At every trailhead in Volcanoes National Park, local men and women from the porters' cooperative wait to carry trekkers' daypacks. Our advice to every guest is the same: hire one. Here's why.
What a porter does
- Carries your daypack, water and camera bag
- Gives you a hand up steep, muddy sections — and, more importantly, on the way down
- Holds your bag and food while you're with the gorillas
- Often knows the forest and the gorilla families well — and is great company
What it costs
The porter fee is modest — typically around US$10–20 per trek — plus a tip if you're happy. Bring small notes in US dollars or Rwandan francs. Compared with the $1,500 gorilla permit, it's the best value on the whole trip. You can add it into your budget with the gorilla trekking cost calculator.
Why it matters beyond your trek
Porter work gives families living around the park a direct income from gorilla tourism — and a direct reason to protect the gorillas. Hiring a porter is one of the simplest ways to make sure your visit benefits local people. It's part of why gorilla tourism works, as we explain in is gorilla trekking ethical?
Should fit hikers still hire one?
Yes. Fitness helps on the climb, but descents on wet volcanic soil are where people slip. A porter's steady hand is worth it, and freeing your hands for a walking stick and camera makes the whole day more enjoyable. If you're worried about difficulty, read our fitness guide and 25 trekking tips.
Questions
How much does a porter cost for gorilla trekking?
Porter fees are modest — typically around US$10–20 per trek — plus a tip if you're happy with their help. Your guide will confirm the current rate on the day.
Do I need a porter if I'm fit?
You don't need one, but most guides recommend it anyway: porters help on slippery descents, carry your bag so you can focus on the trek, and the fee directly supports families living beside the park.
Can a porter carry me?
Porters carry bags, not people — but for travellers with limited mobility, a team of porters can sometimes carry a trekker in a chair-style stretcher. This must be arranged in advance.
