Cost of Gorilla Permits in DRC

Cost of Gorilla Permits in DRC

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is one of Africa’s most remarkable gorilla trekking destinations. It is the only country where visitors can see two different gorilla species — the Mountain Gorillas in Virunga National Park and the Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park. Both parks offer incredible encounters with these great apes, and each requires a gorilla trekking permit to participate. Understanding the cost, inclusions, and booking process of these permits helps travelers plan effectively and experience Congo’s pristine wilderness with confidence.

The Importance of a Gorilla Trekking Permit

A gorilla trekking permit is mandatory for all visitors wishing to track gorillas in the DRC. It grants legal access to the park and allows a one-hour encounter with a habituated gorilla family. More than just a ticket, the fee contributes directly to conservation, ranger salaries, and community projects, ensuring gorilla protection and sustainable tourism in Congo’s fragile ecosystems.

Due to limited availability, permits are issued to a small number of trekkers daily. This controlled system minimizes human impact and guarantees a safe, intimate wildlife experience.

Gorilla Permit Prices in DRC

Congo offers the most affordable gorilla trekking permits in Africa, making it a preferred destination for travelers seeking a genuine experience without the high prices found in neighboring countries.

1. Virunga National Park Gorilla Permit (Mountain Gorillas)

Virunga, located in eastern Congo near the Rwandan border, is home to several habituated Mountain Gorilla families.

• Permit Cost: USD 400 per person per trek.
• Duration: One-hour encounter with a gorilla family.
• Inclusions: Park entry, professional ranger guide, and security escort.
• Where to Buy: Directly from the Virunga National Park website or through licensed tour operators such as GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS.

Virunga’s permit is considerably cheaper than Rwanda’s USD 1,500 and Uganda’s USD 800, yet offers an equally thrilling and authentic experience.

2. Kahuzi-Biega National Park Gorilla Permit (Eastern Lowland Gorillas)

Located near Bukavu, on the southern shores of Lake Kivu, Kahuzi-Biega National Park protects the world’s largest gorilla subspecies — the Eastern Lowland Gorilla.

• Permit Cost: USD 200 to USD 250 per person per trek.
• Duration: One-hour visit with a habituated lowland gorilla family.
• Inclusions: Park entry fee, ranger guide, and briefing.
• Where to Buy: Through the Kahuzi-Biega National Park office or authorized travel agents.

Kahuzi-Biega’s low permit cost makes it the most economical gorilla trekking experience in Africa, ideal for travelers combining wildlife, culture, and nature on a smaller budget.

Discounted and Special Permits

Both Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega occasionally offer discounted permits during the low travel seasons — typically March to May and October to November. These promotions encourage tourism when visitor numbers are lower and can reduce permit prices by up to 25%. However, discounts depend on park conditions and management policies at the time.

Travelers booking through GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS receive up-to-date information on any seasonal offers and safe travel schedules.

What the Permit Cost Covers

The cost of a Congo gorilla permit includes:

• Entry into the national park.
• Services of armed and trained rangers.
• Expert tracking guides.
• One hour of interaction with a gorilla family.
• Contribution to conservation and community programs.

It does not include transport, accommodation, visa fees, or porter services — all of which can be arranged as part of a guided package.

Booking a Gorilla Permit in DRC

Because gorilla trekking permits are limited, booking in advance is highly recommended. The easiest way is through a trusted tour operator such as GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS, which coordinates with park authorities to secure your permit and manage all logistics including transport, accommodation, and border transfers.

You will need to provide your passport details, preferred trekking date, and payment in U.S. dollars. Once confirmed, your permit is reserved for your specific trek date and is non-transferable.

Validity and Trekking Conditions

Each gorilla permit is valid for a single day and trek. Visitors must attend a pre-trek briefing where park rangers explain trekking rules, safety protocols, and gorilla behavior. The trek duration can vary between one to four hours depending on the location of the gorilla group. Once found, trekkers spend one magical hour observing and photographing the gorillas.

Why Congo Offers the Best Value

The DRC provides unmatched value for gorilla trekking. For less than half the price of permits in neighboring Rwanda and Uganda, travelers enjoy a truly wild, non-commercialized experience in landscapes untouched by mass tourism. The smaller group sizes, affordability, and variety of gorilla species make Congo a unique destination for serious adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Plan Your Gorilla Trek with GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS

At GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS, we make booking your Congo Gorilla Trekking Permit simple and reliable. Our team handles the entire process—from securing your permit to organizing transportation, accommodations, and park coordination. Whether you choose Virunga’s mountain gorillas or Kahuzi-Biega’s lowland gorillas, we ensure a safe, well-guided, and transformative experience.

Inquire and book your Congo Gorilla Safari today with GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS, and experience the thrill of encountering Africa’s great apes in their natural home.