Rwanda Low Season Gorilla Permit Price 2026-2027: How to Get the 30% Discount
Planning a Rwanda gorilla trekking safari during the low season can be an excellent way to explore more of the country while potentially reducing the cost of your gorilla permit.
Rwanda’s standard international gorilla trekking permit is US$1,500 per person. However, the Rwanda Development Board offers a 30% low-season discount, reducing the permit to US$1,050 per person, when eligible travellers combine their gorilla trek with qualifying visits to other Rwanda national parks.
The low-season promotion applies from November to May and is designed to encourage visitors to explore more of Rwanda beyond Volcanoes National Park. The qualifying combination can include Akagera National Park and/or Nyungwe National Park.
This makes a low-season Rwanda gorilla safari particularly attractive for travellers interested in combining gorilla trekking, wildlife, chimpanzee trekking, rainforest experiences and a 4×4 road trip.
Rwanda Gorilla Permit Price in Low Season
For international visitors, the normal Rwanda gorilla trekking permit is US$1,500 per person.
Under the qualifying low-season promotion, a 30% discount reduces the permit price to US$1,050 per person. The discount is not an automatic seasonal price reduction for every gorilla trek. Travellers must meet the requirements for the promotion.
Rwanda Gorilla Permit Price Comparison
| Gorilla trekking option | Permit price |
|---|---|
| Standard foreign visitor permit | US$1,500 |
| Eligible low-season promotional permit | US$1,050 |
| Low-season saving | US$450 |
| Discount | 30% |
The low-season promotion currently listed by Rwanda’s official tourism booking system applies from November through May.
Who Qualifies for the US$1,050 Low-Season Gorilla Permit?
The key requirement is that the gorilla trek must be combined with qualifying tourism activities in other Rwanda national parks.
The Rwanda Development Board states that the 30% discount applies to combined trips involving:
- Akagera National Park
- Nyungwe National Park
- Or a combination of Akagera and Nyungwe
Travellers generally need to spend at least three days and two nights in the qualifying national parks, with the required accommodation and activity arrangements documented.
The current RDB booking information specifies that travellers can qualify through:
Option 1: Two nights in Akagera or Nyungwe, together with one paid activity.
Option 2: One night in Akagera and one night in Nyungwe consecutively, together with the required activity arrangements.
This means the best way to think about the offer is not simply as a “November-May gorilla discount”, but as a discounted gorilla permit linked to a wider Rwanda national parks itinerary.
When Is Rwanda Gorilla Low Season?
The official low-season promotion is listed for:
November to May
This period covers part of Rwanda’s wetter seasons, although weather can vary considerably.
For travellers who are flexible with dates, the low season can provide an opportunity to combine gorilla trekking with other experiences while taking advantage of the promotional permit structure.
However, permit availability should always be checked for your specific dates before booking flights and accommodation.
How Much Can You Save?
An eligible international traveller can save US$450 on the gorilla permit.
For two people:
| Number of travellers | Standard price | Discounted price | Saving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,500 | $1,050 | $450 |
| 2 | $3,000 | $2,100 | $900 |
| 3 | $4,500 | $3,150 | $1,350 |
| 4 | $6,000 | $4,200 | $1,800 |
For a couple, the permit saving alone can therefore be US$900.
For a family or group of four eligible adults, the potential permit saving can reach US$1,800.
These calculations are based on the published 30% promotional reduction and do not include accommodation, transportation, park activities or other safari costs.
Why Choose a Low-Season Rwanda Gorilla Safari?
The biggest advantage is that travellers can build a much broader Rwanda safari around the gorilla experience.
Instead of travelling to Rwanda only for one gorilla trek, you can create an itinerary covering several of the country’s major wildlife destinations.
A low-season trip could combine:
Kigali → Akagera → Nyungwe → Volcanoes National Park
This gives you the opportunity to experience savannah wildlife, rainforest primates and mountain gorillas in one country.
It can also make a Rwanda road trip particularly attractive for travellers interested in hiring a 4×4.
