Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali Airport Rwanda and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Arrive at Kigali International Airport in the morning, where you’ll be welcomed by our Gorilla Safaris Uganda (G S Uganda Travel) representative for a briefing on the gorilla safari trip in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Uganda via kigali. 

Enjoy breakfast at a local hotel or restaurant before setting out for an optional Kigali City Tour. You can visit key sites such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial or Kimironko Market for a glimpse into Rwandan culture.

Around 10:00 AM, depart Kigali for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, crossing the border at Kyanika or Katuna. The scenic drive takes about 4-5 hours, offering picturesque views of the Rwandan and Ugandan countryside.

After completing border formalities, continue toward Bwindi with a lunch stop in Kisoro, a local Ugandan town.

Arrive at your lodge in the Buhoma or Ruhija sector, check-in, and relax amidst the stunning forest views. If time permits, consider a community walk to visit the local Batwa pygmies or enjoy a nature walk.

Overnight:

• • Luxury: Buhoma Lodge, Mahogany Springs Lodge, Gorilla Forest Camp
  • Mid-range: Silverback Lodge, Engagi Lodge
  • Budget: Buhoma Community Rest Camp

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Return to Kigali

Start your day with an early breakfast at the lodge around 6:00 AM to prepare for the gorilla trek. By 7:30 AM, proceed to the park headquarters for a pre-trek briefing from Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers. During the briefing, you will be assigned to a gorilla family and briefed on trekking rules and safety guidelines.

At around 8:00 AM, begin your gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The trek may take 2 to 6 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family. You will walk through dense rainforest, steep slopes, and sometimes muddy terrain until you find the gorillas. Once located, you will enjoy one unforgettable hour observing them in their natural habitat under the guidance of the rangers.

After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and a short rest. Later, freshen up, collect your belongings, and prepare for the return journey to Kigali.

Depart Bwindi and drive back to Kigali through the same border crossing. The journey usually takes about 4 to 5 hours, depending on border formalities.

Arrive at Kigali International Airport in time for your onward flight. If time allows, you may do some light shopping for Rwandan crafts or coffee before departure.

End of 2 Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking via Kigali:

Gorilla Permits and Booking

A gorilla trekking permit is required for this safari. For foreign non-residents, the current permit price is USD 800 per person. The permit covers the trekking experience, ranger guidance, park entry on the trekking day, and one unforgettable hour with the gorillas.

Gorilla permits are limited, so early booking is highly recommended, especially in peak seasons. Our packages may also include accommodation, transport, airport transfers, meals, and a professional driver-guide, depending on the safari arrangement.

What to Bring:

• Hiking boots for navigating rugged terrain.
• Waterproof jacket or poncho for Bwindi’s unpredictable weather.
• Gaiters to protect your legs from mud and insects.
• Gardening gloves to grip trees and avoid scratches.
• Water and snacks to stay energized during the trek.
• Camera with extra batteries (without flash).