3-Day Kigali to Bwindi Gorilla Safari

The Journey Begins
Your dedicated Rubuguri Gorilla Safaris driver-guide will pick you up from your hotel or the airport in Kigali early in the morning. After a brief introduction, you will depart for the Uganda border.

The Drive: You will drive through the rolling hills of Rwanda—often called the "Land of a Thousand Hills"—passing through the towns of Ruhengeri (Musanze) and Kinigi with views of the Virunga Volcanoes.

Border Crossing: You will cross into Uganda via the Cyanika or Katuna border post. Our guide will assist you with the visa and immigration process (please ensure you have your East African Tourist Visa or Uganda Visa pre-arranged).

Lunch: You will stop for lunch in Kisoro town or Kabale town, depending on which sector of the park your gorilla permit is located in.

Afternoon: After lunch, you will proceed directly to the foothills of Bwindi. The drive winds through beautiful terraced hills and lush vegetation.

Accommodation: Arrive at your lodge in the late afternoon. You have the rest of the evening to relax, soak in the jungle atmosphere, and prepare for the next day’s trek.

• Lodging Options: Rushaga Gorilla Camp / Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge / Mahogany Springs (depending on sector).
• Meals: Lunch and Dinner.

The Big Day
Wake up early for a hearty breakfast at the lodge. You will pack a lunch box (provided by the lodge) and drive to the park headquarters for the briefing.

The Trek:

• 07:45 AM: Registration and briefing by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers. You will be assigned to a gorilla family based on your fitness level.
• 08:30 AM: Enter the forest. The trek can last anywhere from 1 to 5 hours depending on the movement of the gorillas. The hike is strenuous, passing through dense vegetation, steep slopes, and muddy trails—but every step is worth it.
• The Encounter: Once you locate the family, you will spend a strictly regulated one hour observing these gentle giants. Watching a Silverback protect his family or the juveniles play is a life-changing experience. (Remember to keep a 7-meter distance).

Return: Trek back to the starting point where your guide will be waiting. You will receive a certificate of participation for your efforts.

Afternoon/Evening: Depending on your energy levels, you may opt for a community walk or a visit to the Batwa pygmy community to learn about their ancient forest culture (optional activity, can be arranged on request). Otherwise, retire to the lodge for a hot shower and relaxation.

• Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, and Dinner.

The Journey Home
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with views of the mist-covered forest. After checking out of the lodge, you will begin the journey back to Rwanda.

Kigali City Stop: Depending on your flight time, you may have the opportunity to stop at the Kigali Genocide Memorial for a somber but important historical insight, or stop at a local craft market (Caplaki) to buy souvenirs.

Departure: Your guide will drop you off at Kigali International Airport (or your preferred hotel) in the late afternoon/evening to catch your flight back home.

• Meals: Breakfast and Lunch.