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Kigali, Rwanda
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Kigali Rwanda
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Private Vehicle
Overview
Take a quick adventure in Uganda and go on an exciting journey to meet some of the world’s most endangered primates– the majestic mountain gorillas. See Uganda’s unique wildlife, including birds, frogs, and butterflies, while hiking through the dense jungle with an expert local tracker. The first sight of these incredible gorillas will steal your heart, making every step of the challenging trek worth it.
Highlights
- Trek through mountainous forest terrain in search of a gorilla family in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and spend an unforgettable hour watching them play!
- Learn about the lives of the indigenous Batwa Pygmy People as they share their traditional survival skills, from foraging to fire-making, while supporting their community and preserving their heritage.
- Have the option to purchase a second gorilla permit, doubling your experience of watching the great male silverback in the wild!
Itinerary
You’ll be greeted at Kigali International Airport or your hotel by our company representative, who will drive you across the Rwanda-Uganda border to Bwindi National Park in Uganda. Upon arrival at Orugano Bwindi Lodge, your home for the next three nights, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, which is home to half of the world’s 1,063 mountain gorillas. From the lodge, you can admire the dramatic Virunga Mountains that form the border between Uganda, Congo, and Rwanda. After settling in, take a scenic walk through the Nkurungo Community, where you'll get a taste of local life and enjoy the beautiful landscapes that surround the area. In the evening, set off on a hike along the famous Kahurire Trail, offering spectacular views of Bwindi National Park and its surrounding valleys – a perfect way to soak in the area’s natural beauty.
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before heading to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Known for its amazing biodiversity, this park is home to many endangered species, including about half of the world’s mountain gorillas. The trek through the forest can be wet, muddy, and challenging, with altitudes reaching nearly 2000 meters above sea level. The terrain is tough and can be humid, but the excitement of encountering a gorilla family, led by a strong silverback, makes it all worth it. You’ll get the chance to get close to these calm and gentle gorillas, spending an hour with them once you find them. After the trek, head back to your lodge to relax and enjoy the stunning views. In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore the area. You can take an optional community tour, where you’ll enjoy a peaceful walk through the local village, ending with a visit to the "Top of the World" viewpoint before returning to Orugano Bwindi Lodge.
Enjoy a relaxing breakfast on the terrace with a view of the forest. Today, you have the freedom to do as much or as little as you like. If you're eager for another gorilla encounter, you can opt for a second day of trekking. Alternatively, take a guided forest walk with an expert birdwatcher to explore Bwindi's amazing biodiversity. You’ll discover various primates, waterfalls, unique trees, and other wildlife in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also take a canoe trip on Lake Mutanda and enjoy a Community Tour. Spend the day paddling on the peaceful waters of the lake, visiting the historic Punishment Islands, a culturally significant site, before returning to the lodge. Later, enjoy a community tour to learn about the local culture and traditions. Overnight at Orugano Lodge.
On Day 4, depending on your departure time, you’ll have the chance to meet and learn about the Batwa, who are known as the ‘Keepers of the Forest’. They once lived in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla Park but were removed when the areas became national parks to protect the critically endangered mountain gorillas. Traditionally hunter-gatherers, they relied completely on the forest for survival but struggled to adapt when they were moved out. They faced great hardships and were exploited by early tourism. Today, however, tourism is helping them survive. With support from groups like the Batwa Development Program, they offer respectful cultural experiences that allow visitors to learn about their ancient ways. You’ll see how they gather food, hunt with bows and arrows, create traditional medicines, and live-in harmony with nature. This type of tourism provides income for the Batwa guides and helps support the community’s education and well-being. After spending time with the Batwa, you’ll return to Kigali, marking the end of your adventure.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Meals from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 4
- Bottled water during safari vehicle rides
- Accommodation as outlined in the itinerary
- All ground transportation throughout the tour
- Entrance fees for parks and sites
- One gorilla trekking permit per person
- All activities mentioned in the itinerary
- All guiding services
- Airport drop-off
Cost Excludes
- International Airfares
- Visa Fees
- Domestic flights within Uganda and Rwanda
- International flights from your home country
- Accommodation on days not included in the itinerary
- Optional activities
- Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
- Visas, travel, and medical insurance
- Gifts, tips, and gratuities
- Other personal expenses
- Personal insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Gorilla trekking can be moderately to very challenging. You’ll hike through steep, muddy, and densely vegetated terrain at altitudes up to 2,000 meters. A reasonable level of fitness is required, and trekking can take anywhere from 2 to 7 hours depending on the location of the gorillas.
Uganda is a year-round destination, but the dry seasons (June–September and December–February) are ideal for trekking, as trails are less slippery and more accessible.
You are allowed to stay approximately 7 meters (23 feet) away from the gorillas to minimize the risk of disease transmission. However, gorillas may approach you—if so, stay calm and follow the ranger’s instructions.
Yes. Gorilla trekking is conducted by trained and armed rangers with strict safety protocols. The gorillas you visit are habituated to human presence and are generally peaceful.
Yes. Most travelers require a visa for Uganda and potentially one for Rwanda if flying in or out of Kigali. You can apply for a single East Africa Tourist Visa which covers Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya for up to 90 days.
Yes, your gorilla trekking permit (valued at $700 per person) is included for Day 2. A second-day permit can be arranged at an extra cost if desired.
Lightweight, moisture-wicking hiking clothes
Waterproof jacket and hiking boots
Gloves for gripping during the trek
Insect repellent and sunscreen
Camera (no flash photography with gorillas)
Daypack with water and snacks
You will stay at Orugano Bwindi Lodge, a mid-to-high-end eco-lodge offering stunning views of the Bwindi Forest, comfortable amenities, hot showers, and locally inspired cuisine. The lodge supports community development and eco-friendly practices.
No. The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years. This is due to the challenging terrain and to protect the gorillas from diseases.