2 Day Gorilla Trekking Uganda

2 Day Gorilla Trekking Uganda Safari from Kigali in Rwanda to Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park

The 2 day gorilla trekking Uganda adventure from Kigali offers a quick yet deeply immersive experience ideal for travelers with limited time who want to see the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas in the wild. Thanks to the proximity of southwestern Uganda to Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, this itinerary allows for a shorter drive time and cost-saving on permits compared to trekking in Rwanda. This safari takes you across international borders and into either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, two of Africa’s most cherished mountain gorilla habitats. In just two days, travelers enjoy scenic landscapes, rich local culture, and the unforgettable thrill of encountering a gorilla family face to face.

Day 1: Pickup in Kigali – Border Crossing – Transfer to Bwindi or Mgahinga

Your journey begins early in the morning with a pickup from your hotel or Kigali International Airport. After a short briefing, you’ll drive through Rwanda’s “Land of a Thousand Hills,” enjoying the lush, rolling green countryside and terraced hillsides. The drive to the Uganda border at Cyanika (for Mgahinga) or Katuna (for Bwindi) takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on your destination park.

Upon crossing into Uganda, you’ll continue through the scenic highlands of Kisoro (for Mgahinga) or Kabale (for Bwindi). Along the way, you’ll pass local markets, traditional villages, and panoramic views of the Virunga Volcanoes and Lake Bunyonyi. Depending on the location of your gorilla permit, you’ll be dropped off at your lodge near your trekking sector — this could be Nkuringo, Rushaga, Ruhija, or Buhoma in Bwindi, or Ntebeko in Mgahinga. After check-in, enjoy a hot meal, rest, or take a short nature walk. Your guide will brief you on the next day’s activities before an early night, as gorilla trekking begins early the next morning.

Travel Time: 4–6 hours from Kigali to southern Bwindi or Mgahinga
Accommodation: Midrange or luxury lodge near trekking base (e.g., Ichumbi Lodge, Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge, Mount Gahinga Lodge)
Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi or Mgahinga – Return to Kigali

Rise early for breakfast before heading to the park headquarters by 7:00 AM for a briefing by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). During the briefing, park rangers explain gorilla trekking rules, group you according to fitness levels, and assign you a specific gorilla family to track. Depending on the gorilla family’s location, the trek can last anywhere between 2 and 6 hours through dense rainforest or bamboo-covered slopes.

Once you find the gorillas, you are allowed a magical one hour to observe them. Witnessing a silverback leading its family, mothers cuddling babies, or juveniles playfully tumbling around is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Cameras ready (without flash), you’ll silently watch and photograph these incredible primates in their natural habitat.

After the trek, you return to the park headquarters to receive your trekking certificate. Your guide will then drive you back to Kigali, stopping for lunch along the way. Depending on your return time, you may request a brief visit to Kigali Genocide Memorial or local craft markets before drop-off at your hotel or airport, marking the end of your thrilling two-day gorilla encounter.

Trekking Time: 2–6 hours
Travel Time to Kigali: 4–6 hours
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

Tips for a Successful 2-Day Gorilla Trek from Kigali

  • Gorilla Permit: Book in advance through a trusted tour operator. Uganda’s gorilla permit costs $800 per person (as of 2024), significantly cheaper than Rwanda’s $1,500.

  • Passport & Visa: Carry a valid passport. You may need an East African Tourist Visa ($100) for multiple entries between Rwanda and Uganda.

  • Fitness & Preparation: Gorilla trekking involves hiking in mountainous, dense terrain. Moderate fitness is recommended. Carry walking sticks and hire a porter if needed.

  • What to Pack: Waterproof hiking boots, long-sleeved shirt and trousers, rain jacket, gloves, insect repellent, refillable water bottle, energy snacks, and a good camera.

  • Altitude & Weather: The parks are located at high altitudes (up to 2,600m), so stay hydrated and pace yourself. Rain is common, even in dry seasons.

  • Health Requirements: Yellow fever vaccination card is mandatory for Uganda. Also consider anti-malarial medication.

  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and communities along the way. Learning a few local greetings (like “Agandi” in Rukiga) adds warmth to your journey.

Why Start from Kigali?

Starting your gorilla trek in Kigali offers key advantages:

  • Shorter drive to southern Uganda parks (compared to 9–10 hours from Entebbe/Kampala)

  • More affordable gorilla permits in Uganda

  • Flexible itinerary for travelers combining Rwanda and Uganda attractions

  • Smooth road network and access to international flights via Kigali Airport

A 2 day gorilla trekking Uganda safari from Kigali is the perfect way to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of mountain gorillas in their natural home — even with limited time. Whether you choose to trek in the misty jungles of Bwindi or the volcanic slopes of Mgahinga, this short adventure promises rich wildlife encounters, captivating scenery, and lasting memories. With good planning and the right guidance, it’s an efficient and deeply rewarding way to experience one of Africa’s greatest wildlife experiences.