PLAN YOUR RWANDA GORILLA JOURNEY

Gorilla Trekking Rwanda: Permits, Costs, Tours and Where to Stay

Plan your Rwanda gorilla trip with clear guidance around official permits, a boutique full-board stay near Volcanoes National Park, private Kigali transfers and a well-paced itinerary before and after your trek.
Five Volcanoes helps bring the important parts of the journey together, from aligning your preferred trekking date and accommodation to planning transfers, trek-day preparation and quiet recovery after the forest.
Share your preferred dates and travel priorities. We will help align available trekking dates, accommodation, private transfers and the pace of your Rwanda journey.
Baby mountain gorilla seen on a gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
ABOUT 15 MINUTES
From Five Volcanoes to the park headquarters under normal conditions
PRIVATE TRANSFERS
Private vehicle and driver from Kigali included in every package
FULL-BOARD STAY
A calm base near Musanze and Kinigi before and after your trek
Florian Goppold, Head of Marketing & Sales at Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, on a gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
WRITTEN & REVIEWED BY

Florian Goppold, Head of Marketing & Sales at Five Volcanoes

Florian works on the ground in Rwanda and has trekked to the gorillas in Volcanoes National Park himself. He photographs and films the treks for Five Volcanoes and checks this page against what our guests experience on site.
Permit details are confirmed by Odile, our Reservations Coordinator in Kigali, who is in daily contact with the Rwanda Development Board.
FACT CHECK
Last reviewed: November 2026
Permit prices: official Rwanda Development Board (RDB) rates. Source: rdb.rw and visitrwanda.com
Hotel and package prices: Five Volcanoes rates 2026/27
Found something outdated? Tell us and we correct it.
FIVE VOLCANOES BY THE NUMBERS

6,000+

guests hosted 2023–2025

2,000+

reservations in 2026

3 nights

our most booked stay

77%

of direct guests let us secure their gorilla permit
(a) Mountain gorilla resting in the forest, Volcanoes National Park · (b) Silverback gorilla among dense forest vegetation, Rwanda
Mountain gorilla family in the forest of Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
ONLY UNTIL 31 DECEMBER 2026

Discounted gorilla permits for Africa-based guests end on 31 December 2026

Rwanda Development Board promotional rates: USD 200 per permit for Rwandan and East African citizens, USD 500 for African citizens and foreign residents in Africa. Residents need a valid passport and a resident ID, diplomatic card or visa valid for at least 4 consecutive months. Permits are limited. RDB has not announced rates for 2027. Source: RDB public notice, checked 14 November 2026.
Send your dates to Florian and we secure your permit and stay.

What is gorilla trekking in Rwanda?

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda, often called a gorilla safari or gorilla trek, is a ranger‒guided hike to see a habituated mountain gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park. You need an official permit (USD 1,500 per person, minimum age 15), report for a 07:00 briefing at Kinigi park headquarters, and then trek into the forest with authorised rangers. Groups are limited to eight visitors, and you spend up to one hour with the gorillas.
Treks usually take about 1 to 6 hours in total. The route and difficulty depend on where the assigned gorilla family is, the weather, trail conditions and altitude. Once the gorillas are reached, the visit follows official viewing, distance and health rules that protect both the animals and visitors.
Most travellers stay near Musanze or Kinigi the night before the trek. This makes the early departure easier and allows accommodation, transfers, meals and post‒trek recovery to be organised around the confirmed trekking date.
A well‒planned gorilla trekking holiday in Rwanda brings the permit date, accommodation, transfers, trekking‒day preparation and recovery time into one coordinated journey. Most travellers, including many flying in from the UK, Europe and the US, arrive through Kigali and stay near Musanze or Kinigi before the trek, making the early-morning start considerably calmer.

Gorilla trekking Rwanda: quick facts

LOCATION
Volcanoes National Park, northern Rwanda.
GATEWAY
Musanze town and Kinigi, near the park headquarters.
PERMIT
USD 1,500 per person, issued by the Rwanda Development Board. Minimum age 15.
TREK MORNING
07:00 briefing at Kinigi, then a ranger‒guided trek in groups of up to eight.
DURATION AND DIFFICULTY
Usually 1 to 6 hours in total, with up to one hour with the gorillas.
FROM KIGALI
Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by paved road under normal conditions.
RECOMMENDED STAY
Typically two to four nights, three nights a balanced choice.
BEST KNOWN FOR
Mountain gorillas: around 12 habituated families, plus Golden Monkeys.
FIVE VOLCANOES
Approximately 15 minutes from the park headquarters under normal conditions.

Is gorilla trekking in Rwanda worth it?

For most travellers, yes. Sitting a few metres from a wild mountain gorilla family is one of the rarest wildlife encounters on earth: only around 1,000 mountain gorillas exist, all in the Virunga Massif and Bwindi. Rwanda adds a compact, well‒run journey: Volcanoes National Park is about 2.5 to 3 hours from Kigali on a paved road, so you can arrive, trek and recover without long overland travel. The USD 1,500 permit is high, but it directly funds the protection that brought the species back from the brink. Boutique lodges near Musanze and Kinigi make the early start easy.
Rwanda also makes it easy to combine two distinct primate experiences in Volcanoes National Park. Mountain gorilla trekking can be paired with Golden Monkey trekking without adding another long overland journey, making Rwanda particularly attractive for a compact three‒ or four‒night itinerary.
Compare Rwanda and Uganda for gorilla trekking
Forest trail inside Volcanoes National Park, northern Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park landscape near Musanze in northern Rwanda

Where can you see gorillas in Rwanda?

