3-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Safari from Kigali Top Guide
3-day Itinerary Overview: Gorilla Trekking Safari from Kigali
This 3-day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking experience from Kigali is one of the top short gorilla trekking safaris to Uganda, with both the start and end conveniently planned in Rwanda. The journey centers around an unforgettable mountain gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in southwestern Uganda from Rwanda (Kigali).
For travelers flying in and out of Kigali International Airport, this three-day gorilla safari offers an affordable and practical option. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your assigned driver-guide, who will ensure a seamless transfer across the border into Uganda.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park lies close to the Rwanda border, about 180 km from Kigali International Airport, and takes approximately 4 hours to reach by car—a much shorter journey than the almost 9-hour drive from Entebbe. Available year-round, this 3-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking itinerary from Kigali is ideal for travelers seeking a shorter road journey in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
This 3-Day Kigali to Bwindi Gorilla Trek itinerary is designed for travelers seeking an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure while enjoying significant savings. By trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park instead of Rwanda, travelers can save approximately USD 800. Starting and ending in Kigali, this short yet immersive journey is ideal for those flying into and out of Kigali International Airport. For those interested, the itinerary can be tailored to include wildlife or birdwatching safaris in Rwanda, or even a dual gorilla trekking experience in both Uganda and Rwanda—encompassing the Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi and a traditional Gorilla Trek in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer from Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll meet your dedicated driver-guide, who will greet you and assist with your luggage before the journey to Uganda. Traveling through Rwanda’s picturesque landscapes, you’ll cross the border into Uganda for the approximately 4-hour drive to Bwindi. Along the way, enjoy the breathtaking scenery, including lush hillsides and local villages. Once at Bwindi, you’ll check into your selected accommodation, enjoy a welcoming dinner, and rest in preparation for your gorilla trek the next day.
Main Destination: Kigali and Bwindi National Park
Accommodation: Provided based on your designated gorilla trekking sector in Bwindi
Meal Plan: Dinner
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After an early breakfast, your guide will take you to the park headquarters by 8:00 am for a briefing with park rangers. Here, you’ll receive essential information on gorilla trekking etiquette and be assigned to a specific gorilla family to track.
Small groups of up to eight people, led by knowledgeable guides, will begin the trek into the dense rainforest. Depending on the location of the gorilla family, the trek may take 2–6 hours. Once you reach the gorillas, you’ll have a magical hour to observe and photograph them in their natural habitat as they forage, groom, and interact with each other. After this memorable encounter, return to the park headquarters, where you’ll receive a certificate commemorating your successful trek.
Following your trek, enjoy a late lunch back at your lodge, with the remainder of the day free to relax and reflect on your experience.
Main Destination: Bwindi National Park
Accommodation:
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Return Transfer to Kigali International Airport
On your final day, enjoy breakfast at your lodge before beginning the drive back to Kigali. You’ll cross the Rwanda border once more, stopping for lunch in Kigali before heading to the airport for your departure.
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch
End of 3-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking from Kigali
Inclusions
- Lunch
- Bottled Water
- Safari 4×4 Vehicle
- Gorilla permit and Park fees
- English-speaking guide
Exclusions
- Visas and International flights
- Tips
3-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari Route from Kigali to Uganda
Other Interesting Journeys in Uganda
FAQs: Bwindi Gorilla Trekking from Kigali
1. Where is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park located?
2. How do I get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park from Kigali?
You can reach Bwindi Impenetrable National Park either by road or by air from Kigali and other locations. Both options allow you to choose the travel mode that best suits your schedule and budget. [Learn More about How to Get to Bwindi Forest National Park]
3. What is the best time to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?
The ideal time for gorilla trekking in Bwindi is during the dry seasons, when rainfall is lower, making trails less slippery. These seasons are generally from December to February and June to August. However, the park is open year-round so that you can plan your trek based on your availability.
For bird watchers, the dry months from March to September are excellent for seeing local species, while November to April is prime for spotting migratory birds. Remember that the dry season is the peak time for visitors, so book permits and accommodations early to secure your spot. [Discover more about Bwindi Forest National Park]
