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Two countries, one unforgettable hour
A permit to the extraordinary.
A gorilla permit is an official, dated ticket that gives one person one hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family. Only eight visitors per family per day – so permits are scarce, and worth planning well.
Bwindi & Mgahinga
Uganda gorilla permits
Walk into the ancient rainforest of Bwindi or the volcano slopes of Mgahinga and come face to face with half of the world’s mountain gorillas. The best value, and the wildest experience.
From US$800 · US$600 in Apr, May & Nov · Ages 15+
Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda gorilla permits
Trek where Dian Fossey once worked, on the bamboo slopes of the Virunga volcanoes – just a few hours’ drive from Kigali. Polished, premium and quick to reach.
US$1,500 all year · 1 hour with gorillas · Ages 15+
Rates as of 2026, set by UWA and RDB. DR Congo’s Virunga is currently closed for gorilla treks – read the latest. See all permit prices →
Your journey, in expert hands
Meet Roadtrip Africa. Your Uganda specialists.
Book your gorilla and chimpanzee permits through Roadtrip Africa. From the right trekking sector to the road that takes you there, their team in Uganda brings your whole journey together – often more cost-efficiently than a classic guided safari.
✦ Permit arrangements ✦ 4×4 rental ✦ Driver-guides ✦ Lodges ✦ 24/7 support
A little planning. A lifetime of memories.
Your forest encounter starts here.
01 / CHOOSE YOUR PARK
Uganda, Rwanda – or both
Bwindi, Mgahinga or Volcanoes; a standard trek or the four-hour Habituation Experience. Your budget, time and fitness decide. Compare the sectors.
02 / SECURE YOUR PERMIT
Let the specialists handle it
Permits are dated, personal and paid in full. Roadtrip Africa books them and confirms date and sector – book early for dry-season dates. How buying works.
03 / BRING IT TOGETHER
The right road. The right stay.
Match your permit with a lodge near the trailhead and a 4×4 or driver-guide, and arrive the day before your trek. Plan your trip.
Everything in this guide
- How to buy a gorilla permit – booking, payment, rules and scams to avoid
- Gorilla permits in Uganda – Bwindi, Mgahinga and habituation
- Gorilla permits in Rwanda – Volcanoes National Park
- Gorilla permits in DR Congo – the situation in Virunga
- Your trekking day – step by step, rules and etiquette
- Hikes & sectors – trailheads, difficulty and other hikes
- Best time to go – seasons, rain and prices
- Preparation & packing list
- Plan your gorilla trip – self-drive, driver-guide and itineraries
A few questions. A little clarity.
Can I book my permit through Roadtrip Africa?
Yes. Roadtrip Africa arranges gorilla and chimpanzee permits, and can add a 4×4, driver-guide and lodges so your trekking date fits your wider journey.
How far in advance should I book?
As soon as you know your dates. For June–September and December–February, four to six months ahead is wise.
Are sightings guaranteed?
No – these are wild animals – but success rates are very high because trackers locate each family every morning.
Can I change or cancel a permit?
Only under the park authority’s rules, which are strict. Ask for the exact conditions in writing before paying. More questions →
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