Rwanda Safari Prices

Rwanda Safari Prices, Rwanda is one of the three countries in Africa where visitors can trek mountain gorillas, along with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Situated in central-eastern Africa, Rwanda offers the chance to combine gorilla trekking with other East African safaris. In Rwanda, mountain gorillas are found only in Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans), which forms part of the Virunga Mountain range that extends into Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and Virunga National Park in the DRC.

Apart from gorilla trekking, Rwanda also offers wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park and chimpanzee trekking and birdwatching in Nyungwe Forest National Park. Visitors may also explore the Genocide Memorial Sites located across the country, providing a powerful and educational insight into Rwanda’s tragic history during the 1994 genocide.

Rwanda has adopted a high-end tourism strategy. Though it has a small population, the country has invested significantly in marketing its tourism sector, with gorilla trekking as the main highlight. However, Rwanda also offers a wide variety of other unique attractions. This article outlines the costs of major safari activities in Rwanda, including gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park, and chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest.

Cost of Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s top safari experience. However, the permit is just one component of the total cost of a Rwanda safari. Other factors such as accommodation, transportation, meals, packing list, porters, tips, visa fees, and flights also contribute to the overall cost.

Gorilla Trekking Permit

To trek gorillas, visitors must obtain a gorilla permit. This is issued by the Rwanda Development Board and allows individuals over the age of 15 to participate in gorilla trekking. Since May 2017, the cost of a Rwanda gorilla permit has been $1,500 per person per trek. This makes Rwanda the most expensive gorilla trekking destination, compared to Uganda at $700 and the DRC at $450.

The permit includes one hour with the gorillas, park entry, ranger services, and advance trackers. Permits can be booked through a licensed tour operator or directly from the Rwanda Development Board (reservation@rwandatourism.com). Due to high demand, it is recommended to book permits at least two months in advance.

Cost of Accommodation

Accommodation costs are a major factor when planning a Rwanda safari. Options range from luxury lodges to mid-range hotels and budget guesthouses. In Volcanoes National Park and other safari locations, visitors can find accommodations that suit a variety of budgets.

Luxury hotels: $300 – $2,500 per night
Mid-range hotels: $150 – $250 per night
Budget hotels: Up to $100 per night

You can book accommodation independently or through a trusted tour operator like Monumental Expeditions and Safaris. It is advisable to use a tour operator who is familiar with the region and its offerings.

Transportation Costs

Transportation expenses include international flights, airport transfers, and travel between parks. Most visitors arrive through Kigali International Airport. Volcanoes National Park is about a 3-hour drive from Kigali.

Private transport from Kigali to Volcanoes costs approximately $50–$100, depending on the vehicle. While public transportation is available, it may not be as reliable or convenient. Using a tour operator’s pre-arranged transport is usually the best option.

Gorilla Trekking Packing List

For an optimal trekking experience, pack the following essentials:

Insect repellent
Hiking boots
Gardening gloves
Long-sleeved clothing
Rain jacket
Binoculars
Camera

These items are important for comfort and safety during the trek.

Visa and Border Crossings

If you plan to combine gorilla trekking across Rwanda, Uganda, and the DRC, there are additional costs:

DRC border crossing at Goma: ~$100
Uganda border crossing from Rwanda: ~$50 (via Katuna or Cyanika)
East African Tourist Visa: $100 – grants access to Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya

Porter Services

Porters can be hired at park headquarters for assistance during the trek. This service is especially useful for older travelers or those carrying heavy equipment.

Porter fee: $10
Sedan chair (for those unable to walk): ~$400

Hiring porters also supports the local community, as many are students or locals earning income for their families.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is possible year-round, but the best times are during the dry seasons:

June to September
December to February

These periods offer easier hiking conditions and lower malaria risk. The rainy season (March–May) is more challenging due to muddy trails but may offer discounted permits.

Cost of a Wildlife Safari in Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s only savannah park and offers sightings of the Big Five. Entrance and activity fees vary depending on residency:

Park Entry Fees:

International adults: $100
International children (6–12 years): $50
Foreign East African residents: $50 (adults), $30 (children)
Rwandan citizens: $16 (adults), $11 (children)

Vehicle Entry Fees:

Small safari vehicles (local): $10
International safari vehicles: $40 – $100

Game Drives:

Half-day (up to 5 hours): $180 per vehicle (max 7 people)
Full-day: $280
Night drives: $40 (adults), $25 (children)

Other Activities:

Boat ride: $20–$40 per person or $180 to rent a boat
Camping: $25 (adults), $15 (children)
Fishing: $25 (adults), $15 (children)
Cultural experiences: $30 (adults), $20 (children)

Best time to visit Akagera: June to September, when wildlife is more visible due to dry conditions.

Cost of Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest is a prime location for chimpanzee trekking and is about a 5 to 6-hour drive from Kigali.

Chimpanzee Trekking Permit:

Foreign non-residents: $90
Foreign residents and East African citizens: $60
Rwandan citizens: RWF 5,000
Students: RWF 2,500 (Rwandans), $30 (foreign residents), $5 (East African citizens)

The trekking begins at 8:00 a.m., and visitors spend a maximum of one hour with the chimpanzees.

Other Primate Trekking:

Foreign non-residents: $60
Foreign residents: $40
Rwandan citizens: RWF 5,000
Students: RWF 1,500 – $20

Nyungwe is home to 13 primate species, including Golden Monkeys, Vervet Monkeys, and Owl-faced Monkeys.

Birdwatching in Nyungwe

Nyungwe has over 275 bird species, making it ideal for birdwatchers.

Foreign non-residents: $50
Foreign residents: $40
Rwandan citizens: RWF 5,000

Best birdwatching season: January to June (general birding), November to April (migratory birds).

Additional Rwanda Safari Costs

Driver-Guide Services

Your safari includes a professional guide who will assist throughout your trip. Guides are knowledgeable about wildlife, history, and culture.

Meals

Meals are generally included in your safari package, whether provided by accommodations or during stopovers.

Tipping and Souvenirs

Tipping is optional but appreciated by staff such as guides, rangers, and porters. Some safari packages by Monumental Expeditions and Safaris may include souvenir costs.

Tour Operator Markup

Most safaris are all-inclusive. Monumental Expeditions and Safaris will organize your permits, accommodation, transport, and activities, with a service markup included in the final cost.