Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari journeys offer the ultimate chance to trek endangered mountain gorillas across two countries in just 6 days. If you’re wondering how permits work, how tough the hikes are, or how the border crossing fits in, don’t worry—this itinerary makes it simple, safe, and incredibly rewarding.
You get two very different gorilla habitats in one seamless trip, plus scenic drives, warm cultural encounters, and lodge comfort when you need it most. We handle the logistics—permits, briefings, timing, and transfers—so you can focus on the thrill of meeting mountain gorillas face-to-face. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or planning your first African adventure, almost anyone can enjoy this 6 day Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari with a bit of preparation and the right mindset.
Table of contents
- Why choose a 6 day Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari?
- 6 day Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari: complete itinerary
- What to expect on your Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari
- Beyond gorillas: wildlife and culture
- Make it happen
Why choose a 6 day Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari?
Your 6 day Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari offers something no single-country trip can match: the opportunity to observe mountain gorillas in two completely different ecosystems. Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest provides a dense, mysterious rainforest setting where nearly half of the world’s remaining wild mountain gorillas live. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park offers a more open, volcanic landscape with different gorilla families and behaviors.
Here’s what makes this combination so special:
- Two unique gorilla trekking experiences in distinct habitats
- Cross-border adventure with seamless logistics handled for you
- Diverse wildlife encounters beyond just gorillas
- Cultural immersion with local communities in both countries
- Professional guidance from experienced local rangers and guides
The Uganda Wildlife Authority and Rwanda Development Board work together to ensure sustainable tourism that directly supports gorilla conservation and local communities.
6 day Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari: complete itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Gateway to Your Adventure
Your 6 day Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari begins the moment you land at Entebbe International Airport. After clearing customs, you’ll transfer to your comfortable lodge overlooking Lake Victoria. If you arrive early enough, consider visiting the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary for an introduction to East Africa’s incredible primates.
The evening provides time to rest, meet your guide, and review the exciting days ahead. Don’t worry about jet lag affecting your gorilla treks: the itinerary is designed to give you time to adjust while building anticipation.
Day 2: Journey to Bwindi – Into Gorilla Country
After breakfast, you’ll begin the scenic drive southwest toward Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The journey takes about 8 hours, but every mile reveals new landscapes: from bustling Kampala to rolling hills, equator crossings, and eventually the misty mountains that house your first gorilla encounter.
You’ll stop for lunch and cultural experiences along the way, including visits to local craft centers where you can support community artisans. By evening, you’ll arrive at our eco-friendly Orugano Bwindi Lodge perched on the edge of Bwindi forest, with the sounds of the jungle as your lullaby.
Day 3: Bwindi Gorilla Trekking – Your First Mountain Gorilla Encounter
Here’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! Your 6 day Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari’s first gorilla trek begins early at the Uganda Wildlife Authority headquarters. After a detailed briefing about gorilla behavior and safety protocols, you’ll join a small group (maximum 8 people) and head into Bwindi’s ancient rainforest.
The trek can take anywhere from 2-6 hours depending on where your assigned gorilla family has nested overnight. Don’t worry about the physical challenge: rangers adjust the pace for your group, and porters are available to carry your gear and provide assistance if needed.
When you finally encounter your gorilla family, you’ll spend a magical hour observing their daily activities: feeding, playing, grooming, and simply being remarkably human-like in their interactions. The experience is indescribable: you’ll understand why this 6 day Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari ranks among the world’s greatest wildlife adventures.
Day 4: Border Crossing to Rwanda – Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast and perhaps a village walk to meet Batwa communities, you’ll begin the journey to Rwanda. The drive to the border at Cyanika takes about 2 hours, where our team handles all border formalities for a smooth crossing.
Once in Rwanda, the landscape transforms dramatically. You’ll notice immediately how different the terrain feels: more organized, terraced hillsides, and the distinctive volcanic peaks of the Virunga Mountains rising ahead. Your lodge near Volcanoes National Park offers stunning mountain views and a completely different atmosphere from Bwindi’s forest setting.
Day 5: Rwanda Gorilla Trekking – A Different Mountain Gorilla Experience
Your second gorilla trek offers a fascinating contrast to the Bwindi experience. Volcanoes National Park’s more open terrain often provides different viewing angles and photography opportunities. The volcanic soil and bamboo forests create a unique ecosystem that supports different vegetation and, consequently, slightly different gorilla behaviors.
