Plan your premium gorilla encounter in Rwanda
Rwanda offers a luxury-focused gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park. This checklist covers Rwanda-specific permits, logistics, and how to combine gorilla trekking with other Rwandan experiences.
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Everything you need to know before your first African safari
Plan a safe, engaging safari the whole family will love
Experience an incredible safari without breaking the bank
A gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs $1,500 per person, making it more expensive than Uganda ($700). However, Rwanda offers easier logistics with Volcanoes National Park just 2.5 hours from Kigali airport, shorter trekking distances, and a more premium overall experience.
Choose Rwanda for convenience (closer to the capital, shorter treks, premium lodges) and a more polished experience. Choose Uganda for better value ($700 vs $1,500 permits), longer treks through more dramatic terrain, and the option to combine with other wildlife safaris in Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls.
Essential items include waterproof hiking boots with ankle support, long pants and long-sleeved shirts (to protect against nettles), gardening gloves for gripping vegetation, a rain jacket, a daypack, 1–2 liters of water, energy snacks, and a camera without flash. Porters can carry your bag.