Uganda Gorilla Safari from Kigali, Rwanda

Uganda Gorilla Safari from Kigali, Rwanda

Trek Africa Expeditions offers the best Uganda Gorilla Safari from Kigali, Rwanda, providing a seamless journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Starting and ending in Kigali, our safaris are designed to take you to Uganda’s top wildlife destinations, including gorilla trekking, while offering a convenient and budget-friendly travel experience.

By crossing the border from Rwanda to Uganda, you can reduce travel time significantly. The drive from Kigali to Bwindi takes only 4-5 hours, compared to the 8-9 hours required from Entebbe, Uganda. This makes our Uganda gorilla safari from Kigali the perfect choice for travelers seeking a quicker route to encounter the endangered mountain gorillas.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Gorilla Trekking Tour?

When you book a Uganda Gorilla Safari with Trek Africa Expeditions, you’re guaranteed the best value for your money. We offer all-inclusive packages that cover comfortable, budget-friendly accommodations, a 4×4 safari van with a pop-up roof for a smooth and enjoyable journey, and the services of an experienced, English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout your trip.

Our knowledgeable team will also provide expert advice to help you plan your Uganda safari, ensuring a hassle-free experience. As one of the top-rated tour operators on TripAdvisor, we are committed to making your gorilla trekking experience unforgettable.

The Best Gorilla Trekking in Uganda from Kigali

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is primarily done in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, which is divided into four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga. Each sector offers a unique experience and is home to several habituated mountain gorilla families. Rushaga is particularly notable for having multiple families, providing a higher chance of encountering the gorillas.

• Buhoma and Ruhija are located in the northern part of Bwindi and are closer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, allowing you to combine gorilla trekking with game viewing if you choose to trek in these sectors.
• Nkuringo and Rushaga are in the southern part of Bwindi, near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which is also home to golden monkeys.

Both Bwindi and Mgahinga are among the only four national parks in the world where you can see mountain gorillas, the others being Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Cost of a Uganda Gorilla Safari from Kigali

• Gorilla Permits:
  • USD 800 for foreign non-residents
  • USD 700 for East African residents
  • UGX 300,000 for East African citizens

Your gorilla permit allows you to spend one hour with the mountain gorillas once you find them during your trek. A 3-day Uganda gorilla safari from Kigali costs USD 1,290 per person, including all transportation, accommodation, and park fees.

How to Book Your Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari

Booking your gorilla trek requires securing a gorilla permit in advance, as permits are limited. Trek Africa Expeditions can help you purchase your gorilla permit directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), either through their Kisoro office (for those traveling via Kigali) or Kampala office (for travelers arriving via Entebbe).

Once you confirm your travel dates, we will:

1. Reserve your gorilla permits.
2. Send you an invoice for payment.
3. Upon receipt of payment, we will purchase your gorilla permits and send you the scanned copies for your records.

We aim to secure your gorilla permits as soon as possible, even during the high season when permits tend to sell out quickly. Avoid the hassle of missing out and let us handle all the details for you!

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The ideal time for gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the drier months: January, February, and from June to early September. During these months, the weather is more favorable, making it easier to travel to the parks and providing clearer views of the gorillas as the vegetation is less dense.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Wondering what to wear for your gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda? Here’s a list of essentials to keep you comfortable and safe during your trek:

• Long-sleeved sweater: It can get chilly in the mornings and evenings, especially in the high-altitude areas.
• Two pairs of long trousers: Protect your legs from the forest’s underbrush and potential insect bites.
• Waterproof hiking boots: The terrain can be muddy and slippery, so sturdy, waterproof footwear is a must.
• Hat and sunglasses: These are optional but useful to protect yourself from the sun, especially in the dry season.
• Camera with extra batteries: Capture your unforgettable moments, but remember to turn off the flash to avoid disturbing the gorillas.
• Binoculars: If you’re a birdwatching enthusiast, binoculars will help you spot the many species of birds and other wildlife in Bwindi Forest.
• Gardening gloves: These can help you grip trees and branches while navigating through the dense forest.
• Raincoat: Bwindi is a rainforest, and rain can come unexpectedly, so be prepared.
• Mosquito repellent: Protect yourself from insects, as the forest is home to various bugs.
• Sunscreen: Depending on the season, it can get sunny, so applying sunscreen can help prevent sunburn.

What to Avoid:

• Avoid wearing bright colors, as they may disturb the gorillas.
• Black and blue are also not recommended, as they attract tsetse flies. Neutral colors like greens and browns are ideal.

Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

When visiting Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for gorilla trekking, there are several accommodation options near the trekking starting points.

Southern Bwindi (Rushaga & Nkuringo Sectors):

• Rushaga Gorilla Camp
• Four Gorillas Lodge
• Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
• Icumbi Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
• Lake Mutanda Resort

Northern Bwindi (Buhoma & Ruhija Sectors):

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

Each of these lodges offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to the trekking start points, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Why Book Your Uganda Gorilla Safari from Kigali with Trek Africa Expeditions?

Trek Africa Expeditions is a trusted local tour operator in Uganda, specializing in customized safaris. We proudly offer seamless Uganda gorilla safari packages from Kigali, Rwanda, providing an exceptional and hassle-free experience.

Our team is dedicated to providing prompt, reliable service. We respond to inquiries within 20 minutes and work with you to design a personalized travel plan, ensuring all your bookings are handled in advance. Our knowledgeable tour consultants are available to answer all your questions and help you plan the perfect gorilla trekking safari.

Whether you’re looking for a short 11-day tour or a longer 25-day adventure, we offer a variety of packages to suit your preferences. Rest assured that you will be accompanied by experienced safari guides who speak your preferred language.

Contact Trek Africa Expeditions today to start planning your Uganda gorilla safari from Kigali, Rwanda. We’re here to make your dream safari a reality!