates for close accommodation close to your Gorilla trekking location, arranging transport, booking domestic flights, where applicable and other vital logistics to facilitate a successful Gorilla trekking safari experience.
Here are the key steps and considerations to keep in mind:
Research and Choose a Destination
Gorilla trekking is primarily done in East Africa, specifically in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Research each destination to determine which one suits your preferences in terms of cost, accessibility, and the overall experience.
Decide on the Timing: Gorilla trekking can be done throughout the year, but there are certain factors to consider:
Dry Season vs. Wet Season: The dry season (June to September and December to February) is generally considered the best time for gorilla trekking as the weather is more predictable, and the trails are less muddy and slippery. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so permits may be in high demand and accommodation prices can be higher. The wet season (March to May and October to November) has its advantages, including fewer tourists, lush vegetation, and discounted accommodation rates. However, trekking during this time can be more challenging due to rain and muddy trails.
Availability of Permits: Gorilla trekking permits are limited, especially in Rwanda and Uganda where they are in high demand. It’s essential to book your permits well in advance (ideally 6-12 months ahead) to secure your spot, especially if you plan to visit during the peak season.
Personal Preferences: Consider your personal preferences regarding weather, crowd levels, and budget when choosing the timing for your gorilla trek.
Book Your Permits: Once you’ve decided on the timing and destination for your gorilla trek, you need to book your permits. Each country has its own booking process:
Rwanda: Gorilla permits can be booked through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or authorized tour operators. You can check availability and book permits online through the RDB website or through a tour operator.
Uganda: Gorilla permits can be booked through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or authorized tour operators. Permits can be reserved by contacting UWA directly or through registered tour operators.
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): Gorilla permits for Virunga National Park in DRC can be booked through the park’s official website or authorized tour operators.
Plan Your Trip
Once you’ve secured your permits, you can start planning the rest of your trip, including accommodation, transportation, and any other activities you want to include.
Prepare for the Trek
Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding, so it’s essential to prepare accordingly. Make sure you have suitable clothing and footwear, pack essentials such as water and snacks, and be prepared for variable weather conditions.
Enjoy Your Experience
Finally, when the day of your gorilla trek arrives, enjoy every moment of this incredible wildlife experience. Follow the guidelines provided by your guides and respect the gorillas’ natural habitat.
Benefits Of Booking a Gorilla Permit in Advance
Guaranteed Gorilla Trekking Permits
Whether trekking mountain gorillas in Uganda, in- advance gorilla safari planning with Primate Safari Experiences guarantees you gorilla permits. Upon confirmation of your gorilla safari booking with Primate Safari Experiences (subject to our gorilla safari booking policy), your gorilla trekking will be booked, confirmed and guaranteed.
Guaranteed Transport and Logistical availability
Gorilla permits are booked and guaranteed, and so is the accommodation. Next is the transportation and any other logistical support. Primate Safari Experiences operates a reliable fleet of 4×4 custom made Toyota land cruisers used on all our mountain gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda.
Guaranteed Gorilla Trekking Accommodation
After Primate Safari Experiences has secured your gorilla trekking permit, we immediately book the accommodation mentioned in your gorilla safari itinerary. In-advance gorilla safari planning allows us to book and lock in the price of the accommodation promised or desired by the client.
Requirements For Booking Gorilla Permit
Decide on which date(s) you would like to trek Gorillas
The first step is to decide on the date(s) you would like to trek Gorillas, and then your tour Operator will contact Kahuzi Biega offices. They will then reply advising on whether those date(s) are available or not. Assuming the date(s) you want are available, you will then proceed to the next step. If the dates are not available, then you will have to think of alternative date(s).
Pay for your permit
Considering that you have received confirmation regarding the availability of Gorilla permits from your Tour Operator, and then you will proceed to make payment for your Gorilla permit via PESA PAL, BANK ACCOUNTS that your Tour Operator will provide you with. Ensure to get and keep a receipt for your transaction. How much is a Gorilla permit? Currently, the Gorilla permits in DRC cost $400 PP for foreign non – residents & for foreign residents.
Send a scanned copy of your Passport (bios page) and payment receipt
You will be required to scan and send via email a copy of your passport. The page that matters most in your passport is that with your passport details i.e. names, date of birth, passport number etc. we call it the bios page. Tour operator will verify that payment has been done and thereafter they will send a confirmation of your booked gorilla permit.