Family Safaris
8-Day Uganda Gorillas & Wildlife family tour
Our 8 day Uganda family safari packs the very best of the Pearl of Africa into one easy, well-paced trip.
2 Days Kigali to Bwindi Gorilla Trekking
Our 2 day Bwindi gorilla trek from Kigali is the fastest way to see mountain gorillas in Uganda when you fly into Rwanda. You cross the border into Uganda and visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to about half of the world’s mountain gorillas. Then, after your trek, you drive back to Kigali. It is short, but every moment is worth it.
Trip overview
The drive from Kigali takes roughly 4–5 hours, depending on which gorilla trekking sector you visit. Along the way, you pass Rwanda’s rolling hills, volcanoes and lakes. Once in Bwindi, the magical rainforest and its birdsong make the trek a joy.
Tour highlights
- Cross from Rwanda into Uganda through the Cyanika or Gatuna border.
- Enjoy views of the Virunga volcanoes, the twin lakes or Lake Mutanda.
- Track a habituated mountain gorilla family with Uganda Wildlife Authority guides.
- Spend one hour watching the gorillas play and interact.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Pick-up in Kigali and drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Your driver-guide meets you at Kigali International Airport or your hotel. Then, you head for Uganda through the rolling hills of Rwanda. You drive through Ruhengeri in Musanze province, then on to the Cyanika or Gatuna border posts. These lead to Kisoro and Kabale districts respectively. On the way, you enjoy great views of the volcanoes, the twin lakes or Lake Mutanda. So, there is plenty of time for photos.
At the border, you check out of Rwanda and into Uganda at the immigration offices. Afterwards, you continue to Bwindi. The park has several gorilla trekking sectors. Nkuringo and Rushaga are often the best choice, because they are very close to the Rwanda border. However, Ruhija and Buhoma offer an equally great experience. Finally, you enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
Broadbill Camp, Buhoma Community Rest Camp – Budget
Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge / Gorilla Mist Camp / Gorilla Havens Lodge – Mid-range
Chameleon Hill Lodge / Nkuringo Gorilla Safari Lodge / Mahogany Springs – Luxury
Day 2: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi and return to Kigali
After an early breakfast, you walk to the park headquarters for your gorilla trekking briefing. Here, Uganda Wildlife Authority guides explain the dos and don’ts of spending time with mountain gorillas. The briefing lasts roughly 30 minutes to one hour. Then, you head into the jungle for a trek of about 3–4 hours, depending on how far the gorillas have moved.
The rangers start from the place where they last saw the gorillas the day before. Next, they follow broken branches and other signs. Meanwhile, birds sing overhead, and you may spot other primates. Once you find the gorillas, you have one hour to relax and watch them play and interact.
After this amazing experience, your driver takes you back to Kigali through the Katuna or Cyanika border. There, you either stay overnight in Kigali or catch your international flight. If you plan to fly out on day 2, please book a late departure from Kigali International Airport.
End of the 2 day Bwindi gorilla trek from Kigali.
What’s included and price per person
Included:
- 4WD vehicle and fuel
- English-speaking driver/guide
- Accommodation mentioned
- Small first aid kit
- Bottled water
Excluded:
- Drinks & personal snacks
- Personal expenses
- Personal medical and travel insurance
- Gorilla permit ($800)
- Flights to and from Uganda
- Border fees
Price per person:
2 Pax – $391
3 Pax – $312
4 Pax – $251
5 Pax – $231
6 Pax – $204
7 Pax – $197
Who this short gorilla trek suits
This trip is perfect if you are already in Rwanda, or flying in and out of Kigali, and want to trek gorillas in Uganda. It also suits busy travellers and anyone adding gorillas to a longer trip. However, the trek needs a fair level of fitness, because Bwindi’s trails are steep and often muddy. So, before you go, read our gorilla trekking rules and fitness guide.
Best time for a 2 day Bwindi gorilla trek from Kigali
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi runs all year. Even so, the drier months of June to September and December to February usually make hiking easier. In the rainy months, trails are slippery. On the other hand, the forest is lush, and there are often fewer visitors. Our guide to the best time for gorilla trekking explains the seasons in more detail.
Tips for your trip
- Book your permit early. Gorilla permits are limited and often sell out in busy months.
- Check the permit price. The Uganda Wildlife Authority sets the rate and changes it from time to time, so we will confirm the current price when you enquire.
- Bring your passport. You cross the Rwanda–Uganda border twice on this trip.
- Book a late flight. If you fly home on day 2, choose a late departure from Kigali.
- Pack for the forest. Good boots, long sleeves, gloves and a rain jacket make the trek more comfortable.
For a full list, see what to pack for gorilla trekking.
Extend or combine your trip
Would you like a little more time? Then, our 3 day Uganda gorilla trekking tour from Kigali gives you a more relaxed pace. Alternatively, add a lakeside break on the 3 day Bwindi gorillas and Lake Bunyonyi safari. You can also add chimps on our 5 day gorillas and chimps tour from Kigali.
Every Roots Tours & Travel trip is tailor-made. Just tell us your dates, group size and interests. Then, we will send you a free itinerary for your 2 day Bwindi gorilla trek from Kigali.
Book Now
Not sure where to start? Chat with our safari specialists. We’ll help you find the perfect adventure.Every great journey begins with a conversation. Let’s plan yours.
Contact Us
- info@tourwithroots.com
- +256 776 83 1722
- +256 200 905 219
- Universal Apartments, Spine Road - Naalya - Kampala(U)
Related Safaris
Uganda Safaris
7-Day Best of Uganda Gorillas and Wildlife
Our 7 day Uganda gorilla safari combines mountain gorillas with classic savannah wildlife in one week. You look for chimpanzees
Uganda Safaris
10 Days Best Uganda Safari
Our 10 day Uganda safari is a relaxed loop through four great national parks, finishing with two easy days at