FAQs

The cost for gorilla trekking permits varies depending on the country and the season. In Rwanda, a gorilla permit costs $1,500, while in Uganda, it costs $700. Prices may change without notice, so it's best to confirm with the relevant authorities.

Gorilla treks can last from 1-8 hours depending on the location of the gorilla group being visited and how long it takes to locate them. Trekking can be strenuous and you should be prepared for steep climbs, muddy terrain and long walks.

Only eight visitors are allowed to visit each gorilla family per day in Rwanda, while in Uganda it's ten.

The best time to visit gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda is during the dry season, from June to September and December to February. However, gorilla trekking is possible throughout the year.

Yes, visitors need a visa to enter Rwanda and Uganda. It's best to obtain your visa prior to arrival in either country. You can also obtain a visa on arrival, but this may take some time.

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in both Rwanda and Uganda is 15 years old. This is for the safety of the gorillas and the visitors.

You should pack comfortable walking shoes, long-sleeved shirts, trousers, a rain jacket, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a backpack to carry water and snacks.

Yes, visitors are allowed to take photos of the gorillas, but flash photography is not allowed. It's important to be respectful of the gorillas and their habitat, so make sure to follow the guidelines provided by your guide.

You can book a gorilla trekking permit through a registered tour operator or directly with the relevant national park authority. It's recommended to book your permit well in advance, especially during peak season.

Visitors should pack appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, waterproof clothing, and a daypack. It's also recommended to bring a camera, sunscreen, insect repellent.

Yes, visitors to Rwanda are required to have a visa, which can be obtained online or on arrival at the airport. Some nationalities may also require a visa before departure.

Yes, Rwanda is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. The government has taken measures to improve security, and there is a visible police presence in most parts of the country. However, it is always advisable to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

The local currency in Rwanda is the Rwandan franc (RWF). However, US dollars are widely accepted, and many hotels and tour operators quote their prices in dollars.

The official languages of Rwanda are Kinyarwanda, French, and English. Kinyarwanda is the most widely spoken language, followed by English and French.

It is recommended to pack lightweight, comfortable clothing for the day, and warm clothing for the evenings as temperatures can drop significantly. Also, comfortable hiking shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat are essential. If you plan on gorilla trekking, a waterproof backpack and rain gear are recommended.

Rwanda is in Central Africa Time (CAT), which are GMT+2.

The duration of a gorilla trekking tour can vary, but typically it lasts between 2-4 hours. However, the length of the trek can also depend on various factors such as the location of the gorilla family, the terrain of the forest, and the fitness level of the group. The trek itself involves hiking through the mountainous terrain of the forest to reach the location of the gorilla family. Once the gorillas are located, visitors usually spend about one hour observing and taking photos of the gorillas in their natural habitat. It's important to note that gorilla trekking tours involve walking on uneven terrain and can be physically challenging, so it's recommended that participants be in good physical shape. Additionally, visitors are advised to wear comfortable hiking shoes, long pants, and bring plenty of water and snacks.

In Rwanda, the group size for gorilla trekking is limited to a maximum of 8 people per gorilla family per day. This limit is in place to minimize the impact of human presence on the gorillas and their natural habitat, as well as to ensure the safety of both the gorillas and the visitors. Each group is accompanied by a trained guide who leads the trek through the forest and provides information about the gorillas and their behavior. The guide also helps visitors maintain a safe distance from the gorillas and follows strict guidelines to ensure that the gorillas are not disturbed or harmed during the trek. It's important to note that the limited group size means that permits for gorilla trekking can sell out quickly, especially during peak travel seasons, so it's recommended to book well in advance to secure a spot.