Gorilla Trekking Costs in Uganda, Rwanda & DR Congo for 2025

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking Cost in 2025? (Uganda, Rwanda, DRC)

Gorilla trekking is one of the most unforgettable and expensive wildlife experiences in Africa. In 2025, permit fees alone range from about $400 in DRC up to $1,500 in Rwanda (for non-Africans), plus lodging, guides, transport, and visas. Below, we break down the current 2025 prices (with estimated 2026 guidance) for all three countries and give sample package costs (3–6 day tours) at budget, midrange, and luxury levels. We also compare costs in a clear table, suggest sample itineraries for each trip style, and offer money-saving tips (seasonal discounts, group tours, starting in Kigali, etc.).

All permit prices are from official sources, see Uganda Wildlife Authority, Rwanda Development Board, and Virunga National Park, and trip costs are from reputable operators.

Gorilla Permit Fees (2025) by Country

• Uganda (Bwindi/Mgahinga)—Each gorilla trek permit is US$800 for most foreign visitors. (This comes from the official UWA 2024–26 tariff.) “Foreign residents” in Uganda pay $500; other African nationals pay $700; and East African citizens (Uganda/Kenya/Tanzania) pay 300,000 UGX (about $80). Note: UWA usually sets prices biennially, so expect the $800 rate through mid-2026.

• Rwanda (Volcanoes NP)—Gorilla permits are $1,500 per person for all international visitors. Rwandan/East African citizens pay about $200, and other African nationals pay $500. (Rwanda has no separate “foreign resident” discount—all non-African tourists pay $1,500.) These fees are set by the Rwanda Development Board and remain the same for 2025, with promotional discounts possible in the low season.

• DRC (Virunga & Kahuzi)—Congo’s permits are much cheaper. In Virunga National Park (Congo), a gorilla permit is about $400 per trek in high season and $200 in low season. In Kahuzi-Biega National Park (eastern lowland gorillas), permits are a flat $400 year-round. (Prices can fluctuate with local policy, but these are recent figures.)

These permits include park guides and conservation fees but do not include lodge fees, park entrance fees, visas, transport, or tips. Because permit costs dominate the budget, travelers should book them well in advance.

Gorilla Safari Packages (3–6 Days): Budget to Luxury

Beyond permits, the total trip cost depends on accommodation and tour style. Below are illustrative price ranges (per person) for typical multi-day gorilla safari packages. (All include the gorilla trek permit plus guides, transport, accommodation, meals—see notes.)

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking Cost in 2025?

Gorilla trekking costs in East and Central Africa vary widely depending on your destination, travel style, and the level of comfort you choose. At Mtembezi African Safaris, we help travelers find the perfect balance between budget, experience, and value—whether you’re seeking a no-frills adventure or a luxury safari retreat.

Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari Costs (2025)

Uganda remains one of the most affordable and rewarding destinations for gorilla trekking. Here’s what you can expect:

• Budget Trips (3–4 days): For travelers sharing transport and staying in basic lodges or guesthouses, a typical gorilla safari costs around $1,600–$2,000 per person, including the $800 gorilla permit.

• Midrange Packages (4–6 days): Private safaris with mid-tier lodges and full board usually fall in the range of $1,700–$2,500, offering better comfort and more flexible travel schedules.

• Extended Safaris (6 days or more): Combining gorilla and chimpanzee trekking (like in Kibale Forest) pushes the cost to approximately $2,000–$3,500 per person, depending on accommodations and activities.

• Luxury Gorilla Experiences (4–5 days): Premium safaris with upscale eco-lodges, private guides, and exclusive service can start from $4,000+ per person and may include optional fly-in transfers or custom itineraries.

Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari Costs (2025)

Rwanda is known for its high-end approach to tourism and conservation. Trekking in Volcanoes National Park tends to be pricier due to the $1,500 gorilla permit and premium lodge options.

• Budget Options (3 days): While limited, shared-group experiences with simpler lodging start around $2,500–$3,500 per person, including permits and transfers.

• Midrange Safaris (4–5 days): Ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable experience with double gorilla treks and moderate lodges. Prices typically range from $3,500–$5,000.

