Update, March 2024: The USD 500 special price for African residents is now a permanent feature in both Rwanda and Uganda.
Do you know that if you reside anywhere in Africa, USD 500 is all you will pay for a gorilla tracking permit in Rwanda? This discount is valid till the end of 2023 and you merely need a visa proving that you live in any African country for at least 6 months. If you are an African national, on the other hand, your passport will be enough!
During the higher-season months of June-September you will have to book more than a month in advance to get this cheaper rate (instead of the usual USD 1,500). Outside of this period, spontaneous visits are possible too.
This selfie was taken by Augustine Kwok, a Canadian in Ghana, who brought his wife Candace for a belated honeymoon late last year. We also took them to the Congo Nile Trail and to Akagera National Park and the trip totalled 10 days. The Kwoks thought they were among the last ones to take advantage of the discount, as it was originally scheduled to end on 31 December. It was exciting for them to learn that their friends could still do it at the special price throughout 2023!
📸 photography by:
Enock Musabyimana is a tour guide from Gisenyi who started his career leading hikers on the Congo Nile Trail. Over the years, Enock has expanded his networks and knowledge of East Africa, becoming comfortable in any environment. A passionate preacher and a proud father of three boys, he lives in Kigali, Rwanda. [bio updated: 2026-03]
Olivier Pirote Tuyisenge is a freelance tour guide from our region who used to specialise in mountain biking but nowadays prefers safari vehicles. An excellent singer, Olivier was educated in Uganda and Rwanda and does activities in both countries, operating from Kisoro, Uganda. [bio updated: 2026-05]