Rwanda Low Season Gorilla Safari Cost
The permit is only one component of the total safari price.
A typical low-season budget may include:
| Safari component | Typical consideration |
|---|---|
| Gorilla permit | US$1,050 if eligible |
| Akagera activities | Depends on activity |
| Nyungwe activities | Depends on activity |
| Accommodation | Depends on lodge category |
| 4×4 rental | Depends on vehicle and rental period |
| Fuel | Depends on route |
| Driver/guide | Optional depending on arrangement |
| Meals | Depends on accommodation |
| Airport transfers | Optional |
| Travel insurance | Recommended |
The major advantage of the promotional permit is that the money saved on the gorilla permit can help offset the additional cost of adding Akagera or Nyungwe to the itinerary.
6-Day Rwanda Low-Season Gorilla Safari
A six-day itinerary can combine Kigali, Akagera and Volcanoes National Park while meeting the general concept of a multi-park Rwanda safari.
Day 1: Kigali – Akagera National Park
Depart Kigali and travel east towards Akagera National Park.
Enjoy an afternoon game drive if time permits.
Akagera provides a completely different environment from the mountain forests of northern Rwanda.
Overnight near the park.
Day 2: Akagera National Park
Spend the day exploring Akagera.
Depending on the itinerary, activities may include game drives and a boat experience.
Overnight near Akagera.
Day 3: Akagera – Kigali / Musanze
After completing the qualifying Akagera stay and activities, continue towards northern Rwanda.
Travel through Kigali and onward towards Musanze and Volcanoes National Park.
Overnight near Volcanoes National Park.
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking
Wake early and travel to the park headquarters for gorilla trekking.
After briefing, enter the forest with your ranger team.
The trek can involve steep terrain and dense vegetation, but the reward is an encounter with Rwanda’s mountain gorillas.
Overnight in Musanze.
Day 5: Volcanoes National Park
Use your extra day for another Volcanoes experience.
Options may include golden monkey trekking, Dian Fossey-related experiences, volcano hiking or cultural activities.
Day 6: Musanze – Kigali
Return to Kigali.
Depending on your flight schedule, you can visit Kigali’s markets, museums or other attractions before departure.
7-Day Rwanda Gorilla and Nyungwe Safari
For travellers interested in primates, Nyungwe provides an excellent addition to the gorilla experience.
A possible route is:
Kigali → Nyungwe → Kigali → Volcanoes
Day 1: Kigali – Nyungwe
Travel south towards Nyungwe National Park.
The journey takes you through Rwanda’s scenic highlands.
Day 2: Nyungwe Forest
Explore Nyungwe through one of the available forest experiences.
Chimpanzee trekking is one of the major attractions.
The park is also known for its exceptional biodiversity and canopy walkway.
Day 3: Nyungwe
Enjoy another Nyungwe experience before continuing towards northern Rwanda.
The exact itinerary can be adjusted according to the activities used to qualify for the low-season gorilla promotion.
Day 4: Nyungwe – Volcanoes
Travel north towards Musanze and Volcanoes National Park.
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking
Take part in your gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park.
Day 6: Volcanoes National Park
Enjoy a second activity in the region.
Golden monkey trekking is a popular choice.
Day 7: Volcanoes – Kigali
Return to Kigali for departure or an additional overnight stay.
Rwanda Gorilla + Akagera + Nyungwe Safari
For travellers who have more time, combining all three major national parks creates one of Rwanda’s most complete wildlife itineraries.
A longer itinerary can include:
Kigali → Akagera → Kigali → Nyungwe → Volcanoes → Kigali
This allows you to experience:
- African savannah wildlife
- Elephants
- Buffalo
- Antelope
- Hippopotamus
- Chimpanzees
- Forest biodiversity
- Mountain gorillas
- Golden monkeys
- Rwanda’s countryside
For visitors looking for an all-round Rwanda wildlife and gorilla safari, this is one of the strongest itinerary concepts.
