Tips For Planning a Gorilla Safari on a Budget

While a gorilla safari is one of the most incredible experiences you can have during your time in Africa, there are also plenty of costs involved with this type of excursion. It is very easy to go over your intended budget if you’re not careful.

Here at Tailormade Africa, we have assisted dozens of people with planning Rwanda safaris and other uniquely African experiences. In this article, we’ll provide a few useful tips for planning a gorilla trekking excursion while remaining mindful of your budget.

Start Planning Your Trip Ahead of Time

The sooner you start planning your trip, the more opportunities you have to enjoy early-bird prices and special offers on accommodation and flights. If you leave everything until the last minute, you won’t have as many options to choose from and will most likely end up spending more money. Gorilla safaris also need to be booked well in advance, as there are usually limited slots on each excursion.

Research the Various Costs Involved

It is essential that you have a clear idea of the costs involved with gorilla trekking. You’ll need to purchase a permit for your excursion, which can range between US$450 and US$1,500 per person, depending on your preferred location (country). You’ll also need to hire a guide and possibly a porter if you want someone to carry your daypack. Only once you have a clear idea of the costs can you create a realistic budget.

Know the Areas in Which You Can Reduce Costs

Your trip to Africa doesn’t necessarily need to be a 5-star luxury experience. If you want to reduce the overall cost of your Congo or Rwanda safari, you can easily do so by eating at local cafes instead of fine-dining restaurants. You can also stay in mid-range accommodation instead of luxury lodges. These small tweaks to your itinerary will definitely help you cut back on costs.

Pack Everything You Need for Your Trip

Forgetting to pack essential items for your trip means you’ll have to source them once you arrive in Africa. Depending on the item, this may be costly and/or challenging to find. It is best to create a comprehensive list and pack everything you need for your trip ahead of time. The items you’ll need will depend on your exact destination and what sorts of activities you plan to participate in. 

When it comes to gorilla trekking, you definitely want to pack a camera, sunglasses, khaki-coloured clothing, binoculars, hiking shoes, and long layers.

Prioritise the Experiences That Really Matter to You

If you are travelling to Africa on a budget, you may have to compromise on how many activities you participate in. Gorilla trekking can be costly, so if this is something you really want to do, then you may need to reduce the number of other wildlife encounters or ‘African experiences’ you enjoy during your trip.

Thinking of booking a Rwanda safari, gorilla trekking experience, or any other type of African holiday? Here at Tailormade Africa, we make personalised packages to suit your preferences and budget. Contact us today to learn more and discover the very best of what Africa has to offer!