1-Day Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Rushaga from Kigali

1-Day Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Rushaga from Kigali: A Memorable Adventure

Are you looking to experience gorilla trekking in Uganda but short on time? With Excursia Adventures, you can enjoy an unforgettable 1-day gorilla trekking adventure in Rushaga, all from Kigali. Rushaga, located in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, is home to five gorilla families, making it one of the best places for a gorilla trek. The terrain here is also easier to navigate, which makes the trek a little more accessible.

1-Day Gorilla Trekking Itinerary from Kigali to Rushaga

Your 1-day gorilla trekking adventure starts early. We’ll pick you up from your Kigali hotel at 4:00 AM and drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. You’ll cross the border into Uganda and continue your journey to Rushaga, arriving in time for a briefing at 8:00 AM. Afterward, you’ll begin your trek, which usually ends between 2:00 and 4:00 PM. Afterward, we’ll drive you back to Kigali, where you’ll be dropped off either at your hotel or Kigali International Airport for your departure.

Rushaga is easily accessible via Kisoro, making it an excellent location for travelers coming from Kigali. The sector offers a unique experience with a chance to visit the Batwa community, giving you a glimpse into the culture and traditions of the area. In addition to the regular gorilla trekking, Rushaga also offers a rare Gorilla Habituation experience, where you can spend more time with the gorillas.

Gorilla Families in Rushaga

The Rushaga sector is home to several habituated gorilla families, including Busingye, Bweza, Nshongi, Mishaya, and Kahungye. These families are readily available for trekking. Furthermore, it’s the only sector in Bwindi that offers the Gorilla Habituation experience, which includes two families, Bushaho and Bikyingi, currently undergoing the habituation process.

Important Considerations for 1-Day Gorilla Trekking in Rushaga from Kigali

1. Booking Your Gorilla Permits

Booking your gorilla permit in advance is crucial for a smooth experience. We recommend securing your permit at least one month before your planned trek. Although permits are generally available, some dates sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. Gorilla permits for Rushaga cost USD 800 for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for foreign residents, and 300,000 Uganda Shillings for East African citizens. This price includes a one-hour encounter with the mountain gorillas.

2. Accommodation Options

For a budget-friendly experience, there are several lodges in the Rushaga sector where you can stay. These include Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Kaurngi Camp, Nshongi Camp, and Rushaga Gorilla Camp. Excursia Adventures ensures full-board accommodations, providing all meals during your stay.

3. Travel to Rushaga

We recommend traveling in a comfortable 4×4 safari van, which is a great budget option for reaching Rushaga. Alternatively, you can fly with Aerolink to Kisoro Airstrip, just a short drive from Rushaga, cutting down the long drive from Kigali.

4. What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking

When preparing for your trek, it’s important to wear suitable clothing and gear for the rainforest environment. Here’s a quick guide:

• Long-sleeved sweater (it can get chilly)
• Two pairs of long trousers
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Hat and sunglasses (optional)
• Camera and extra batteries (for those unforgettable photos)
• Binoculars (to catch glimpses of birds and other wildlife)
• Gardening gloves (to hold onto branches)
• Raincoat (as rain is unpredictable)
• Mosquito repellent
• Sunscreen (for sun protection)

Avoid wearing bright colors, as they can startle the gorillas, and stay away from black or blue clothing since it can attract tsetse flies.

5. Best Time to Visit Rushaga for Gorilla Trekking

Rushaga is open year-round, but for the best trekking experience, we recommend traveling between June and August or December to February. These months see less rainfall, making the forest less slippery. While traveling during the rainy season (March to May and November) might bring some rain, it also offers discounts on accommodations in some lodges.

Why Book Your 1-Day Gorilla Trekking in Rushaga from Kigali with Excursia Adventures?

At Excursia Adventures, we specialize in tailor-made safari experiences. Our dedicated and professional team ensures all your needs are met, from booking permits to arranging transportation and accommodations. We’re known for our exceptional customer service, quick responses (usually within 30 minutes), and knowledgeable safari guides who can accommodate language preferences.

We also offer budget-friendly options, including 2-day, 3-day, and 4-day gorilla safari packages to Rushaga. Contact us today for more details and to book your 1-day gorilla trekking experience in Rushaga from Kigali!