A Guide to Invoicing and Bank Transfers

Securing a spot to see mountain gorillas represents a high-stakes investment that requires more than just a passion for wildlife; it requires financial precision. In 2026, the demand for these encounters has reached an all-time high, making the payment phase the most critical part of your safari planning. Whether you head to Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park or Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, you must navigate government systems that prioritize security and upfront confirmation. This guide explains exactly how to secure your gorilla permit using professional invoicing and international bank transfers.

 

Understanding the 7-Day Payment Window

Both the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) operate on a strict “reservation and payment” cycle. Once a tour operator like Jackal Adventures checks availability and places a tentative hold on a permit, a “countdown” begins.

In 2026, the authorities typically grant a 7-day window to settle the balance. If the funds do not reflect in the government accounts by the end of this period, the system automatically releases the slots back to the public. Because international wire transfers can take between three and five business days to clear, you must initiate the payment immediately to secure your gorilla permit.

Step 1: Receiving Your Proforma Invoice

The process begins when you receive an official proforma invoice. This document acts as a legal record of your intended trek. A professional invoice from Jackal Adventures clearly states:

• The Permit Price: $800 in Uganda or $1,500 in Rwanda (Foreign Non-Resident rates).

• The Sector: Such as Rushaga (Uganda) or Kinigi (Rwanda).

• The Date: The specific calendar day of your trek.

• Bank Details: Full SWIFT/BIC codes and intermediary bank information.

Always verify that the invoice includes the company’s physical address and registration number. This verification ensures you are dealing with a licensed operator authorized to secure your gorilla permit on your behalf.

Step 2: Initiating the International Bank Transfer

Most travelers prefer the bank-to-bank wire transfer (SWIFT) because it handles large sums securely across borders. When you use your banking portal, follow these essential steps:

1. Select the “OUR” Instruction: International transfers incur fees from several banks. Always select the “OUR” instruction (not SHA or BEN). This ensures you cover all fees on your end so the wildlife authority receives the exact, full amount.

2. Include the Invoice Number: Type your invoice number and last name in the “Reference” field. This allows our accounting team to identify your funds immediately.

3. Submit Your Proof of Payment: Send a scanned copy of your bank’s “Swift Advice” or transaction receipt to our team. We use this to advocate for your reservation while the funds are in transit.

Step 3: Online Payments and Surcharges

If you are booking within a tight window, online payment links (via platforms like Pesapal or DPO) offer a faster alternative to bank transfers. While these methods are nearly instant, they usually carry a 3.5% to 5% surcharge. For a luxury trek in Rwanda, this can add an extra $75 to your permit cost. However, for a last-minute 2026 trek, this is often the most reliable way to secure your gorilla permit before the 7-day hold expires.

2026 Gorilla Permit Pricing and Payment Table

Category	Uganda Permit (1 Hour)	Rwanda Permit (1 Hour)	Best Payment Method
Foreign Non-Resident	$800	$1,500	Bank Transfer (SWIFT)
Foreign Resident	$700	$1,500*	Bank Transfer / Credit Card
Rest of Africa (ROA)	$500	$500**	Bank Transfer
East African Citizen	UGX 300,000	RWF 30,000	Mobile Money / Cash

*Rwanda offers promotional rates for residents during low seasons.

**Subject to specific RDB promotional terms in 2026.

Step 4: Verification and Digital Receipting

Once the funds clear into the Jackal Adventures account, we pay the government immediately. In 2026, the UWA and RDB provide digital booking IDs. We will send you a scanned copy of your Gorilla Permit Receipt or a confirmation voucher.

Critical Requirement: Your permit remains a legal document tied to your identity. You must provide a clear digital copy of your passport bio-data page during the invoicing stage. Without these details, the bank transfer alone cannot secure your gorilla permit in the official government database.

The Evolution of Digital Payments in 2026

The landscape of East African tourism has shifted significantly toward “cashless” operations. While you could historically pay for some park services in person, the 2024-2026 tariffs from UWA and RDB have formalized the requirement for pre-payment. Digital receipts now feature QR codes that rangers scan at the park gates. This system has virtually eliminated the risk of double-booking, providing a much more stable environment for travelers to secure their gorilla permit.

Why Cash is No Longer King for Permits

You might wonder if you can simply pay cash upon arrival at the park. In 2026, the answer is a firm no. Park gates in Bwindi and Volcanoes National Park do not handle cash for permits. All transactions must be prepaid and verified through central digital systems in Kampala or Kigali. Attempting to pay at the gate will result in being turned away, regardless of your travel distance.

Furthermore, for smaller on-ground expenses like tips or porter fees ($20), ensure you bring USD bills printed after 2013. Local banks and businesses frequently reject “small-head” older notes or bills with minor tears, markings, or ink stamps.

Cancellation and Refund Policies (2026)

It is vital to understand that gorilla permits are highly regulated. If you need to cancel, the refund amount depends on the timing:

• 91+ Days Before Trek: 75% refund.

• 46–90 Days Before Trek: 50% refund.

• 9–45 Days Before Trek: 25% refund.

• 0–8 Days Before Trek: No refund.

Because of these strict windows, we strongly recommend travel insurance that specifically covers “adventure activities” and “permit cancellation.”

Conclusion

The payment process should be the least of your worries when planning a safari. At Jackal Adventures, we prioritize transparency and speed. Our invoicing system meets international accounting standards, and we provide clear, step-by-step guidance for your bank transfer to help you secure your gorilla permit without stress.

We understand that sending large sums across borders feels daunting. That is why we provide instant confirmation once your funds land and handle all the bureaucratic hurdles with the wildlife authorities. Let Jackal Adventures finalize your 2026 booking with the security and speed you deserve.