In Rwanda, mountain gorillas live only in Volcanoes National Park, in the Virunga mountains of the far north. Nyungwe in the south is known for chimpanzees, not gorillas. The main access town is Musanze, historically known as Ruhengeri, and Kinigi is the gateway closest to the park headquarters, where every trek begins with registration and a briefing before you enter the high-altitude forest with authorised rangers.
Because every trek starts early at the headquarters, staying nearby makes a real difference to how relaxed your morning feels. Conditions in the forest can be cool, wet and steep, and rangers guide the group throughout.
Most travellers reach Volcanoes National Park from Kigali by road. The journey to the Musanze and Kinigi area generally takes around 2.5 to 3 hours under normal conditions, making it possible to combine gorilla trekking with a relatively compact Rwanda itinerary. In every Five Volcanoes package, your private vehicle and driver are included, timed around your arrival and confirmed trekking date.
Read the Volcanoes National Park Rwanda guide

What happens on a gorilla trekking day in Rwanda?

A typical trekking day follows a clear rhythm from an early breakfast to a calm afternoon of recovery. The exact gorilla family, route and duration are assigned on the day and cannot be promised in advance. Whether you arrive as a couple, a family or a solo traveller, park rules place every visitor into a shared trekking group of up to eight guests per gorilla family, so you are never on the trail by yourself.
After the briefing, the park team assigns visitors to a gorilla family and explains the expected route. The trek may involve farmland, bamboo forest, muddy trails and steep mountain terrain before the gorillas are reached. Once contact is made, visitors follow the ranger's instructions and observe the family within the official time, distance and photography rules before returning to the lodge for lunch and post‒trek recovery.
Trekkers with ranger on a muddy forest path during a gorilla trek
01
Early breakfast at the lodge before departure.
02
Transfer to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters.
03
Official registration and safety briefing.
04
Group and gorilla family assignment by the park team.
05
Transfer or movement toward the trailhead.
06
Ranger‒guided trek through the forest.
07
Gorilla observation under official time and distance rules.
08
Return to the lodge for lunch, rest and recovery.
(a) Gorilla family group in the rainforest, Rwanda · (b) Close encounter with a mountain gorilla on a Rwanda trek
Trekkers at the Volcanoes National Park briefing point in Kinigi

How do gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda work?

A gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is an official, date‒specific document issued under the Rwanda Development Board process. It is limited in number, tied to one trekking date and subject to availability, so it must be secured before your trek. Traveller details may be required, and full permit payment is needed before a permit can be confirmed.
The permit determines your trekking date. Your accommodation, transfers, arrival timing and trek‒day preparation should therefore be planned around it.
Five Volcanoes can assist with the practical coordination around a permit request or a confirmed trekking date, but official permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board and remain subject to official availability and confirmation. Confirm the current permit price and rules for your travel date.
Read the complete Rwanda gorilla permit guide
Permit process for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

How much does gorilla trekking in Rwanda cost?

There is no single price. The permit is the largest fixed item, currently USD 1,500 per person for foreign visitors, but the permit price is not the entire trip price. Your total depends on the journey you build around it. Please confirm the current permit rate for your travel date.
INCLUDED IN EVERY FIVE VOLCANOES PACKAGE
Official gorilla permit, full‒board accommodation and a private vehicle with driver from Kigali and on trek day. One package price.
NOT INCLUDED
Porter fees, tips, extra activities, Golden Monkey permit on 2‒night stays, insurance, flights and any visa costs.
See the full gorilla trekking Rwanda cost breakdown

Why is gorilla trekking in Rwanda so expensive?

Gorilla trekking is priced as a limited, controlled wildlife experience. Only a small number of permits are released for each day, which naturally keeps the price high. The permit also helps fund the operation behind the scenes: ranger teams and park operations, ongoing monitoring and veterinary support for the gorillas, and habitat protection across a fragile mountain ecosystem.
Rwanda also channels a share of tourism revenue into surrounding communities through official revenue‒sharing arrangements, which supports long‒term conservation. The exact allocation of permit revenue is set by the authorities and can change, so we describe it in general terms rather than quoting fixed percentages. The cost reflects delivering a rare experience while protecting the animals at its centre.
Rangers and conservation team in Volcanoes National Park
PLAN YOUR RWANDA GORILLA TREKKING JOURNEY

Ready to Plan Your Gorilla Trekking Journey in Rwanda?

Share your preferred travel dates, number of guests and priorities. We will help you align available trekking dates, accommodation near Volcanoes National Park, private transfers and the right itinerary before and after your trek.
Personal planning support • Full-board boutique stay • Approximately 15 minutes from the park headquarters
Official permits are issued under the Rwanda Development Board process and remain subject to availability and final confirmation.
Steep, forested slope on a gorilla trekking route in Rwanda

How difficult is gorilla trekking in Rwanda?

