How to Get a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda or Rwanda

If we were sitting on a Zoom call and you asked me this, I’d probably pause for a second, not because it’s complicated, but because this one decision shapes the entire trip. A gorilla trekking permit isn’t just a ticket. It’s your access to a very controlled conservation activity. Without it, nothing else really moves forward.

Let me explain it simply.

What a Gorilla Trekking Permit Actually Is

A gorilla trekking permit is issued by the wildlife authority of the country where the trek happens.

Uganda → Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA)

Rwanda → Rwanda Development Board (RDB)

The permit allows:

One trek

One habituated gorilla family

One hour with the gorillas

On a specific date

It also funds conservation, ranger salaries, veterinary monitoring, and community projects. That’s why permits are limited and protected.

Permit Costs (Uganda vs Rwanda)

This is often where people get stuck, so I’ll be direct.

Uganda: USD 800 per person

Rwanda: USD 1,500 per person

Same experience in principle. Different pricing strategies.

Longer stays

More forest immersion

Combined wildlife safaris

Rwanda suits those who:

Have limited time

Want easier road access

Are comfortable with higher costs

Most visitors prefer Uganda.

How You Actually Get the Permit

There are two ways:

1.Book directly with the wildlife authority

This works if:

You’re flexible with dates

You’re confident handling logistics

You’re planning far in advance

2.Go through a licensed tour operator (like us)

This helps when:

Dates matter

You’re coordinating transport and lodging

You want fewer moving parts

Most travelers choose the second option simply because permits sell out and coordinating date changes directly can be stressful.

When You Should Book

If I’m being honest:

High season: 6 months to one year ahead

Low season:3-6 months (sometimes less)

Waiting until you finalize flights is the most common mistake I see.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Assuming permits are always available

Booking accommodation before securing permits

Mixing up Uganda and Rwanda trekking locations

Waiting for prices to drop (they don’t)