The easiest way to get a gorilla permit in Uganda, Rwanda, Congo and Gabon

The Easiest Way to Get a Gorilla Permit in Uganda, Rwanda, Congo, and Gabon

Gorilla trekking is one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife encounters—an unforgettable experience that takes you deep into the rainforest to meet the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas and western lowland gorillas. Whether you dream of trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, Congo’s Virunga forests, or Gabon’s Lopé National Park, one thing is essential: securing a gorilla permit.

But for many travelers, getting a gorilla permit can feel confusing or stressful. Each country has different rules, prices, booking windows, and availability. So, what is the easiest way to get a gorilla permit without stress, delays, or misinformation?

This guide simplifies the entire process and shows you how to quickly and safely secure a permit in Uganda, Rwanda, Congo, and Gabon, including why booking through a trusted tour operator like Monumental Expeditions and Safaris is the smoothest option.

Why You Need a Gorilla Trekking Permit

A gorilla permit is an official document that allows you to spend one hour with a habituated gorilla family. This fee supports conservation, pays ranger salaries, and protects gorillas from poaching.

Because gorillas are endangered and trekking groups are limited to 8 people per family per day, permits often sell out months in advance—especially in high season.

This is why knowing the easiest and fastest booking method is essential.

1. Getting a Gorilla Permit in Uganda

Uganda is the most popular destination because it is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, found in:

Current Uganda Gorilla Permit Prices

Foreign Non-Residents: USD 800
Foreign Residents: USD 700
East African Citizens: UGX 300,000

Where to Buy Gorilla Permits in Uganda

You can purchase permits either:

Directly from Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA)
Through a licensed tour operator like Monumental Expeditions and Safaris

Why Booking Through a Tour Operator Is the Easiest Way

Getting permits directly from UWA often requires:

Long email exchanges
Bank transfers
Waiting for manual confirmation
Finding available dates alone

Tour operators have real-time access to UWA’s permit database, making it the fastest way to confirm your date immediately.

Monumental Expeditions and Safaris can secure permits on the same day and help you choose a sector such as Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija, or Rushaga based on availability and your fitness level.

Best Time to Book Uganda Gorilla Permits

Peak months: June, July, August, September, December, January
Book 3–6 months in advance for best chances.

Explore Uganda gorilla trekking packages on Monumental Expeditions and Safaris

2. Getting a Gorilla Permit in Rwanda

Rwanda offers Africa’s most luxury-oriented gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park.

Current Rwanda Gorilla Permit Price

USD 1,500 for all international visitors
Discounts apply for conference travelers or large groups

Where to Buy Rwanda Gorilla Permits

You can buy permits through:

Rwanda Development Board (RDB)
Tour operators like Monumental Expeditions and Safaris

Why a Tour Operator Is the Easiest and Safest Option

RDB handles many international travelers, meaning email responses may take time. Using a tour operator like Monumental Expeditions and Safaris ensures:

Quick confirmation
Guaranteed availability checking
Easy payments
Advice on accommodation near Volcanoes National Park

Since Rwanda’s permits are expensive and limited, a fast booking process is priceless.

Plan your Rwanda gorilla trek

3. Getting a Gorilla Permit in Congo (DRC)

Congo offers one of the least crowded and most adventurous gorilla trekking experiences. Treks happen in:

Virunga National Park – Mountain Gorillas
Kahuzi-Biega National Park – Eastern Lowland Gorillas

Permit Prices in Congo

Virunga Mountain Gorilla Permit: ~USD 400
Kahuzi-Biega Lowland Gorilla Permit: ~USD 400

(Prices may vary due to security and operational factors.)

Where to Buy a Congo Gorilla Permit

Purchase options include:

Virunga National Park official website
Kahuzi-Biega National Park offices
Tour operators such as Monumental Expeditions and Safaris

Why Operators Make It Easier

Congo trekking involves additional requirements like:

Security updates
Logistics for Goma and Bukavu
Visas handled by the park
Transport coordination

A tour operator handles all these complexities and ensures you get a permit for the safest trekking dates.

4. Getting a Gorilla Permit in Gabon

Gabon is an emerging gorilla trekking destination, famous for western lowland gorillas found in:

Loango National Park
Lopé National Park

Gabon Gorilla Permit Price

Approx. USD 350–400, depending on the park and season.

Where to Get a Gorilla Permit in Gabon

Permits are obtained through:

Agence Nationale des Parcs Nationaux (ANPN)
Approved Gabon safari operators

The Easiest Way

Gabon’s tourism structure is less developed, making direct booking slow and confusing. Booking through a trusted operator ensures:

Fast confirmation
Reliable communication
Coordination of boats, domestic flights, accommodation, and guides

Why Booking Through Monumental Expeditions and Safaris Is the Easiest Option

Although each country has official channels, many travelers prefer booking their permits through a professional safari company like Monumental Expeditions and Safaris. Here’s why:

✔ Instant access to permit availability

Tour operators can see real-time permit slots and secure them immediately.

✔ Payment made simple

Avoid international bank delays—operators offer easier and safer payment options.

✔ Package support

Permits are part of a full safari package including:

Transport to the park
Accommodation
Meals
Park entry
Trekking guidance

✔ Zero stress

All paperwork, permit pickup, and logistics are handled professionally.

✔ Money security

Licensed operators ensure your booking is valid—even during peak seasons.

Step-by-Step: The Easiest Way to Secure Your Gorilla Permit

Here’s a simple, stress-free guide that works for Uganda, Rwanda, Congo, and Gabon:

Step 1: Choose Your Country

Decide whether you want:

Budget trekking: Uganda, Congo
Luxury trekking: Rwanda
Off-the-beaten-path gorilla encounters: Gabon

If unsure, ask Monumental Expeditions and Safaris for advice on which destination fits your budget and travel style.

Step 2: Contact Monumental Expeditions and Safaris

The simplest approach is to reach out via:

Website: https://gorillatrackings.com
WhatsApp
Email form

They will check:

Permit availability
Best trekking dates
Preferred park sectors
Accommodation options

Step 3: Confirm Dates and Make Payment

Once you choose a date, the operator reserves your permit and sends you payment instructions. After payment, you receive:

Permit number
Trekking details
Travel confirmation

Step 4: Receive Your Permit and Travel Itinerary

You’ll receive your full safari plan, including:

Pick-up times
Trekking briefing
Clothing and packing list
Park entry instructions

Everything is handled so you only focus on enjoying your experience.

Best Time to Book Gorilla Permits

Booking early ensures availability:

High season: Book 4–12 months ahead
Low season: 2–4 months ahead

Uganda and Rwanda can sell out extremely fast during holidays and summer.

Tips for Getting a Gorilla Permit Easily

✔ Book Early

Peak dates fill up quickly—plan ahead.

✔ Choose Flexible Dates

Remaining permits may be available on weekdays or shoulder months.

✔ Work With a Licensed Operator

It saves time and avoids scams.

✔ Consider Low Season Discounts

Some countries offer lower rates between March–May and October–November.

✔ Have Alternative Destinations

If Rwanda is fully booked, Uganda may still have permits.

Conclusion: The Easiest Way to Get a Gorilla Permit

Getting a gorilla permit in Uganda, Rwanda, Congo, and Gabon doesn’t have to be complicated. While each country has its own process, the easiest, fastest, and safest method is booking through a trusted safari operator like Monumental Expeditions and Safaris.

With expert guidance, real-time permit access, seamless logistics, and tailored safari packages, you skip the stress and focus on what truly matters—your once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking adventure.

For instant permit booking and tailored safari itineraries, contact Monumental Expeditions and Safaris.