3-day Uganda gorilla safari via Kigali
- 2
- Nights
- 3
- Days
- Destinations
- Uganda & Rwanda
Journey overview
Kigali is the practical gateway for this short Bwindi route. Crossing into Uganda through Cyanika avoids the much longer road journey from Kampala or Entebbe, leaving three days for the transfer, one gorilla trek and a Kigali Genocide Memorial visit on the return. It works best for travellers whose main priority is the gorilla experience rather than a wider Uganda safari.
Key highlights
- Gorilla trekking: Spend an hour with a mountain gorilla family in their natural habitat.
- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: Trek through a biodiverse rainforest that supports mountain gorillas, other primates and varied birdlife.
- Scenic drive: Travel through the hilly landscapes of Rwanda and southwestern Uganda.
- Kigali Genocide Memorial: Learn about the 1994 genocide and Rwanda’s recovery.
Safari details
- Private tour: The safari is arranged privately and is not shared with other travellers.
- Start any day: Start dates are flexible, subject to permit and accommodation availability.
- Customizable: Accommodation and selected activities can be adjusted to suit your preferences.
- Age limit: Gorilla trekking is restricted to participants aged 15 and older.
Itinerary
3 days of guided travel, planned by our safari team from arrival to departure.
Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Rwanda's hills form the first part of the journey from Kigali to the Cyanika border. After immigration formalities, the road continues into southwestern Uganda and on to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where the afternoon is kept free for settling in and preparing for the trek.
- Activity highlights
- Scenic drive from Kigali to Bwindi (175km, 4.5 - 5.5 hours).
- Welcome meeting at your hotel to go over the trip itinerary and answer any questions.
- Budget
- Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Ride 4 A Woman
- Mid-range
- 4 Gorillas Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Camp
- Luxury
- Buhoma Lodge, Mahogany Springs Lodge
Lunch · Dinner
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi
The gorilla trek starts at the park headquarters, not on a fixed forest trail. Rangers first explain the rules and safety procedures, then local guides lead your assigned group into Bwindi to search for a habituated gorilla family. Expect the forest itself to be part of the day. Depending on the gorillas' location, the search can take between 2 and 6 hours through dense rainforest. Once the family is found, the permitted hour is spent observing the group under ranger guidance.
- Activity highlights
- Gorilla trekking: Start with a briefing from local rangers, then trek into the forest with an expert guide to locate the gorilla family.
- Optional porter hire ($20 per person): Porters can carry your personal items and assist during the trek.
- Budget
- Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Ride 4 A Woman
- Mid-range
- 4 Gorillas Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Camp
- Luxury
- Buhoma Lodge, Mahogany Springs Lodge
Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner
Bwindi to Kigali via Genocide Memorial
Uganda is left behind this morning as you cross the Cyanika border back into Rwanda. In Kigali, visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for context on the 1994 genocide, its victims and the country's recovery before the final drop-off at your hotel or the airport.
- Activity highlights
- Scenic drive from Bwindi to Kigali (175km, 4.5 - 5.5 hours).
- Border crossing: Cyanika Border Post (1 - 1.5 hours).
- Visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial to learn about Rwanda’s tragic history and recovery.
Breakfast
Inclusions & exclusions
Included
- Gorilla trekking permit
- Accommodation as per itinerary
- Meals as indicated (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
- All ground transportation in a private 4x4 safari vehicle
- English-speaking guide/driver
- Bottled drinking water during the trip
- Kigali Genocide Memorial visit
Not included
- International flights
- Visa fees (Uganda and Rwanda)
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks, tips)
- Optional activities (porter hire, etc.)
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