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda can range from a shorter forest walk to a demanding mountain hike. Difficulty depends on the assigned gorilla family, its location on the day, weather, trail conditions, elevation, vegetation and your personal fitness. Sturdy footwear, walking poles, layered clothing and a porter all help a great deal.

How strenuous is gorilla trekking in Rwanda?

It can be strenuous. Some treks are gentle, others involve several hours of steep, muddy climbing at altitude. Because you cannot choose your family in advance, it is wise to prepare for a demanding day even if yours turns out easier.

Do you need to be very fit for gorilla trekking?

You do not need to be an athlete, but reasonable fitness helps you cope with altitude and terrain. If you have mobility concerns, tell us honestly when planning. This is general guidance, not individual medical advice.
See the gorilla trekking packing guide

Is gorilla trekking safe in Rwanda?

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is one of the most tightly managed wildlife activities in Africa. Every group of no more than eight visitors is led by Rwanda Development Board rangers and accompanied by park security. Habituated gorillas are used to calm human presence; you keep a distance of about seven metres, follow the ranger's instructions and stay for up to one hour. Health rules apply too, since gorillas are vulnerable to human illness.
Volcanoes National Park borders the DRC and Uganda, so check your government's current travel advice, including any guidance on border areas, before booking and again shortly before travel. We cannot offer a universal safety guarantee; instead we help you prepare and follow the official rules. Many guests, including solo female travellers, trek successfully every season, and we coordinate private airport and trek-day transfers so you are never navigating the logistics alone.
Health and safety information is general and may change. Travellers should consult current official travel guidance and a qualified medical professional before travel.

Is gorilla trekking in Rwanda ethical?

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is built around strict, numbered controls: no more than 8 visitors per habituated gorilla family, one‒hour encounters, and health screening to reduce disease risk. Rangers monitor each of Volcanoes National Park's 12 habituated families daily, alongside veterinary teams that treat sick gorillas and researchers who track the population.
A fixed share of park revenue is returned to surrounding communities through Rwanda's tourism revenue-sharing programme, turning neighbours into conservation partners. As Daniel, a Volcanoes National Park ranger, explains: "Tourism here is like an engine that generates the money we use for conservation." This model is one reason the mountain gorilla population has grown from fewer than 300 individuals in the late 20th century to roughly 1,000 today, with the species reclassified from critically endangered to endangered.
Responsible tourism still depends on the choices travellers make. Following official rules, keeping your distance, respecting ranger instructions and choosing responsible operators and accommodation all help ensure your visit supports the gorillas rather than disturbs them. Ethical travel is a shared responsibility, not a slogan.
Visitors should not take part if they have symptoms of an infectious illness and must follow the current health instructions communicated by the park authorities. Appropriate footwear, weather protection and honest communication about health or mobility concerns are also important when preparing for the trek.
Mountain gorilla in protected habitat, Volcanoes National Park

Meet Daniel, the ranger who protects these gorillas every day

Daniel works as a ranger in Volcanoes National Park, protecting the habituated gorilla families and the ecosystem they depend on. In this short video, he explains what a day of conservation work looks like, and why he believes tourism and protection go hand in hand: "You cannot conserve what you don't know, and you cannot conserve what you don't love."
Daniel, ranger at Volcanoes National Park, in conversation with Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel.

When is the best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda?

Gorilla trekking runs all year. June to September and December to February are relatively drier, with firmer trails; March to May and October to November bring more rain, muddier paths and fewer visitors. Many travellers also time their trip around Kwita Izina, Rwanda's annual gorilla naming ceremony near Kinigi, when the year's newborn gorillas are named. There is no single perfect month.
In practice, permit and room availability often matter more than the calendar. Popular dates fill early, so securing your permit and accommodation for a workable date usually shapes the trip more than chasing an ideal season.
Read the when to visit Rwanda guide
Aerial view of the Virunga volcanoes and Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Is Rwanda or Uganda better for gorilla trekking?

Both Rwanda and Uganda offer unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking, but the journey around the experience differs. Rwanda is often chosen for its compact access from Kigali, shorter transfer planning and boutique accommodation near Volcanoes National Park. Uganda may appeal to travellers who prioritise a lower permit cost and want to combine gorilla trekking with a longer overland safari.
RWANDA MAY SUIT YOU IF
You prioritise a compact journey from Kigali, boutique comfort and easier itinerary planning over a shorter trip. Rwanda also makes it convenient to combine Gorilla and Golden Monkey trekking in the Volcanoes National Park region.
UGANDA MAY SUIT YOU IF
You prioritise a lower permit cost and are comfortable with longer overland travel as part of a broader Uganda safari. It can work particularly well when Bwindi is combined with other national parks.
Neither destination is universally better. The right choice depends on your available time, preferred travel rhythm, budget and whether gorilla trekking is the main purpose of your journey or one part of a broader East African safari.
Read the full Rwanda vs Uganda comparison

How many days do you need for gorilla trekking in Rwanda?