Self-Drive Rwanda Low-Season Gorilla Safari
A low-season Rwanda gorilla trip can also be organised as a self-drive 4×4 safari.
This is particularly attractive for travellers who want to control their own schedule and explore Rwanda at their own pace.
A suitable 4×4 rental can be used for a route such as:
Kigali → Akagera → Nyungwe → Volcanoes → Kigali
A 4×4 is useful for accessing different parts of the country and travelling between national parks.
Travellers should make sure that the rental agreement specifically allows travel to all intended destinations and that park entry and vehicle requirements are understood before departure.
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking With a 4×4 and Rooftop Tent
Adventure travellers can combine the low-season gorilla promotion with a 4×4 rooftop tent safari.
A camping-equipped vehicle can provide flexibility for parts of the Rwanda road trip, although accommodation requirements connected to the gorilla promotion must be satisfied using qualifying bookings where required.
A typical camping-equipped 4×4 may include:
- Rooftop tent
- Mattress
- Sleeping bags
- Camping table
- Camping chairs
- Cooking equipment
- Gas stove
- Refrigerator
- Water containers
- Recovery equipment
- Spare tyre
Camping is especially attractive for travellers who want to combine Rwanda with a longer East African self-drive journey.
Is November to May a Good Time for Gorilla Trekking?
Yes.
Mountain gorilla trekking operates throughout the year, and the low-season months can provide an opportunity to combine gorilla trekking with other Rwanda experiences.
However, Rwanda’s forests can be wet, and trails may become muddy.
Travellers should therefore bring:
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Rain jacket
- Long trousers
- Long-sleeved clothing
- Hiking socks
- Gloves
- Waterproof backpack cover
- Insect repellent
- Drinking water
Weather should not be the only factor when selecting dates. Permit availability and the requirements for the low-season discount are equally important.
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda During the Rainy Season
Rain does not necessarily mean that your gorilla trek will be cancelled.
Volcanoes National Park is a rainforest environment, and rainfall is possible throughout the year.
The advantage of trekking during wetter periods is that Rwanda’s vegetation can be exceptionally green and lush.
The forest atmosphere can also be spectacular for photography.
However, trails can become slippery, so good footwear and appropriate clothing are essential.
Rwanda Low Season Gorilla Permit vs Uganda Gorilla Permit
Rwanda and Uganda offer different gorilla trekking experiences.
Rwanda’s standard international gorilla permit is US$1,500, while Uganda’s standard foreign non-resident gorilla trekking permit is generally lower.
However, Rwanda’s low-season promotion can reduce the Rwanda permit to US$1,050 for eligible travellers who meet the multi-park requirements.
The choice between Rwanda and Uganda should therefore consider more than permit price.
Consider:
- Overall safari route
- Number of travel days
- Accommodation
- Transportation
- Gorilla permit availability
- Gorilla trekking sector
- Self-drive plans
- Cross-border travel
- Other wildlife experiences
Can You Get the $1,050 Gorilla Permit Without Visiting Another Park?
The low-season 30% discount should not be treated as an automatic price reduction simply because you travel between November and May.
The official RDB information states that the discounted permit is connected to a combined trip involving Akagera and/or Nyungwe and the required stay/activity conditions.
Therefore, travellers should confirm their eligibility and documentation before assuming that they qualify for the $1,050 price.
How to Book a Rwanda Low-Season Gorilla Permit
The Rwanda Development Board operates an online tourism booking system that includes a specific Low Season Discount (Gorilla Trekking) service.
The general process is:
Step 1: Choose Your Travel Dates
Select dates between November and May.
Step 2: Check Gorilla Permit Availability
Confirm that a gorilla trekking permit is available for your preferred date.
Step 3: Plan Your Multi-Park Itinerary
Include the qualifying Akagera and/or Nyungwe stay and activities.
Step 4: Prepare Supporting Documentation
Accommodation confirmations and relevant activity payment documentation may be required to demonstrate eligibility.