After the morning briefing at park headquarters in Kinigi, you’ll trek into the forests where Dian Fossey conducted her pioneering research (today supported by the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund). Some of the gorilla families here are descendants of those she studied, adding historical significance to your encounter.
The afternoon might include golden monkey trekking if energy allows, or cultural visits to local communities involved in gorilla conservation efforts.
Day 6: Kigali Highlights or Departure
Wrap up your Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari with a relaxed morning and choose what suits your energy:
- Kigali city highlights: Genocide Memorial for thoughtful context, Kimironko Market for crafts, or a local coffee stop.
- Scenic transfer only: If you prefer, we drive you directly to Kigali International Airport for your flight.
- Prefer returning to Entebbe? We can arrange a flight via Kigali or a scenic road transfer back to Uganda.
We schedule airport drop-off around your flight time and build in buffer for traffic and security checks. Don’t worry—your guide stays with you until you’re safely checked in.
What to Expect on Your Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Safari
Physical Requirements and Preparation
Don’t worry: you don’t need to be an elite athlete for this 6 day Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari, but moderate fitness helps you enjoy the experience more fully. The treks involve walking on uneven terrain, sometimes steep and muddy, through dense vegetation.
Here’s what we recommend:
- Cardio preparation: Start walking or hiking regularly 2-3 months before your trip
- Proper gear: Sturdy waterproof hiking boots, long pants, rain jacket, and garden gloves
- Mental preparation: Expect 2-6 hours of hiking depending on gorilla locations
- Porter assistance: Always available to carry your pack and provide stability
Best Time for Your Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Safari
Your 6 day Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari works year-round, but timing affects your experience:
Dry seasons (June-September, December-February): Easier trekking conditions, clearer mountain views, but higher demand for permits.
Wet seasons (March-May, October-November): More challenging but often more rewarding: fewer crowds, lush vegetation, and gorillas often closer to park boundaries. Rain gear is essential, but don’t let weather concerns stop you: gorillas live in rainforests for good reason!
Why travel with Orugano Safaris?
Here’s what to consider when choosing a partner for your Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari—and why travelers love us:
- Expert local guides who read the forest and maximize your hour with the gorillas
- Seamless cross-border logistics and 24/7 on-trip support so you never worry about the details
- Eco-friendly stays like our Orugano Bwindi Lodge that uplift local communities
- Flexible, tailor-made options you can extend with chimp trekking, big five safaris, or beach time
- Responsible travel practices aligned with Uganda Wildlife Authority and Rwanda Development Board guidelines
Gorilla Permits and Booking
Gorilla permits are strictly limited and often book months in advance. Uganda permits cost $800 per person, Rwanda permits cost $1,500 per person. We handle all permit arrangements, but early booking is crucial, especially for dry season travel. For the finer details on availability, timing, and what to bring, see our Gorilla Trekking Permit Guide.
Beyond Gorillas: Complete Wildlife and Cultural Experiences
Additional Wildlife Encounters
Your 6 day Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari includes much more than gorilla trekking. Depending on your specific itinerary, you might encounter:
- Chimpanzees in Kibale Forest or Nyungwe National Park
- Golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park bamboo forests
- Birds: Over 1,000 species between the two countries
- Forest elephants and buffalo during your treks
- Antelope species unique to montane forests
Cultural Connections
Both countries offer rich cultural experiences that enhance your Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari:
- Batwa pygmy communities sharing traditional forest knowledge
- Village visits to see how conservation benefits local people
- Traditional dancing and crafts in local community centers
- Coffee farm visits in Rwanda’s highlands
For more inspiration on East African wildlife, check out our comprehensive guide to animals of Uganda and consider extending your adventure with our 3-day Bwindi gorilla safari add-on.
Making Your Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Safari Dreams Reality
Ready to book your 6 day Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari? Here’s what comes next:
Contact us early to secure gorilla permits for your preferred dates. Peak season permits often sell out 6-12 months in advance, so don’t wait.
Consider your fitness level honestly and start preparing with regular walking or hiking. The better your preparation, the more you’ll enjoy every moment in the forests.
Think about extending your adventure with our other East African experiences like the 5-day golden monkey gorilla safari or comprehensive Uganda Rwanda Kenya safari.
Your 6 day Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari represents more than just a vacation: it’s a life-changing encounter with some of our planet’s most endangered and remarkable creatures, combined with meaningful support for conservation efforts and local communities.
We’re here to answer all your questions about gorilla trekking requirements, permit availability, and customizing your 6 day Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari to match your interests and timeline perfectly. Contact our team today to start planning your mountain gorilla adventure!