Gorilla Tour from Kigali

Gorilla Tour from Kigali: Your Ultimate Uganda Safari Experience

Are you planning to embark on a gorilla trek from Kigali? With Trek Africa Gorillas, it’s easier than ever! We specialize in securing gorilla permits throughout the year, even during the busy high season (June to September), when permits can be hard to come by. During this time, many travelers flock to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking and permits often sell out quickly. Avoid the hassle and let us handle your booking. Contact us today to secure your permits and ensure a smooth and memorable trek.

Why Choose a Gorilla Tour from Kigali?

Our gorilla tours from Kigali are perfect for those looking to start and end their journey in Rwanda. With a more budget-friendly approach compared to trekking in Rwanda (where permits cost USD 1500), you can visit Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for just USD 800. The added bonus? You’ll save money while still experiencing the magic of gorilla trekking.

The drive from Kigali to Bwindi takes only 4-5 hours, making it much shorter than the 8-9 hour journey from Entebbe. This means less travel time and more time to enjoy Uganda’s incredible wildlife.

Trek Africa Gorillas is one of the leading tour operators for Uganda and Rwanda and we’re highly recommended on TripAdvisor. Our experienced safari designers are based in our head office in Entebbe, ready to provide expert advice and timely information. Once you’re in Uganda, we’ll assign a professional, English-speaking guide to show you the beauty of the country. Our goal is to make your experience seamless and unforgettable.

Best Places for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is primarily done in two national parks: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Within Bwindi, there are four trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga.

• Buhoma and Ruhija: Located in the northern and northeastern parts of Bwindi, these sectors are close to Queen Elizabeth National Park, making it easy to combine gorilla trekking with game viewing.
• Rushaga and Nkuringo: Found in the southern part of the park, these sectors are close to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which is also famous for golden monkey tracking.

Bwindi is home to over 15 habituated gorilla families and each sector has different families to trek. Rushaga, in particular, boasts the highest number of habituated families, offering more options for trekkers.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: A Unique Experience

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the oldest forests in Africa, teeming with diverse wildlife. With over 350 bird species, 310 butterfly species and 120 mammals, the park is a paradise for nature lovers. The park is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, with a population of around 1064 individuals.

Each day, eight permits are allocated per gorilla family, allowing you to spend one hour with these magnificent creatures once you’ve located them on your trek.

How Much is a Gorilla Tour from Kigali?

• Gorilla Permit: USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for East African residents and USD 80 for East African citizens.
• 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tour from Kigali: USD 1390 per person (all-inclusive).

The price covers your gorilla permit, transport, accommodation, meals and a guide, offering a comprehensive and unforgettable experience.

How to Book Your Gorilla Tour from Kigali

Booking your gorilla trek from Kigali is simple with Trek Africa Gorillas. First, secure your gorilla permit through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). You can purchase your permit either at UWA’s headquarters in Kampala or the Kisoro branch, which is just a 1-2 hour drive from Bwindi.

Trek Africa Gorillas can assist with booking your permit in advance. Once you confirm your travel dates, simply send them to us via email or WhatsApp. We’ll tentatively reserve your permits online, send you an invoice and once payment is made, we’ll finalize the purchase and send you scanned copies of your permits for your records. This ensures that your trek is confirmed and stress-free.

What is the Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

The best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the drier months of January, February and from June to early September. These months are ideal for trekking because the weather is more manageable, making travel to the park easier and the gorilla viewing clearer. With less rainfall, the vegetation is not as dense, giving you better visibility for spotting the gorillas.

What to Wear During Your Gorilla Trek from Kigali

Wondering what to wear for your gorilla trek? Here’s a practical guide to help you prepare:

• Long-sleeved sweater: The temperature in the park can be chilly, so layering is key.
• Two pairs of long trousers: These will protect you from scratches and insects while trekking through the forest.
• Waterproof hiking boots: The terrain can be muddy, so sturdy waterproof boots are essential.
• Hat and sunglasses: These are optional but helpful, especially if the weather is sunny.
• Camera and spare batteries: Capturing memories is a must but remember to keep your flash off to avoid disturbing the gorillas.
• Binoculars: A great way to spot birds and other wildlife in Bwindi’s rich biodiversity.
• Gardening gloves: Helpful for gripping trees and branches during your trek.
• Raincoat: Bwindi is a rainforest and the rain can be unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared.
• Mosquito repellent: Essential for avoiding insect bites in the forest.
• Sunscreen: Depending on the season, the sun can be intense, so protecting your skin is important.
• Neutral colors: Avoid bright colors, which may startle the gorillas and steer clear of black or blue, as they attract Tsetse flies.

Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda takes place in two main regions of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: the northern Buhoma and Ruhija sectors and the southern Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors. Here are some great accommodation options:

• In Rushaga: Stay at Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Four Gorillas Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge or Gorilla Safari Lodge, all conveniently located near the trekking starting points.
• In Nkuringo: Enjoy your stay at Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge or Lake Mutanda Resort, all close to trekking points.
• In Buhoma: Options include Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge and Buhoma Community Rest Camp.
• In Ruhija: You can stay at Trekkers Tavern Cottages, Agandi Eco Lodge or Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge.

Each of these lodges provides comfortable accommodations close to the trekking starting points, making your gorilla trek experience more convenient and enjoyable.

Why Book Your Gorilla Tour from Kigali with Trek Africa Gorillas?

Trek Africa Gorillas is a trusted local tour operator in Uganda, specializing in custom gorilla trekking tours from Kigali. We take pride in offering personalized experiences to ensure your trip is seamless and unforgettable.

Why choose us?

• Quick and reliable service: We respond to inquiries within 20 minutes, ensuring that your queries are handled promptly.
• Tailored travel plans: Our team of professional tour consultants will create a personalized itinerary and handle all bookings in advance, so you don’t have to worry about anything.
• Experienced guides: We offer knowledgeable safari guides who can speak your preferred language, ensuring you have an informative and comfortable trek.

For a smooth and memorable gorilla tour experience, contact us today to start planning your adventure from Kigali!