Step 5: Confirm the Permit
Complete the applicable booking and payment process.
Step 6: Arrange Your Safari
Book accommodation, transfers, 4×4 rental, fuel arrangements and other activities.
Important Rwanda Gorilla Permit Rules
Rwanda’s official gorilla trekking information states that the minimum age for gorilla tracking is 15 years.
Visitors report to the designated park registration centre at 07:00.
Gorilla viewing is regulated, including group size and viewing-time rules, and visitors must follow ranger instructions throughout the experience.
The official guidance also notes that visitors who are sick with contagious illnesses may be denied access to protect the gorillas.
Why Book a Rwanda Low-Season Gorilla Safari With a Tour Operator?
Planning the low-season discount can be more complicated than simply purchasing a normal gorilla permit because the discount is connected to other park visits and supporting documentation.
A safari operator can help coordinate:
- Gorilla permit availability
- Akagera accommodation
- Nyungwe accommodation
- Park activities
- 4×4 rental
- Driver-guide services
- Airport transfers
- Gorilla trekking logistics
- Accommodation in Musanze
- Multi-park itineraries
This is particularly useful for travellers who want to combine gorilla trekking with a self-drive or cross-border East African adventure.
Book Your Rwanda Low-Season Gorilla Safari
The Rwanda low-season gorilla promotion provides an excellent opportunity to build a broader safari while potentially saving US$450 per eligible international traveller on the standard gorilla permit.
The key is understanding that the US$1,050 price is conditional. The current Rwanda Development Board booking information requires a qualifying combination with Akagera and/or Nyungwe during the November-May low-season period.
Instead of visiting Rwanda only for gorilla trekking, you can create a complete wildlife journey combining Akagera wildlife, Nyungwe chimpanzees and rainforest, and Volcanoes mountain gorillas.
For travellers who prefer independence, the journey can also be organised around a Rwanda 4×4 rental or rooftop tent safari, subject to vehicle and park regulations.
Contact us to plan your Rwanda low-season gorilla safari, check current permit availability, arrange a 4×4 rental and build a personalised Akagera–Nyungwe–Volcanoes itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a Rwanda gorilla permit in the low season?
The eligible low-season promotional price is US$1,050 per person, representing a 30% reduction from the standard US$1,500 foreign visitor permit.
When does the Rwanda gorilla low-season discount apply?
The current Rwanda Development Board booking information lists the low-season promotion from November to May.
Is the $1,050 price available to everyone?
No. The 30% discount has eligibility requirements. It is linked to qualifying combined trips involving Akagera and/or Nyungwe National Parks.
How much do I save with the low-season gorilla permit?
You save US$450 per eligible traveller compared with the standard US$1,500 permit.
Can two people save $900?
Yes. If both travellers qualify, the total permit saving is US$900.
Do I have to visit Akagera or Nyungwe?
The current low-season promotion requires a qualifying combined trip involving Akagera and/or Nyungwe, subject to the published conditions.
Can I combine Akagera and Nyungwe?
Yes. The RDB information allows qualifying combinations involving both parks.
Can I combine gorilla trekking with chimpanzee trekking?
Yes. Nyungwe is one of Rwanda’s major destinations for chimpanzee experiences, making it an excellent addition to a gorilla safari.
Can I self-drive during a Rwanda gorilla safari?
Yes. A suitable 4×4 can be used for a Rwanda road trip, provided the rental agreement, park regulations and travel arrangements permit your planned route.
Is November to May good for gorilla trekking?
Yes. Gorilla trekking is available throughout the year. However, this period can be wetter, so travellers should prepare for muddy forest trails and rainfall.
What is the normal Rwanda gorilla permit price?
The standard foreign visitor permit is US$1,500 per person according to the current Rwanda Development Board booking information.
Can I book the low-season permit myself?
The Rwanda Development Board operates an online booking platform with a specific low-season discount service. Travellers can also use a registered safari operator to coordinate the permit and qualifying itinerary.