The dry seasons from June to September and December to February provide the most comfortable conditions for tracking forest primates.
Rwanda proudly offers a visa-on-arrival to citizens of all countries. A standard 30-day tourist visa costs $50 USD. However, if your bespoke Worthwhile Africa journey includes neighboring Uganda or Kenya, we highly recommend securing the multiple-entry East Africa Tourist Visa ($100 USD) for seamless border crossings.
As of 2026, standard mountain gorilla permits in Rwanda are $1,500 USD per person. However, travelers visiting between November and May can secure a 30% discount ($1,050 USD) by spending at least two nights in one of Rwanda’s other national parks to support wider conservation efforts.
Yes, the strict minimum age for tracking mountain gorillas is 15 years old. This regulation is rigorously enforced by wildlife authorities to ensure the safety of both the primates and our guests. Families with younger children can enjoy alternative guided walks and interactive cultural experiences at the lodges.
Yes, the minimum age for both mountain gorilla and chimpanzee trekking in Uganda is strictly set at 15 years old. This regulation is rigidly enforced by wildlife authorities, and no exceptions are made, even with parental consent.
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is strictly required only if you are arriving from, or have had a long transit in, a country with endemic Yellow Fever. While no other vaccinations are legally mandated for entry, we always recommend consulting your doctor regarding standard travel immunizations and anti-malarials.
Because of the country’s high elevations, treks often take place between 8,000 and 10,000 feet. The terrain can be steep and uneven. A moderate level of fitness is recommended. Local porters are available for hire at the trailhead—a service we highly encourage as it directly supports the surrounding communities.
While the local currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF), US Dollars are widely accepted. Ensure your USD bills are crisp, untorn, and printed after 2013, as older notes are frequently rejected. Premium eco-lodges accept major credit cards, but carrying small cash denominations is ideal for tipping and purchasing local crafts.
No. Drones are heavily restricted in Rwanda to protect wildlife and national security. Bringing a drone requires extensive, advanced authorization from the Civil Aviation Authority. We strongly advise leaving drones at home to avoid confiscation and significant delays at airport customs.