• Luxury Packages (5–6 days or more): These safaris often feature exclusive accommodations, like forest-view lodges near the park, private guides, and curated cultural add-ons. Expect costs upwards of $6,000 per person, with options to customize your stay for an ultra-premium experience.

DR Congo Gorilla Trekking Safari Costs (2025)

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) offers some of the most adventurous and off-the-beaten-path gorilla trekking experiences. The lower permit cost makes it appealing to more intrepid travelers, though logistics can be more complex.

• Budget Trips (3 days): A basic trek in Virunga National Park, with budget lodging and the $400 permit, starts at about $1,000–$1,500 per person.

• Midrange Experiences (4–5 days): These may include stays around Goma or Bukavu and can be combined with Rwanda or Uganda segments. Expect pricing around $2,000–$3,000.

• Luxury and Adventure Safaris (5+ days): These often include private logistics, Nyiragongo volcano hikes (when accessible), and upgraded accommodation. Prices can reach $4,000 or more per person, especially for bespoke, multi-country itineraries.

“All prices mentioned are per person based on double occupancy and typically include standard safari components, gorilla permits, accommodations, meals, transport, and guiding, unless otherwise noted. Uganda estimates are based on the international gorilla permit fee of $800; East African citizens benefit from significantly reduced rates (currently UGX 300,000). Please note that these price ranges are indicative only. Final costs may vary depending on the travel season, group size, accommodation type, exchange rates, and specific itinerary choices. For an accurate, up-to-date quote tailored to your travel needs, we encourage you to contact our safari planning team directly.”

Final Thoughts on Gorilla Trekking Safari Costs

At Mtembezi African Safaris, we tailor each gorilla trekking safari to match your expectations, timeframe, and budget. Whether you’re seeking the most affordable encounter with mountain gorillas or a once-in-a-lifetime luxury escape, our team ensures transparent pricing and a seamless planning process.

Need help planning your 2025 gorilla trek? Contact us for customized safari quotes and expert advice on the best destinations and seasons for your adventure.

Below is a price comparison table that summarizes permit and tour-cost ranges by country and trip tier:

Budget Itinerary (3–4 Days – Uganda):
This cost-effective safari typically begins in Kampala or Kigali, with a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Travelers stay in a budget lodge or community-run guesthouse, offering a simple but immersive experience. The highlight comes on day two with a guided gorilla trek in Bwindi, where you spend an unforgettable hour observing a habituated gorilla family. The trip concludes with a return journey, optionally passing through Lake Bunyonyi for a relaxing scenic stop. Expect prices around $1,700–$2,000 per person, including the $800 permit.
See more: [Gorilla Trekking in Uganda]

Midrange Itinerary (5 Days – Rwanda & Uganda Combo):
Ideal for travelers who want the best of both worlds, this mid-tier safari starts with an arrival in Kigali, followed by a short transfer to Volcanoes National Park. After settling into a comfortable lodge, guests embark on a gorilla trek in Rwanda on day two. The journey then continues into Uganda with a scenic drive to Bwindi, staying in a midrange lodge near the park. Day four includes a second gorilla trek, this time in Uganda’s dense rainforest setting. The tour wraps up with a return to Kigali or Kampala. This dual-country experience provides rich contrast and is typically priced around $3,000 per person, inclusive of both permits.
See more: [Rwanda Gorilla Trekking] 

Luxury Itinerary (6 Days – Rwanda & Optional DRC):
For those seeking an exclusive, high-end adventure, this itinerary begins in Kigali with a private transfer to a top-tier lodge near Volcanoes National Park—think forest-view villas, gourmet dining, and spa services. Day two features a guided gorilla trek, followed by golden monkey tracking or a cultural visit to the Gorilla Guardians Village. Afterwards, guests may fly to Gisenyi for a scenic charter into the Democratic Republic of Congo, where a rare encounter with Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park awaits. This premium journey blends wildlife, culture, and seamless logistics, with prices typically starting at $6,000+ per person, depending on customization and lodge selection.
See more:  [DRC Gorilla Trekking]