Have you ever imagined walking through Rwanda’s beautiful green woods to see a gorgeous mountain gorilla? If this is the case, you may be wondering how much a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity like this will cost you. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is an incredible adventure, but it can also be pretty pricey, so be sure you know what you’re getting into before you plan your trip. In this post, we’ll look at the costs of gorilla trekking in Rwanda, including park fees, permits, transportation, and lodging. We’ll also go over some pointers to help you design a cost-effective yet amazing gorilla trekking excursion. So, whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time explorer, keep reading to learn more about the cost of gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
Why is Rwanda gorilla trekking expensive?
For a variety of reasons, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is prohibitively expensive. First and foremost, it is a strictly controlled activity designed to conserve the endangered mountain gorilla population. Each day, only a limited number of licences are given, and obtaining one of these permits might be challenging. Furthermore, the gorillas reside in a distant region that is difficult to access, raising the expense of transportation and lodging. Finally, park fees and permits are expensive because they go directly to conservation activities in the region. Despite the exorbitant price, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is certainly worth it. You will not only get the opportunity to witness some of the world’s most magnificent animals up close, but you will also be supporting key conservation activities that are critical to the mountain gorilla’s future.
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Price Breakdown
So, how much does Rwandan gorilla trekking cost? Let’s take a deeper look at the expenditure breakdown:
Park admission and permits
The most important expenditure connected with gorilla trekking in Rwanda is the cost of park fees and permits. A gorilla trekking permit costs $1,500 per person for each trek as of 2023. This charge covers park admission as well as the cost of a tour and park ranger.
Accommodation
Another substantial cost involved with gorilla trekking in Rwanda is lodging. The majority of visitors prefer to stay in lodges or camps near Volcanoes National Park, which is home to the gorillas. The cost of lodging might vary greatly depending on the degree of luxury you’re looking for but expect to pay between $100 and $1,000 each night.
Transportation
When going gorilla trekking in Rwanda, transportation fees can rapidly mount up. Visitors usually fly into Kigali International Airport, which is around 2.5 hours away from Volcanoes National Park. You’ll need to organise transportation to your lodge or camp, as well as to the park entry for your hike, from there. The cost of transportation varies based on the form of transportation and the distance travelled.
Other Charges
Other costs to consider when gorilla trekking in Rwanda include travel insurance, visas (if required), and any other activities or excursions you may choose to participate in while in the region. These expenses might vary greatly based on your specific requirements and preferences.
Budgeting for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Now that you’ve learned about the costs of gorilla trekking in Rwanda, it’s time to start planning your trip. Here are some pointers to help you design a low-cost but amazing gorilla trekking adventure:
Make a Plan
The earlier you begin arranging your vacation, the better. This gives you more time to save money and locate great offers on flights, lodging, and other expenditures. It will also increase your chances of obtaining a gorilla trekking permit, which typically sells out months in advance.
Travel in the Off-season
Travel during the off-season (April, May, and November) to save money on lodging and other expenditures. Because there are fewer visitors in the area during this season, you may have a better chance of obtaining a gorilla trekking permit.
Choose Low-Cost Accommodation
Consider staying in a low-cost resort or camp if you want to save money on lodging. These alternatives may not be as opulent as some of the more expensive places, but they may still provide a pleasant and memorable stay.
Schedule a Group Tour
A group trip might be a more cost-effective option to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda. Not only will you be able to divide the expense of transportation and lodging with other travellers, but you will also have the benefit of a trained guide to assist you in navigating the region.
Consider Different Locations
If gorilla trekking in Rwanda is simply out of your price range, try Uganda or the Democratic Republic of the Congo as alternatives. Both of these nations are less expensive than Rwanda for gorilla trekking.
Saving Money for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Aside from financial advice, there are several particular strategies to save money while gorilla trekking in Rwanda:
Deal with Tour Operators
Don’t be scared to bargain with tour providers to obtain a better value on your gorilla trekking adventure. Many operators will work with you to locate a package that is within your budget.
Last-Minute Booking
If your trip dates are flexible, try scheduling your gorilla trekking adventure at the last minute. Discounts may be offered by tour companies and resorts to cover vacant spaces, particularly during the low season.
Alternative African Gorilla Trekking Locations
While Rwanda is undoubtedly one of the most popular gorilla trekking locations in Africa, there are other choices to consider if you want to save money or explore new places. Consider the following alternative destinations:
Uganda
Half of the world’s surviving mountain gorilla population lives in Uganda, and gorilla trekking permits are substantially cheaper than in Rwanda. Uganda also provides a variety of other wildlife encounters, such as chimp trekking and bird viewing.
The Democratic Republic of Congo
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is more rough and risky than Rwanda or Uganda for gorilla trekking. Permits are less expensive than in Rwanda, but the region is more difficult to enter and may need a more daring mindset.
Central African Republic
One of Africa’s least researched gorilla populations is found in the Central African Republic. While permits are costly, the location provides a genuinely unique and off-the-beaten-path gorilla trekking experience.
What to Expect on a Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Adventure
Rwandan gorilla trekking is a memorable experience. You’ll go through lush jungles and difficult terrain to meet a family of mountain gorillas on your adventure. The journey might be difficult, but the payoff of viewing these beautiful creatures up close is well worth it.
Your guide will advise you on the dos and don’ts of gorilla trekking before your walk. This will contain guidelines about how to interact with the gorillas as well as safety considerations to follow while in the park.
You will be escorted at all times by a guide and a park ranger on your journey. You’ll also be in a small group of up to eight people, which helps to reduce the impact on the gorillas and their environment.
Following your walk, you will have the opportunity to reflect on your experience and learn more about the conservation work required to conserve these beautiful species.
Rwanda’s Responsible Tourism and Conservation Efforts
Rwandan gorilla trekking is not only a memorable experience, but it is also a crucial type of responsible tourism. The high cost of permits and park fees directly supports local conservation activities, such as anti-poaching measures and habitat restoration.
Furthermore, many Rwandan tour companies and hotels emphasise sustainable tourism practises, such as employing eco-friendly products and helping local communities.
By going gorilla trekking in Rwanda, you’re not only helping the local economy, but you’re also helping key conservation activities that are critical to the mountain gorilla’s future.
