1 Day Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Ruhija from Kigali

1 Day Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Ruhija from Kigali: A Quick Adventure to Meet Mountain Gorillas

Are you eager to experience gorilla trekking in Uganda but have limited time? Excursia Adventures offers a unique 1-day gorilla trekking experience in the Ruhija sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, starting from Kigali. This short but unforgettable journey allows you to see the majestic mountain gorillas, even during the high season when permits tend to sell out quickly.

Your Day at a Glance

Your adventure begins with an early 4:00 AM pick-up from your hotel in Kigali, followed by a scenic drive to the northern side of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. You’ll cross the Katuna border into Uganda and continue to the park for a briefing at 8:00 AM. Afterward, you’ll embark on your gorilla trek, which typically lasts until 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. After a rewarding encounter with the gorillas, you’ll drive back to Kigali, concluding your trip with a drop-off at your hotel or Kigali International Airport for your departure.

Ruhija is easily accessible via Kabale town, making it an excellent trekking point for those coming from Kigali.

About Ruhija Sector

Ruhija lies on the eastern edge of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and is known for its cool climate and breathtaking scenery. The sector is home to four gorilla families: Bitukura, Mukiza, Kyaguriro, and Oruzogo, all of which are available for trekking. Ruhija is located at an altitude of over 2350 meters, making it the coldest region in the park. In addition to gorilla trekking, the area offers various hiking trails and nature walks, including the famous Rwamunyonyi Peak trail.

Things to Consider When Booking Your 1-Day Gorilla Trek in Ruhija from Kigali

1. Booking Gorilla Permits in Advance

Securing a gorilla permit is crucial for this trek. During high season (June to September), permits sell out fast, so it’s best to book your permit at least 3 to 4 months ahead of your travel date. Gorilla permits for Ruhija cost:

• USD 800 for Foreign non-residents
• USD 700 for Foreign residents
• 300,000 UGX for East African citizens

These permits allow you to spend an hour with the gorillas. To avoid last-minute disappointments, contact us to help secure your permits well in advance.

2. Accommodation in Ruhija

Although Ruhija has fewer luxury options compared to other sectors of Bwindi, it still offers great choices for a comfortable stay. Some of the best options include:

• Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Bakiga Lodge

For those preferring more luxurious accommodations, you can stay in nearby Buhoma, where you’ll find several upscale lodges such as Bwindi Lodge, Mahogany Springs, and Silverback Lodge.

3. Travel Comfortably to Ruhija

The journey to Ruhija is long but manageable. We recommend traveling in a comfortable 4×4 Land Cruiser. Alternatively, you can take a flight to Kihihi Airstrip, which is about an hour’s drive from Ruhija, cutting down your total travel time significantly.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija

It’s important to dress appropriately for your trek. Here’s a quick packing list:

• Long-sleeve sweater (It can get chilly in the high-altitude environment)
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Two pairs of long trousers
• Gardening gloves (Helpful for holding onto tree branches)
• A raincoat (Since Bwindi is a rainforest, rain is unpredictable)
• Mosquito repellent (Protect yourself from insects)
• Sunscreen (Optional, but useful if the weather is sunny)
• Binoculars (For birdwatching and spotting other wildlife)
• Cameras (Remember to keep your flash off to avoid disturbing the gorillas)
• Neutral colors (Avoid bright colors or black/blue, as these can attract Tsetse flies)

Why Book Your 1-Day Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija with Excursia Adventures?

At Excursia Adventures, we pride ourselves on organizing customized and seamless travel experiences. Our team of professional tour consultants is ready to help you plan the perfect trip. We ensure that your permits, accommodation, and transport are secured well in advance, saving you from any last-minute hassles. Additionally, our experienced guides are knowledgeable and speak a variety of languages, ensuring you have the best experience possible.

Feel free to reach out to us to book your 1-Day Gorilla Trekking adventure in Ruhija from Kigali!