The right length depends on your arrival time, trekking date, activity availability and onward travel. Three nights is the balanced choice for most travellers.
For many travellers, a three‒night Rwanda gorilla trip creates the most balanced rhythm: arrive without rushing, complete the gorilla trek, allow time for recovery and, where suitable, add a Golden Monkey experience before returning to Kigali or continuing through East Africa.
2 NIGHTS
A compact, gorilla‒focused stay with limited time for recovery or extra experiences.
3 NIGHTS — RECOMMENDED
A balanced journey with gorilla trekking, a Golden Monkey experience, recovery and a calm arrival and departure rhythm.
4 NIGHTS
A slower pace with more lodge and recovery time and room for optional confirmed activities.
CHOOSE YOUR JOURNEY RHYTHM

Rwanda gorilla trekking packages

Choose between three carefully paced journeys combining a full‒board boutique stay near Volcanoes National Park with practical support around trekking dates, private transfers and trek‒day logistics.
Every package includes the gorilla permit, full board and a private vehicle with driver from Kigali, in one package price. Your rate depends on your dates, guest numbers and room category, and every inclusion is listed in your personalised proposal before confirmation.
Mountain gorilla in protected habitat, Volcanoes National Park
2 NIGHTS / 3 DAYS

Essential Gorilla Trekking Stay

Best for travellers with limited time who want one carefully coordinated gorilla trekking experience without adding unnecessary complexity.
Two nights at Five Volcanoes
Full‒board boutique accommodation
Private vehicle and driver from Kigali, included
One Gorilla Trekking Permit per guest
Early breakfast and trek‒day transfer to the park
Post‒trek lunch and recovery
Explore the Essential Stay
MOST RECOMMENDED
COMPLIMENTARY GOLDEN MONKEY PERMIT
Golden monkey feeding on bamboo in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
3 NIGHTS / 4 DAYS

Signature Gorilla and Golden Monkey Journey

Best for travellers who want the most balanced Rwanda primate journey, combining Gorilla Trekking, Golden Monkey trekking and enough time to recover before returning to Kigali.
Three nights at Five Volcanoes
Full-board boutique accommodation
Private vehicle and driver from Kigali, included
One Gorilla Trekking Permit per guest
Complimentary Golden Monkey Permit
Trek-day preparation and local coordination
Complimentary post-trek foot massage
Time for recovery at the lodge
The complimentary Golden Monkey Permit applies to the eligible 3-night direct-booking journey and remains subject to Rwanda Development Board availability and the conditions confirmed in your personalised proposal.
Explore the Signature Journey
Aerial view of Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel with volcanic peaks near Musanze Rwanda
4 NIGHTS / 5 DAYS

Slow Gorilla and Volcanoes Journey

Best for couples, photographers and travellers who prefer a slower pace, greater flexibility and more time for lodge life, wellness and selected Volcanoes National Park experiences.
Four nights at Five Volcanoes
Full‒board boutique accommodation
Private vehicle and driver from Kigali, included
Gorilla and Golden Monkey permits included
Additional recovery time after the trek
Space for selected activities when available
A calmer arrival and departure rhythm
Explore the Slow Journey
Package rates and inclusions are confirmed individually. Official permits are issued under the Rwanda Development Board process and remain subject to availability and final confirmation. Flights, visas, insurance, gratuities and any service not listed in the personalised proposal are arranged separately.
SIGNATURE DIRECT-BOOKING BENEFIT

Stay 3 Nights and Your Golden Monkey Permit Is Included

The 3-Night Signature Journey combines Gorilla Trekking, Golden Monkey trekking and post-trek recovery in one carefully paced Rwanda itinerary. Your full-board stay, private transfers and trek-day logistics are coordinated around the confirmed experience dates.
When the eligible Signature Journey is booked directly with Five Volcanoes, the Golden Monkey Permit is included at no additional permit charge.
Explore the 3-Night Signature Journey
PLAN YOUR RWANDA GORILLA TREKKING JOURNEY

Ready to Plan Your Gorilla Trekking Journey in Rwanda?

Share your preferred travel dates, number of guests and priorities. We will help you align available trekking dates, accommodation near Volcanoes National Park, private transfers and the right itinerary before and after your trek.
Personal planning support • Full-board boutique stay • Approximately 15 minutes from the park headquarters
Official permits are issued under the Rwanda Development Board process and remain subject to availability and final confirmation.

Why choose Five Volcanoes for your Rwanda gorilla trekking journey?

Five Volcanoes is designed around the practical rhythm of gorilla trekking in Rwanda. From our boutique base in Musanze near Kinigi, we help align your stay, private Kigali transfers and trek‒day preparation around your requested or confirmed trekking date. The lodge is approximately 15 minutes from Volcanoes National Park headquarters under normal conditions. This means a calmer early departure, full‒board comfort throughout your stay and a quiet place to recover after returning from the forest.
Aerial view of Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel with the volcanic peaks of Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
CLOSE TO THE TREK
Approximately 15 minutes from the park headquarters under normal conditions, for a calmer early start.
(a) Boutique room for a 2-night gorilla trekking stay · (b) Deluxe room for the 3-night Signature Journey · (c) Lodge setting for a 4-night slow journey
FULL-BOARD BOUTIQUE COMFORT
A calm full‒board stay with deluxe rooms and dining in Musanze near Kinigi.
(a) Full-board dining at Five Volcanoes, Musanze · (b) Guest room with volcano views · (c) Spa and wellness recovery area · (d) Private transfer vehicle near Volcanoes National Park
PERSONALLY COORDINATED
Support aligning accommodation, private Kigali transfers and trek‒day timing around your date.
Spa and recovery setting at Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel after gorilla trekking in Rwanda
RECOVERY AFTER THE FOREST
A quieter place to eat, rest and recover after trekking, with local team support throughout.
WHICH JOURNEY IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Which gorilla trekking package should you choose?

