Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Starting and Ending in Rwanda

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Starting and Ending in Rwanda

Planning to experience the thrill of gorilla trekking in Uganda while starting and ending your journey in Rwanda? At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in organizing unforgettable gorilla trekking tours to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, tailored to your preferences. Our tours are designed for those who want the convenience of shorter travel times, crossing from Kigali, Rwanda, into Uganda, and then back.

Starting your gorilla trekking adventure in Kigali can cut down the drive time to Bwindi to just 4–5 hours compared to the 8–9 hours from Entebbe, Uganda. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly trip or a more luxurious safari experience, our packages ensure you get the most memorable experience without breaking the bank.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Gorilla Trekking Tour?

When you book with Trek Africa Expeditions, you can expect:

• Expert Pre-Tour Advice: We’ll guide you through every step of planning, helping you secure gorilla permits and arrange an affordable, stress-free safari.
• All-Inclusive Packages: Our tours include budget-friendly accommodations, comfortable 4×4 safari vans with pop-up roofs for the best views, and experienced English-speaking driver-guides.
• Professional Support: Our highly trained safari designers are always available to provide timely and relevant advice.

We’ve earned a solid reputation as one of the top tour operators in Uganda and Rwanda, with glowing reviews on TripAdvisor. From the moment you inquire to the end of your safari, you’ll experience exceptional service tailored to your needs.

What to Expect on a Gorilla Trekking Tour from Kigali

Starting your safari in Kigali offers seamless access to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, two of the four parks in the world that are home to endangered mountain gorillas. Bwindi alone hosts nearly half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, with over 15 habituated gorilla families available for trekking.

Popular Gorilla Trekking Sectors in Bwindi:

• Buhoma (North) and Ruhija (Northeast): These sectors are closer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, making them ideal for combining gorilla trekking with game viewing.
• Rushaga and Nkuringo (South): Located near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, these sectors are perfect for those looking to include golden monkey tracking in their itinerary.

Each sector has its own unique features and habituated gorilla families, with Rushaga hosting the largest number of gorilla groups.

What Makes Bwindi Forest Unique?

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is not just about gorillas—it’s one of Africa’s oldest and most biodiverse forests. Home to over 350 bird species, 310 butterflies, 200 tree species, and 120 mammals (including chimpanzees and L’Hoest’s monkeys), it’s a haven for nature enthusiasts.

The global population of mountain gorillas is around 1,064, and approximately half of them live in Bwindi. Trekking here offers an extraordinary chance to connect with these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Cost?

• Gorilla Permit Costs:
  • $800 for Foreign Non-Residents
  • $700 for East African Residents
  • UGX300,000 for East African Citizens

A permit allows you to spend one magical hour observing a gorilla family in their natural environment.

• Tour Costs:
  A 3-day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tour from Kigali costs approximately $1,290 per person, inclusive of permits, transportation, accommodation, and guide services.

Popular Gorilla Trekking Itineraries from Kigali

We offer a variety of tailored itineraries to suit different interests and schedules, including:

1. 2-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Through Kigali
2. 3-Day Gorilla Habituation Experience
3. 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Safari from Kigali
4. 4-Day Gorilla and Golden Monkey Safari
5. 4-Day Double Gorilla Trekking Experience
6. 5-Day Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari
7. 8-Day Ultimate Uganda Safari

These itineraries allow you to explore Uganda’s natural wonders while maximizing your time and comfort.

How to Book Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Starting from Rwanda

Booking a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda while starting your journey in Rwanda is straightforward with Trek Africa Expeditions. Here’s how to secure your permits and plan your trip seamlessly:

Step 1: Secure Your Gorilla Permit

A gorilla trekking permit is essential and must be booked in advance to confirm your trek. Permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), and there are two convenient options depending on your entry point:

• From Kampala: If you’re entering Uganda through Entebbe, permits can be purchased at UWA headquarters in Kampala.
• From Kigali: For travelers starting in Kigali, permits can be secured at UWA’s branch office in Kisoro, which is just a 1-2 hour drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Alternatively, let Trek Africa Expeditions handle it for you. Simply share your desired trekking dates via email or WhatsApp, and we’ll tentatively reserve your permits. Once payment is made, we’ll confirm your booking and send you scanned copies of your permits for your records.

When Is the Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

The ideal time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry seasons:

• January to February
• June to early September

These months are characterized by drier conditions, making it easier to hike through the forest and enjoy unobstructed views of the gorillas due to less dense vegetation.

What to Wear During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Wondering what to pack for your gorilla trek? Here’s a list of recommended essentials to ensure a comfortable and successful experience:

1. Long-Sleeved Sweater: The forest can get cold, especially in the mornings.
2. Long Trousers (2 pairs): For protection from thorns and insects.
3. Waterproof Hiking Boots: Essential for trekking through uneven and sometimes muddy terrain.
4. Hat and Sunglasses: Optional but useful, depending on the weather.
5. Raincoat: Bwindi is a rainforest, so rain is unpredictable.
6. Gardening Gloves: Handy for gripping trees or branches during the trek.
7. Insect Repellent: To protect against mosquitoes and other forest insects.
8. Sunscreen: Useful during sunny weather to prevent sunburn.
9. Neutral-Colored Clothing: Avoid bright colors, which can scare the gorillas, and black/blue, as these attract tsetse flies.
10. Binoculars: Great for spotting birds and other wildlife.
11. Camera and Extra Batteries: Photography is key to capturing memories, but remember to turn off the flash.

Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Accommodation options near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park vary depending on the trekking sector:

Southern Sector (Rushaga & Nkuringo)

• Rushaga: Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Four Gorillas Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Gorilla Valley Lodge, Karungi Camp.
• Nkuringo: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Lake Mutanda Resort.

Northern Sector (Buhoma & Ruhija)

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

These lodges are strategically located near the trekking start points, ensuring convenience and ease of access.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we pride ourselves on offering personalized and seamless safari experiences. Here’s why travelers trust us:

• Tailor-Made Safaris: Every trip is customized to suit your preferences, from budget-friendly to luxury options.
• Quick Response Time: Our professional consultants respond to your inquiries within 20 minutes, ensuring timely assistance.
• Expert Planning: We handle everything—from securing permits to booking accommodations—to save you time and hassle.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Our experienced safari guides will ensure you have a memorable and informative journey.
• Language Options: Guides are available to match your preferred language.

Whether you’re planning a short gorilla trekking tour or an extended safari (e.g., 11-Day Uganda Gorilla Tour through Kigali or 25-Day Uganda Gorilla Safari), we’ll ensure every detail is covered for an unforgettable adventure.

Contact Us to Plan Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure

If you’re ready to experience the magic of gorilla trekking in Uganda while starting and ending your journey in Rwanda, let Trek Africa Expeditions take care of everything. Contact us today via email or WhatsApp, and we’ll create a personalized itinerary that matches your travel goals. Don’t wait—secure your permits now and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!