Rwanda Extends Gorilla Trekking Discounts Until End of 2026

The Rwanda Development Board has extended promotional gorilla trekking permit rates for Rwandans and African visitors until December 31, 2026. The offer applies to visits at Volcanoes National Park.

RDB announced the decision in a public notice released on January 5, 2026. The agency said the move aims to strengthen domestic and regional tourism.

However, RDB clarified that the discounted rates will not apply during the peak tourism season from June to October 2026.

PUBLIC NOTICE: 2026 Promotional Rates for Gorilla Permits pic.twitter.com/Up0qE8kdFD

— Rwanda Development Board (@RDBrwanda) January 5, 2026

Discounted Rates by Visitor Category

Under the extended promotion, Rwandan citizens and nationals of the East African Community will pay 200 US dollars for a gorilla trekking permit. This is equivalent to more than 290,000 Rwandan francs.

To qualify, visitors must present a national identity card, a valid passport and a birth certificate.

Meanwhile, Africans and African residents from outside the EAC will pay 500 US dollars during the promotional period. Eligible visitors in this category must present a valid passport, a resident or diplomatic identity card and a visa valid for at least four consecutive months.

Outside the promotion, the standard gorilla trekking permit fee remains 1,500 US dollars.

Tourism Continues to Drive Revenue Growth

Volcanoes National Park remains one of Rwanda’s most valuable tourism assets. In 2024, the tourism sector generated 647 million US dollars in revenue.

Gorilla-based tourism played a major role in that performance. According to official data, earnings from gorilla trekking rose by 27 percent during the year.

RDB says the extended promotion will allow more local and regional visitors to experience Rwanda’s flagship conservation product while supporting sustainable tourism growth.