All three journeys include your official gorilla permit, Full Board at Five Volcanoes and a private vehicle with driver. The difference is time: how many treks you do and how much rest you get between them. Prices are per person, two guests sharing, Standard Room, Low Season.
ESSENTIAL

2 nights · Essential Stay

From USD 2,435 per person
Best for: travellers short on time who want the gorilla trek with a lodge 15 minutes from park headquarters.
Not ideal if: you also want Golden Monkey trekking, a Dian Fossey hike or a slower pace. There is little room if your trek day has to move.
What you get: gorilla permit, Full Board, private vehicle and driver from Kigali.
RECOMMENDED

3 nights · Signature Journey

From USD 2,815 per person
Best for: most travellers: gorillas and golden monkeys on separate mornings, without rushing.
Not ideal if: you only have two nights, or someone in your group is under 12 (Golden Monkey minimum age).
What you get: gorilla permit, Golden Monkey permit (USD 100 per person) when you book direct, Full Board, private vehicle and driver.
SLOW

4 nights · Slow Volcanoes Journey

From USD 3,295 per person
Best for: couples, photographers, travellers aged 50 and over and anyone who prefers a slower pace.
Not ideal if: your time or budget is tight. The 3-night journey covers the same two treks.
What you get: gorilla trek, a full rest day with pool, sauna and gardens, Golden Monkey trekking, Full Board, private vehicle and driver.
OUR RECOMMENDATION
First gorilla trek and three nights to spare? Choose the 3-night Signature Journey. You trek with the gorillas, add Golden Monkey trekking on another morning, and keep room in your plan if your trek day has to move.
Celebrating, travelling as a family or as a group? Our Honeymoon & Anniversary Journey, Family & Multigenerational Journey and the private Volcano Manor are quoted on request. Gorilla trekking minimum age is 15, Golden Monkey trekking 12, set by the Rwanda Development Board.
Price calculator · 2026/27

What will your gorilla trekking trip cost?

Choose your nights, room, season and group. You see the package price per person and for your whole group, with the gorilla permit, Full Board and a private driver included.
Nights at Five Volcanoes
Room
Season
Low Season: 1 March to 31 May and 1 October to 15 December. High Season: all other dates.
Guests
Package prices: solo in its own room, or two guests sharing one room. Travelling as three or with children? Choose 3 guests and Florian sends you a personal quote.
Your gorilla permit rate
Promotional permit rates set by the Rwanda Development Board: valid until 31 December 2026 and not from June to October 2026. Proof of citizenship or residency is required.
Your estimate
USD 2,815per person
Total for your groupUSD 5,630
  • Gorilla permit, Full Board and a private vehicle with driver for every day.
  • Golden Monkey permit included when you book direct.
Send this estimate to Florian on WhatsApp

Estimate based on published 2026/27 rates. Your written proposal confirms the exact price for your dates before any payment. Honeymoon Cottage, Family Suite, Triple Deluxe Room and Volcano Manor are quoted on request.

Travelling in 2028? Lock in today's prices.

Our 2028 rates are not released yet. Confirm your booking with us by 31 December 2026 and we guarantee today's prices for your 2028 stay: room, transport, activities and your gorilla permit. We will not raise them.
Gorilla permit prices are set by the Rwanda Development Board and may rise from 2027. When you book with us now, we reserve your permit at today's price and secure your date while it is still available.
  • Your room moves to new dates free of charge, subject to availability. Moving a gorilla permit carries a fee of USD 300 per permit.
  • Cancellations 60 or more days before arrival carry no fee.
Secure my 2028 dates

What changed in 2026

  • Rwanda Development Board promotional permit rates: USD 200 per permit for Rwandan and East African citizens and USD 500 for African citizens and foreign residents in Africa, valid until 31 December 2026.
  • New price calculator: package prices per person for 2, 3 and 4 nights, with your permit rate included.
  • 2028 price guarantee: confirm with us by 31 December 2026 and keep today's prices for your 2028 stay.

