How to Get to Bwindi to Visit the Gorillas

How to Get to Bwindi to Visit the Gorillas

If you’re planning to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda for gorilla trekking, there are several ways to get there, whether by road or air. Here’s everything you need to know about how to reach this incredible destination.

Getting to Bwindi by Road

The most common and scenic way to reach Bwindi is by road. If you’re coming from Kigali, Rwanda, the journey will take about 4-5 hours. This is a shorter drive compared to traveling from Uganda’s capital, Kampala, or Entebbe, which takes about 8-9 hours. The drive from Kigali is relatively straightforward, and you will pass through beautiful landscapes, making the road trip an adventure in itself.

To reach the southern sector of Bwindi, take the Kabale-Kisoro road and turn off at Muko, where you’ll find the Uganda Wildlife Authority sign. From there, follow the road to your accommodation in the Rushaga or Nkuringo sectors, depending on where you’re staying for your gorilla trek.

Getting to Bwindi by Air

For those looking to save time, flying is the quickest option. Scheduled and chartered flights are available from Entebbe International Airport or Kampala’s Kajjansi airfield to Kisoro airstrip. The flight duration is just 1-2 hours, and once you arrive at Kisoro, you’ll be picked up and transferred to your lodge in Bwindi for your gorilla trekking adventure.

Both Aero Link and Fly Uganda offer these flights. Be sure to coordinate with your tour operator to arrange airport transfers to the park.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and there are different ways to plan your trek, whether you are based in Rwanda or Uganda. Trek Africa Expeditions offers personalized itineraries to make sure your trip is smooth, memorable, and tailored to your preferences.

Cost of Gorilla Permits in Bwindi

Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda are available for $800 per person for foreign non-residents, $700 for residents, and $80 for East African citizens. The permit allows you to spend one hour with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Uganda has 17 habituated gorilla families, 16 of which are in Bwindi, and one in Mgahinga. This means that 136 permits are available each day. If you’d like to spend more time with the gorillas, you can opt for the Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi, where you get a 4-hour encounter for $1500 per person.

Permits can be booked directly through Uganda Wildlife Authority or via trusted tour operators like Trek Africa Expeditions.

Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years, and the maximum age is typically 85 years, depending on fitness levels. For older travelers or those with mobility issues, Bwindi offers sedan chair carriers to assist with the trek. These are carried by potters and can be hired for $400-$500, either in advance or on the day of the trek.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

While gorilla trekking in Uganda is possible year-round, the best time to visit is during the drier months—January, February, June, July, August, and September. These months provide easier access to the park and offer clearer views of the gorillas, as the vegetation is not as thick.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding, and it’s important to be prepared for various conditions in the forest. Here’s a list of recommended items to pack:

• Insect Repellent
• Torch/Flashlight (and spare batteries)
• Water Bottle
• Comfortable Hiking Boots (with socks)
• Gardening Gloves (for grip and protection)
• Long Sleeve Shirt & Trousers (to protect from nettles and insects)
• Rain Jacket & Sweater/Fleece (the weather can be unpredictable)
• Hat & Sunscreen
• Camera and Binoculars
• Swimwear (if your accommodation has a pool)

Make sure to dress in layers and bring enough water, as trekking can be strenuous and the weather can vary.

Why Book with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we organize unforgettable gorilla trekking safaris. Whether you want to explore Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, we offer a range of safari packages that fit your budget and preferences. Our expert team is committed to providing outstanding service and ensuring your trip is as seamless and memorable as possible.

We can assist with the entire booking process, from securing permits to arranging accommodations and transfers. Our past guests rave about their experiences, and we invite you to read our TripAdvisor reviews to learn more about our excellent service.

With Trek Africa Expeditions, you can be confident that you’ll have a safe, enjoyable, and transformative gorilla trekking experience in Uganda, Rwanda, or DR Congo. Contact us today to start planning your adventure!