Want to know how to get discounted gorilla trekking permits in Uganda, Rwanda & Congo? Gorilla trekking has become one of the most expensive tourist activities in Africa.
As you plan to trek mountain gorillas or lowland gorillas, below is how you can get discounted permits to further reduce the cost of your trip.
Discounted Gorilla Permits in Uganda
Uganda was the first country to offer discounted gorilla permits for tourists.
This offer started during Uganda’s 50th independence celebration. It was meant to attract more visitors during the low travel season.
In 2011, the Uganda Wildlife Authority introduced discounted gorilla permits for the low seasons—April, May, and November.
These discounts were given because of heavy rains during these months and winter in Europe, which made travel difficult for many tourists.
During this time, the cost of a gorilla permit was reduced from $700 to $450. Many lodges also gave discounted room rates, making it easier for budget travelers to enjoy gorilla trekking.
Although Uganda stopped offering discounted permits in November 2017, many lodges still offer low-season discounts on accommodation.
Discounted Gorilla Permits in Rwanda
Rwanda also introduced discounted gorilla permits, lowering the cost from $1500 to $1050 per person from November through May.
To qualify for the discount, visitors had to spend more days or nights in Rwanda’s other national parks.
These discounts began in 2017 after Rwanda raised the price of gorilla permits from $750 to $1500.
Rwanda now offers one of the most expensive gorilla trekking experiences in Africa.
Discounted Gorilla Permits in Congo
Congo has the cheapest gorilla permits in Africa, both in the high and low seasons.
Permits cost $400 during the high season and drop to $200 in the low season. This makes Congo a good option for budget travelers who want to see mountain gorillas.
Discounted permits in Congo are available from March 15 to May 15 and from October 15 to December 15.
Before planning your trip to see mountain gorillas in Africa, it is important to check the prices of gorilla permits in Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo.
Think about your budget and compare trekking options in each country. Also, be sure to check the cost of lodges.
One benefit of trekking in the low season is that the parks are less crowded, and the gorillas are easier to find because food is plenty and they don’t move far.