Last updated: 14 November 2026

How we price

Package prices are our public 2026/27 website rates, per person with two sharing. They include the gorilla permit at the official Rwanda Development Board price, Full Board and a private driver. You book direct with us, with no commission and no DMC mark-up.
See the full cost breakdown
REAL TRIPS, REAL PRICES

What our guests actually book

Most guests choose three nights with a gorilla trek, a Golden Monkey trek and a private driver from Kigali. Here are three recent trips we organised for couples. One package price covers permit, stay, meals and transport.
COUPLE · MAY (LOW SEASON)

The 2-night Gorilla & Golden Monkey trip

USD 5,070 for two
Standard Room, 2 nights, gorilla trek and Golden Monkey trek, Full Board, private vehicle and driver from Kigali.
MOST BOOKED · COUPLE · SEPTEMBER (HIGH SEASON)

The 3-night Signature Journey

USD 7,400 for two
Deluxe Room, 3 nights, gorilla trek and Golden Monkey trek on separate mornings, Full Board, private vehicle and driver, including pick-up at their Kigali hotel.
COUPLE · JUNE

The 2-night Deluxe gorilla trip

USD 5,850 for two
Deluxe Room, 2 nights, one gorilla trek, Full Board, private vehicle and driver from Kigali.
Your dates, your price. Use the calculator above for your own package, or tell Florian your dates and group size. When a higher room category is free on your dates, direct guests get a complimentary upgrade.
WHAT OUR GUESTS SAY

Planned by one team in Rwanda. Reviewed by our guests.

Real words from real guests, from the first enquiry to the gorilla trek and the airport drop-off.

4.7 / 5

TRIPADVISOR RATING

333

TRIPADVISOR REVIEWS

No. 3 of 13

HOTELS IN KINIGI

2026

TRAVELLERS' CHOICE AWARD
GUEST REVIEW

“Exceptional service from the first message to the airport drop-off”

“Florian, the Sales Manager, contacted me within 30 minutes. He listened carefully, answered every question and prepared a clear proposal with the total cost, room photos, transfers and permit process.”
“Five Volcanoes is ideal for travellers who want trustworthy permit coordination, transparent pricing, excellent food, attention to mobility needs and one reliable team handling everything from the first enquiry to the airport transfer.”
Eva G.
GUEST REVIEW

“An absolute standout experience”

“From the outset, Florian made the planning and booking process effortless, while Odile ensured all on-the-ground logistics and daily details ran without a hitch.”
“The highlight—the mountain gorilla trek itself—was nothing short of extraordinary and exceeded all expectations.”
Guest, 4-day gorilla trekking trip
Read every review: Tripadvisor · Google. Tripadvisor figures as of November 2026.
BEFORE YOU BOOK

Your 5 biggest questions about gorilla trekking in Rwanda

These are the questions guests ask us most. Straight answers, no small print.

1. Will I get a gorilla permit for my dates?

Permits are limited each day, and the best dates go first. When you book direct, we secure your gorilla permit for you and confirm it together with your stay. Send Florian your dates and he checks availability for you.

2. How do I get from Kigali to the lodge?

A private vehicle and driver from Kigali is included in every package. You do not book a taxi, a tour or a transfer on the side. Your driver brings you to Five Volcanoes, takes you to the park on trek day and drives you back.

3. Am I fit enough? What about age and children?

The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 and for Golden Monkey trekking 12, set by the Rwanda Development Board. Tell Florian about your age, fitness and any health concerns. He plans your days around them, with a rest day when you want one.

4. What does the whole trip cost?

One package price covers your gorilla permit, your stay, Full Board and your private vehicle and driver from Kigali. Packages start from USD 2,435 per person, two guests sharing. Use the calculator on this page for your dates and group size. International flights are not included.

5. Why book direct with Five Volcanoes?

You deal with the team on the ground, not a call centre. Florian answers you personally and plans your trip with the lodge. When a higher room category is free on your dates, direct guests get a complimentary upgrade.
FREE ADVICE · NO OBLIGATION

Plan your gorilla trek directly with Florian

Ask your questions before you book: travel dates, permits, which journey fits you and the full cost. Florian advises you personally. Free, with no obligation to book.
Chat with Florian on WhatsApp
Prefer email? Write to marketing@fivevolcanoesrwanda.com
PLAN YOUR NEXT STEP

Everything you need to plan your gorilla trek in Rwanda

Prices, permits, preparation and where to stay. Every guide is written and checked by the Five Volcanoes team in Rwanda.
PACKAGES AND PRICES
All Rwanda gorilla trekking packages
2‒night Essential Gorilla Trekking Stay
3‒night Signature Gorilla & Golden Monkey Journey
4‒night Slow Volcanoes Journey
Gorilla trekking Rwanda cost 2026/27
PERMITS AND PREPARATION
How to book gorilla permits in Rwanda
How difficult is gorilla trekking?
What to pack for gorilla trekking
Best time to visit Rwanda
Is Rwanda safe to visit?
THE PARK AND BEYOND
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda: the complete guide
Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
Golden Monkey trekking in Rwanda
Dian Fossey Tomb hike
Things to do near Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda vs Uganda for gorilla trekking
WHERE TO STAY
Where to stay near Volcanoes National Park
Luxury gorilla trekking in Rwanda
The Volcano Manor, private villa
Honeymoon & anniversary journey
Family & multigenerational journey
Guest reviews and stories
THE FIVE VOLCANOES METHOD

Who plans your gorilla trek? One team, on the ground in Rwanda

From your first question to your last morning at the lodge, the same small team plans and looks after your journey. Nobody in the chain sits overseas: Florian has trekked to the gorillas himself, Odile works with the Rwanda Development Board in Kigali, and Alice looks after you at the lodge.
Florian, Head of Marketing & Sales at Five Volcanoes, on a gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
BEFORE YOU BOOK

