How Much Does a Rwanda Safari Cost? Full Budget Breakdown

Planning a safari often starts with one big question: How much does a Rwanda safari cost? Rwanda is widely known as a high-end, well-organized safari destination, but the truth is that safari costs in Rwanda vary greatly depending on travel style, activities, and duration.

This full Rwanda safari cost breakdown explains exactly what you should budget for—from gorilla permits and accommodation to transport, park fees, and optional experiences—so you can plan confidently and avoid hidden surprises.

Overview: Average Rwanda Safari Costs

Before going into details, here is a quick cost overview per person:

The biggest cost driver is gorilla trekking, but Rwanda also offers wildlife safaris, cultural tours, and scenic experiences at different price levels.

1. Gorilla Trekking Permit Cost in Rwanda

A Rwanda safari often includes gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, and this is the single most expensive item.

Rwanda Gorilla Permit Cost:

• USD 1,500 per person

• Includes:

  • One gorilla trek

  • One hour with mountain gorillas

  • Professional ranger guides

Permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board and are non-refundable in most cases. They should be booked months in advance, especially during peak seasons.

2. Accommodation Costs in Rwanda

Accommodation prices vary widely depending on comfort level and location.

Budget Lodges & Guesthouses

• USD 100 – 250 per night

• Clean, comfortable, basic amenities

• Ideal for cost-conscious travelers

Mid-Range Safari Lodges

• USD 300 – 600 per night

• Private rooms, great views, full board

• Best value for most travelers

Luxury & High-End Lodges

• USD 800 – 1,500+ per night

• Premium service, spa treatments, private guides

• Popular near Volcanoes National Park and Akagera

Your lodge choice significantly affects the total Rwanda safari cost.

3. Park Fees & Safari Activity Costs

Besides gorilla trekking, Rwanda has other parks with separate fees.

Akagera National Park

• Park entry: USD 100 per person per day

• Game drive vehicle fee: extra

• Boat safari: optional additional cost

Nyungwe Forest National Park

• Park entry: USD 100 per person per day

• Chimpanzee trekking: USD 150

• Canopy walk: USD 70

These activities add variety to your Rwanda safari but increase the total budget.

4. Transport Costs in Rwanda

Transport is usually arranged as a private safari vehicle with a driver-guide.

Average transport costs:

• USD 150 – 300 per day (vehicle + driver + fuel)

• 4×4 vehicle required for national parks

• Includes airport transfers and park transfers

Self-drive is possible but not recommended for first-time visitors doing gorilla trekking.

5. Guide & Driver Costs

Most Rwanda safaris include:

• Professional English-speaking driver-guide

• Park knowledge and logistics support

Costs are usually bundled into safari packages but average:

• USD 30 – 50 per day (guide service portion)

Experienced guides greatly improve the safari experience.

6. Meals & Drinks Costs

Most safari lodges operate on a full-board basis, meaning:

• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

If eating outside lodges:

• Local meals: USD 5 – 10

• Restaurant meals: USD 15 – 25

Alcoholic beverages are usually extra at lodges.

7. Additional & Optional Safari Costs

Common extras include:

• Porters for gorilla trekking: USD 20

• Tips for guides and lodge staff: USD 10 – 20 per day

• Cultural experiences: USD 30 – 50

• Travel insurance: varies

• Souvenirs & crafts

These costs are small individually but should be included in your total Rwanda safari budget.

8. Rwanda Safari Cost by Itinerary Length

3-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari

• Permit: USD 1,500

• Accommodation: USD 600 – 2,500

• Transport & guide: USD 400 – 600

• Total: USD 2,500 – 4,500

5-Day Rwanda Highlights Safari

• Gorilla trekking + Akagera or Nyungwe

• Total: USD 3,800 – 6,500

7-Day Rwanda Complete Safari

• Gorilla trekking + Big Five + Chimpanzees

• Total: USD 4,800 – 9,000+

9. Best Time to Visit & Cost Differences

Yes.

High season (June–September, December–February):

• Higher lodge rates

• Permit availability tighter

Low season (March–May, October–November):

• Better lodge deals

• Same gorilla permit price

• Fewer crowds

Traveling in low season can reduce overall safari costs by 15–30%.

10. Is a Rwanda Safari Worth the Cost?

Although Rwanda safaris are more expensive than some destinations, they offer:

• Exceptional conservation standards

• High safety and cleanliness

• Short travel distances

• High success rate for gorilla sightings

Many travelers consider Rwanda a premium safari destination with premium value.

Final Thoughts: Budgeting for a Rwanda Safari

For most travelers:

• Mid-range safari: USD 3,000 – 4,500

• Luxury safari: USD 5,500+

The key is balancing gorilla trekking, accommodation level, and safari length.

A well-planned Rwanda safari is not cheap—but it is deeply rewarding, ethical, and unforgettable.