Want to check availability or book Rwanda gorilla permits online? Rwanda has made things easier for tourists. While it is possible to check gorilla permit availability online and buy them using your credit card, I still suggest that you let a trusted Rwanda tour operator handle this process. I will explain why later in this article.
This same system can also be used to check the availability of chimpanzee trekking permits, golden monkey permits, canopy walk permits, Bisoke hike permits, Karisimbi hike permits, Dian Fossey hike permits, and more.
The online system works well, but you will need to visit another website to make payments after checking availability.
Rwanda is a luxury gorilla trekking destination. Gorilla permits cost $1,500 each. If this is too expensive, you can book Uganda gorilla safaris from Kigali for a more budget-friendly experience.
In this article, I show you how to check and book gorilla permits for any month—January through December.
How to Check Rwanda Gorilla Permit Availability Online
So, how do you check Rwanda gorilla permits online? Follow these steps:
- Step 1 – Visit: https://visitrwandabookings.rdb.rw/rdbportal/web/rdb
- Step 2 – Select Application for Tourist Permit
- Step 3 – Where it says “Site,” choose Volcanoes National Park (this is where the Rwanda gorillas live).
- Step 4 – Where it says “Products,” choose Mountain Gorillas.
- Step 5 – Choose your dates on the right-hand side.
- Step 6 – Click on Check Availability.
You will then see a list of available gorilla permits for those dates.
To check availability for other activities, follow the same steps. Just change the site or product.
How to Book Rwanda Gorilla Permits Online
After checking availability, here is how to book your permit:
- Step 1 – Visit this link.
- Step 2 – Under “Site,” choose Volcanoes National Park.
- Step 3 – Under “Product,” choose Mountain Gorillas.
- Step 4 – Under “Date of Visit,” select your trekking date.
- Step 5 – Choose the number of people.
- Step 6 – Choose the number of trekking days (leave it as is if you are trekking once).
- Step 7 – Choose your visitor category.
- Step 8 – Choose to receive notifications by email (only Rwandans can choose SMS).
- Step 9 – Click on Save & Next.
- Step 10 – Fill in the visitor details. Click Add after each entry. If you are six people, you must fill it out six times. Click Save & Next when done.
- Step 11 – Review and click Submit.
- Step 12 – Choose Visa or MasterCard for payment.
- Step 13 – Enter your card number and pay.
- Step 14 – After payment, check your email for a confirmation message.
Print the permit confirmation sent to your email and present it to park wardens on the trekking day.
You can also use this document to support your Rwanda visa application or show it anywhere in Rwanda to confirm that you are a tourist.
My Advice
Very few tour operators will explain the full process of booking gorilla permits online. They want you to book through them.
Actually, I suggest booking your safari through a tour operator—especially if you are pregnant. Even though the Rwanda government has made things easier, do not try to plan your safari alone unless you have lived or worked in Rwanda before.
I have seen some tourists get into problems, and there is no one to help them except government offices. These processes can be slow and may cost you time and money.
Tour operators can also help you save money. You just need to choose the right one. I have listed recommended gorilla trekking companies that offer affordable tours in Uganda, Rwanda, and East Africa.
Operators get special discounts on accommodation. For example, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge may charge $1,000 per person if you book directly, but only $600–$700 if you book through a tour operator.
If you are in a group of 10, you also get 1 free gorilla permit. Your operator can use this to lower the cost of your trip or offer it if you bring an 11th person.
Travel companies will also give you the correct transport cost (fuel and vehicle) and try to bargain for you to keep the price low.
Safety and Comfort
You will feel much safer traveling in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a trained guide. This also saves time and avoids confusion on the road.
Always book your Rwanda safari through a tour operator.
You can start with my list of recommended Rwanda tour operators. Or search online if you prefer. But I have personally traveled with all the companies I recommend, so I know they will give you a good experience.
Do you have questions about booking Rwanda gorilla permits online? Feel free to contact me, and I will give you all the information you need.
Book your Uganda tours with these recommended Uganda tour companies for a well planned safari. Use the Voucher: UTBlog for up to 25% Discounts on Trips.