Plan your journey with Florian

Head of Marketing & Sales · originally from Austria, working on the ground in Rwanda
Florian has trekked to the gorillas himself and photographs and films the treks for Five Volcanoes. He knows how steep the trails get and how long the drive from Kigali really takes. He plans your dates, pace and room with you, runs a short fitness check and sends you our free Gorilla Guide.
Odile, Guest Relations & Reservations Coordinator at Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, based in Kigali, Rwanda
PERMITS & LOGISTICS

Your permits, handled in Kigali by Odile

Guest Relations & Reservations Coordinator · based in Kigali
Odile is in daily contact with the Rwanda Development Board, the park guides and our drivers. She requests your gorilla and Golden Monkey permits through the official RDB process and confirms your date in writing before you pay. If plans change, she solves it locally.
Alice, Guest Experience Manager at Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, in the lodge garden in Musanze, Rwanda
AT THE LODGE

Looked after at the lodge by Alice

Guest Experience Manager · at Five Volcanoes
Alice is your host at the lodge. She welcomes you, prepares your trek-day briefing, early breakfast, gaiters and walking sticks, and makes sure you can rest properly when you return from the forest.
HOW WE PREPARE YOUR TREK

Five steps, one team

1. Your free Gorilla Guide. What trek day really looks like, what to pack, how permits work and which itinerary fits you.
2. Personal consultation and fitness check. Florian plans dates, pace and room with you and records how far and how steep you are comfortable walking.
3. Permits secured in Kigali. Odile requests your permits through the official RDB process. You pay only after your permit date is confirmed in writing.
4. Private driver from Kigali. Our own vehicles and drivers collect you in Kigali and take you to park headquarters in Kinigi, about 15 minutes from the lodge. Your driver waits while you trek.
5. On-site care at the lodge. Alice prepares your briefing, early breakfast and equipment, and a foot massage is waiting when you return.
Your fitness profile is shared with the park team at the morning briefing, so the rangers can take it into account when they assign groups. The final group assignment is made by the Rwanda Development Board.
COMPARE BEFORE YOU BOOK

Should you book gorilla trekking with the lodge or an overseas agency?

Booking direct means the people who plan, permit and host your trek all work in Rwanda. Here is how that compares with a typical booking from overseas.
What matters to you
Five Volcanoes, booked direct
Typical overseas booking agency
Who plans your trek
Five Volcanoes: Florian, who has trekked in Volcanoes National Park himself
Overseas agency: A sales consultant in Europe or North America
Who handles your permits
Five Volcanoes: Odile in Kigali, through the official RDB process
Overseas agency: Usually passed on to a local ground handler
Contact with park, guides and drivers
Five Volcanoes: Daily and direct
Overseas agency: Through one or more intermediaries
Who looks after you on trek day
Five Volcanoes: Alice at the lodge and your own Five Volcanoes driver
Overseas agency: Varies, often a subcontracted driver
If plans change
Five Volcanoes: Solved locally by the same team
Overseas agency: Relayed between time zones
Price
Five Volcanoes: The lodge's direct package, gorilla permit included
Overseas agency: Includes agency and ground-handler margins
Direct-booking benefits
Five Volcanoes: Golden Monkey Permit included with the 3-night Signature Journey (USD 100 per person), free upgrade on arrival when available
Overseas agency: Not available
PRICES BY ROOM AND SEASON · 2026/27

How much does a gorilla trekking package at Five Volcanoes cost?

Prices per person, two guests sharing, in US dollars. Every package includes the gorilla permit (USD 1,500 per foreign visitor), Full Board and a private vehicle with driver for every day. The 3-night Signature Journey adds Golden Monkey trekking as a direct-booking benefit; the 4-night journey includes it.
Room and season
2 nights
3 nights · Signature
4 nights
Standard Room · Low Season
2 nights: USD 2,435
3 nights: USD 2,815
4 nights: USD 3,295
Standard Room · High Season
2 nights: USD 2,545
3 nights: USD 2,980
4 nights: USD 3,515
Deluxe Room · Low Season
2 nights: USD 2,655
3 nights: USD 3,145
4 nights: USD 3,735
Deluxe Room · High Season
2 nights: USD 2,925
3 nights: USD 3,550
4 nights: USD 4,275
RWANDAN, EAST AFRICAN OR AFRICAN RESIDENT?

Your gorilla permit costs less, and we deduct the difference

The Rwanda Development Board currently offers promotional gorilla permits: USD 200 for Rwandan and East African Community citizens, and USD 500 for African citizens and foreign residents in Africa. That is USD 1,300 or USD 1,000 less per person than the foreign-visitor permit, and we take it off your package price.
These rates are valid until 31 December 2026 and do not apply from June to October 2026. Proof of citizenship or residency is required. Source: Rwanda Development Board, checked November 2026.
Low Season: 1 March to 31 May and 1 October to 15 December. High Season: all other dates. Family Suite, Honeymoon Suite and Volcano Manor are quoted on request. Prices updated November 2026; your written proposal confirms the exact price for your dates before any payment.

