Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tours from Kigali, Rwanda

Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tours from Kigali, Rwanda

Planning to see mountain gorillas in Uganda but want to start your adventure in Kigali? With Excursia Adventures, you can enjoy the best and most affordable Uganda gorilla trekking experiences that start and end in Kigali, making the journey shorter and more convenient. This option not only saves time but also provides a budget-friendly alternative for an unforgettable safari in Uganda.

Why Start Your Uganda Gorilla Trek from Kigali?

Starting in Kigali cuts the driving time to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park down to 4-5 hours compared to the 8-9 hours from Entebbe. This way, you cross the Rwanda-Uganda border with ease, getting a seamless start to your gorilla trekking adventure. Excursia Adventures offers affordable packages from Kigali, complete with budget-friendly accommodations, experienced English-speaking guides, and comfortable 4×4 safari vehicles.

Gorilla Trekking Sectors in Bwindi from Kigali

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has four trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Each offers unique experiences with diverse landscapes and mountain gorilla families. The southern sectors, Rushaga and Nkuringo, are closest to Rwanda and also offer a chance to combine your trek with golden monkey tracking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Meanwhile, Buhoma and Ruhija in the north are near Queen Elizabeth National Park, allowing you to add game viewing to your itinerary.

Uganda Gorilla Safari Packages from Kigali

1. 2-Day Gorilla Trekking from Kigali – Perfect for a quick adventure, this package includes a gorilla trek in Bwindi and an overnight stay.
2. 3-Day Gorilla Trek from Kigali – Ideal for a more relaxed experience, this tour includes trekking, sightseeing, and comfortable accommodations.
3. 4-Day Double Gorilla Trekking – For gorilla enthusiasts who want more time with these gentle giants, enjoy two treks in Bwindi.
4. 5-Day Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking – Trek for gorillas in Bwindi and follow up with chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest.
5. 8-Day Uganda Gorilla & Wildlife Safari – This comprehensive tour offers a mix of gorilla trekking and wildlife viewing across Uganda’s top national parks.

Best Times for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

While Bwindi is open for trekking all year, the drier months of June to August and December to February are the most popular due to lower rainfall, making forest trails less muddy. Traveling during the rainy seasons (March to May and November) can mean discounts on accommodation and permits, though expect higher chances of rain.

Booking Your Gorilla Permit from Kigali

To confirm your trek, you’ll need a gorilla permit, which costs USD 800 for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for East African residents, and UGX 300000 for East African citizens. Excursia Adventures can handle the booking process, securing your permits through the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Once your dates are set, we’ll tentatively reserve your permits and send an invoice for payment. Upon confirmation, we provide a scanned copy of your permit, finalizing your reservation for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda from Kigali, Rwanda

The best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda, starting from Kigali, Rwanda, is during the dry seasons from January to February and June to early September. During these months, the trails are easier to navigate, and the lower vegetation allows for clearer views of the gorillas. Traveling is generally more convenient, making these periods the most popular for trekking.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

When preparing for a gorilla trek, dressing appropriately can make the experience more comfortable. Here’s what to pack:

• Long-Sleeved Sweater: The forest can get chilly, especially early in the morning.
• Two Pairs of Long Trousers: Durable and comfortable trousers are ideal for trekking through the dense forest.
• Waterproof Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots provide essential support and grip.
• Hat and Sunglasses (Optional): Good to have, especially during the drier months.
• Camera with Extra Batteries: Capture memories of your trek, but remember to turn off the flash.
• Binoculars: These will help you spot the vast bird species and other wildlife in Bwindi.
• Gardening Gloves: These protect your hands when holding onto branches during the trek.
• Raincoat: Bwindi Forest is a rainforest, and rain showers are common and unpredictable.
• Mosquito Repellent: Essential to protect against insects in the forest.
• Sunscreen (Optional): For protection during sunny days.
• Neutral-Colored Clothing: Avoid bright colors, which can disturb or scare the gorillas, and steer clear of black and blue, as these attract tsetse flies.

Where to Stay for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda from Kigali

In the Southern Part of Bwindi (Rushaga and Nkuringo Sectors):

• Rushaga Sector Lodges: Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Four Gorillas Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Nsongi Camp, Icumbi Gorilla Safari Lodge, Gorilla Safari Lodge, Gorilla Valley Lodge, and Karungi Camp.
• Nkuringo Sector Lodges: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Lake Mutanda Resort.

In the Northern Part of Bwindi (Buhoma and Ruhija Sectors):

• Buhoma Sector Lodges: Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Ride 4 a Woman.
• Ruhija Sector Lodges: Trekkers Tavern Cottages, Agandi Eco Lodge, Gift of Nature Lodge, Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge, and Broadbill Tented Camp.

Why Book Your Uganda Gorilla Trekking from Kigali with Excursia Adventures?

Excursia Adventures is a trusted local operator in Uganda specializing in customized safari experiences, including gorilla trekking starting from Kigali. Our experienced team provides quick and thorough responses to inquiries—usually within 20 minutes—and is dedicated to organizing every detail of your trip, from securing permits to arranging comfortable lodges. Our knowledgeable, multilingual guides ensure an enriching and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re interested in a shorter gorilla trek or a comprehensive multi-day safari, Excursia Adventures offers reliable service and tailored itineraries.

Feel free to reach out to us for more details on planning your Uganda gorilla trekking adventure starting from Kigali, Rwanda.