How to book a gorilla trek
The trekking itself is unforgettable, but getting a permit is its own process. Here is how booking actually works, from permit categories to timing.
Last updated July 21, 2026
Understanding the permit
Access to gorilla families is controlled through a single, fixed-price permit issued by the Rwanda Development Board, with a strictly limited number of permits released per day across the habituated families in Volcanoes National Park. The permit fee covers park entry, rangers, and trackers for that day’s trek, and it applies per person per day, regardless of which family you’re eventually assigned to.
Booking routes
There are two practical ways to secure a permit: applying directly through the Rwanda Development Board, or booking through a licensed tour operator or ground handler who purchases the permit on your behalf as part of a package. Direct booking suits independent travelers who are only trekking gorillas; a tour operator is usually easier if you’re also arranging transport, park transfers, and lodging around the trek.
Timing your booking
- Book three to six months ahead for travel in July, August, or December through February
- Shoulder months (March–May, September–November) can sometimes be booked with less lead time
- Permits are allocated to specific dates, not flexible windows, so fix your travel dates before booking
- Payment is typically required in full at the time of booking to hold the permit
Family assignment and group size
You won’t usually know which gorilla family you’re assigned to until briefing on the morning of your trek. Groups are deliberately kept small — a maximum of eight visitors per family — which is part of why permits are limited and demand is high. If you’re trekking with a companion who has a different fitness level, mention this when booking, as families are matched partly by how far and steep that day’s likely trek will be.
Combining with other activities
Many travelers pair a gorilla permit with golden monkey trekking or a visit to the Dian Fossey memorial, both accessible from the same Musanze base, to make the most of the trip north.