What Our Guests Say About Their Gorilla Trek Experience

Hear directly from travelers who stayed at Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel and explored Volcanoes National Park. In their own words, they share what made their stay comfortable, their trek unforgettable, and their Rwanda journey truly special.
"This was the biggest surprise that I could ever get!"
Tanja found out just shortly before departure where they were going. Her husband had planned everything — even the packing list. After a long journey, they arrived at Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel to a surprise upgrade to the exclusive Volcano Manor, relaxing massages, and a romantic dinner just for the two of them.
Tanja + Ernest
Couple from South Africa, celebrating their 25th anniversary
"I have always wanted to see the mountain gorillas."
Doug Taylor, who explored both Uganda and Rwanda with Natural Habitat Adventures, shares his honest, unfiltered impressions of the trek, the landscape, the difficulty level, and what surprised him most along the way.
Doug
Traveller from the United States, passionate about wildlife
"Staying at Five Volcanoes was a big part of what made this journey so special."
"From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with genuine warmth. The team remembered our names, paid attention to every detail, and made us feel truly cared for — not just as guests, but as people."
Ann + Bruce
Couple from the United States
"The Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel became our home away from home."
"The team is simply exceptional — every single member of staff is genuinely friendly and incredibly helpful. No matter what you wish for, they will do everything possible to make it happen."
Bruce + Ann
Couple from the United States
"Coming face to face with mountain gorillas in Rwanda was always on our bucket list."
"The level of professionalism and kindness from the Five Volcanoes team made our anniversary truly magical. Every detail was thoughtful — for us, this wasn't just a holiday, it is a memory for a lifetime."
Ernest + Tanja
Couple from South Africa, celebrating their 25th anniversary
"I bring around 100 guests a year — this is how much I trust Five Volcanoes."
Since day one, Paul has booked Five Volcanoes for his travelers, sending over 100 guests per year. He values the continuity of staff who know his group's preferences, making every stay seamless and personal.
Paul
Tour guide for Natural Habitat Adventures
PLAN YOUR RWANDA GORILLA TREKKING JOURNEY

Ready to Plan Your Gorilla Trekking Journey in Rwanda?

Share your preferred travel dates, number of guests and priorities. We will help you align available trekking dates, accommodation near Volcanoes National Park, private transfers and the right itinerary before and after your trek.
Personal planning support • Full-board boutique stay • Approximately 15 minutes from the park headquarters
Official permits are issued under the Rwanda Development Board process and remain subject to availability and final confirmation.
The Governor's Residence boutique stay in Kigali
OPTIONAL KIGALI EXTENSION

Begin or end your gorilla journey at The Governor's Residence in Kigali

Add a private stay at The Governor’s Residence before or after your Five Volcanoes journey. It creates a more relaxed transition between Kigali and Volcanoes National Park—particularly after a late international arrival or before an early departure. Begin with time to rest before the 2.5–3-hour drive to Musanze, or return to Kigali after your trek for a quieter final evening. The extension can be coordinated with your private transfers and confirmed Five Volcanoes itinerary.
The Governor’s Residence is a separate boutique property in Kigali and is offered as an optional extension. Availability, transfers and inclusions are confirmed in your personalised proposal.

PERSONAL PLANNING SUPPORT

Plan Your Rwanda Gorilla Journey

Tell us your preferred travel dates, number of guests and what matters most for this journey. We will personally review room availability, official permit timing, private transfers and the itinerary around your priorities.

Whether you are planning a milestone birthday, anniversary, honeymoon or a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife journey, this first inquiry helps us understand the pace, comfort and experiences that would make the trip feel right for you.

This is an inquiry only - not a confirmed booking. No payment is required at this stage.

  • Your details are handled confidentially.
  • We reply personally with suitable room options, logistics and practical next steps.
  • Official permits remain subject to Rwanda Development Board availability and confirmation.

Five Volcanoes can assist with practical coordination around accommodation, transfers and requested trekking dates. Official permits are issued through the Rwanda Development Board process and cannot be guaranteed until officially confirmed.

Download Your Complimentary Gorilla Trekking Guide

No payment is required at this stage.

Gorilla trekking Rwanda: frequently asked questions

What is gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
Where can you see gorillas in Rwanda?
How much does gorilla trekking in Rwanda cost?
How do I book gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
Can Five Volcanoes guarantee a permit?
How difficult is gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
How long does gorilla trekking take in Rwanda?
How many mountain gorillas are left in the world?
What is Kwita Izina, the gorilla naming ceremony?
Is gorilla trekking safe in Rwanda?
Is gorilla trekking ethical in Rwanda?
Is gorilla trekking in Rwanda worth it?
When is the best time for gorilla trekking?
Is Rwanda or Uganda better for gorilla trekking?
How many days do I need?
Can I combine gorilla and Golden Monkey trekking?
What is the best hotel in Rwanda for gorilla trekking?
Are private Kigali transfers included?
How do I plan a Rwanda gorilla trip?
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Information
Contact
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
+250 789 924 969 | +250 780 440 648
marketing@fivevolcanoesrwanda.com
Musanze-Kinigi Road,
Ruhengeri | Rwanda