Budget Gorilla Safaris in Rwanda-Volcanoes National Park

If you’re dreaming of seeing mountain gorillas but worried about the costs, opt for Budget Gorilla Safaris in Rwanda-Volcanoes National Park! Here’s a guide to experiencing this incredible adventure without breaking the bank.

While many backpackers opt for gorilla trekking in Uganda during the low season, Rwanda offers an equally fantastic experience. The jungle setting of Volcanoes National Park is truly mesmerizing. Plus, Rwanda has some advantages over other destinations in terms of accessibility and overall experience. Comparisons can be found online to help you make an informed decision. Additionally, the Democratic Republic of Congo also offers cheaper gorilla permits if you’re on a tight budget.

Avoid Expensive Tour Packages

Many tourists end up spending a fortune on expensive tour packages that include everything from permits to meals. These packages can cost upwards of $1300 or more, depending on accommodation choices. However, there are ways to cut costs without compromising on the experience.

Hiring a Car from Kigali

One essential requirement for gorilla trekking is a 4-wheel vehicle and a driver to transfer you from Kigali to the park entrance and beyond. By booking a car and driver in advance, you can save money. Hiring a car in Kigali costs around $150 per day, including the driver. This option allows for flexibility and can be more cost-effective than joining a tour package.

Choosing a Tour Operator

While some travelers prefer the do-it-yourself approach, booking everything independently can be challenging, especially in unfamiliar territories like Africa. Road signs may be scarce, and local knowledge of lodges and hotels is invaluable. To avoid potential pitfalls and ensure a smooth experience, it’s advisable to book your budget gorilla safari in Rwanda through a reputable tour operator like Iconic Africa Safaris.

Acquiring the Gorilla Permit

The most crucial requirement for gorilla trekking is a gorilla safari permit, which must be purchased in advance. In Rwanda, these permits cost $1500 per person for a single day. It’s essential to buy permits directly from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). Permits can be in high demand, so it’s wise to inquire about availability ahead of time. You can email RDB to check availability, and they typically respond promptly in clear English.

Booking Permits

Rwanda Development Board offices are conveniently located near the city center, within walking distance of accommodations like Discover Rwanda Youth Hostel. Permits can be purchased using a Visa card without any additional service charges. Remember to carry your passport when purchasing permits.

Accommodation Choices

If you’re planning a trip to the area, you have a couple of budget-friendly options for where to stay. One choice is the Amahoro Guest House, which costs about $20 per night for each person or $30 for a single person. You can book a room here through Amahoro Tours or look it up online for the most current contact information. Another option is the Kinigi Guest House.

Gorilla Hike and Park Entrance

To go on the gorilla hike, you need to be at the park entrance by 7:00 in the morning. When you arrive, you’ll need to show your permit and your passport at the reception. Other tourists will be coming between 7:00 and 8:00. During this time, you can have some tea or coffee and maybe even eat breakfast if you brought your own. There might also be some cultural performances to enjoy. The guide will divide everyone into groups, with one group per mountain gorilla group. Smaller groups make it easier to take pictures and get closer to the gorillas. If you have a specific gorilla group you want to see, you can tell the reception or the guide beforehand.

At the beginning of the hike, you can hire porters if you have heavy bags you don’t want to carry. This not only helps you but also supports the local community, as many porters used to be poachers.