3 days Bwindi gorilla trekking

A 3-day gorilla trekking trip in Uganda from Rwanda is a great way to experience both Rwanda’s beauty and Uganda’s unique wildlife, particularly the endangered mountain gorillas. The journey involves traveling from Kigali (Rwanda’s capital) to Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where you will trek to see the gorillas.

Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda)

Today, you will be picked by your driver guide at your accommodation in Kigali, have a brief Kigali city tour by visiting the Kigali Genocide memorial to learn from the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi and pay tribute to 250,000 victims raid to rest in mass graves. Thereafter embark on a transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. A drive from Kigali to Bwindi in Uganda, takes about 4-5 hours (including a 1hour border crossing processes. You will pass through beautiful Rwandan countryside, and if you have time, you can stop to admire views of the Volcanoes and the surrounding hills. After crossing the border into Uganda, continue to your lodge near Bwindi.

Accommodation options:

• Rushaga Gorilla Lodge (Midrange)
• Rushaga leisure Lodge (Luxury)

 Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

On this day, after your early breakfast at your lodge head to the park headquarters for a briefing by the rangers about the trekking rules and safety procedures. You will be assigned to a group and start your trek into the dense forest to locate one of Bwindi’s habituated gorilla families. The trek can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, depending on where the gorillas are located. The terrain is steep and can be challenging, so it’s important to be prepared physically. Your guide and rangers will help you along the way. Once you find the gorillas, you’ll be allowed to spend one hour with them. During this time, you can observe their behavior, watch them interact with each other, and take photos. It’s a magical experience to be so close to these incredible creatures in their natural environment. After the gorilla trek, return to the lodge to relax. If time permits, you may have the option of taking a nature walk, visiting a local community, or enjoying a cultural performance.

Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge.

Day 3: Transfer back to Kigali, Rwanda

Today after breakfast, check out of your lodge. Begin the drive back to Kigali, Rwanda. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours, depending on the road conditions and border crossing. Arrive in Kigali by mid-afternoon. Depending on your flight time or schedule, you may have the chance to do a quick city tour, visiting art and craft shops for shopping of souvenirs. There after Drop off at Kigali International Airport for your onward flight, or you can continue your journey if you are staying longer in Rwanda.

Important Notes:

Gorilla permit

A gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs about $800 USD per person. It is recommended to book this permit in advance as permits are limited, especially during peak trekking seasons (June to September and December to February).

Border Crossing

When traveling from Rwanda to Uganda, you will cross the Katuna Border (Kigali to Bwindi). Be sure to carry the necessary travel documents (passport, visa if required) for the border crossing.

Physical Preparation

Gorilla trekking involves hiking in steep and often slippery terrain. Be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts and trousers, and bring a good level of fitness to enjoy the trek.

This 3-day itinerary offers a compact yet rewarding gorilla trekking experience, giving you a chance to explore both Rwanda and Uganda’s natural beauty and cultural offerings.