2 Day Gorilla Trekking Uganda from Kigali in Rwanda

Here’s a detailed itinerary for a 2-day gorilla trekking experience in Uganda, starting and ending in Kigali, Rwanda. A two day gorilla safari experience in Uganda typically involves exploring one of the country’s renowned national parks, like Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Here is a general itinerary for a 2-day gorilla tour in Uganda.

Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Morning

Pickup in Kigali: Begin your journey with a morning pickup from your accommodation or Kigali International Airport in Rwanda.

City Tour (Optional): If time allows, take a brief tour of Kigali, visiting landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial to learn about Rwanda’s history.

Drive to Uganda: Depart for Uganda through the Katuna or Cyanika border posts, depending on your route. The drive takes about 4-5 hours to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This trip is doable with either parks.

Afternoon

Scenic Drive: Enjoy breathtaking views of the rolling hills of Rwanda, the Virunga Mountains, and the lush Ugandan countryside en route.

Arrival in Bwindi: Check in to your lodge or tented camp near the park. Popular options include Ruhija, Nkuringo or Rushaga sectors, depending on your allocated gorilla trekking permit. Note that a short tour from Kigali to Uganda is well done with only three out of the four gorilla trekking sectors of Bwindi. Buhoma sector is far in the north of the park and not well accessible from Kigali.

Evening

Dinner and Briefing: Relax with dinner at your lodge, followed by a pre-trekking briefing by your guide. They will provide essential information about the next day’s trek.

Overnight Stay: Rest early in preparation for an adventurous day ahead.

Accommodation Options:

• Luxury: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
• Midrange: Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge
• Budget: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking and Return to Kigali

Early Morning

Breakfast and Trek Preparation: Enjoy an early breakfast at your lodge and prepare for the trek. Wear sturdy boots, long-sleeved clothing, and pack essentials like water, snacks, and rain gear.

Briefing at the Park Headquarters: Join fellow trekkers for an orientation by the park rangers. Learn about gorilla trekking rules, safety protocols, and expected behavior near the gorillas.

Morning to Midday

Gorilla Trekking: Embark on the trek, which can last 2-8 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family. Once located, you’ll spend a magical hour observing these incredible primates in their natural habitat. Capture photos, observe their interactions, and immerse yourself in the experience.

Afternoon

Return and Lunch: Trek back to the park headquarters, where you will receive a certificate of participation in a gorilla adventure. Enjoy a packed lunch or a meal at a local lodge before preparing for the return journey.

Late Afternoon to Evening

Drive Back to Kigali: Depart Bwindi for Kigali, enjoying more scenic views along the way. Cross the border back into Rwanda and continue to Kigali.

End of Tour: Drop-off at your hotel or Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.

Inclusions in the Trip

• Gorilla trekking permit at $800 per person
• Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
• English-speaking guide/driver
• Meals and accommodations as per itinerary
• Border crossing fees (if applicable)

Exclusions

• International flights
• Visa fees
• Personal expenses (souvenirs, tips, etc.)
• Optional Kigali city tour costs

This itinerary is compact yet allows you to experience the unforgettable magic of gorilla trekking in Uganda while starting and finishing in Rwanda.