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4 Day Bwindi Double Gorilla Trek through Kigali

Overview

Our 4 Day Bwindi Double Gorilla Trek through Kigali is designed for those interested in trekking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park while staying in Rwanda. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience gorilla trekking twice, allowing them to compare different gorilla families or spend more time with these incredible creatures on separate days. Additionally, it offers a shorter drive time by flying into Kigali instead of Entebbe International Airport. The journey from Kigali to Ruhija is only 4-5 hours, compared to the 8-9 hours drive from Entebbe. For those flying out of Kigali, we recommend booking late departure flights.

Itinerary Summary

Day 1: Pickup from Kigali City/Airport and transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Day 2: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day 3: Optional Second Gorilla Trek, Gorilla Habituation Experience or Forest Walk
Day 4: Drive to Kigali Airport for your flight out

Highlights

Destination: Uganda via Kigali
Tour Duration: Starts and ends in Kigali, Rwanda
Main Attraction: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Activities: Gorilla tracking
Transportation: Open-sided 4×4 vehicle & pop-up roof 4×4 vehicle
Transfers: Included from and back to the airport (or hotel)
Accommodation: Additional accommodation before and after the tour can be arranged at an extra cost

Things to Consider

Accommodation: Inclusive
Group Size: Maximum of 6 people per group
Flexibility: Tour can depart any day and be customized
Solo Travelers: Welcome to join this tour
Age Limit: 15 years and above

TRIP ITINERARY

Tour Plan

Day 1

Pick Up from Kigali Airport/Hotel and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kigali International Airport or your hotel through Rwanda's picturesque landscapes to the "Pearl of Africa" – Uganda. You’ll cross the border into Uganda at either Katuna or Chanika, with a stop at Kabale town (Katuna) or Kisoro (Chanika) before continuing to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for an overnight stay.

Meal Plan: All Meals Included
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge or Trekkers Tavern Lodge

Day 2

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After breakfast, with your packed lunch in hand, you'll head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking. Your guide will explain the dos and don’ts during your encounter with the mountain gorillas. After the briefing, you’ll be transferred to the starting point for your gorilla family trek. The allocation of gorilla families is based on your preferences, fitness level, and age—be sure to communicate your interests to your guide. Gorilla trekking can range from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. As you trek through the forest, your guide will provide insights into the flora, birdlife, and other wildlife. Once you reach the gorillas, you'll have one hour to observe and photograph them as they go about their daily lives. Afterward, you'll return to the park headquarters to collect your trekking certificate and then head back to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Meals: All Meals Included
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge or Trekkers Tavern Lodge

Day 3

Optional Second Gorilla Trek, Gorilla Habituation Experience, or Forest Walk

On this day, you have the option to embark on a second gorilla trek, experience gorilla habituation, or take a guided forest walk in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. After breakfast and with your packed lunch, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking. Your guide will explain the essential dos and don’ts for interacting with mountain gorillas. Following the briefing, you will be transferred to the starting point for your trek.

Please note that gorilla family allocation is based on your preferences, fitness level, and age. Inform your guide of your interests, and they will make every effort to request the gorilla family of your choice before you begin your trek. Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding, and the duration may range from 30 minutes to several hours. Be prepared for both possibilities. During your trek, your guide will offer insights into the forest's flora, birdlife, and other wildlife until you reach your designated gorilla family.

You will have one hour to observe and photograph the mountain gorillas as they go about their daily activities. After your encounter, you will trek back to the park headquarters to collect your trekking certificate, followed by dinner and overnight at your lodge.

Meals: All Meals Included
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge or Trekkers Tavern Lodge

Day 4

Drive to Kigali Airport

After breakfast, you'll drive back to Kigali Airport for your departure, concluding your 3-day Uganda gorilla safari via Kigali.

Meal Plan: All Meals Included

INCLUDES & EXCLUDES

Includes

Airport transfers on the first and last day
Gorilla Permits
Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
Services of an English-speaking driver/guide
Fuel for the entire trip
Accommodation and meal plan as per the itinerary
All Park entrance fees
Drinking water while in the vehicle

Excludes

Pre and post tour accommodation in Entebbe or Kampala
International airfares
Uganda Visa (USD50.00 which can be paid on arrival at the Airport

TOUR MAP

GENERAL FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the safari package include?

Our safari packages are designed to cover the key services needed for a comfortable and hassle-free trip. Depending on the itinerary, this may include accommodation, transportation, park entrance fees, professional guide services, meals and scheduled activities. A detailed list of inclusions will always be provided before you confirm your booking.

How do I book a safari with Trek Africa Gorillas?

Booking your safari is simple. Contact us with your preferred travel dates, number of travelers and the safari package you are interested in. Once availability is confirmed, we will send you a quotation and payment details. Your booking is secured once the required deposit has been received.

Can I customize my safari itinerary?

Yes. Every traveler has different interests, budgets and travel styles. Whether you would like to upgrade your accommodation, spend additional nights in a destination or add activities such as chimpanzee tracking, cultural visits or wildlife safaris, we can tailor the itinerary to suit your needs.

Are gorilla trekking permits included in the safari price?

Most of our gorilla trekking safaris include the cost of the gorilla permit. The permit is one of the most important parts of your trip and will be clearly listed in your quotation. If a permit is not included, we will explain this before you make your booking.

How far in advance should I book gorilla trekking permits?

We recommend booking gorilla permits at least 3 to 6 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the peak seasons from June to September or December to February. Permits are limited and can sell out quickly, particularly in popular trekking sectors.

What is the best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking is available throughout the year in Uganda. Many travelers prefer the dry seasons from June to September and December to February because the trails are generally easier to navigate. However, the rainy seasons can also be rewarding, with fewer visitors and lush green scenery in the forest.

How difficult is gorilla trekking?

The difficulty of gorilla trekking varies depending on the location of the gorilla family being visited. Some treks may take less than an hour while others can last several hours through steep and forested terrain. A moderate level of fitness is recommended, but people of different ages and fitness levels successfully complete gorilla treks every day.

What should I pack for gorilla trekking?

For gorilla trekking, we recommend bringing sturdy hiking boots, long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, a lightweight rain jacket, gardening gloves, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, drinking water and a camera. Comfortable outdoor clothing is highly recommended as conditions in the forest can change quickly.

Do I need a visa to visit Uganda?

Most international travelers require a visa to enter Uganda. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, and our team will be happy to provide guidance on the application process and entry requirements before your trip.

What type of accommodation can I expect during my safari?

We offer carefully selected budget, mid-range and luxury accommodation options across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania. Our lodges and camps are chosen for their comfort, quality service, excellent locations and easy access to major safari attractions.

Are airport transfers included in the safari package?

Airport transfers are included in many of our safari packages. If they are not included, we can arrange private transfers for you. We will clearly explain all transportation arrangements before your arrival.

Is travel insurance required for a safari?

While travel insurance is not always mandatory, it is strongly recommended for all travelers. Comprehensive coverage can help protect you against unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, travel delays and lost luggage.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellation terms vary depending on the safari package, accommodation providers and permits involved. If you need to cancel your trip, please contact us as soon as possible and we will explain the options available based on our booking terms and conditions.

Can children join a safari in Uganda?

Many of our wildlife safaris are suitable for families traveling with children. However, some activities have age restrictions. For example, participants must be at least 15 years old to take part in gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda.

Can solo travelers book a safari?

Yes. We welcome solo travelers and can arrange both private and group safari experiences. Whether you are planning a gorilla trekking tour, wildlife safari or multi-country adventure, we can create an itinerary that matches your travel preferences.

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