Purchasing Your Chimpanzee Permit in Rwanda
Purchasing your chimpanzee permit in Rwanda in advance is so important, Chimpanzee trekking is one of the thrilling and unmissable activities to enjoy during Rwanda safaris, and for this to be possible, it is important first to purchase a chimpanzee permit. A chimpanzee permit is simply a document issued by a governing Authority to allow you to encounter the primates in their natural habitat. These permits provide access to any of the two chimpanzee communities- one community in Uwinka (Nyungwe Forest National Park) and Cyamudongo. Featured photo: By Nyungwe Book Now
What’s the cost of Chimpanzee permits in Rwanda?
Chimpanzee permits in Rwanda cost $25 per person per trek for Rwandan and East African Community Citizens, $75 per person per trek for Foreign Residents in Rwanda or the East African Community, and $150 per person per trek for International visitors. These costs only include a guide, but don’t include the park entry fees (which travelers are also required to pay). Chimpanzee permit costs also don’t include transportation to and from the starting point, accommodation, tipping, porter fees, and other logistical support.
When should chimpanzee permits in Rwanda be purchased?
While you are still thinking of when to purchase chimpanzee permits in Rwanda, it is important to remember that there are only two habituated chimpanzee communities in Nyungwe- one in Uwinka and another in Cyamudongo hence the demand is high. It is therefore advisable to book the permits at least 6-12 months in advance to avoid last-minute disappointment.
Is it possible to purchase last-minute chimpanzee permits in Rwanda?
Depending on availability for your preferred date of trekking the chimpanzees, last-minute chimpanzee permits can be purchased. However, it is more possible to get last-minute chimp permits during the low season- months of March, April, May, October, and November. However, we also advise booking 3-6 months during these months because it is better safe than sorry.
How to book your Chimpanzee permit in Rwanda?
Chimpanzee permits in Rwanda can be booked through a credible tour operator. Fill in our online application form that requires indicating the preferred date of trekking, sending required supporting documents (passport), and paying the application fees. You will then receive your chimpanzee permit via email. Travelers are cautioned against providing false information as the same details (name and age) on the permit should correspond with your passport details (names, ages, and country).
Besides a valid passport, another requirement for purchasing a chimpanzee permit in Rwanda is being of age- at least 15 years old. However, there is no maximum age limit because there have been recording of 80-year old’s trekking these endangered Great Apes.
Chimpanzee permits in Rwanda are a one-off-use, not transferrable, and only issued to a single person although there are opportunities for purchasing more than one permit for different dates. If for any reason you don’t track and the date passes, just forget about it and instead buy new permits.
When is the perfect time to see chimpanzees in Rwanda?
The perfect time to visit Nyungwe Forest National Park to see endangered chimpanzees is during the dry season- June to September and late December to February, when precipitation levels are reduced and forest trails are more comfortable for hiking. However, even during the rainy season- March to May and October to early December, the weather is mild and there are wonderful chances of spotting the Great Apes.
